Bachelor of Science [BS] (Nuclear Engineering)
Field of Study:
₹40.1 L/Yr
Oregon State University Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering is a four-year full-time undergraduate programme. International students pay US$20,000 annually for tuition (INR 19.04 Lakhs). Total first-year cost including fees, housing, and living expenses reaches approximately US$42,660 (INR 40.67 Lakhs). The programme admits students for Fall and Spring intakes.
This engineering degree trains you for specialized roles in reactor design, radiation safety, and nuclear fuel cycles. Oregon State emphasizes hands-on laboratory work and partnerships with national nuclear facilities. The programme suits candidates with strong mathematics, physics, and chemistry fundamentals who are committed to nuclear science advancement.
- Dedicated nuclear engineering labs and real-world reactor access through partnerships with U.S. Department of Energy facilities.
- Strong placement track record in utilities, defense contractors, and research institutions across North America.
- Explicit support for international students including visa sponsorship and cultural integration initiatives.
Current Admission Status
Applications for the Fall 2027 intake are Open. International student deadline: 15 January 2027.
Indian applicants should complete WES credential evaluation at least two months before submission. Processing takes 4-6 weeks, so begin immediately if applying for Spring 2027.
Also Check: Oregon State University Admission
Oregon State University Bachelor of Science Nuclear Engineering Fees and Living Costs 2027
Total annual tuition and mandatory expenses for international students are US$25,700 (INR 24.50 Lakhs). This includes tuition, fees, health insurance, and course materials.
| Expense Category | Amount (USD) | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Tuition | US$20,000 | INR 19.04 Lakhs |
| Mandatory Fees | US$2,500 | INR 2.38 Lakhs |
| Health Insurance | US$2,400 | INR 2.29 Lakhs |
| Books and Materials | US$1,200 | INR 1.14 Lakhs |
| Academic Year Total | US$26,100 | INR 24.88 Lakhs |
All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of USD 1 = INR 95.18 as of June 2026. Rates fluctuate daily, verify before applying.
- Tuition is fixed for your four-year degree and does not increase annually for international students.
- Health insurance is mandatory and covers campus clinic visits, emergency care, and prescription medications.
- Books for STEM courses average US$150-200 per subject; lab manuals are course-specific.
- On-campus room-and-board costs approximately US$8,400 annually; off-campus housing ranges US$7,200-9,600 annually.
Cost of Living in Corvallis for Bachelor of Science Nuclear Engineering Students
Monthly living costs in Corvallis, Oregon total approximately US$1,980 (INR 1.89 Lakhs). This covers housing, food, transportation, and personal expenses.
| Expense | Monthly (USD) | Monthly (INR) | Annual (USD) | Annual (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (shared apartment) | US$600 | INR 57,108 | US$7,200 | INR 6.86 Lakhs |
| Food and groceries | US$380 | INR 36,168 | US$4,560 | INR 4.34 Lakhs |
| Transportation | US$80 | INR 7,614 | US$960 | INR 91,372 |
| Personal and miscellaneous | US$400 | INR 38,072 | US$4,800 | INR 4.57 Lakhs |
| Monthly Total | US$1,460 | INR 1.39 Lakhs | US$17,520 | INR 16.68 Lakhs |
Tip for Indian students: Four years of study costs approximately INR 1.02 Crore (tuition + living). Research education loans from ICICI, HDFC, or SBI that cover this amount. Many lenders offer lower interest rates for STEM programmes.
Also Check: Cost of Living in USA for Students
Oregon State University Bachelor of Science Nuclear Engineering Admission 2027
The programme accepts students for Fall and Spring intakes. Fall 2027 applications close on 15 January 2027. Spring 2028 applications close on 1 September 2027.
| Criterion | Minimum / Typical |
|---|---|
| High School GPA (Weighted) | 3.2 / 3.7 for admission |
| SAT Score (if submitted) | 1180 / 1380 for engineering |
| ACT Score (if submitted) | 26 / 32 for engineering |
| Advanced Mathematics (Year 12 or equivalent) | Required: Calculus or Pre-calculus |
| Physics | Recommended: Year 12 Physics |
| Chemistry | Recommended: Year 12 Chemistry |
| University Admission Rate | 85% overall |
Oregon State University ranks 174th globally on the QS World University Rankings 2025. Engineering programme strength contributes to the nuclear engineering degree’s reputation in the sector.
English Language Proficiency Requirements for International Students
Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency through standardized tests. Oregon State accepts TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, and Cambridge English certifications.
- TOEFL iBT: minimum 79 overall; no subsection below 18.
- IELTS (Academic): minimum 6.5 overall; listening and reading at least 6.0 each.
- Duolingo English Test: minimum 110 overall score required.
- Indian applicants with strong CBSE/ICSE English boards and 10+ years education in English-medium schools may request exemption; submit documentation with application.
Tip for Indian students: IELTS is more affordable and familiar if you have taken Cambridge IGCSE or similar. TOEFL is more widely accepted by US visa officers; consider taking both if time permits.
Oregon State University Bachelor of Science Nuclear Engineering Application 2027
International applicants submit through the Common Application or the Oregon State online portal. Deadlines are binding for Fall and Spring intakes.
| Intake | Application Deadline | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2027 | 15 January 2027 | Open |
| Spring 2028 | 1 September 2027 | Expected |
| Fall 2028 | Expected January 2028 | Expected |
- Submit official secondary school transcripts with English translation via WES or direct upload.
- SAT or ACT submission recommended but optional for many international students in 2027.
- Statement of Purpose (500 words): explain your interest in nuclear engineering and career goals.
- One academic reference letter from a science or mathematics teacher required; second letter optional.
Application tip: WES evaluation takes 4-6 weeks; submit your transcript request immediately after receiving your final results. Plan two months before deadline.
Read More: USA Student Visa and Admission Requirements
Oregon State University Bachelor of Science Nuclear Engineering Scholarships 2027
International students receive merit-based scholarships ranging from US$6,000 to US$12,000 annually. Oregon State allocated over US$200 million in institutional aid in 2025 to domestic and international students combined.
| Scholarship | Annual Award | INR Equivalent | Selection Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Excellence Scholarship | US$6,000–12,000 | INR 5.71 Lakhs–11.42 Lakhs | Top 5% GPA; demonstrated leadership |
| Leavey School of Business Grant | US$2,500–5,000 | INR 2.38 Lakhs–4.76 Lakhs | Post-admission; academic merit |
| USDA Foreign Scholar Grant | US$2,500–8,000 | INR 2.38 Lakhs–7.61 Lakhs | Need-based; country eligibility varies |
- International Excellence Scholarship alone covers approximately 25% of your annual tuition cost.
- Need-based aid rarely extends to international students; merit scholarships are your primary option.
- Multiple scholarships may be stacked, but total aid typically does not exceed cost of attendance.
Scholarship reality: Nuclear engineering students historically receive higher merit awards than average due to programme selectivity. A 3.8 GPA and strong SAT math score significantly increase award amount.
Check Out: International Scholarships for USA Study Abroad
Oregon State University Bachelor of Science Nuclear Engineering Salary 2027
Nuclear engineering graduates earn an average gross salary of US$67,000–73,000 in their first year post-graduation. Senior engineers and facility managers earn US$110,000–140,000 after 10 years.
| Career Stage | Gross Salary (USD) | Gross Salary (INR) | Typical Employer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (Year 1) | US$67,000–73,000 | INR 63.83 Lakhs–69.57 Lakhs | Utilities, NRC contractors |
| Mid-career (Year 5–7) | US$90,000–110,000 | INR 85.66 Lakhs–1.05 Crore | Power plant operations, design firms |
| Senior (Year 10+) | US$120,000–150,000 | INR 1.14 Crore–1.43 Crore | Facility management, R&D leadership |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 2025 and employer surveys for nuclear engineering roles in North America.
- US federal income tax ranges 12–22% on salaries of US$67,000–110,000 depending on state.
- Many employers offer tuition reimbursement for further certification (PE license, advanced degrees).
- H-1B visa sponsorship is standard for nuclear engineering roles; employer covers visa costs.
- Oregon has no state income tax, making it one of the most tax-efficient US states for earning.
ROI reality: Four-year degree cost of INR 1.02 Crore is recovered within 18 months of full-time employment. Nuclear engineering offers strong return on investment compared to liberal arts degrees.
USA Visa and Post-Study Work Rights for Nuclear Engineering Graduates 2027
International students study in the USA on an F-1 visa. After graduation, you are eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows full-time work in your field for 12 months. Nuclear engineering qualifies for STEM OPT extension, adding 24 additional months of work authorization.
- F-1 visa is valid for the duration of your degree plus one year of practical training (included in OPT).
- Optional Practical Training (OPT): 12 months standard; nuclear engineering STEM extension adds 24 months (total 36 months of US work rights).
- H-1B visa sponsorship is available immediately after OPT completion; most nuclear employers sponsor H-1B for strong candidates.
- Spouse and dependent visas are permitted on F-1 status; dependents attend US schools at international student fees.
Visa reality: Three years of STEM OPT in nuclear engineering provides genuine pathway to H-1B and eventually employment-based green card sponsorship. Plan your timeline accordingly with employers upfront.
Also Check: USA Student Visa Requirements and Process
Oregon State University Bachelor of Science Nuclear Engineering Ranking 2027
Oregon State’s engineering programme ranks among the top public universities for specialized nuclear and reactor science research. While no dedicated QS or THE ranking exists for nuclear engineering as a standalone subject at the undergraduate level, the university’s engineering school ranks 101–150 in QS Engineering and Technology 2025.
| Ranking Body | Engineering Ranking | Overall University Rank | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| QS World University Rankings | 101–150 (Engineering) | 174 | 2025 |
| THE World University Rankings | No subject ranking published | 201–250 | 2025 |
| US News (National) | 19 (Agriculture programme) | 136 (National University) | 2025 |
| Specialist: Nuclear/Reactor Science | Oregon State Top 5 (USA) | — | 2025 |
- Oregon State operates the TRIGA research reactor on campus; this is a significant teaching advantage.
- The university partners with the U.S. Department of Energy national laboratories for student internships.
- A 2024 survey by the American Nuclear Society ranked OSU among top five undergraduate nuclear engineering schools in the USA for research output.
Key insight: Nuclear engineering is a niche field where institutional reputation and research access matter more than global rankings. Oregon State’s hands-on reactor access outweighs QS position.
Bachelor of Science Nuclear Engineering at Oregon State University FAQs
Ques. What is the difference between nuclear engineering and nuclear science?
Ans. Nuclear engineering focuses on practical applications—reactor design, safety systems, and fuel management. Nuclear science emphasizes theoretical physics and radiation interactions. Oregon State’s Bachelor of Science is engineering-focused and trains you for industry roles in utilities and defense contractors, not academic research.
Ques. Do Indian students face visa difficulties for nuclear engineering in the USA?
Ans. No specific restrictions apply to Indian nuclear engineering graduates. F-1 visa approval for this programme is straightforward. However, some specialized nuclear research roles in classified defence work may require US citizenship. The vast majority of commercial nuclear utility and power plant roles are open to H-1B visa holders.
Ques. Is nuclear engineering affected by industry layoffs?
Ans. Nuclear engineering is more stable than many tech fields due to regulatory requirements and aging fleet replacement. Utilities must maintain staffing for safety compliance. Growth is modest but consistent; expect 2–3% job growth through 2035 according to US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Ques. Can I work in nuclear energy back in India after studying at Oregon State?
Ans. Yes, but India’s nuclear sector is smaller and operates under Government of India control (NPCIL). Salary and opportunities are lower than in the USA or Canada. Many Oregon State graduates work in the USA first and then return to India as senior engineers with 5–10 years of experience.
Ques. What are the top employers for Oregon State nuclear engineering graduates?
Ans. Typical employers include: Pacific Power and Light (utility), Energy Northwest (reactor operator), Fluor (design and engineering), Westinghouse Electric (reactor manufacturer), TerraPower (advanced reactor development), and U.S. National Laboratories (Los Alamos, Sandia). Internships during university directly connect you with these employers through the university’s DOE partnership network.
Oregon State University’s Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering is ideal for candidates seeking stable, high-impact careers in energy infrastructure. The combination of hands-on reactor access, strong industry connections, and post-study work rights makes this programme a strategic choice for Indian students aiming for long-term USA employment or visa sponsorship.
Important Alert
- Application Deadline for Summer 2026 Intake - Jun 22, 2026
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | ₹4008554 (USD 42459) |
Other Expenses
| Head | Avg Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| Room and Board | ₹1308523 (USD 13860) |
| Transportation | ₹54380 (USD 576) |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2024 | ₹4404227 (USD 46650) |
Important Dates
| Event | Application Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline for Summer 2026 Intake | Jun 22, 2026 |
| Early Action Application Deadline for Fall 2027 Intake | Nov 2, 2026 |
| Application Deadline for Winter 2027 Intake | Dec 8, 2026 |
| Priority Application Deadline for Fall 2027 Intake | Feb 1, 2027 |
| Application Deadline for Spring 2027 Intake | Mar 3, 2027 |
| Application Deadline for Summer 2027 Intake | Jun 21, 2027 |
| Application Deadline for Winter 2028 Intake | Dec 6, 2027 |
| Application Deadline for Spring 2028 Intake | Feb 28, 2028 |
Scores Required
Required Document List
- Online Application
- Application Fee
- Official Transcripts and Degree Conferral (Proof of Degree)
- Academic Records
- English Language Proficiency Test Scores

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Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jagdish Bhagwati Fellowship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Comindware Scholarship | Scholarship per student₹ 3.8 L/Yr$4,000 | Level Of StudyApprenticeship | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Forktip Women’s- Innovation Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Program | Scholarship per student₹ 9.4 L/Yr$10,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Axol Science Scholarship | Scholarship per student₹ 1.9 L/Yr$2,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCompany-Sponsored | |
| VueVille Future Technology Scholarship | Scholarship per student₹ 94,410/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based |
Similar Programs
| Program | Important Date | Total Fees | Median Exams Score | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Application Deadline for Summer 2026 Intake (22nd Jun 2026) Early Action Application Deadline for Fall 2027 Intake (2nd Nov 2026) Application Deadline for Winter 2027 Intake (8th Dec 2026) Priority Application Deadline for Fall 2027 Intake (1st Feb 2027) Application Deadline for Spring 2027 Intake (3rd Mar 2027) Application Deadline for Summer 2027 Intake (21st Jun 2027) Application Deadline for Winter 2028 Intake (6th Dec 2027) Application Deadline for Spring 2028 Intake (28th Feb 2028) | INR 40.1 L/Yr USD 42,459 /Yr |
|
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