An MS, or Master of Science, is a highly respected degree in the field of science, with various specializations available. Many students pursue this program as it allows them to conduct in-depth research and opens up opportunities for high-paying careers. An MS degree from a reputable international university, along with international job experience, is highly valuable in the job market. When considering studying abroad for an MS, it is important to carefully choose the right country and program as it can greatly impact one's career in the long term.
Studying MS abroad offers many benefits including developing new life skills, becoming accustomed to a new culture, and personal growth. The best nations for foreign students to pursue their master's degrees include the United States, Canada, and Germany, among others, where they can learn transferable skills and specialized knowledge, have opportunities to earn money and find employment or internship possibilities.
However, the best option for pursuing a master's degree will depend on individual factors such as preferred courses, spending limits, test results for standardized exams like the GMAT, GRE, IELTS, and TOEFL, financial budget, personal preferences, visa permission. Each country has its own unique benefits, so it's important to do thorough research before making a decision on the best country for an MS program for international students.
Top 5 countries to study MS
United States of America
The United States is a highly desirable study-abroad destination for students due to its excellent education, diverse culture, and exciting opportunities. American universities provide extensive support for international students and also offer financial aid through scholarships. The curriculum is very flexible, allowing students to explore many different subjects and specialize in their chosen fields. The US is a safe, culturally diverse environment that is great for meeting new people and fostering personal growth. Additionally, pursuing an MS in the United States will look very favorable on a resume.
International students enrolled in STEM programs (science, technology, engineering, and math) are also eligible for an OPT (Optional Practical Training) term of three years, during which they can work and pay off their study-related expenses. This can provide a great return on investment compared to other countries.
Tuition & Living Costs
The cost of a master's degree in the USA ranges from $40,000 to $80,000. The cost of living for students in the US can vary depending on location, with lodging costs ranging from $12,000 to $35,000 per year. Living in a suburb can cost between $10,000 and $12,000, while living in a large city such as New York or Chicago can cost around $18,000 per year.
Visa Cost
There are three types of US student visas: F1, J1, and M1. Each type of visa serves a different purpose and has different requirements. An application fee of $160 is required for any of these visa types.
Stay Back Period
International students who have completed their degree and wish to remain in the US have the opportunity to do so through OPT (Optional Practical Training), which is a temporary authorization for employment in their field of study for a 12-month duration.
United Kingdom
Many students choose to enroll in professional programs after graduation by studying in the UK, which offers a wide range of specializations in MS and MSc courses at prestigious research-based institutions. Additionally, the UK provides a 2-year post-study work visa allowing students to stay and work in the country after completing their course.
The master's programs in the UK are shorter and more focused than in other countries which makes students graduate in a relatively shorter duration without compromising the education quality.
Tuition & Living Costs
The cost of a master's program in the UK can range from £9,000 to £15,000, although it may be higher at highly prestigious universities. International students are required to show proof of a financial plan for accommodation, with a minimum requirement of £1,265 for London and £1,015 for outside London, on top of the tuition fee.
Visa Cost
The cost for the Tier 4 General Visa, which is the main visa category for international students studying in the UK, is £363.
Stay Back Period
After completing their degree, international students are allowed to stay in the UK for four months. This period is known as the "switch" or "cooling-off" period, during which time students can remain in the UK to look for work or make arrangements to return home. However, the students are not allowed to work during this period, the purpose is to allow them to transition out of the UK after completing their studies.
Australia
Studying for a Master of Science degree in Australia is a good choice because of the high-quality curriculum, respected degrees worldwide, and relaxed lifestyle. Moreover, the tuition costs are relatively lower when compared to the US and UK. Universities in Australia grant three main types of degrees: traditional academic, professional development master, and professional master.
In Australia, Master's degrees can be divided into three categories: Professional Development Master, Professional Master, and Traditional Academic Master. Professional Development Masters degrees provide an opportunity for students to concentrate in a particular field, whereas Professional Masters allow students with a general or non-professional undergraduate background to gain professional qualifications in a specific field.
Tuition & Living Costs
The cost of programs for international students in Australia typically ranges between AUD 22,000 and 50,000 per year. This range can vary depending on the field of study, with master's degrees in humanities and arts tending to be on the lower end of the scale and those in science and technology being on the higher end.
On average, students can expect to pay anywhere between AUD 10,000 to 20,000 or more per year for accommodation.
Visa Cost
International students are required to pay an application fee of AUD 630 for all subclass visas.
Stay Back Period
After completing two years of study in Australia, international students may be eligible to apply for a Post-Study Work (Temporary) visa, also known as a 485 visa. The visa allows students to stay and gain work experience in Australia for a period of up to 18 months. This visa category is intended to assist international students in transitioning to the workforce after completing their studies and to gain valuable skills and professional experience in their field of study.
Canada
Studying for a Master of Science degree in Canada can be a beneficial choice for students due to the flexibility of advanced study, emphasis on personalized learning, availability of financial aid, and the country's welcoming attitude. Additionally, there has been a significant increase in international enrollment for Master of Science programs in Canada in recent years.
The cost of education in Canada is relatively low compared to other countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia, despite having high-quality living standards and Master of Science programs that are among the best in the world. International students tend to find lower living expenses and tuition costs in Canada.
Tuition & Living Costs
The cost of tuition for master's programs in Canada ranges from 30,000 to 55,000 CAD, which is generally less expensive than similar programs in the United States. Additionally, students should plan for living expenses, which typically range between CAD 10,000 and CAD 12,000 per year.
Visa Cost
A study permit is a document issued by the Government of Canada that allows international students to study at designated learning institutions (DLI) in Canada. It is a requirement for students who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents to have a valid study permit in order to study in Canada.
The fee for applying for a study permit is CAD 150. It's important to note that there are other potential costs associated with the application process, such as fees for biometric information and application processing fees, which vary depending on the country of origin of the applicant.
Stay Back Period
International students who have completed their studies in Canada may be eligible to apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP). The validity of PGWP is linked to the length of the program of study and allows students to work in Canada after completing their studies. This permit is usually valid for the same duration as the program of study, or a minimum of 8 months and a maximum of 3 years after completing the MS program. Eligibility for the PGWP requires that the course duration must be a minimum of 8 months.
Germany
In recent years, Germany has become a popular destination for international students seeking to pursue higher education. This is due to the country's wide range of study options and internationally recognized university degrees, combined with a high employment rate and relatively affordable cost of living. This makes Germany an attractive place to study.
Germany is particularly well-suited for students interested in pursuing a Master of Science degree due to the rigorous curriculum and opportunities for hands-on learning through employment at prestigious organizations, all while not having to pay tuition fees. Most programs, including MS degrees, are available through Germany's public institutions.
Tuition & Living Costs
In Germany, most universities are supported by the government, which means that there are no tuition fees for master's degrees. However, it's important to note that some private German universities may charge tuition fees for a Master's degree, which can cost up to 40,000 EUR per year.
On average, students can expect to pay anywhere between 300 EUR and 600 EUR per month for accommodation.
Visa Cost
International students who wish to study in Germany are required to apply for a student visa. The visa fee for a student visa in Germany is €75. This fee must be paid during the application process and is non-refundable.
Stay Back Period
After finishing their master's degree, international students are eligible to apply for a residence permit for a period of 18 months in Germany. This permit allows students to stay in Germany to seek employment within their field of study.
