The US and Canada are the two most sought-after countries for students wishing to study MS abroad. However, the question remains US vs Canada for MS, which one is better? Well, masters’ programs in both these countries are quite well recognised and a student must understand the major differences before taking their pick.
In this article we’ll help you with this decision by providing a comparative look into MS in US vs Canada on several notable attributes.
Why Choose US vs Canada for Masters?
We’ll get into the discussion of US vs Canada for masters, but before that, let’s take a quick look at why these countries are so popular for MS courses.
- When we talk about masters and STEM courses in particular, no other country can beat the United States. 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-ranked 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-quality schools 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.
UK vs USA- Which is Better to Study Abroad?
US vs Canada for MS: Quality Education
The first factor to consider in deciding Canada vs USA for masters is comparing the quality of education.
- The US is world renowned for its quality of education. This makes it one of the most preferred destinations for MS abroad, especially for the STEM fields. The country has a strong reputation for highest standards of teaching, research, technology and innovation. This makes it an ideal spot for students with a research bent. Not only this, 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 a Canadian university is acknowledged worldwide as being one of the best. Canada’s quality of education in both thesis and non-thesis masters’ programs is extremely research oriented.
Key takeaway: Although the US has the best quality education for Masters programs, Canada is slowly catching up.
How to Choose Your University in US for MS?
MS in US vs Canada: Course Structure
Any student who is considering Canada vs USA for MS, must first understand the course structure. A student who wants to pursue a Master’s degree in the USA or Canada has to go through a rigorous schedule. Here is a look at the course structure in the 2 countries.
An important thing to remember here is that these attributes may differ between courses and institutions.
|
MS Course Structure in US |
MS Course Structure in Canada |
|
1.5-2 years (May take up to 3 - 6 years for some courses) |
1-2 years (There could be additional internships) |
|
Course- Based or Thesis-Based |
Course- Based or Thesis-Based |
|
Requires about 30-36 credit hours |
Requires about 36 credit hours |
|
Regular assessments and training programs |
Interactive teaching such as site visits, projects and group work ‘co-operative education option’. Students can also opt for Co-operative education programmes, paid experience in placements |
|
Academic Year: September to June |
Academic Year: September to April |
Key takeaway: The Curse structure for MS programs in the US and Canada are quite similar with very few differences.
MS in US vs Canada: Admission Requirements for International Students
The admission requirements for masters change for every course and university in Canada and US.
While the requirements for Master's programs are quite similar in both the countries, there are a few differences here and there.
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MS Admission Requirements in US |
MS Admission Requirements in Canada |
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3 to 4 years of a bachelor’s degree |
1st Class in Bachelor's degree (4 Years) |
|
Minimum GPA – 2.50 to 3.50 TOEFL -78 to 100 |
Minimum GPA - 3.0 or above TOEFL- 88-100 IELTS (Overall 6.5 to 7.5 with no sections less than 6.0 or 6.5) GMAT / GRE |
|
|
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F-1 Student Visa |
Study Permit |
Key takeaway: Studying in Canada requires a better education profile, while US Universities focus on an overall student profile including academic and extracurricular aspects.
All about the Education System in Canada
MS in US vs Canada: Application Process
In both the US and Canada, the admission and application process for master’s courses is quite similar. However, the main point of difference lies in what is needed with the application form.
While admission to most Canadian universities are mainly based on your grades, in US colleges may require a set of documents such as a set of essays, statements of purpose (SOP), proof of extra-curriculars, Letters of recommendations, etc. as a part of the application process.
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Admission Process in US |
Admission Process in Canada |
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Key takeaways: The admission process is simpler in Canada when compared to the US.
All about Intakes and Deadlines in Canada
MS in US vs Canada: Tuition Fees for International Students
If we talk about Canada vs USA for MS, we must also take the cost aspect into consideration. The US is known for its relatively expensive fee structure which is also the reason for its infamous student loan problem. In Canada, on the other hand, the cost of pursuing masters is relatively less when compared to the US.
It is important to know that the amount of tuition fees varies between universities and programs. Given below is a comparison between tuition fees for MS and MBA programs in the two countries:
|
Program |
Tuition fees in US per year (in USD) |
Tuition fees in Canada per year (in CAD) |
|
MS |
20,000 - 45,000 |
10,000 - 35,000 |
|
MBA |
32,000- 1,10,000 |
16,000 - 80,000 |
Key takeaway: Cost of Canadian institutions for MS are much more affordable compared to US universities for MS and other graduate level programs.
MS in USA vs Canada: Cost of Living
Talking about the cost aspect further, let us also compare the cost of living for a student pursuing masters in the two countries. These add a substantial amount to the overall expenses. Considering this and the factor above, we see that the total expenses of studying in Canada are relatively lower than in the US.
Here is a tentative look at these costs:
|
Expenses |
Cost of living per year in USA (in USD) |
Cost of living per year in Canada (in CAD) |
|
On-campus Accommodation |
5,304-8,161 |
2,300-6,000 |
|
Private Accommodation |
6,000-14,000 |
6,000-7,200 |
|
Public Transport |
1,200 |
760-1,100 |
|
Entertainment |
2,000 |
1,400 |
|
Internet |
360-720 |
480 |
|
Books and Supplies |
1,170 |
100 |
|
Household & other Bills |
600 |
630 |
Key takeaway: The average cost of living in Canada is lower compared to the US.
Masters in US vs Canada: Top Universities
When comparing MS in Canada vs MS in USA, a look at the top universities provides a good point of comparison. Some of the best universities for MS in the world are located in the US and Canada. However, the US leads in terms of the ranking when compared with Canada. According to World QS Rankings 2021, following are the top universities in the United States and Canada.
Top 5 Universities in the US for MS
|
University |
Popular Programs |
QS World University Rankings 2022 |
|
1 |
|
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3 |
|
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5 |
|
|
6 |
|
|
20 |
Top Universities in Canada for MS
|
University |
Popular Programs |
QS World University Ranking 2022 |
|
26 |
|
|
27 |
|
|
46 |
|
|
111 |
|
|
140 |
Key takeaway: For masters level programs and MS courses, US universities have much better worldwide ranks compared to Canadian universities.
What to do After Getting an Admit?
MS in US vs Canada: Specialisations
When comparing MS in Canada vs MS in USA, a student must acquaint herself/himself with the best Masters programs in US and Canada.
Here’s a look at the these:
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US |
Canada |
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Key takeaways: Both US and Canada provide a range of MS programs. However, they differ when compared on which ones are the top MS fields.
All about Research and Teaching Assistantships in USA
MS in US vs Canada: Employment Opportunities
A lot of students prefer working in the same country after their masters program is over. This not only helps them gain relevant experience but also helps them gain exposure.
The US offers one of the highest-paid jobs. It is home to a large number of tech companies including Google, Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, etc. that provide ample job opportunities to graduates.
Canada also offers a number of job opportunities as more and more big tech companies are opening their offices in the country. However, the average salary in Canada is relatively low.
|
Job Opportunities for MS Graduates in US |
Job Opportunities for MS Graduates in Canada |
|
Graduates can opt for OPT, optional practical training 12-month temporary work permit in a company related to the field of their study. |
Graduates from eligible Canadian Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) can secure a 3-year Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) |
|
Top high-paying domains for masters include Business and Management, Nursing, Chemical Engineering, Computer Science & IT and Electrical Engineering advertising, finance |
Top high-paying domains for masters include country include Architecture, Engineering, Hospitality and Tourism, Data Science, Computer Science & IT, and Marketing |
|
Average salary of MS Graduates is 70,000 USD |
Average salary of MS Graduates is 40,000 CAD |
Key takeaway: 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.
Highest Paying Jobs in the USA!
MS in US vs Canada: Permanent Residency
Permanent residency can be obtained in both the US and Canada. However, the process varies in terms of ease and time taken.
In the US the process is long and slow. A student needs to reside in USA for at least 5 years with employment to be eligible.
In Canada it is relatively easier and you can apply for PR. Students can apply for permanent residency in continuation with their post study work permit.
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PR in US |
|
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One option is a Green Card. You can also ask your company to sponsor you. It is called employer sponsorship. The company shall fill EB-2 or EB-3 basis your employment status. |
There are many ways of finding permanent residency in Canada such as Express Entry, Provincial nominees among many others. |
Key takeaway: 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.
MS in Canada vs MS in US: Student Life
Last but definitely not the least, when discussing which is better for MS: US or Canada?, one attribute that needs to be discussed is student life. Both the countries are quite similar in terms of student life experiences.
- Student life in the US is considered to be one of the best in the world. A student will experience true diversity in the US, as students here come from various parts of the world. Most students here also enjoy their life on campus, food and nightlife.
- Canada too has plenty of experiences to offer to its international students. Since the immigration rates are pretty high, you get a chance to peek into an amazing blend of cultures. The only aspect where Canada takes a hit is the harsh winters, which might get difficult for students to bear.
Key takeaways: both the US and Canada provide immense opportunities for students to grow and learn from their university experiences.
Therefore, considering all the parameters discussed above, it is safe to state that both the US and Canada present wonderful opportunities to graduates. Your choice completely depends on what you want from your MS program. If you are looking for affordable MS options, Canada is the best choice but if you wish to pursue masters in top universities in the world, USA is definitely the way to go. So, make sure you consider every aspect before taking the final call.
And if you are still confused, our Yocket Counsellors are right at your service!
Frequently Asked Questions about MS in US vs Canada
Ques. What are the major benefits of studying in USA for Indian students?
Ans. some of the major benefits of studying in USA for international students are:
- Universities ranked and recognised internationally
- Great employability rates and opportunities
- Abundance courses and universities to choose from
- Ample landscape opportunities in numerous states to choose from
- Culturally rich environment
Ques. What are some top universities in USA for MS?
Ans. Some top universities in USA for MS are:
Ques. Is education better in Canada or US?
Ans. Both Canada and the US offer students with an equally good education.
Ques. What is the international student population in USA?
Ans. According to the latest stats, there are around 1,075,496 international students studying in the USA.
Ques. Are universities in USA highly ranked?
Ans. US universities and colleges have consistently earned the top spots in the world rankings be it the QS World University Ranking, Times Higher Education Ranking or others. Therefore, for studying in US vs Canada, the US always wins.
Ques. Which is better: MS in US vs MS in Canada?
Ans. Masters in Canada vs USA for international students can only be distinguished based on parameters like student visa process, cost of living, top universities, employment opportunities, etc