For an F-1 student visa, a sponsor is the person or organization that pays for your studies. It can be a parent, a relative, a spouse, an employer, or even yourself if you have the funds. Education loans from banks also count. There is no fixed rule that limits who your sponsor can be.
What matters is proof. Your sponsor must show bank statements or other financial documents that cover your tuition and living costs, usually for at least the first year of study. The university uses those documents to issue your Form I-20, which you need for the visa interview.
Be honest and consistent. The name on the financial documents, the sponsor letter, and the I-20 should line up. Visa officers check for that. Keep copies of everything, and do not submit documents you cannot explain.
For cost planning, read how much money you need to study in the USA and whether the USA is cheap for international students. For funding ideas, see how to study an MS in the USA for free and international student admission requirements.

