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 and will always be one of the most popular destinations for students all around the globe as it is home to Ivy League Colleges. However, recently, Canada has worked its way up as one of the most sought-after countries for international students.
Read More About: Canada Provincial Nominee Program
Top Universities in the US
According to the QS world university rankings 2023, these are the leading universities in the US:
| Top Universities in US | QS WUR ranking 2023 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | 01 |
| Stanford University | 03 |
| Harvard University | 05 |
| California Institute of Technology | 06 |
| University of Chicago | 10 |
After knowing 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 2023 |
| McGill University | 31 |
| University of Toronto | 34 |
| University of British Columbia | 47 |
| University of Alberta | 110 |
| Université de Montréal | 116 |
Eligibility criteria requirement for Canada vs USA
The eligibility criteria requirements for the USA and Canada differ to some extent. The eligibility parameters vary depending on the level of education and the respective course. Find below the required eligibility for studying in Canada vs the USA:
The eligibility criteria for studying in Canada are flexible in comparison to the US. An 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. There are other entrance tests like GRE and GMAT which are not compulsory for Canadian universities. The majority of Canadian universities require English language proficiency test scores for IELTS and TOEFL. The minimum IELTS score is 6.5 and for TOEFL, it is 550.
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 600 for TOEFL. Other standardized entrance examinations like GRE and GMAT are compulsory to take admission to American universities. The minimum GRE score requirement is 290, 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 board with an average of 70% marks. A letter of recommendation from at least two faculty members is also required.
Read More: Exams required to study in Canada for international students
Best Student Cities to study: USA vs Canada
Best Student Cities to study in Canada
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 2023 | City |
| 11 | Boston |
| 18 | New York |
| 27 | San Francisco |
| 30 | 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 2023 | City |
| 14 | Montreal |
| 15 | Toronto |
| 20 | Vancouver |
| 55 | Ottawa |
| 106 | Quebec |
USA vs. Canada- Cost of studying
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
| Particulars | Annual Cost of UG course in US | Annual Cost of UG course in Canada |
| Tuition fees | $35,331 | $ 20,000-C$ 30,000 |
| Living expenses | $10152.03 | $7385.57 |
| Duration | four years | four years |
Cost of studying a PG program in the USA and Canada
| Particulars | Annual Cost of PG course in US | Annual Cost of PG course in Canada |
| Tuition fees | $11,700 – $45,000 | $8,000 – $35,000 |
| Living expenses | $10000 to $18000 per year | $25000 |
| Duration of study | 2 years | two years |
Recommended Read: Cost of Studying in Canada vs Cost of Studying in USA
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.
Read More: Why study in USA vs Why Study in Canada
Student Visa in the US vs. Canada
Student Visa in USA
A full-time US student visa 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 $160 to apply for this visa along with the SEVIS fee of $350. You will be required to pay an additional $160 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 –
- You will have to apply for the post-graduation work permit within 90 days of finishing your studies.
- The visa application process to Canada requires a compulsory medical test for Indian applicants.
- Spouses can also work full time if his/her stay is for a year or more.
- It costs C$150 + C$80 (biometric) to apply for this visa.
- 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.
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Recommended Read: Student visa for Canada vsStudent Visa for USA
Post-study work permit in USA and Canada
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 opportunities and enormous growth. However, both countries have their work permit norms and guidelines. It is an important factor of comparison between 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 are allowed to work for 3 years after the completion of the course. Indian students are allowed to stay back for 3 years after completion of their 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 Optional Practical Training (OPT) visa after completing the course and then work for 12 months. Students in the US are offered 12 months of study work permit.
Recommended Read: Canada Post Graduate Work Permit vs Post Study Work Permit in the USA
Scholarships to study in USA vs in Canada
| US Scholarships | Canada Scholarships |
| Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation scholarships | Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships funded by Government of Canada |
| Asian Women in Business Scholarship Fund | Sauvé Scholars Program by the Jeanne Sauvé Youth Foundation |
| Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowships for Indian students | Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship |
| Fulbright-Nehru Research Fellowships | Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program at the University of Toronto |
| S.N. Bose Scholars Student Exchange Program for Indian Students | Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award at University of British Columbia |
| Tata Scholarships at Cornell | York University International Student Scholarship |
| Asian Cultural Council Individual Grants | Ontario Graduate Scholarship |
| East-West Center Graduate Degree Fellowship | University of Winnipeg President’s Scholarship for World Leaders |
| Yale University Fox International Fellowships | University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship |
| Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowships Program | Carleton Prestige Scholarships |
Job Profiles in USA vs. Canada
| Top Job Prospects | Average Salaries in the US (in USD) | Average Salaries in Canada (in USD) |
| HR Manager | 148,000 | 135,000 |
| Financial Analyst | 126,000 | 121,000 |
| Aerospace Engineering | 128,000 | 116,000 |
| Business Analyst | 125,000 | 116,000 |
| Project Manager | 124,000 | 97,000 |
| Civil Engineer | 88,000 | 81,000 |
Source: Job Portals
Related Reads:
- Part-Time Job Options in the USA for International Students
- Jobs after MS in Canada
- Part time jobs in Canada
Statistics for International Students : USA vs Canada
Let’s take a look at the overall statistics for international students who choose either of the two study destinations.
| Category | US | Canada |
| Total Number of Universities | 21 Million | 2 Million |
| Top Courses of Study | Engineering, MBA, IT, Sports Management, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Biotechnology, Physiotherapy, Hospitality, etc. | Business Management, Media, Engineering, Nursing, Computer Science and Hospitality. |
| Work Permit & Visa Types | F-1 Student Visa, J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa | Study Permit, Work Permit |
| Average Graduate Entry Level Salary (USD/yr) | 60,000 to 90,000 (INR 45.17 lakhs – INR 67.76 lakhs) | 50,000 to 90,000 (INR 37.6 lakhs – INR 67.76 lakhs) |
Permanent Residence
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. 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. 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.
Also Read:
- How to obtain PR in the USA?
Taxes in Canada and USA
Canada:
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. The summer temperature ranges from 11°C to 22°C.
Read More:
- Best City in Canada for International Students
- Here are 50 Interesting Facts about the USA
Conclusion
This ultimate comparison between Canada and the USA 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.
Sure, here's a breakdown of the concepts discussed in the article comparing the US and Canada in terms of education:
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Quality of Education:
- Both countries are on par, but the US has Ivy League Colleges, while Canada has risen as a sought-after destination for international students.
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Top Universities:
- The US boasts institutions like MIT, Stanford, Harvard, Caltech, etc.
- Canada's top universities include McGill, University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, etc.
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Eligibility Criteria:
- Canada has more flexible criteria, requiring SAT for undergrad and varying English proficiency scores (IELTS 6.5, TOEFL 550).
- The US demands stricter standards: SAT/ACT for undergrad, GRE/GMAT for postgrad, English proficiency (IELTS 6.5, TOEFL 600), specific GPA, and more.
-
Best Student Cities:
- US cities like Boston, New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles.
- Canadian cities like Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa, Quebec.
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Cost of Studying:
- The US generally has higher tuition fees and living expenses compared to Canada, although the costs vary widely based on location and institutions.
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Study Options:
- The US has globally ranked universities with diverse specializations.
- Canada, with fewer top-ranked universities, offers varied courses in different fields.
-
Student Visas:
- F1 visa in the US involves an interview, biometrics, limited work hours, and specific fees.
- Canadian student visas require medical tests for certain applicants, allow spousal work, and have different fees.
-
Post-Study Work Permit:
- Canada offers a 3-year work permit after graduation, aiding permanent residence.
- The US provides a 12-month Optional Practical Training (OPT) visa post-study.
-
Scholarships:
- Both countries offer various scholarships for international students.
-
Job Prospects & Salaries:
- Job prospects and average salaries for different professions vary in both countries.
-
Permanent Residency:
- Canada facilitates permanent residency through its post-graduation work permit.
- The US has green card options but requires employer sponsorship.
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Taxes:
- Both countries impose taxes on international students' earnings, albeit with different regulations.
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Climate:
- The climates in Canada and the US differ, with Canada having colder winters.
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Decision Making:
- The article suggests that for Indian students seeking work and settlement opportunities, Canada might be a better choice due to its policies on work permits and permanent residency.
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Conclusion:
- It advises students to weigh the various factors before deciding between the two countries for education.
The comparison provides a comprehensive overview, considering academics, costs, job prospects, immigration policies, and more, assisting students in making informed decisions.
