Master’s degree for foreign students: Building your future in the United States

Earning a master’s degree for international students in the United States is about more than academic achievement. It’s about gaining access to world-class education, work experience and a powerful launchpad for a global career. With strong postgraduate programs, generous work authorization options and an international focus, the U.S. remains a top destination for talented students from around the world.

This article walks you through how to select the right master’s program, plan for work and immigration opportunities after graduation and manage the financial investment wisely.

Why study for a master’s degree in the United States?

The U.S. offers foreign students unique advantages that go beyond academics:

Career-driven education

Many U.S. programs are designed to connect classroom learning to real-world applications. Business schools, engineering programs and tech-focused degrees work closely with employers to align curriculum with industry needs.

Work experience through OPT and STEM OPT

Foreign students who study abroad in the United States can gain up to 12 months of optional practical training (OPT) after graduation. Students who complete eligible STEM degrees can qualify for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, offering up to three years of U.S. work experience without needing immediate sponsorship.

Global brand recognition

A master’s degree from a recognized U.S. institution can carry significant weight with employers both in the United States and around the world.

Specialized programs for foreign students

Many universities offer master’s degrees that are specifically structured to support international students. Programs often include career workshops, immigration support and pathways to long-term work authorization.

Prospective international student meeting admissions counselor with brochures, program info and campus activity in the background.

Experience financial empowerment

Get the financial information you need to take charge of your future

MPOWER Financing: Supporting foreign students pursuing U.S. master's degrees

MPOWER Financing helps international students achieve their dreams by providing no-cosigner student loans and career support. If you’re planning to earn a master’s degree abroad and are targeting the United States, MPOWER makes it easier to focus on your future, not your finances.

What makes MPOWER different?

Loans built for global learners:

With no-cosigner student loans from US$2,001 to US$100,000, MPOWER helps cover everything from tuition to fees and other education expenses. You only borrow what you need and since these are fixed-rate student loans, your repayment plan stays inflation-proof and predictable.

A modern application process:

No branch visits required. You can check eligibility in 30 seconds and complete the entire application online, from anywhere in the world.

Support beyond the loan:

Every student receives access to MPOWER’s Path2Success program: free tools and resources for career planning, Canadian and US student visa guidance and financial literacy.

Global perspective, local impact:

MPOWER was founded by former international students and is meant to provide you with a unique experience. We focus on future potential, not past financial history.

When you’re choosing the right program, choose the right financial partner too.

MPOWER Financing student loan

A loan based on your future earnings

FAQs


Is it worth getting a master’s degree in the U.S. as a foreign student?Yes. U.S. master’s programs offer world-class education, strong career connections and pathways to work authorization after graduation through OPT and STEM OPT.

Which degrees qualify for the STEM OPT extension?Programs in the U.S. like data science, business analytics, quantitative finance, engineering and certain STEM MBA tracks often qualify. Always verify your program’s Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code is a recognized STEM program.

Can international students receive scholarships for U.S. master’s degrees?Some universities that offer full scholarships to international students in the U.S. provide full or partial funding. Check each program’s international financial aid options carefully.

What financing options are available if scholarships are not enough?Loans for international students are available through lenders like MPOWER Financing, which offers loans without the need for a U.S. cosigner or collateral.

DISCLAIMER – Subject to credit approval, loans are made by Bank of Lake Mills or MPOWER Financing, PBC. Bank of Lake Mills does not have an ownership interest in MPOWER Financing. Neither MPOWER Financing nor Bank of Lake Mills is affiliated with the school you attended or are attending. Bank of Lake Mills is Member FDIC. None of the information contained in this website constitutes a recommendation, solicitation or offer by MPOWER Financing or its affiliates to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments or other assets or provide any investment advice or service.

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