Quick Comparison at a Glance
| Factor | UK | USA | Canada |
|---|---|---|---|
| Program Duration | 1 year Masters | 2 year Masters | 1-2 year Masters |
| Average Cost (Masters) | £15,000-35,000 | $20,000-60,000 | CAD 15,000-35,000 |
| Total Cost (INR) | ₹25-45 lakhs | ₹50-80 lakhs | ₹25-40 lakhs |
| Work During Studies | 20 hrs/week | 20 hrs/week (on-campus) | 24 hrs/week |
| Post-Study Work | 2 years (18 months from Jan 2027) | 1-3 years (OPT) | Up to 3 years |
| PR Pathway | Moderate | Very Difficult | Easiest |
| Visa Success Rate | 98%+ | 75-80% | 90%+ |
Education System Comparison
United Kingdom
Strengths:
- Shorter program duration (1 year Masters)
- Strong research reputation
- Historical prestige
Considerations:
- Higher living costs in London
- Limited post-study work (2 years)
- Competitive PR pathway
United States
Strengths:
- Widest program variety
- Strong research funding
- STEM OPT extension (36 months)
Considerations:
- Highest total cost
- Difficult visa process
- Challenging immigration pathway
Canada
Strengths:
- Most affordable option
- Clear PR pathway
- Welcoming immigration policies
Considerations:
- Colder climate
- Fewer top-ranked universities
- Recent study permit caps
Cost Comparison
Total 2-Year Budget Estimate
| Country | Tuition | Living | Total (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK (1 year) | £25,000 | £15,000 | ₹33 lakhs |
| USA (2 years) | $80,000 | $40,000 | ₹1 crore |
| Canada (2 years) | CAD 60,000 | CAD 30,000 | ₹46 lakhs |
PR Pathway Analysis
UK
- 2-year Graduate Route
- Then switch to Skilled Worker visa
- Points-based system
USA
- H-1B lottery (12% success rate)
- EB-2/EB-3 green card (years of wait)
- Most difficult pathway
Canada
- 3-year PGWP
- Express Entry with CRS points
- Most straightforward PR process
Which Country Should You Choose?
Choose UK if:
- You want quick graduation
- You're targeting UK job market
- You have higher budget
Choose USA if:
- You're pursuing STEM fields
- You want research opportunities
- You're okay with H-1B uncertainty
Choose Canada if:
- PR is your priority
- You want work-life balance
- You prefer affordable education
Last Updated: March 2026
