How much does a master’s degree cost in the USA?

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How much does a master's degree cost in the USA?
Explore the costs of pursuing a master's degree in the USA. Get insights on tuition fees & expenses for Filipino students seeking higher education abroad.

A master’s degree in the US costs a lot, and the range is wide. The Education Data Initiative puts the average total cost of a master’s degree at $59,684 in 2024. Public schools average about $48,690 for the full program, while private nonprofit schools average about $64,440.

Those are averages. At the low end, online master’s programs average around $25,000, and some programs at regional public universities cost far less. At the high end, elite private programs can run well past $100,000 for the full degree. Tuition is only part of it. You also pay for housing, food, books, transport, health insurance, and fees, which can add tens of thousands to the total.

The price also depends on the field. An MBA or a technical master’s usually costs more than a master’s in education. Program length matters too. A one year program charges less total tuition than a two year program, even if the per credit rate is the same.

Before applying, get the full cost of attendance from each school’s website, not just the tuition figure. Compare net prices after any scholarships. Related reading: master’s degree cost, how much a master’s degree costs online, ways to save money on college tuition, and whether the USA is cheap for international students.

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