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Choosing where to pursue your higher education is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in your academic journey. Canada and the United States, neighbours known for their excellent universities, are two popular study destinations for international students. While both countries offer world-class education opportunities, they differ in several aspects, including tuition fees, post-study work opportunities, and cultural experiences. In this guide, we’ll explore varied aspects for choosing to study in Canada vs USA, helping you make an informed decision about which country aligns better with your academic goals and personal preferences.
| Parameters | USA | Canada |
| Area | 7,741,220 sq. km | 9,984,670 sq. km |
| Capital | Washington DC | Ottawa |
| Currency | US Dollars (USD) | Canadian Dollars (CAD or CDN) |
| Total Indian Students Studying in 2022-2023 | 3,19,130 | 2,68,923 |
| Total Tertiary Education Providers | 3,982 | 436 |
| Average Cost of Studying | USD 99,500 p.a. | CAD 12,000 – CAD 30,000 p.a. |
| Average Cost of Living | USD | CAD 20,000 to CAD 30,000 |
| Permitted Part-Time Working Hours | 20 hours/week | 20 hours/week |
| Popular Job Sectors | Education, Finance, Healthcare, Technology, Retail, Law, Science, Software, Cloud Computing | Healthcare, IT Consultants, Commercial Bankers, Technology, Gasoline & Petroleum |
Popular Courses To Study In Canada Vs USA
The USA and Canada are one of the most sought-after countries among international students due to the diverse programmes they offer and the exposure to global opportunities. Here are some of the popular courses that the two countries are widely admired for:
| USA | Canada |
| Engineering | Computer Science and IT |
| Computer Science | Media & Journalism |
| Business Management | Applied and Pure Sciences |
| Data Science | Engineering |
| Business Analytics | Health and Medicine |
| Medicine | Hospitality & Tourism |
| Finance | |
| Biotechnology |
Admission Requirements To Study In USA & Canada
Before deciding on which is better in comparison to study in Canada vs US for international students, it is important to understand the admission requirements for these countries. This admission criteria differs from one university to another along with the course that you enrol for. However, international students must submit the following when applying to universities in the USA and Canada:
- Transcripts for your university courses or degree
- English language tests, such as IELTS or TOEFL
- Work experience and samples (if needed)
- GMAT or GRE scores
- Statement of purpose
- Recommendation letter
- Proof of Financial Stability
- CV/Resume
Scholarships To Study In USA Vs Canada
Finances are a major concern while planning to decide between if is it better to study in Canada or USA, especially for international students. To help deserving students support their education, there are many popular scholarships available in Canada and the USA which are highlighted below:
| USA Scholarships | Canada Scholarships |
| K.C. Mahindra Scholarships For Post-Graduate Studies Abroad | University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship |
| International Scholars Award | Ontario Graduate Scholarship- Other Master Programmes |
| Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship | University of Alberta – India First Year Excellence Scholarships |
| Tata Scholarship | President’s International Scholarship of Excellence |
| Joseph Wharton Fellowship | Humber College – International Entrance scholarships – Graduate Diploma/ Certificate Programme |
| Trustee Scholarships – Boston University | International – Entrance Excellence Scholarship |
| Shardashish Interschool Fellowship (Columbia University) | SFU Ryan Barrington-Foote Bursary in Business Administration |
| Yale Scholarship ( All Undergraduate Programmes) | Alberta Innovates Graduate Student Scholarships (Faculty of Arts & Engineering) |
| Presidential Scholarship | |
| University of Saskatchewan Dean’s Scholarships | |
| First-Year International Student SAT Scholarship |
Study In Canada Vs USA: Cost Of Studying & Living
The cost of tuition fees in both countries are greatly determined by the university and the programme that you choose to go for. Here is a representation of the average annual expenses for some of the top universities in Canada and USA:
Canada
| University | Average Annual Tuition Fees (CAD) |
| University of Toronto | $57,000 |
| University of British Columbia | $38,500 |
| McGill University | $48,000 |
| University of Montreal | $27,000 |
| University of Alberta | $26,500 |
| Western University | $36,000 |
| Queen’s University | $44,500 |
| University of Calgary | $23,000 |
| Dalhousie University | $21,500 |
USA
| University | Average Annual Tuition Fees (USD) |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | $50,000 – $55,000 |
| Stanford University | $25,000 – $55,000 |
| Harvard University | $25,000 – $51,000 |
| California Institute of Technology | $44,000 – $57,000 |
| University of Chicago | $55,000 – $59,000 |
| University of Pennsylvania | $60,000 – $62,000 |
| Princeton University | $56,000 – $58,000 |
| Yale University | $58,000 – $60,000 |
| Cornell University | $56,000 – $60,000 |
| Columbia University | $58,000 – $78,000 |
Another major consideration that needs to be tackled while choosing to study in US vs Canada is the living costs. The total living expenses are majorly influenced by a variety of factors apart from the tuition fees such as food, accommodation, transportation and many other miscellaneous costs. Here is a representation of the average monthly costs that students can factor in while they pursue their education in USA or Canada:
| Expense | Monthly Cost USA(USD) | Monthly Cost Canada (NZ$) |
| Off-Campus Accommodation | 1,150 | 550 |
| On Campus Accommodation | 1,300 | 1,611 |
| Transportation | 70 | 100 |
| Food | 600 | 720 |
| Entertainment | 50 | 60 |
| Groceries | 52 | 64 |
| Clothes | 111 | 133 |
| Total Cost of Living with Off Campus Accommodation (Per month) | 2,083 | 1,627 |
| Total Cost of Living with On-Campus Accommodation (Per month) | 2,183 | 2,688 |
It is imperative to note that these expenses are subject to change and can vary depending on your personal preferences and lifestyle choices.
Student Visa In USA & Canada
To study in the USA or Canada, international students who accept their admission offers are required to apply for a student visa. Students can only begin their studies after their student visa application is approved. The table below showcases the student visa requirements for both countries:
| Key Aspect | USA | Canada |
| Visa Type | F1 visa for full-time study | Study permit |
| Eligibility | Required for programmes with more than 18 hours of study per week, including undergraduate and graduate programmes | Required for academic, professional, or vocational training at designated learning institutes |
| Application Documents | Personal information, professional documents, academic background, financial documents | Proof of acceptance from a designated learning institute, sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses, clean background and no criminal record |
| Application Cost | $160 visa fee + $350 SEVIS fee | CAD 150 |
| Medical Test | Not required | Compulsory for Indian applicants |
| Work Restrictions | Cannot work more than 20 hours per week; up to 40 hours per week during holidays and summer sessions; on-campus employment only | Cannot work more than 20 hours per week |
Post-Graduate Work Visa:
After completing their studies, international students who wish to work full-time in the USA or Canada must apply for a post-graduate work visa. The details for each country are as follows:
USA:
- Optional Practical Training (OPT): Temporary employment authorisation for 12 months, allowing practical experience in the field of study.
- Student Co-Op Programme: Structured programme for recruitment while still in school, leading to permanent positions upon graduation.
- STEM students are eligible for a three-year stay back.
Canada:
- Post-Graduation Work Permit: Allows students to work for a period depending on the duration of their course, up to a maximum of three years, in any field or industry.
Climate In USA & Canada
For international students planning to study in the USA or Canada, it’s essential to be prepared for the diverse climate conditions these countries offer. The northern regions have long, cold winters and short, cool summers, with average temperatures ranging from -30°C (-22°F) in winter to 12°C (54°F) in summer.
The central regions, including the Great Plains and Midwest, have a continental climate with hot summers (average around 25°C/77°F) and cold winters (average around -5°C/23°F).
The coastal regions, such as the Pacific Northwest and Northeast, have a more moderate climate with milder winters and cooler summers.
The southern states of the U.S. and parts of southern Canada enjoy a subtropical or Mediterranean climate, with hot summers (average around 30°C/86°F) and mild winters (average around 10°C/50°F).
Health Care In USA & Canada
Healthcare is a significant concern when planning to study abroad. Canada and the USA have distinct healthcare systems that international students should familiarise themselves with.
- In Canada, the government-funded universal healthcare system provides comprehensive coverage for basic medical services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency care.
- However, students may need supplemental insurance for services like prescription medicines, dental care, and vision care.
- The USA boasts a largely private healthcare system, where international students are typically required to purchase a comprehensive health insurance plan offered by their institution or an external provider.
- These plans cover essential medical services, although costs and coverage can vary significantly.
Permanent Residency In USA Vs Canada
Many international students aspire to obtain permanent residency (PR) after completing their university-level education and finding full-time employment. The processes and pathways for PR differ between the USA and Canada, as outlined in the following table:
| Key Aspects | USA | Canada |
| PR Terminology | Green Card | Express Entry |
| Eligibility Requirements | Reside in the US for at least 5 years on employment grounds | Apply during the Post-Graduation Work Permit period under the Canadian Experience Class |
| Process | Complicated and lengthy, may take years to complete | Relatively easier compared to most countries due to a shortage of highly skilled employees |
| Rights and Benefits | Green Card holders are authorized to live and work in the US permanently | PR status allows permanent residency and work rights in Canada |
| Issuing Authority | U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) | Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) |
While dealing with the dilemma of USA or Canada which is better to study in, it is wise to take into consideration the university that you wish to go to, the average tuition fee and the overall living costs in the country. In essence, whether you choose to go to Canada or the US, your journey to pursue education in either of these countries is sure to be enriching due to the academic excellence they offer along with an excellent quality of life.
FAQs
Which country is more affordable for international students, Canada or the USA?
Generally, studying in Canada is more affordable compared to the USA, with lower tuition fees and living costs.
What are the most popular courses for international students to study in Canada vs USA?
In Canada, popular courses include Computer Science, Engineering, Health Sciences, and Business. In the USA, Engineering, Computer Science, Business Management, and STEM courses are widely pursued.
Are scholarships available for international students in Canada and the USA?
Yes, both countries offer a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for deserving international students.
Which country has easier student visa requirements for international students?
Canada’s student visa (study permit) requirements are generally considered more straightforward compared to the USA’s F1 visa process.
Can international students work while studying in Canada and the USA?
Yes, international students can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during their studies in both countries, with some additional provisions during breaks.
Which country offers better post-study work opportunities for international students?
Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit allows international students to work for up to three years after graduation, while the USA offers Optional Practical Training (OPT) for up to one year.
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