The USA and Canada make for some of the top study-abroad destinations, thanks to their world-class education system, infrastructure, and research facilities. While choosing the right country to pursue your education abroad, it is necessary to weigh out various factors such as the university ranking, the course you want to study, the cost of studying, post-study work permit flexibility, etc.
Therefore, if you are confused about which is better, Canada vs the USA, for Indian students, then read on to learn about the various factors that would help you decide about the same.
Statistics for International Students: USA vs Canada
Let’s take a look at the overall statistics for between USA vs Canada for international students who to choose either of the two their study destinations.
Business Management, Media, Engineering, Nursing, Computer Science and Hospitality.
Work Permit & Visa Types
Student: Academic, Vocational - F and M visa
Exchange visitor - J visa
Occupations requiring specialized knowledge - H-1B visa
Workers employed in services or labor of a temporary or seasonal nature - H-2B visa
Study Permit, Work Permit
Average Graduate Entry Level Salary
$43,262 per year (₹36,13,214)
CAD 62,638 per year (₹38,33,573)
The US vs Canada – Quality of Education
The first point of comparison between the US and Canada is the quality of education.
Regarding quality, both countries are on par, but the US is one of the most popular destinations for students all around the globe, securing the 2nd spot in the Best Countries for Studying Abroad as per the U.S. News & World Report 2023. Plus, it is home to Ivy League Colleges and is well-known for offering diverse study programs and research opportunities.
However, recently, Canada, which has ranked 7th among the best countries for studying abroad, as per the U.S. News & World Report 2023 and has worked its way up as one of the most sought-after countries for international students due to its multicultural environment and strong focus on research and innovation.
According to the QS world university rankings 2025, these are the leading universities in the US:
Top Universities in US
QS WUR ranking 2025
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
01
Stanford University
04
Harvard University
06
California Institute of Technology
10
University of Pennsylvania
11
After learning about the top universities in the US, let us look at the top universities in Canada as per QS world rankings.
Top Universities in Canada
Top Universities of Canada
QS WUR ranking 2025
McGill University
25
University of Toronto
29
University of British Columbia
38
University of Alberta
96
University of Waterloo
115
Eligibility criteria requirement for Canada vs USA
The eligibility criteria requirements for admission to universities in the USA and Canada differ to some extent, depending on the level of education and the respective course. If you are wondering whether Canada or the USA is better for Indian students wanting to pursue education abroad, you need to understand the eligibility criteria for both.
The eligibility criteria for studying in Canada are flexible in comparison to the US. A SAT examination score is important to take admission to undergraduate courses. For postgraduate courses, Indian students need to graduate with a minimum of 50% marks from a UGC-recognized college or institution 3.0 GPA in bachelor’s.
There are other entrance tests like GRE and GMAT which are not compulsory for all Canadian universities but might be required in business schools. The majority of Canadian universities require English language proficiency test scores for IELTS and TOEFL. The minimum IELTS score requirement is 6.5 and for TOEFL, it is 90-100.
The eligibility criteria to study in the USA are stricter in comparison to Canada due to higher competition. Certification of English language proficiency test scores of IELTS and TOEFL is important. The minimum score requirement for IELTS is 6.5 and 109 for TOEFL. Other standardized entrance examinations like GRE and GMAT are compulsory to take admission to American universities.
The minimum GRE score requirement is 164(for both Verbal and Quantitative sections), however, it differs from one university to another. Students need to complete 12 years of schooling along with SAT and ACT scores.
To apply for post-graduation courses, students must have full-time bachelor’s degrees in relevant fields from a recognized college with an average of 70% marks. A letter of recommendation from at least two faculty members is also required.
Below are the best student cities in the US – all offering at least two internationally ranked universities, plus a unique study abroad experience
QS Ranking 2025
City
16
Boston
18
New York
29
San Francisco
37
Los Angeles
Best Student Cities to Study in Canada
Below are the best student cities in Canada – all offering at least two internationally ranked universities, plus a unique study abroad experience
QS Ranking 2025
City
10
Montreal
14
Toronto
19
Vancouver
57
Ottawa
128
Quebec
USA vs. Canada- Cost of studying
Canada or USA, wondering which is better for Indian students? The cost of studying is a major factor that can help you choose between the two. There is a clear difference in the cost of studying and living in both countries. The USA is known for its higher cost of studies and costlier living costs; however, studying in Canada is comparatively cheaper.
However, the costs will differ broadly for both countries, depending on the universities and courses. For example, the cost of living in a suburban US vicinity will be much less than living in a city in Canada like Toronto. Therefore, there is no single conclusion on the costs. Here are the average costs of studies in both countries.
Cost of studying a UG program in the USA and Canada
Here are some of the top courses and degrees students can pursue in the USA and Canada.
USA
Canada
Engineering
Computer Science and Information Technology
Business Administration
Economics and Finance
Data Science and Analytics
Healthcare and Nursing
Biotechnology and Biomedical Sciences
Psychology and Counseling
Media and Communication Studies
Environmental Science and Sustainability
Computer Science
Business
Engineering
Health Sciences
Information Technology (IT)
Study duration:-
Bachelor's degree: 4 years
Master's degree: 2 years
Study duration:-
Bachelor's degree: 3 years
Bachelor's degree(with honors): 3 years
Master's degree: 2 years
Study options for the USA and Canada
The United States of America is home to the top-ranked global universities. American universities hold a better global rank and prestige compared to Canadian universities. 12 prestigious American universities are on the list of the top 20 globally ranked universities. On the other hand, 8 Canadian universities are listed in the top 200 globally ranked universities. This makes the USA the most preferred destination for studying in comparison to Canada.
The American universities offer varied specializations and courses to postgraduate, undergraduate, and doctoral programs in terms of Science, Technology, Humanities, Commerce, and industry-specialized courses. Some of the top universities in the USA are Stanford University, Harvard University, Columbia University, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Canada is home to the University of Toronto and the University of British Columbia. These are among the most sought-after destinations to study various courses and programs. Canada may indeed have fewer ranked universities as compared to the USA, but the country has a diversified range of specializations and courses for Engineering graduates, Science graduates, and Humanities.
A full-time US student visa at an accredited US college or university is called an F1 visa. This visa has the following regulations –
A personal interview is compulsory, and you will be required to appear for an appointment to provide Biometrics.
You can remain in the US for up to 90 days beyond the length of time it takes to complete your academic program unless you have been approved to stay and work for a period of time under the OPT Program (Optional Practical Training)
It costs $185 to apply for this visa along with the SEVIS fee of $350. You will be required to pay an additional $185 for the dependent visa (per dependant)
You cannot work more than 20 hours per week. During holidays, breaks, and summer sessions, the student may work up to 40 hours per week. The student can only work on-campus for a commercial firm that provides services to the college, such as a bookstore or cafeteria.
Student Visa in Canada
The Canadian student visa has the following regulations –
An applicant should have an approved study permit for which they need to submit documents like a provincial attestation letter (PAL) from the province or territory where they plan to study, a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI), proof of identity, and proof of financial support.
Once the documents are ready, students can apply for a student visa under the Student Direct Stream online.
The visa application process to Canada requires a compulsory medical test and police clearance certificate for Indian applicants.
Spouses can also work full time if his/her stay is for a year or more.
It costs C$150 + C$85 (biometric) to apply for this student permit.
The student permit does not allow you to work for more than 20 hours per week. During holidays, breaks and summer sessions, the student may work up to 40 hours per week.
The post-study work permit is one of the reasons that makes the topic of America vs Canada popular for abroad education. Canada and the USA offer an ample number of lucrative job opportunities and enormous growth. However, both countries have their work permit norms and guidelines. It is an important factor of comparison between the USA and Canada, by the Indian students.
Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) Canada
One of the perks that Indian students can enjoy in Canada is the Post-Graduation Work Permit. The postgraduates with a master's degree of less than 2 years (8 months minimum) are allowed to work for 3 years after the completion of the course. It is one of the best ways to get the status of Permanent Residence. This makes it easier for Indian students to settle in Canada.
US post-graduate work permit (OPT Visa)
The F1 student visa holders are allowed to work for one year under temporary employment that is directly related to the major areas of study. International students can opt for an Optional Practical Training (OPT) visa after completing the course and then work for 12 months. Students in the US are offered 12 months of post-study work permit. However, if a student has completed their degree in a STEM field, they can apply for a 24-month extension of their visa post the completion of their OPT employment.
This scholarship is granted to over 480 Indian students to a full-time Master's, MPhil, or Doctoral program at top universities in the USA.
The scholarship is $100,000 which covers the tuition fee, living expenses, healthcare, and one-way airfare of the student.
Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowships for Indian students
A scholarship of $150,000 is offered to five students every year who are pursuing their MBA program at Stanford Business School.
The grant covers over 80% of the attendance cost, but the only condition is that students need to come back to India and work at Reliance Industries for at least two years.
Candidates are evaluated based on their previous professional experience or leadership role.
Fulbright-Nehru Research Fellowships
The Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship is offered to students undertaking a master’s, doctoral, or post-doctoral degree in the USA.
The eligible students should demonstrate outstanding academic and professional performance, and the selected candidates receive support regarding visa processing, health insurance, and a comprehensive pre-departure orientation.
Tata Scholarships at Cornell
This scholarship supports approximately 20 students from India undertaking an undergraduate program at Cornell University.
It is a need-based financial aid that funds the undergraduate studies of the scholar at Cornell.
Asian Cultural Council Individual Grants
Applicable for artists, scholars, or arts professionals so that they can undertake risks through research projects.
Scholars, practicing artists, or arts professionals in the fields of Archaeology, Art History, Dance, Curation, Crafts, Film/Video/Photography, Literature, Museum Studies, Music, Theater, and Visual Art are eligible.
East-West Center Graduate Degree Fellowship
Students studying at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa (UHM) are eligible for this fellowship which covers the tuition fees for UHM graduate programs, housing in an East-West Center dormitory, books and study materials, health insurance, partial funding toward meals, and incidental expenses.
Canada Scholarships
Benefits and eligibility
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships funded by the Government of Canada
A scholarship of $50,000 per year is offered for three years to students undertaking doctoral studies based on academic excellence, research potential, and leadership skills.
Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship
Applicable for students option for postdoctoral studies in health research, natural sciences and/or engineering, and social sciences and/or humanities.
The value of the fellowship is $70,000 per year (taxable) for 2 years.
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program at the University of Toronto
Offered to 37 international incoming undergraduate students in recognition of their academic performance, achievements, and creativity by the University of Toronto.
Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award at the University of British Columbia
A need and merit-based scholarship for undergraduate international students, with awards ranging in value that cover the full cost and living expenses of the scholar.
York University International Student Scholarship
York University offers four different scholarships for international students, with awards ranging from $5,000 to $35,000.
Ontario Graduate Scholarship
A scholarship of $5,000 is offered to graduate-level students in the Ontario region of Canada.
University of Winnipeg President’s Scholarship for World Leaders
Applicable for first-time graduate students entering the University of Winnipeg for the first time.
The eligible candidates must have a minimum of 80% marks during admission and demonstrate leadership skills.
The scholarship is valued at $5,000.
University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship
An award of $20,000 is given to two students annually who are entering any undergraduate degree based on their merit.
Carleton Prestige Scholarships
7 different prestige scholarships are offered by Carleton University to students having an admission average of 90 percent or more.
These scholarships either cover the full tuition fees or range from $20,000 to $30,000 for 4 years.
Indian students aim to settle down abroad due to the lucrative pay packages, better standard of living, and facilities. Permanent Residence in the USA and Canada is certainly possible. The process and eligibility are however very different between the USA and Canada. Students aspiring to settle down after the completion of the course should consider this factor and then make the right decision.
Permanent Residence is easy to get in Canada with a Post Graduation Work Permit, but does not guarantee a PR. This permit allows Indian students to apply for Permanent Residency. With a valid PGWP, the students need to work for at least one year and then apply for a PR. With a valid PGWP, the candidate can qualify for PR under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or an employer-driven Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). However, the skills or employment should come under the categories of Skill Type 0 or Skill Level A or B under the National Occupational Classification System.
Permanent residency in the USA is also known as a Green Card. A student with an F1 student visa can opt for OPT, after completing their studies. While working under the Optional Practical Training, the students can apply for a Green Card if an employer in the USA is ready to offer them a permanent job or sponsor them.
International students need to pay taxes if they are earning in Canada or if they receive any income from outside of Canada. It can be any income earned from various internships, freelance projects, and research fellowships.
USA:
Students earning in the USA also need to pay taxes. F1 visa holders are non-residence holders and need to file their income under the USA tax return.
Climate
Indian students need to pay attention to the weather conditions of both the USA and Canada before settling down for education. Find below the weather conditions in the USA and Canada.
Summers in Canada are average with temperatures ranging between 15°C to 25°C. Winters are cold and the worst part of the Canadian winter is the wind chills. Snowfall starts in December and continues till March. The winter temperature during the day ranges between -5°C to -15°C.
Climatic conditions are temperate in the USA. The United States receives snowfall from December to February. During winter the temperature is between 19°C to -16°C on average. The summer temperature ranges from around 11°C to 22°C.
Canada or USA, which is better for Indian students? This ultimate comparison between the two should help Indian students in making wise decisions about studying abroad. Is Canada better than America? For Indian students with plans to work and settle down after the completion of the course, Canada is the better choice.
The possibilities of getting a PGWP and Permanent Residency in Canada are a lot more in comparison to the USA. Similarly, if you just wish to complete your studies, the United States of America is an ideal destination for prestigious universities and a renowned education system. To make a balanced decision you must always check out the statistical count, factors, and all other information that helps us to debate and conclude finally! Make the best choice, and for any further assistance get in touch with the counselors of upGrad Abroad.
FAQs
Which is cheaper to live in – the US or Canada?
Cost of living in Canada vs US – The cost of living is affordable in Canada in comparison to the US. In the US, the average accommodation cost ranges between $1,771.80 to $2,977.05. On the other hand, in Canada, it is between CAD 1,899.84 to CAD 3,055.16. The living expenses in the US range between is somewhere around $44,312 (₹37,00,909) while in Canada it ranges between CAD 17,770 - CAD 32,220 (₹10,88,126 - ₹19,72,956) on average. Therefore, Canada is relatively cheaper than the US.
Is it better to immigrate to Canada or USA?
Both Canada and the USA are promising for Indian students. However, Canada offers flexible immigration and settlement plans. The PGWP and Permanent Residency in Canada are easily available in comparison to the US. The US on the other hand is home to the top globally ranked universities and a renowned education system with a promising job market for STEM skill holders.
Is Canada better than America?
Canada is better than America in three areas, PGWP, Permanent Residency, and low cost of living. On the other hand, the USA scores higher in four areas: better employment, high average salaries, top universities, and multicultural environments. As an international student, it is more valuable to study in Canada in comparison to the US because the tuition cost in Canada is significantly lower than in America. However, in terms of quality in higher education, both are almost equal to each other.
Is Canada safer than the US?
Yes, Canada is safer than the US. It is the sixth safest country with a low crime rate in comparison to the US. Indian students prefer Canada over the US, and this is one of those reasons. Murders and theft are less likely to take place in Canada in comparison to the states in the US. Canadian universities pay extreme attention to the safety of their students on campus. However, despite all the legal bodies, international students need to take care of their safety, whether they choose Canada or the US.
Where can I get PR easily?
Permanent Residence is comparatively easily available in Canada. Students with a post-graduation work permit can apply for a Permanent Residency. In comparison to the US, Canada offers flexible and easy approval for Permanent Residency. Getting a Permanent Residency in Canada is much easier in comparison to getting a Green card in the US. Hence, in terms of immigration services, Canada is much more friendly and welcoming in offering PR facilities to international students in comparison to the US.
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