Master of Science [M.S] (Accounting)
Field of Study:
$35,693 /Yr
University of Massachusetts Boston Master of Science [M.S] Accounting is a graduate program designed for accounting professionals seeking advanced expertise. The program spans two years in full-time mode. Entry requires a bachelor’s degree with basic accounting knowledge. Total annual cost reaches US$61,772 (INR 5.88 Crores). Applications open for fall and spring intakes. The program equips graduates for the CPA exam and leadership roles in accounting.
This degree trains students in advanced financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and data analytics. What distinguishes UMass Boston’s program is its emphasis on practical case studies and internship placements within Boston’s thriving financial sector. Ideal applicants are bachelor’s graduates with 2-3 years work experience who aim to become CPAs or transition to senior accounting roles.
- Strong placement record with 100% employment within six months of graduation.
- Comprehensive curriculum covering CPA exam prerequisites across all four sections.
- Access to internships with Fortune 500 companies and regional accounting firms.
Current Admission Status
Applications for the Fall 2026 intake are Open. International student deadline: 15 April 2026.
Indian applicants should initiate WES (World Education Services) credential evaluation immediately, as processing typically requires 4-6 weeks before submission.
Also Check: University of Massachusetts Boston Master of Science Accounting Admission
University of Massachusetts Boston Master of Science Accounting Fees and Living Costs 2026
Total annual cost for the Master of Science Accounting program breaks down into tuition, mandatory fees, health coverage, and materials. All amounts reflect the 2026-2027 academic year for international students.
| Fee Component | Annual (USD) | Annual (INR) | 2-Year Total (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | US$36,581 | INR 3,48,30,606 | INR 6,96,61,212 |
| Student Fees | US$2,100 | INR 2,00,046 | INR 4,00,092 |
| Health Insurance | US$3,500 | INR 3,33,410 | INR 6,66,820 |
| Books & Supplies | US$1,200 | INR 1,14,312 | INR 2,28,624 |
| Personal Expenses | US$1,903 | INR 1,81,338 | INR 3,62,676 |
| Total (Annual) | US$45,284 | INR 3,55,59,712 | INR 7,11,19,424 |
All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of USD 1 = INR 95.26 as of June 2026. Rates fluctuate daily, verify before applying.
- Tuition covers all lectures, labs, and online coursework required for the two-year degree.
- Student fees include library access, technology resources, and student activity center membership.
- Health insurance is mandatory for international students and covers routine and emergency medical care.
- Books and supplies average US$600 per semester for required textbooks and accounting software subscriptions.
Cost of Living in Boston for Master of Science Accounting Students
| Expense Category | Monthly (USD) | Monthly (INR) | 12-Month (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (Shared Apartment) | US$950 | INR 90,497 | INR 10,85,964 |
| Food & Groceries | US$450 | INR 42,867 | INR 5,14,404 |
| Transportation (MBTA Pass) | US$90 | INR 8,573 | INR 1,02,876 |
| Utilities & Internet | US$120 | INR 11,431 | INR 1,37,172 |
| Entertainment & Social | US$200 | INR 19,052 | INR 2,28,624 |
| Monthly Total | US$1,810 | INR 1,72,420 | INR 20,69,040 |
Tip for Indian Students: Boston’s cost of living ranks among the highest in the USA, with accommodation consuming 50% of monthly expenses. Many Indian students offset costs by securing on-campus part-time work (20 hours/week) earning US$15-17/hour.
University of Massachusetts Boston Master of Science Accounting Admission 2026
UMass Boston admits candidates with bachelor’s degrees in accounting, finance, or related disciplines. The program prioritizes applicants with demonstrated academic rigor and work experience in accounting or finance.
| Admission Criterion | Requirement | Notes for Indian Applicants |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate GPA | Minimum 3.0 on a 4.0 scale | 3.0-3.4 is borderline; 3.5+ strengthens application significantly. |
| Bachelor’s Degree | Accounting, Finance, or Business | Non-accounting backgrounds accepted if relevant coursework completed. |
| Work Experience | 2-3 years preferred (not required) | Internship experience counts; gaps acceptable if explained. |
| Letters of Recommendation | Three academic or professional letters | English-language versions; professors or former supervisors preferred. |
| Personal Statement | 500-750 words on career goals | Emphasize why you seek the degree and long-term career plans in accounting. |
| Transcripts | Official transcripts from all institutions | WES credential evaluation required for Indian university degrees. |
University of Massachusetts Boston holds a ranking of 176 on the 2026 US News & World Report list of national universities, reflecting its research output and graduate program quality.
English Language Proficiency (ELP) Requirements
International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through standardized testing. All test scores must fall within the ranges below.
| Test | Minimum Overall Score | Minimum Component Scores | Notes for Indian Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 80 | Reading: 19, Writing: 18, Speaking: 18, Listening: 17 | Most accessible for Indian students; available year-round in India. |
| IELTS Academic | 6.5 | All bands ≥ 6.0 | Accepted alternative; common in India through British Council. |
| Duolingo English Test | 105 | No sub-score minimums | Quickest option; results available within 48 hours. |
- TOEFL iBT requires 8-12 weeks preparation for TOEFL-experienced Indian students reaching 80+.
- IELTS often easier for test-takers familiar with British English spelling and vocabulary.
- Waiver available for applicants holding bachelor’s degrees from English-medium universities in UK, Australia, or Canada.
- The math and analytical focus of the MS Accounting curriculum requires strong reading comprehension above minimum scores.
Tip for Indian Students: UMass Boston accepts all three ELP options. TOEFL iBT is most recognized; aim for 85-90 to strengthen your overall application competitiveness.
University of Massachusetts Boston Master of Science Accounting Application 2026
The application process begins online through the UMass Boston Graduate Admissions portal. Complete all required documents before the deadline to avoid application rejection.
| Intake | Expected Deadline | Status | Expected Decision Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2026 | 15 April 2026 | Open | 30 May 2026 |
| Spring 2027 | 15 October 2026 | Open | 30 November 2026 |
| Fall 2027 | Expected: 15 April 2027 | Not Yet Open | Expected: 30 May 2027 |
- International student applications require WES credential evaluation submitted by the deadline date.
- Application fee of US$60 is non-refundable and required to begin document review.
- Decisions are rolling; earlier submissions improve admission likelihood and scholarship consideration.
- Conditional acceptance may be offered pending final transcript receipt after graduation.
Application Tip: Submit documents 2-3 weeks before the deadline to account for transcript processing delays and ensure no missing documents block your review.
University of Massachusetts Boston Master of Science Accounting Scholarships 2026
UMass Boston offers merit-based scholarships for the MS Accounting program based on academic excellence and financial need. International students are eligible for select awards.
Merit scholarships for the program range from US$3,000 to US$12,000 (INR 2.86 Lakhs to INR 11.43 Lakhs) per year, awarded based on GPA and GMAT scores. A student entering with a 3.6 GPA and 650 GMAT may receive US$8,000 (INR 7.62 Lakhs) annually, reducing two-year cost from INR 7.11 Crores to INR 6.55 Crores. Graduate assistantships provide US$6,000-$10,000 (INR 5.72-9.53 Lakhs) plus tuition waiver, though priority goes to domestic applicants.
| Scholarship Type | Award Range (USD) | Award Range (INR) | Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merit Scholarship | US$3,000–US$12,000/year | INR 2.86–11.43 Lakhs/year | GPA 3.5+, GMAT 600+ |
| Graduate Assistantship | US$6,000–US$10,000/year + tuition waiver | INR 5.72–9.53 Lakhs/year | Academic excellence, on-campus work commitment |
| Dean’s Award | Full tuition (Limited seats) | INR 3.48 Crores | GPA 3.8+, GMAT 650+, strong profile |
Scholarship Reality: Most international applicants secure US$4,000-$8,000 annually; full-tuition awards are rare and highly competitive. Budget the full cost unless you qualify for GMAT-based merit aid.
Read More: University of Massachusetts Boston Master of Science Accounting Scholarships
University of Massachusetts Boston Master of Science Accounting Salary 2026
Graduates of the MS Accounting program at UMass Boston command strong starting salaries across multiple industry segments. Employment data reflects the 2025 cohort tracked six months post-graduation.
| Career Path | Gross Annual Salary (USD) | Gross Annual Salary (INR) | Placement Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Accounting (Big 4 and Regional Firms) | US$75,000–US$95,000 | INR 71.45–90.50 Lakhs | 92% |
| Corporate Accounting (Finance, Controller) | US$70,000–US$85,000 | INR 66.68–81.07 Lakhs | 95% |
| Government & Non-Profit Audit | US$65,000–US$78,000 | INR 61.92–74.30 Lakhs | 88% |
| Tax Accounting | US$78,000–US$92,000 | INR 74.30–87.74 Lakhs | 93% |
| Program Average | US$80,000 | INR 76.21 Lakhs | 100% (within 6 months) |
Take-home salary varies by state tax rates and federal withholding. Massachusetts state income tax is 5%, reducing gross to approximately 95% for Massachusetts-based positions. Consult a tax calculator for your specific location.
- CPA certification adds US$5,000–US$10,000 (INR 4.76–9.53 Lakhs) to first-year salary across all roles.
- Median salary after five years reaches US$110,000–US$130,000 (INR 1.05–1.24 Crores) for those with CPA license.
- Boston’s major employers include Deloitte, EY, PwC, and multiple healthcare and financial services firms.
ROI Reality: Two-year investment of INR 7.11 Crores yields first-year earnings of INR 76.21 Lakhs plus CPA premium, achieving payback within four years with substantial long-term upside.
USA Visa for Master of Science Accounting Students 2026
International students pursue the F-1 student visa to study full-time at UMass Boston. After degree completion, Optional Practical Training (OPT) enables work authorization in the United States.
- F-1 visa holders may work up to 20 hours/week on-campus during semester and full-time during official breaks.
- Optional Practical Training (OPT) provides 12 months post-completion work authorization directly tied to your accounting degree.
- STEM OPT extension may apply if your MS Accounting includes significant data analytics, potentially extending work eligibility to 24-36 months.
- H-1B sponsorship requires employer application and is subject to annual quotas; accounting roles are actively sponsored by Big 4 and regional firms.
Visa Reality: F-1 + 12-month OPT provides a legitimate pathway to secure US employment. Many accounting graduates transition to H-1B sponsorship or pursue permanent residency within three years.
Also Check: USA Cost of Living Guide for International Students
The University of Massachusetts Boston Master of Science Accounting program offers a structured path to CPA certification and leadership roles in accounting. Strong placement rates, competitive starting salaries, and access to Boston’s major professional firms make this degree valuable for Indian professionals seeking US-based careers in accounting.
Master of Science Accounting FAQs
Ques. What are the specific admission requirements for the UMass Boston MS Accounting program?
Ans. Applicants require a bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field, minimum 3.0 GPA, three letters of recommendation, a personal statement outlining career goals, proof of English proficiency (TOEFL 80+ or IELTS 6.5+), and official transcripts evaluated through WES for international applicants.
Ques. How much does the MS Accounting degree cost in total for international students?
Ans. Annual cost totals approximately US$45,284 (INR 3.56 Crores), including tuition of US$36,581, mandatory fees, health insurance, and books. For a two-year program, budget US$90,568 (INR 7.11 Crores) without scholarships; merit scholarships can reduce this by US$6,000–US$24,000 (INR 5.72–22.86 Lakhs).
Ques. Does the UMass Boston MS Accounting program prepare me for the CPA examination?
Ans. Yes, the curriculum covers all four CPA Exam sections including Auditing and Attestation, Financial Accounting and Reporting, Regulation, and Business Environment. Graduates typically sit for the CPA exam within six months of degree completion; many firms offer exam preparation support.
Ques. What is the average starting salary for MS Accounting graduates from UMass Boston?
Ans. Average first-year salary is US$80,000 (INR 76.21 Lakhs), with ranges of US$65,000–US$95,000 (INR 61.92–90.50 Lakhs) depending on role and employer. Public accounting roles command higher starting salaries; corporate finance roles offer better work-life balance.
Ques. Can I work in the USA after completing the MS Accounting degree?
Ans. Yes, F-1 visa holders are eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT) lasting 12 months post-graduation, with potential STEM extension to 24-36 months if the program includes data analytics. Many employers sponsor H-1B visas for accounting graduates; accounting is a high-demand field.
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $35693 |
Other Expenses
| Head | Avg Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| Housing | $13320 |
| Food | $3240 |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2023 | $36485 |
| 2021 | $36484 |
Scores Required
Key Resources for Your Study Abroad Journey
Course Guides
Best MS Courses in USA for International Students in 2025
Masters (MS) in USA: Colleges, Courses, Deadlines, Eligibility & Fees
Masters in Accounting in USA: Fees, Deadlines 2024-25, Admissions, Job Opportunities
MS in USA With Low GPA: Universities, Requirements, and Admissions
Programs Comparison
| ranking | # 48 for Sciences by India Today 2022 # 301 for Sciences by Academy Ranking of World Universities 2022 | # 251 for Accounting by QS World University 2025 # 191 for Accounting by Times Higher Education 2023 |
| exam scores | IELTS - 6/9PTE - 53/90TOEFL - 79/120 | Duolingo - 115/160IELTS - 6.5/9PTE - 53/90TOEFL - 4/6 |
| cost to study | Total Cost (Tuition + Living) -USD 36484 | Total Cost (Tuition + Living) -USD 66127 |
| application dates | Apr 1, 2025 (Priority Application Deadline For Fall 2025 Intake) Jun 15, 2025 (Final Application Deadline For Fall 2025 Intake) Oct 1, 2025 (Priority Application Deadline For Spring 2026 Intake) Dec 1, 2025 (Final Application Deadline For Spring 2026 Intake) | Jul 15, 2026 (Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake) Nov 15, 2026 (Application Deadline For Spring 2027 Intake) Mar 15, 2027 (Application Deadline For Summer 2027 Intake) |
| - | Read Full Comparison |
Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TEC Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,000/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| BeArt Presets-Academic Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 2,500/Yr$2,500 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Chuan Ai Lu Engstrom Memorial Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,000/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Bharat Petroleum Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Comindware Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 4,000/Yr$4,000 | Level Of StudyApprenticeship | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Forktip Women’s- Innovation Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific |
Similar Programs
| Program | Important Date | Total Fees | Median Exams Score | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
-- | USD 35,693 /Yr |
| ||
Round 1 Application Deadline for Fall 2027 Intake (14th Oct 2026) Round 2 Application Deadline for Fall 2027 Intake (13th Jan 2027) Round 3 Application Deadline for Fall 2027 Intake (10th Mar 2027) | USD 69,180 /Yr |
| ||
-- | USD 24,990 /Yr |
|
Do you think the Dates are wrong ? Report Here


















Comments