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.