Choose USA if…
Largest choice of universities and specialisations; STEM OPT gives up to 3 years of work experience after an eligible degree.
🇺🇸 vs 🇨🇦
USA vs Canada for Indian Students
A side-by-side comparison of studying in the USA and Canada: total cost in rupees, work during and after study, and long-term options.
- USA: median ₹98 lakh
- Canada: median ₹72 lakh
- Canada cheaper by ≈ ₹26 lakh
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Quick answer
USA or Canada: which is better for Indian students?
On our university data, Canada is cheaper: the median total cost is ₹72 lakh versus ₹98 lakh in the USA. After graduation, the USA offers OPT 12 months + 24-month STEM OPT extension for STEM-designated degrees, while Canada offers PGWP up to 3 years depending on program length. The better choice depends on your course, budget and long-term plan.
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USA vs Canada
- Median total cost
- USA: ₹98 lakh · Canada: ₹72 lakh
- Duration
- USA: 1.5–2 years (some 1-year programs) · Canada: 1–2 years
- Intakes
- USA: Fall (Aug/Sep) · Canada: Fall (Sep)
Side by side
USA vs Canada: the numbers
Our view
Which suits you?
Choose Canada if…
Post-graduation work permit of up to 3 years; Co-op programs with paid work terms.
Budget first
Canada is about ₹26 lakh cheaper at the median on our data.
Career first
Compare post-study work: USA (OPT 12 months + 24-month STEM OPT extension for STEM-designated degrees) and Canada (PGWP up to 3 years depending on program length).
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
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Ask a counsellor directly — we reply on WhatsApp during working hours (Mon–Sat, 9 AM–6 PM IST).
On our data, Canada has the lower median total cost (₹72 lakh vs ₹98 lakh).
USA: OPT 12 months + 24-month STEM OPT extension for STEM-designated degrees. Canada: PGWP up to 3 years depending on program length.
USA: Up to 20 hours/week on campus during semesters. Canada: Up to 24 hours/week off campus during academic sessions.
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