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In an increasingly technology-driven world, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) degrees have never been more valuable. From Artificial Intelligence and Data Science to Biotechnology and Renewable Energy, STEM fields are shaping the future of industries and economies worldwide. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, STEM occupations are projected to grow by 10.8% between 2022 and 2032, much faster than non-STEM fields.
For decades, Indian women have made remarkable strides in STEM, breaking barriers and driving innovation. From Dr. Kalpana Chawla, the first woman of Indian origin to travel to space to Dr. Geeta Nayyar, a trailblazer in healthcare technology, these pioneers have shattered glass ceilings and led groundbreaking research.
Inspiring women like Tessy Thomas, famously known as the “Missile Woman of India” for leading the country’s missile program, Annie Sinha Roy, India’s first woman tunnel engineer, and Dr. Divya Karnad, a distinguished marine biologist, exemplifies the limitless potential of women in STEM. Their success highlights why more Indian women are choosing STEM careers and why global education opportunities can be a game-changer.
With the rapid growth of AI, biotechnology and sustainability research, there has never been a better time for Indian women to pursue STEM careers. And the United States, home to some of the best STEM universities, cutting-edge research and top industry connections, is one of the best places to start this journey.
However, before students embark on this journey, it’s essential to understand how to choose the right program, meet admission requirements and navigate financial planning. Many leading STEM universities in the US accept the Duolingo English Test (DET), making English proficiency testing more accessible, affordable and flexible. At $70 (~INR 6,000), the DET is cheaper than IELTS and TOEFL and can be taken anytime, anywhere with no need to visit a center. Additionally, students can get scores in 48 hours, perfect for tight application deadlines and send results to multiple universities for free.
For Indian women dreaming of studying in the US and making an impact in the world of STEM, here’s everything to know:
Why STEM Programs Are the Best Career Investment for Women Today
Breaking Barriers & Building Careers: For Indian women, STEM careers offer global recognition, financial independence and leadership opportunities in industries that are shaping the world. With STEM jobs expected to grow by 10.8% in the next decade, now is the perfect time to enter this field.
High Salaries & Global Demand: Did you know that STEM graduates earn 30% more on average than those in non-STEM fields? A degree in computer science, engineering or biotechnology from a US university can lead to high-paying roles in AI, space technology, medicine and sustainability research.
Extended Work Opportunities in the US: One of the biggest advantages of pursuing STEM in the US is the STEM-OPT visa extension. After graduation, you can work in the US for up to 3 years, gaining valuable industry experience at top tech companies like Google, Tesla and Amazon.
Role Models Who Inspire: Indian women have already made their mark in STEM. Gagandeep Kang was the first Indian woman scientist elected to the Royal Society and Soumya Swaminathan served as the Chief Scientist at the WHO. Their success shows that with the right education and opportunities, anything is possible.
Top US Universities That Accept the DET for STEM Programs
Over 3800 US institutions accept the Duolingo English Test (DET) as proof of English proficiency, out of which are notable institutions with STEM programs making it more accessible and affordable for Indian women to apply. Here are some top universities and the STEM programs they offer:
1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
Best for: Artificial Intelligence, Aerospace Engineering, Robotics
2. Stanford University
Location: Stanford, California
Best for: Biotechnology, Environmental Science, Data Science
3. Carnegie Mellon University (CMU)
Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Best for: Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, Electrical Engineering
4. Columbia University
Location: New York City, New York
Best for: AI & Ethics, Biomedical Informatics, Civil Engineering
5. University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley)
Location: Berkeley, California
Best for: Energy Engineering, Space Science, Climate Technology
6. New York University (NYU)
Location: New York City, New York
Best for: Data Science, Bioinformatics, Sustainable Urban Development
7. University of Chicago
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Best for: Applied Mathematics, Big Data, Computational Neuroscience
8. Johns Hopkins University
Location: Baltimore, Maryland
Best for: Biomedical Emergency, Public Health Tech, Robotics
9. University of Michigan
Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
Best for: Aerospace Engineering, Nanotechnology, Environmental Engineering
10. Duke University
Location: Durham, North Carolina
Best for: Computational Biology, Quantum Computing, Biomedical Engineering
What to keep in mind while applying
Check Program-Specific Requirements: Some universities may require GRE scores or additional coursework for STEM programs.
Understand Minimum DET Score Requirements: Most universities require DET scores between 115-130 for STEM admissions.
Craft a Strong Application: High GPA, research experience, SOP and LORs are crucial for STEM programs.
Plan for Visa & Work Opportunities: STEM students get up to 3 years of work authorization under the STEM-OPT extension.
Financial Planning for STEM Education in the US
Tuition Fees: Top STEM programs range between $40,000 – $80,000 per year.
Living Costs: Expenses vary by city, with New York and California being more expensive.
Scholarships & Grants: Many universities offer merit-based funding for STEM students. To support Indian women in STEM, the DET has launched the DET Determined Scholarship, which offers $30,000 to cover tuition fees for a master’s degree in STEM. Indian women with a DET score of 120+, a strong academic record and a passion for innovation can apply for the grant. Applications open in June 2025 on manthan.gov.in. This scholarship is designed to empower more Indian women to pursue STEM careers globally.
Source: https://www.financialexpress.com/business/investing-abroad-indian-women-in-stem-growing-opportunities-and-key-considerations-for-studying-in-the-us-3750726/
