Computer Science and IT in USA – Top Universities, Fees and More
The USA is a world power regarding education and graduates have unlimited opportunities when entering the fields of Computer Science and IT here. The USA is known for academic goliaths such as, MIT, Stanford, and Carnegie Mellon, which add excellent research facilities, versatile curriculum, and high emphasis on innovation. These programs prepare students for acquisition of technical knowledge in enterprise computing and enhanced critical thinking and problem solving aptitudes predominant in the growing technological sector.
With various specializations such as Artificial intelligence, Cybersecurity, and data science, students have the opportunity to adjust their learning process according to their professional aspirations. Costs of doing a degree in Computer Science and IT in the USA usually falls between $30,000 – $60,000 a year though various scholarships like Fulbright Program and Knight-Hennessay Scholars can help in funding.
Students are able to join different semesters namely, fall, spring, as well as summer, making the planning process easier. In addition, the Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM OPT Extension enable graduates to practice and find employment in the United States for up to 36 months after completing their studies.
Apart from giving a globally recognized degree, pursuing Computer Science and IT in the USA leads towards a highly paid job career in one of the most flourishing economies around the globe.
Computer Science and IT in the USA – Highlights
| Total No of Colleges | +500 |
|---|---|
| Cost | $30,000 – $60,000 (annual tuition) |
| Intake | Fall (Aug/Sep), Spring (Jan), Summer (May) |
| Specialization | Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Software Engineering |
| Exams Required | GRE, TOEFL/IELTS, SAT/ACT |
Types of Computer Science and IT in USA
Undergraduate Programs:
- B.S in Computer Science Information Technology and Software Engineering.
- Duration: 4 years.
- Focus: Such knowledge as basics of programming and data structures, algorithms and so on.
Postgraduate Programs:
- M.S. in Computer Science, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, etc.
- Duration: 1-2 years.
- Focus: IT skills, research experience, specialization.
Doctoral Programs (Ph.D.):
- Duration: 4-7 years.
- Focus: Primary, doctoral, pertinent and corporate work.
Associate Degree Programs:
- Duration: 2 years.
- Focus: Understanding Information Technology and preparing for the first jobs in the field.
Professional Certifications:
- Temporary courses in areas such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.
Top 10 Computer Science and IT Colleges in USA
| Name of the college | QS Ranking (Computer Science and Information Systems-2025) | Action |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 1 | Apply Now |
| Stanford University | 2 | Apply Now |
| Carnegie Mellon University | 2 | Apply Now |
| University of California, Berkeley | 5 | Apply Now |
| Harvard University | 7 | Apply Now |
| Princeton University | 14 | Apply Now |
| Cornell University | 17 | Apply Now |
| University of Washington | 18 | Apply Now |
| University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) | 19 | Apply Now |
| Columbia University | 23 | Apply Now |
Eligibility criteria to pursue Computer Science and IT in USA
Academic Requirements:
- For Undergraduate: High school diploma with strong grades in mathematics and science.
- For Postgraduate: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
English Proficiency:
- TOEFL: Minimum 80 (iBT).
- IELTS: Minimum 6.5 overall.
Standardized Tests:
- SAT/ACT for undergraduate programs.
- GRE for most postgraduate programs.
Supporting Documents:
- Statement of Purpose (SOP).
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs).
- Academic transcripts.
- Proof of financial capability.
Visa Requirements:
- F-1 student visa and necessary supporting documents.
Computer Science and IT in USA Student Visa
Visa Type:
- F-1 Visa for full-time academic programs in the USA.
Required Documents:
- Form I-20 issued by the U.S. institution.
- Completed DS-160 visa application form.
- Valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond the intended stay.
- Proof of financial support to cover tuition and living expenses.
- Passport-sized photographs as per U.S. visa guidelines.
Fees:
- SEVIS Fee: $350.
- Visa Application Fee: $160.
Interview:
- Schedule an appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
- Be prepared to discuss your academic plans and intent to return home after studies.
Processing Time:
- Typically takes 3-5 weeks
How Much Does It Cost for Computer Science and IT in USA?
| Expense Type | Cost Range (USD) | Details |
| Tuition Fees | $30,000 – $60,000 per year | Varies by program and university ranking. |
| Accommodation | $8,000 – $15,000 per year | On-campus or off-campus housing options. |
| Living Expenses | $10,000 – $20,000 per year | Includes groceries, dining, and personal expenses. |
| Books and Supplies | $1,000 – $2,000 per year | Depends on course requirements. |
| Transportation | $1,200 – $2,400 per year | Public transit or personal vehicle costs. |
| Health Insurance | $1,200 – $2,500 per year | Mandatory for international students. |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | $1,000 – $2,000 per year | Entertainment, leisure, and unexpected costs. |
Cost of Living in USA
| Expense Type | Monthly Cost (USD) | Details |
| Accommodation | $700 – $1,500 | Shared apartments or dormitory housing. |
| Groceries and Food | $200 – $500 | Includes home-cooked meals and occasional dining out. |
| Utilities | $100 – $200 | Covers electricity, water, and heating costs. |
| Transportation | $100 – $200 | Public transport passes or fuel for personal vehicles. |
| Internet and Mobile | $50 – $100 | Broadband internet and phone bills. |
| Health Insurance | $100 – $250 | Monthly premium for international students. |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | $100 – $300 | Entertainment, clothing, and personal expenses. |
Work Permit After Pursue Computer Science and IT in USA
Optional Practical Training (OPT):
- Available for F-1 visa holders.
- Allows students to work in their field of study for up to 12 months post-graduation.
- STEM graduates (e.g., Computer Science and IT) are eligible for a 24-month OPT extension, totalling 36 months.
Eligibility Criteria for Work Permit:
- Must complete at least one academic year at a U.S. institution.
- Job must be directly related to the field of study.
H-1B Work Visa:
- A popular pathway for international graduates to continue working in the U.S. after OPT.
- Valid for up to 6 years (initial 3 years with a 3-year extension).
Green Card Pathway:
- Some employers sponsor permanent residency for skilled workers.
Key Documents Required:
- Valid F-1 visa and I-20 form.
- OPT or STEM OPT application (Form I-765).
Post-study work permits allow graduates to gain valuable professional experience and explore career opportunities in the U.S. tech industry.
Computer Science and IT Scholarships for USA
| Scholarship Name | Funding Type | Eligibility Criteria |
| Fulbright Foreign Student Program | Full Funding | Open to graduate students from all countries. |
| Knight-Hennessy Scholars | Full Funding | For graduate students at Stanford University. |
| Microsoft Tuition Scholarships | Partial Funding | For students pursuing Computer Science or IT programs. |
| Google Scholarships | Partial Funding | For underrepresented students in tech fields. |
| AAUW International Fellowships | Partial/Full Funding | For women pursuing graduate studies in tech fields. |
| IEEE Computer Society Scholarships | Varies | For undergraduate and graduate students in CS/IT. |
| Coca-Cola Scholars Program | Full Funding | For exceptional students demonstrating leadership. |
| Women Techmakers Scholars Program | Full Funding | For female students in Computer Science or IT. |
Career Prospects
| Role | Average Annual Salary (USD) |
| Software Developer | $110,000 |
| Data Scientist | $120,000 |
| AI Engineer | $125,000 |
| Cybersecurity Analyst | $100,000 |
| IT Manager | $130,000 |
Salary After Computer Science and IT in USA
- Software Developer:
- Average salary: $110,000 per year.
- Salary can go up to $150,000+ with experience.
- Data Scientist:
- Average salary: $120,000 per year.
- Higher salaries possible with specialized skills in AI and machine learning.
- Cybersecurity Analyst:
- Average salary: $100,000 per year.
- Experienced professionals can earn $130,000+.
- IT Manager:
- Average salary: $130,000 per year.
- Senior roles can reach up to $150,000+.
- AI Engineer:
- Average salary: $125,000 per year.
- Can exceed $150,000 with expertise in deep learning or NLP.