Overseas Education in USA or Canada, choose your pick!

The US and Canada are the two most preferred countries for students to pursue their MS in abroad. However, the conflict between the United States and Canada for masters education is a long-standing issue. Well, master’s programmes in both of these countries are quite well recognised, so discussed below are some points to help you with your decision.

When we talk about masters and STEM courses in particular, no other country can beat the top universities in USA for MS. The excellent research facilities, comprehensive curriculum, a wider choice of specialisations, and internship opportunities are some of the factors that contribute to its supremacy as a top destination for MS. Moreover, obtaining a degree from top-ranking US universities opens the door to innumerable employment opportunities.

Canada is also considered one of the best MS destinations for students. The number of international students in Canada has been increasing over the years owing to its academic excellence and internationally acclaimed education system. Affordability and extensive research are two very important factors that make Canada a favourable option to pursue MS. Apart from this, top universities in Canada for masters and a welcoming immigration policy all contribute to the country’s attractiveness — while some countries are raising barriers, Canada is rolling out the red carpet to international students, demonstrating its commitment to education and an openness to immigration.

Course Structure

The first factor to consider in deciding Canada vs USA for masters is comparing the quality of education.

The US is world-renowned for the quality of its education. MS in USA for Indian students, especially in the STEM fields, is the most preferred choice. The country has a strong reputation for having the highest standards of teaching, research, technology, and innovation. This makes it an ideal spot for students with a research bent. Not only this, but some of the most influential tech and research universities in the world are located in the US.

Canada is being increasingly seen as one of the top MS destinations. The MS degree obtained from top universities in Canada for masters is acknowledged worldwide as being one of the best. Canada’s quality of education in both thesis and non-thesis masters’ programmes is extremely research-oriented.

Admission Requirements for International Students

To study , you need a 4-year bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3 or above. Your TOEFL score should be in the 88–100 range while an overall IELTS score between 6.5 to 7.5, with no section score less than 6. You also need to take the GMAT or GRE exam. You will need to apply for a study permit after you get your acceptance letter. The documents required to be submitted with the application letter are:

Academic transcriptsLetter of RecommendationStatement of Purpose

You should have a bachelor’s degree of 3–4 years with a minimum GPA of 2.50 to 3.50 to be able to apply for masters in USA. Your TOEFL score should be between 78 and 100, and you have to take a GMAT or GRE exam too. You will have to apply for a F-1 student visa after you get your acceptance letter. The documents required to be submitted with the application letter are:

Academic transcriptsApplication Essays / Statement of Purpose2–3 Letters of RecommendationExtracurricular activities

These admission requirements for master’s degrees vary for every course and university in Canada and the US.

Application Process

The admission and application processes for master’s courses are quite similar, while the main point of difference lies in what is needed with the application form. Admissions in Canada universities are based mainly on your grades. Admissions in USA colleges require a set of documents, such as a set of essays, a statement of purpose (SOP), proof of extracurriculars, letters of recommendation, etc., as part of the application process. To begin the process, select a college based on the course you desire. Fill up the application forms and submit the required documents to the college. After you receive your acceptance letter, begin with the visa process or study permit application.

Tuition Fees for International Students

While the amount of tuition fees varies between universities and programs, the USA has an expensive fee structure, whereas the cost in Canada is relatively less. MS in USA for Indian students can cost upto 20,000–45,000 USD and 10,000–35,000 CAD (approx.) in Canada approximately. An MBA programme can cost up to 32,000–110,000 USD (approx.) in the USA and MBA in Canada for Indian students can cost upto 16,000–80,000 CAD.

Cost of Living

Studying abroad includes various other costs apart from tuition fees. These add a substantial amount to the overall expenses. Here is a tentative look at these costs:

Top Universities

Some of the best universities for MS in the world are located in the US and Canada. Here’s an overview of the top colleges in both countries:

Top Universities in the US for MS

Top University in Canada for Masters

Course Specializations

Both countries offer a varied range of courses to students. Following is a list of popular STEM-related courses provided by the top colleges.

LET’S SUMMARIZE:

Although the US has the best quality education for Masters programs, Canada is slowly catching up.Study in Canada requires a better education profile, while US Universities focus on an overall student profile including academic and extracurricular aspects.The admission process is simpler in Canada when compared to the US.Colleges in Canada for masters are much more affordable compared to US universities for MS and other graduate-level programs. The US is known for its infamous student loan problem.The average cost of living in Canada is lower compared to the US.For masters level programs and MS courses, engineering universities in USA have much better worldwide ranks than Canadian universities.Both the US and Canada provide a range of MS programs. However, they differ when compared to which ones are the top MS fields.The job opportunities in Canada are lower and average salaries for MS graduates is higher in the US. However, in Canada getting a post study work permit is easier.In the US, citizenship can be obtained after 5 years of residence through employment. In Canada, one of the PR options called Canadian Experience Class allows international graduates to become permanent residents after 1 year of skilled occupation.Both the US and Canada provide immense opportunities for students to grow and learn from their university experiences.

We hope this article answers all your doubts regarding the best country to study abroad for Indian students but if you are still confused, sign up for a free counselling session with Orient Spectra, the best study abroad consultants in India. Our expert counsellors will guide you throughout the process and you will be all ready to embark on your study overseas journey.