AI & Machine Learning Programs Abroad — 2026 Guide
A breakdown of the strongest AI/ML Master's programs abroad and what admissions committees are actually looking for this cycle.
Sukhada's Study Destination Guide
Study In United States
Everything you need to know about tuition, cost of living, post-study work rights and top universities in United States — backed by Sukhada's counselling team.
United States at a Glance
Partner Universities
306+
Region
North America
Cost Tier
Premium
Post-Study Work
12 months OPT (STEM +24 months)
Why Study in United States?
The United States has more accredited universities than any other country, from Ivy League research institutions to affordable state schools and community colleges. Its flexible credit system lets you explore subjects before choosing a major.
- Largest choice of universities and programmes in the world
- STEM graduates can work up to 3 years on OPT
- Strong research funding, labs and campus facilities
Quick Facts
North America
Premium cost tier
Moderate
PSW 12 months OPT (STEM +24 months)
★ Popular destination
Talk to a Counsellor
Key Numbers
306+
Partner Universities
Premium
Cost Tier
North America
Region
12 months OPT (STEM +24 months)
Post-Study Work
1,471
Programmes
4
Universities with Scholarships
What Are the Most Popular Courses in United States?
Our partner universities in United States offer 1,471 programmes. The largest subject areas are Natural Sciences, Business & Management, Computer Science & IT.
Natural Sciences
432 programmes
Business & Management
398 programmes
Computer Science & IT
222 programmes
Social Sciences
129 programmes
Engineering
124 programmes
Data Science & AI
88 programmes
Education
85 programmes
Health & Medicine
63 programmes
Arts & Design
29 programmes
Hospitality & Tourism
4 programmes
A programme can appear in more than one subject area.
United States at a Glance
Official Name
United States of America
Capital
Washington, D.C.
Population
342M
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Official Language(s)
English
Also Spoken
Spanish, Chinese
Calling Code
+1
Region
North America
Economy
Developed
English Proficiency
Native
How Does the Education System Work in United States?
A bachelor's degree in United States usually takes 4 years and a master's takes 1–2 years. The main intakes are Fall (Aug/Sep), Spring (Jan), Summer (May).
Bachelor's
4 years
Master's
1–2 years
MBA
2 years
PhD
4–6 years
Academic Year Starts
August/September
Intakes
Fall (Aug/Sep), Spring (Jan), Summer (May)
Grading system
4.0 GPA scale (A = 4.0, B = 3.0, C = 2.0, F = fail)
Accepted tests
TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo English Test, PTE; GRE/GMAT for many master's programmes
What Is the Application Timeline for United States?
Most students start 10–12 months before their intake. Exact deadlines vary by university and programme.
- ResearchShortlist universities in United States that match your budget, course and career goals.
- ShortlistNarrow down to 4–6 programmes and note each deadline for your intake.
- TestsBook the tests your universities ask for: TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo English Test, PTE; GRE/GMAT for many master's programmes.
- ApplySubmit applications with transcripts, SOP, LORs and test scores.
- OfferAccept your offer and receive the Form I-20.
- VisaApply for the F-1 Student Visa as soon as your documents are ready.
- AccommodationBook on-campus or private housing before you travel.
- TravelArrange flights, forex and insurance, and carry original documents.
- EnrolComplete orientation, local registration and course enrolment.
How Much Does It Cost to Study in United States?
Typical bachelor's tuition in United States: USD 25,000–60,000/yr. Master's tuition: USD 20,000–55,000/yr. Living costs, covering rent, food and transport: USD 1,200–2,000/month.
Bachelor's Tuition
USD 25,000–60,000/yr
Master's Tuition
USD 20,000–55,000/yr
Living Cost
USD 1,200–2,000/month
Proof of Funds
First-year tuition plus living costs, as stated on your Form I-20
Monthly budget breakdown (New York)
Rent (shared)
USD 800/month
Food & groceries
USD 350/month
Local transport
USD 100/month
Utilities & phone
USD 150/month
Personal & leisure
USD 100/month
Estimated Total
USD 1,500/month (approx.)
Accommodation options
On-campus housing
USD 1,200/month
Shared apartment
USD 800/month
Private studio
USD 1,800/month
Homestay
USD 1,000/month
Figures are indicative ranges for international students and change every year. Your counsellor will confirm exact fees for your shortlisted courses.
How to Get a United States Student Visa
Indian students apply for the F-1 Student Visa after receiving the Form I-20. Visa fee: USD 185 visa fee + USD 350 SEVIS fee (plus any integrity fee in force). Typical processing time: Depends on interview slot availability; apply as soon as you have your I-20.
Visa Type
F-1 Student Visa
Visa Fee
USD 185 visa fee + USD 350 SEVIS fee (plus any integrity fee in force)
Processing Time
Depends on interview slot availability; apply as soon as you have your I-20
Interview
Yes
Step-by-step visa process
- Secure your admission Apply to your chosen university and accept the offer. You will receive your Form I-20, which your visa application depends on.
- Arrange proof of funds First-year tuition plus living costs, as stated on your Form I-20. Keep recent bank statements, loan sanction letters or sponsor documents ready.
- Prepare your documents Collect your passport, academic records, English test scores, SEVIS I-901 fee receipt, DS-160 confirmation page, Standardised test scores (if required).
- Submit the visa application Apply for the F-1 Student Visa and pay the fee: USD 185 visa fee + USD 350 SEVIS fee (plus any integrity fee in force).
- Biometrics and interview Give biometrics if requested. Visa interview: Yes.
- Get your decision and travel Typical processing time: Depends on interview slot availability; apply as soon as you have your I-20. Once approved, book your travel and complete any local registration after arrival.
Can You Work in United States During and After Studies?
Part-time Work
Up to 20 hrs/week on campus during term
Work During Breaks
Full-time on campus during official breaks
Post-Study Work
OPT for 12 months, plus a 24-month extension for STEM degrees
After a Bachelor's
12 months OPT (+24 months STEM)
After a Master's
12 months OPT (+24 months STEM)
PR Pathway
Employer-sponsored H-1B work visa, then an employment-based Green Card
Typical PR Timeline
Often 5–15 years for Indian nationals (Green Card backlog)
Immigration rules change often — always confirm on the official government website before you apply.
Documents You'll Typically Need
Exact document requirements vary by university and visa category. This is a general checklist — we'll confirm the precise list for your course.
Checklist
Academic transcripts & certificates
Valid passport
English proficiency score (IELTS / TOEFL / PTE / DET)
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
Proof of funds / financial statements
Resume / CV (for PG programs)
Offer letter (once admitted)
SEVIS I-901 fee receipt
DS-160 confirmation page
Standardised test scores (if required)
What Is the Weather Like in United States?
Varies widely, from snowy northern winters to warm southern and western states. Summers: Hot and humid in most states. Winters: Cold and snowy in the north, mild in the south.
Average temperatures in New York
January
-3°C to 4°C
April
7°C to 17°C
July
21°C to 29°C
October
10°C to 19°C
How Do Students Open a Bank Account in United States?
Most banks offer student checking accounts with no monthly fee. You can open one in branch with your passport and I-20; an SSN is not required.
Popular banks for students
Chase
Bank of America
Wells Fargo
Citibank
Documents usually needed
Passport
Form I-20
I-94 record
Proof of US address
University ID
Is United States Safe for International Students?
Safety: Moderate — campuses are generally safe; varies by neighbourhood. Healthcare: Excellent but expensive.
Health Insurance
Yes (required by most universities)
Typical Insurance Cost
USD 1,500–3,000/yr
Common insurance options
University student health plans
ISO Student Health Insurance
PSI Health Insurance
Aetna Student Health
Safety tips
- Use campus safety escorts at night
- Keep digital and paper copies of your I-20 and passport
- Save local emergency numbers on your phone
- Keep digital copies of your passport, visa and admission letter
What Is the Job Market Like in United States?
Graduate job demand in United States is high. Entry-level salaries are roughly USD 55,000–75,000/yr, rising to about USD 90,000–120,000/yr with experience.
Top hiring sectors
Technology
Very High demand
Healthcare
High demand
Finance
High demand
Engineering
High demand
Skills in demand
Software development
Data analytics
AI/ML
Cybersecurity
Nursing
Cloud computing
Salary figures are indicative gross annual ranges and vary by city, role and employer.
What Is Student Life Like in United States?
Individualistic and fast-paced, with strong emphasis on networking, punctuality and class participation.
Student life
- Varsity and intramural sports
- Indian Student Associations
- Hackathons and research labs
- Greek life
Major religions
Christianity
Judaism
Islam
Hinduism
Buddhism
Indian community
Community Size
About 5 million people of Indian origin
Indian Food & Groceries
Indian groceries and restaurants in every major city and most college towns
Which Scholarships Can Indian Students Get for United States?
Well-known options for United States include Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships, Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship, University merit scholarships. Eligibility and deadlines change every year, so check the official page before applying.
Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships
tuition, living costs and airfare
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship
full funding for mid-career professionals
University merit scholarships
partial tuition waivers
Graduate assistantships
tuition waiver plus stipend
Scholarships for United States
Our team tracks live scholarship listings across 150+ university and government portals. Here are the common categories students in United States typically qualify for — talk to a counsellor for current deadlines and amounts.
All Levels
Merit-Based
Merit Scholarships
Awarded by universities based on academic performance
UG / PG
Need-Based
Need-Based Financial Aid
Partial tuition waivers based on demonstrated financial need
PG / PhD
Government
Government & Institutional Grants
Country and institution-run funding programs for international students
All Levels
Sukhada
Sukhada Partner Discounts
Fee-waivers and priority processing through our university partnershipsPartner Universities in United States
We work directly with 306 verified universities across United States — browse the full list and filter by course, budget and intake.
Top-ranked universities in United States
Frequently Asked Questions
Typical tuition for international students in United States: USD 25,000–60,000/yr for a bachelor's degree and USD 20,000–55,000/yr for a master's. Living costs: USD 1,200–2,000/month, depending on the city.
The visa you need is the F-1 Student Visa, and the application is based on the Form I-20. Visa fee: USD 185 visa fee + USD 350 SEVIS fee (plus any integrity fee in force). Typical processing time: Depends on interview slot availability; apply as soon as you have your I-20.
First-year tuition plus living costs, as stated on your Form I-20. The exact amount is revised from time to time, so confirm it with the official immigration website before applying.
Student work rules in United States: Up to 20 hrs/week on campus during term.
Post-study work in United States: OPT for 12 months, plus a 24-month extension for STEM degrees. Long-term settlement route: Employer-sponsored H-1B work visa, then an employment-based Green Card.
Safety in United States: Moderate — campuses are generally safe; varies by neighbourhood. Healthcare: Excellent but expensive.
Yes (required by most universities). Typical cost: USD 1,500–3,000/yr.
Graduate job demand in United States is high, led by Technology, Healthcare, Finance, Engineering. Entry-level salaries are roughly USD 55,000–75,000/yr.
About 5 million people of Indian origin. Indian food: Indian groceries and restaurants in every major city and most college towns.
The main intakes in United States are Fall (Aug/Sep), Spring (Jan), Summer (May). A bachelor's degree usually takes 4 years and a master's takes 1–2 years.
TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo English Test, PTE; GRE/GMAT for many master's programmes. Minimum scores differ by university and course, so check each programme page.
We currently work directly with 306 verified universities in United States, spanning a range of budgets and course levels.
Ready to start your journey to United States?
Book a free session with a Sukhada counsellor — no obligation, no pressure, just a clear plan for United States.
Free Counselling
Zero Hidden Charges
94% Visa Success
12,000+ Students Guided
Handpicked For You
Top Universities Worldwide
A closer look at some of the institutions our students are applying to right now.
United States
Cambridge
- IntakesFall and Spring
- Visa SuccessNA
- Post-Study Work12 months OPT (STEM +24 months)
- Cost of LivingHigh
- Work While Study20 hrs/week
- LanguageEnglish
Annual Tuition
US$66,720 avg
Acceptance
NA
Placement Ratio
93%
Academic Reputation
100/100
#4
Employer Reputation
100/100
#2
Faculty / Student
100/100
#16
Citations / Faculty
100/100
#7
Intl. Faculty
100/100
#63
Intl. Students
91.6/100
#153
Intl. Student Diversity
92.3/100
#130
Intl. Research Network
94.1/100
#98
Employment Outcomes
100/100
#7
Sustainability
93.8/100
#33
SG
Sukhada Expert
Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support
Free
Verified Mentor
REF SGE-C4CA
United Kingdom
London
- IntakesSeptember
- Visa SuccessNA
- Post-Study WorkUp to 2 years (Graduate visa)
- Cost of LivingHigh
- Work While Study20hrs/week
- LanguageEnglish
Annual Tuition
£42,700 – £58,600 avg
Acceptance
NA
Placement Ratio
94%
Academic Reputation
99.6/100
#22
Employer Reputation
100/100
#9
Faculty / Student
99.3/100
#42
Citations / Faculty
95/100
#69
Intl. Faculty
100/100
#74
Intl. Students
100/100
#35
Intl. Student Diversity
100/100
#22
Intl. Research Network
97.5/100
#28
Employment Outcomes
95.9/100
#68
Sustainability
98.3/100
#7
SG
Sukhada Expert
Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support
Free
Verified Mentor
REF SGE-C81E
United States
Stanford
- IntakesFall and Spring
- Visa Success82
- Post-Study Work12 months OPT (STEM +24 months)
- Cost of LivingHigh
- Work While Study20hrs/week
- LanguageEnglish
Annual Tuition
USD67,731 avg
Acceptance
NA
Placement Ratio
90%
Academic Reputation
100/100
#5
Employer Reputation
100/100
#3
Faculty / Student
100/100
#17
Citations / Faculty
99.7/100
#24
Intl. Faculty
94.2/100
#188
Intl. Students
73.5/100
#261
Intl. Student Diversity
76.1/100
#230
Intl. Research Network
96.5/100
#49
Employment Outcomes
100/100
#2
Sustainability
95.4/100
#19
SG
Sukhada Expert
Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support
Free
Verified Mentor
REF SGE-ECCB
United Kingdom
Oxford
- IntakesOctober (Michaelmas term)
- Visa SuccessNA
- Post-Study Work2 yrs; 18 months from Jan 2027
- Cost of LivingGBP 1,405-2,105 / month
- Work While Study20hrs/week
- LanguageEnglish
Annual Tuition
GBP 39,620-66,580 avg
Acceptance
NA
Placement Ratio
90%
Academic Reputation
100/100
#
Employer Reputation
100/100
#
Faculty / Student
100/100
#
Citations / Faculty
91/100
#
Intl. Faculty
98.8/100
#
Intl. Students
98.6/100
#
Intl. Research Network
100/100
#
Employment Outcomes
100/100
#
Sustainability
77.9/100
#
SG
Sukhada Expert
Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support
Free
Verified Mentor
REF SGE-A87F
United States
Cambridge
- IntakesFall
- Visa SuccessNA
- Post-Study Work12 months OPT (STEM +24 months)
- Cost of LivingHigh
- Work While Study20hrs/week
- LanguageEnglish
Annual Tuition
USD 62,226 avg
Acceptance
NA
Placement Ratio
87%
Academic Reputation
100/100
#1
Employer Reputation
100/100
#1
Faculty / Student
98.3/100
#50
Citations / Faculty
100/100
#1
Intl. Faculty
79.1/100
#300
Intl. Students
81.4/100
#217
Intl. Student Diversity
60.6/100
#335
Intl. Research Network
99.4/100
#8
Employment Outcomes
100/100
#1
Sustainability
77.8/100
#201
SG
Sukhada Expert
Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support
Free
Verified Mentor
REF SGE-E4DA
United Kingdom
Cambridge
- IntakesSeptember
- Visa Success95
- Post-Study WorkUp to 2 years (Graduate visa)
- Cost of LivingHigh
- Work While Study20hrs/week
- LanguageEnglish
Annual Tuition
£29,052 – £70,554 avg
Acceptance
NA
Placement Ratio
95%
Academic Reputation
100/100
#3
Employer Reputation
100/100
#5
Faculty / Student
100/100
#23
Citations / Faculty
88.6/100
#107
Intl. Faculty
100/100
#80
Intl. Students
93.1/100
#144
Intl. Student Diversity
93.6/100
#120
Intl. Research Network
99.2/100
#12
Employment Outcomes
100/100
#5
Sustainability
78.4/100
#194
SG
Sukhada Expert
Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support
Free
Verified Mentor
REF SGE-8F14
This Week's Picks
Scholarships worth applying to right now.
A rotating shortlist our counsellors flag as genuinely worth the paperwork.
Swiss School of Business and Management (SSBM)
Switzerland
Humber Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning
Canada
University of Northampton
United Kingdom
Worth A Read
View All
From the Sukhada Blog
Course Guide
Scholarships
Scholarships for Indian Students Studying Abroad
The merit and need-based awards our counsellors recommend most often, and how to build a strong application for each.
About Sukhada
Meet Sukhada: Your Study Abroad Guide
Why we built Sukhada around mentors instead of sales targets — and what that means for the advice you actually get.
Enquire Now
Fill in your details to enquire about University
Get a Free United States Counselling Session
Study in United States
Share your details and a Sukhada counsellor will reach out to help you plan your application to United States.