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Thinking about doing a Master’s in Finance in the U.S.? The McCombs School of Business at UT Austin is one of the best places to start. Ranked among the top 5 finance programs in the U.S. by the Financial Times, the McCombs MFin (Master of Science in Finance) program offers great value for students who want strong career outcomes in a short time.
This 10-month, STEM-designated course is known for its industry connections, strong job placements, and affordable cost compared to other top U.S. finance programs. But before you apply, it’s important to understand the McCombs MFin fees so you can plan your budget well. In this blog, we’ll break down the tuition, living expenses, scholarships, and other costs—so you know exactly what to expect and how to prepare financially.
What Are the McCombs MFin Fees for 2025?
If you’re planning to join the McCombs MFin (Master of Science in Finance) program in 2025, it’s important to know the full cost before you apply. The total fees depend on whether you're a Texas resident or an international/out-of-state student.
For Texas residents, the total program cost is $50,500. For non-residents, including international students from India, the cost is $55,500. This includes a $2,000 pre-enrollment fee, which you pay once you’re accepted to confirm your spot. This fee is part of your tuition and goes toward your first semester.
The MFin program runs across three semesters: Summer, Fall, and Spring. Your tuition is divided between these semesters. But keep in mind: this fee covers only your tuition. It doesn’t include living expenses, books, health insurance, or travel. If you’re moving to Austin, you should plan an extra $1,500 to $2,000 per month for rent, food, and other daily needs.
For a top-ranked school like McCombs, this investment often pays off. Graduates land jobs in finance, consulting, and tech, often with strong starting salaries. The program is intense, but the return on investment is solid — especially if you’re aiming for a high-paying role in the finance world.
| Student Type | Pre-enrollment Fee | Summer | Fall | Spring | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas Residents | $2,000 | $9,700 | $19,400 | $19,400 | $50,500 |
| International/Out-of-State | $2,000 | $10,500 | $21,500 | $21,500 | $55,500 |
Source: McCombs MSF Fees
Living Expenses in McCombs MSF: What to Expect
When planning for the McCombs MFin program, it’s crucial to consider not just the tuition fees, but also the cost of living in Austin, Texas. While the official McCombs tuition page doesn’t provide an exact figure for living expenses, it clearly states that tuition does not cover housing, food, books, transportation, health insurance, or personal costs. These expenses are additional and must be budgeted separately by students.
Based on common student estimates for Austin, you can expect to spend around $1,500 to $2,000 per month on living expenses. This range includes shared accommodation, groceries, basic utilities, local transport, and some entertainment or personal spending. If you opt for private housing or frequently dine out, your monthly cost can lean closer to the upper end of this range.
Throughout the 10-month MFin program, this adds up to an estimated $15,000 to $20,000 in living expenses alone. These figures are relatively modest compared to other major U.S. cities like New York, Boston, or San Francisco—making Austin an attractive destination for international students, especially those coming from India.
In addition, students should factor in one-time costs such as travel to the U.S., visa fees, and the purchase of a laptop or course-related materials. Optional expenses like parking, social events, and networking trips can also impact your overall budget.
Below is a breakdown of typical living expenses for McCombs MFin students in Austin:
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) | Estimated 10-Month Total (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Shared Apartment) | $800 – $1,200 | $8,000 – $12,000 |
| Food & Groceries | $250 – $400 | $2,500 – $4,000 |
| Transportation | $50 – $100 | $500 – $1,000 |
| Utilities & Internet | $100 – $150 | $1,000 – $1,500 |
| Miscellaneous/Personal | $100 – $150 | $1,000 – $1,500 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $1,500 – $2,000 | $15,000 – $20,000 |
Note: These are average estimates based on student experience and local cost trends in Austin. Actual costs may vary based on lifestyle choices.
Scholarships for McCombs MFin Students
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Paying for a master’s degree abroad can be stressful—but the good news is that McCombs helps make things easier. Along with offering one of the most competitive finance programs, they also provide scholarships to reduce your overall McCombs MFin fees.
Automatic Scholarship Consideration
The best part? You don’t need to fill out a separate scholarship form. Every student who gets admitted into the McCombs MFin program is automatically considered for scholarships. These awards are given based on your academic background and your career goals—especially if you're planning a switch into finance.
Flywheel Scholarship – Worth $20,000+
One of the most well-known scholarships at McCombs is the Flywheel Scholarship. It offers around $20,000 in total funding during your course. This scholarship is by invitation only—so you’ll be contacted after you're admitted if you're eligible. McCombs gives this scholarship to students who:
- Want to shift into a finance career
- Are first-generation college students
This funding can significantly lower your McCombs MFin fees and reduce your financial burden.
Other Funding Options
McCombs also suggests looking at external scholarships. These are not managed by the university but can be found through platforms like Fastweb or Sallie Mae. While they require a separate application, they can still help cover your tuition or living costs.
Scholarship Summary Table
| Scholarship | Who It's For | Value | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flywheel Scholarship | Admitted students switching careers or first-gen grads | Around $20,000 | By invitation after admission |
| External Scholarships | All MFin students | Varies | Apply via Fastweb or Sallie Mae |
These scholarships can greatly reduce your McCombs MFin fees and make studying in the U.S. more affordable. So even if the tuition feels high at first, there are real ways to make it manageable.
Return on Investment: Is It Worth It?
When you’re thinking about studying abroad, one of the first questions is, “Will it be worth the money?” The McCombs MFin fees may seem high at first, but as one of the top colleges in USA for MS in Finance, the value you get in return makes it a smart investment for many students.
How Much Will You Spend?
If you're a Texas resident, the total tuition comes to $50,500. For international students (including those from India), the full program costs around $55,500. This includes a $2,000 pre-enrollment fee that you pay to secure your seat after getting admitted.
But tuition isn’t the only cost. You’ll also need to plan for your living expenses in Austin. On average, you’ll spend around $1,500 to $2,000 per month on rent, food, transport, and other daily needs. That’s roughly $15,000 to $20,000 over the 10-month program.
So, Is It Worth It?
Here’s why students feel the McCombs MFin is worth the price:
- It’s a 10-month program, so you graduate quickly and start earning sooner.
- McCombs has strong ties to top finance recruiters, which boosts your job chances.
- Compared to other U.S. finance programs, the McCombs MFin fees are on the lower side.
- Living in Austin is more affordable than in cities like New York or San Francisco.
Quick ROI Breakdown
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| McCombs MFin Fees | $55,500 (for international students) |
| Living Expenses (10 months) | $15,000 – $20,000 |
| Total Investment | $70,500 – $75,500 |
Even with this cost, most students find that the career opportunities, salary potential, and quick graduation timeline make the McCombs MFin a solid return on investment.
Part-Time Jobs and Potential Earnings for Students
Managing your budget while studying abroad is a big deal—especially when you're already paying the full McCombs MFin fees. While the official McCombs website doesn’t list exact part-time job options, many students do take up small jobs during their studies to ease the financial load.
You might find work on campus, help out in research departments, or even do internships. In Austin, student part-time jobs usually pay around $15 to $25 per hour, which could help you earn $800 to $1,600 per month, depending on how many hours you work.
Even though the McCombs MFin program is intensive and just 10 months long, here’s how part-time work can still help:
- Helps cover your living expenses like rent, groceries, and transport
- Reduces the pressure of the total McCombs MFin fees
- Gives you U.S. work experience and builds your resume
- Helps you connect with the campus community and meet new people
While part-time jobs alone won’t cover your tuition, they can make your overall journey at McCombs more affordable and balanced. Plus, you gain real-life exposure in a new country, which is just as valuable as classroom learning.
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Conclusion
Studying at McCombs is not just about earning a finance degree; it's about investing in a future filled with global opportunities, top-tier networking, and high career potential. While the McCombs MFin fees may feel like a big commitment upfront, the short 10-month format, strong placement support, and available scholarships make it a smart financial choice for many students. Whether you're planning your budget, looking into part-time work, or applying for scholarships, it's clear that McCombs offers a well-rounded experience that delivers real value. For Indian students aiming to break into international finance, the McCombs MFin is a powerful stepping stone and one that often pays off sooner than expected.
