USA vs UK vs Canada: A side-by-side for Indian masters applicants
Cost, duration, PSW, PR pathway and job market — the six numbers that actually decide the destination.
Three countries dominate Indian masters applications. Here's the honest side-by-side:
Duration — USA: 1.5–2 years. UK: 1 year. Canada: 1–2 years.
Total cost (tuition + living, INR): USA ₹45–75L · UK ₹30–45L · Canada ₹25–40L.
Post-study work: USA 12 months OPT + 24 months STEM extension. UK 2 years (18 months from 2027). Canada up to 3 years PGWP.
PR pathway: USA effectively via H-1B lottery. UK Skilled Worker → ILR in 5 years. Canada Express Entry — the clearest of the three.
Job market for Indians: USA strongest for tech and quant. UK strongest for finance and consulting in London. Canada strongest for healthcare, data, engineering with clear immigration intent.
Rule of thumb: pick USA for peak earning, UK for speed, Canada for long-term settlement.