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Which Country is Best for MS?

Updated on 29 January, 2025

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad abroad Editorial Team

So, you’re considering pursuing a Master’s in Science (MS) but aren’t sure where to go? With the global demand for advanced degrees rising, now is the perfect time to make that decision. 

MS graduates are in high demand, especially in fields like data science, computer science, and engineering. In fact, the global job market for MS graduates is expected to grow by over $2 trillion by 2026, meaning the career potential is huge.

So, why pursue an MS?

  • Whether you're selecting machine learning, biotech, or data analytics, an MS lets you specialize in your field and develop advanced skills.
  • Get a degree from a world-class university and watch your career take off globally, with opportunities in countries all around the world.
  • Employers value the expertise that comes with an MS, so you're looking at higher-paying roles and better job security.

The big question is: which country is best for MS? Every country has its strengths, and this guide will help you figure out where to pursue your MS based on what matters most to you.

Which Country is Best for MS? Top Options in 2025

Looking to know which country is best for MS? Some countries are known for their top universities, while others provide great job opportunities or a welcoming environment for students. 

Let’s explore which country is best for MS degree!

1. United States

The USA is a hub for fields like computer science, data science, engineering, business management, and life sciences. With Silicon Valley and global corporations headquartered here, the country is perfect for students looking to work in tech and business sectors.

Why Choose this Country?

  • Home to top universities like HarvardMIT, and Stanford.
  • Strong job opportunities, especially in technology and business sectors.
  • Access to cutting-edge research and innovation.

Cost of Studying and Living

  • Tuition Fees: Average cost for MS for international students is $20,000–$50,000 per year (₹16–₹40 lakhs), depending on the university and program.
  • Living Expenses: Urban areas like New York or San Francisco cost $1,500–$3,000 per month (₹1.2–₹2.5 lakhs), while smaller towns are more affordable at $800–$1,500 (₹65,000–₹1.2 lakhs) per month.

Popular Universities Offering MS Programs

  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
  • Stanford University
  • University of California, Berkeley
  • Carnegie Mellon University

The US offers the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, allowing STEM students to work for up to 3 years after graduation. Non-STEM students can work for 1 year. Many students aim for an H-1B visa, but competition is high.

2. Germany

Germany is the go-to destination for engineering, automotive technology, robotics, renewable energy, and computer science. Its strong focus on research and innovation makes it ideal for tech and engineering students.

Why Choose this Country?

  • No tuition fees or low-cost education at public universities.
  • Strong focus on engineering, technology, and STEM fields.
  • Great post-study work opportunities, especially in automotive and mechanical engineering.

Cost of Studying and Living

  • Tuition Fees: Public universities charge no tuition fees for most programs, but semester fees range from €200–€500 (₹18,000–₹45,000). Private universities cost more, ranging from €10,000–€20,000 per year (₹9–₹18 lakhs).
  • Living Expenses: Monthly expenses are around €850–€1,200 (₹75,000–₹1 lakh), including rent, food, and transportation. Smaller cities are cheaper than hubs like Munich or Berlin.

Popular Universities Offering MS Programs

  • Technical University of Munich (TUM)
  • RWTH Aachen University
  • University of Stuttgart
  • Humboldt University of Berlin

Germany offers an 18-month job search visa after graduation. STEM graduates are in high demand, especially in automotive, IT, and renewable energy sectors.

3. Canada

Canada is known for its programs in data analytics, business, healthcare, artificial intelligence, and engineering. The country’s strong focus on technology and research makes it a favorite among international students.

Why Choose this Country?

  • High quality of life and diverse culture.
  • Strong job market, particularly in technology, engineering, and business.
  • Easier immigration policies and pathways for international students.

Cost of Studying and Living

  • Tuition Fees: MS programs cost between CAD 15,000–CAD 35,000 per year (₹9–₹21 lakhs) depending on the program and university.
  • Living Expenses: Monthly living costs range from CAD 1,200–CAD 2,500 (₹72,000–₹1.5 lakhs), with cities like Toronto and Vancouver being more expensive than smaller towns.

Popular Universities Offering MS Programs

  • University of Toronto
  • University of British Columbia (UBC)
  • McGill University
  • University of Waterloo

Canada offers the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows students to work for up to 3 years after completing their MS. The country has a strong job market in IT, healthcare, and engineering, making it easier for students to find employment.

4. United Kingdom

The UK is known for its business, finance, law, arts, engineering, and healthcare programs. It’s home to some of the most prestigious universities and offers a rich academic history combined with modern research facilities.

Why Choose this Country?

  • Prestigious universities like Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College.
  • Shorter, more affordable MS programs (usually 1 year).
  • Excellent research opportunities, especially in business, engineering, and social sciences.

Cost of Studying and Living

  • Tuition Fees: MS programs cost between £15,000–£30,000 per year (₹15–₹30 lakhs) depending on the course and university.
  • Living Expenses: Cities like London cost around £1,200–£1,800 per month (₹1.2–₹1.8 lakhs), while smaller cities like Manchester or Leeds are more affordable at £800–£1,200 per month (₹80,000–₹1.2 lakhs).

Popular Universities Offering MS Programs

  • University of Oxford
  • University of Cambridge
  • Imperial College London
  • London School of Economics (LSE)

The UK offers a Graduate Route visa, allowing students to stay and work for 2 years after graduation (3 years for PhD students). Popular sectors for international students include finance, IT, and healthcare.

5. Australia

Australia is a favorite for engineering, IT, business, healthcare, and environmental sciences. Its universities emphasize practical learning and have strong ties with industries, making graduates job-ready.

Why Choose this Country?

  • Home to top universities like University of Melbourne, ANU, and University of Sydney.
  • Post-study work opportunities, especially in engineering, business, and healthcare.
  • High quality of life with diverse cultural experiences.

Cost of Studying and Living

  • Tuition Fees: MS programs cost AUD 25,000–AUD 45,000 per year (₹13–₹25 lakhs) depending on the field and institution.
  • Living Expenses: Monthly living costs are around AUD 1,500–AUD 2,500 (₹80,000–₹1.3 lakhs), with cities like Sydney and Melbourne being more expensive than regional towns.

Popular Universities Offering MS Programs

  • University of Melbourne
  • Australian National University (ANU)
  • University of Sydney
  • University of Queensland

Australia offers a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), allowing students to work for 2–4 years after graduation. The country has a strong job market in healthcare, engineering, and IT, and regional areas often offer extra visa benefits.

6. Ireland

Ireland is gaining popularity for data science, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and business. It’s known as Europe’s tech hub, with major companies like Google, Facebook, and Microsoft having offices here.

Why Choose this Country?

  • Strong tech industry with companies like Google and Facebook.
  • English-speaking country with a rich culture and great career prospects.
  • Great support for international students and easy visa process.

Cost of Studying and Living

  • Tuition Fees: MS programs cost €10,000–€25,000 per year (₹9–₹22 lakhs) depending on the program.
  • Living Expenses: Monthly expenses range from €800–€1,500 (₹70,000–₹1.3 lakhs) depending on whether you live in Dublin or smaller cities like Cork or Galway.

Popular Universities Offering MS Programs

  • Trinity College Dublin
  • University College Dublin (UCD)
  • National University of Ireland (NUI), Galway
  • Dublin City University

Ireland offers a 2-year post-study work visa, making it easy for students to gain work experience. The country’s booming tech and pharmaceutical industries provide ample job opportunities for graduates.

7. Netherlands

The Netherlands is well-regarded for its programs in engineering, architecture, environmental sciences, business, and data science. The country’s focus on innovation and sustainability attracts students looking to excel in cutting-edge industries.

Why Choose this Country?

  • Wide range of English-taught MS programs.
  • Excellent in engineering, business, and computer science.
  • High quality of life with a welcoming attitude toward international students.

Cost of Studying and Living

  • Tuition Fees: MS programs cost €10,000–€20,000 per year (₹9–₹18 lakhs) for international students.
  • Living Expenses: Monthly expenses, including rent, food, and transport, range from €800–€1,200 (₹70,000–₹1 lakh) depending on the city.

Popular Universities Offering MS Programs

  • Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)
  • University of Amsterdam
  • Eindhoven University of Technology
  • Wageningen University

International students can apply for the “Orientation Year Visa,” which allows them to stay and work for up to 1 year after graduation. The Netherlands is home to global companies like Philips, Shell, and ASML, offering strong career opportunities.

8. Sweden

Sweden excels in sustainability, engineering, life sciences, and innovation. The country is a leader in renewable energy, biotechnology, and IT, which makes it a great choice for students with a focus on research-driven fields.

Why Choose this Country?

  • Known for innovation, especially in technology and engineering fields.
  • High-quality education with a focus on sustainability.
  • Great post-study work opportunities and a strong job market.

Cost of Studying and Living

  • Tuition Fees: MS programs for non-EU students cost €12,000–€20,000 per year (₹10–₹18 lakhs).
  • Living Expenses: Monthly costs range from €800–€1,200 (₹70,000–₹1 lakh), with Stockholm being the most expensive city.

Popular Universities Offering MS Programs

  • KTH Royal Institute of Technology
  • Lund University
  • Uppsala University
  • Chalmers University of Technology

Sweden allows international students to stay for up to 1 year after graduation to look for jobs. Sectors like tech, life sciences, and green energy have strong job markets. Companies like Volvo, Ericsson, and Spotify often hire skilled graduates.

9. France

France is famous for business, luxury management, arts, engineering, and data science. With its rich history and world-class research facilities, France is a top destination for students looking to combine academics with culture.

Why Choose this Country?

  • Affordable tuition fees, especially in public universities.
  • Excellent education in engineering, business, and arts.
  • Strong culture and lifestyle, with easy access to the EU for work opportunities.

Cost of Studying and Living

  • Tuition Fees: Public universities charge low fees, averaging €200–€500 per year (₹18,000–₹45,000) for most programs. Private institutions, like business schools, cost €10,000–€20,000 per year (₹9–₹18 lakhs).
  • Living Expenses: Monthly costs range from €800–€1,400 (₹70,000–₹1.2 lakhs), higher in Paris compared to smaller cities like Lyon or Grenoble.

Popular Universities Offering MS Programs

  • Sorbonne University
  • HEC Paris (for business)
  • École Polytechnique
  • Grenoble Institute of Technology

France offers international students a 2-year post-study work visa, particularly for graduates in STEM and business fields. With a growing job market in luxury brands, tech, and engineering, France is ideal for career growth.

10. Singapore

Singapore is a global hub for business, finance, technology, data science, and urban planning. Its world-class universities and proximity to India make it a preferred choice for Indian students.

Why Choose this Country?

  • Strong focus on technology, business, and engineering.
  • Excellent job opportunities, particularly in finance, technology, and logistics.
  • High quality of life and strategic location in Asia for career growth.

Cost of Studying and Living

  • Tuition Fees: MS programs cost SGD 25,000–SGD 45,000 per year (₹15–₹27 lakhs) depending on the university and course.
  • Living Expenses: Monthly expenses range from SGD 1,200–SGD 2,500 (₹72,000–₹1.5 lakhs), with rent being the largest expense.

Popular Universities Offering MS Programs

  • National University of Singapore (NUS)
  • Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
  • Singapore Management University (SMU)

International students can apply for the Employment Pass (EP) or the S Pass, allowing them to stay and work in Singapore after graduation. The country’s strong economy and global companies in tech and finance provide excellent job opportunities.

11. Switzerland

Switzerland is known for its excellence in engineering, finance, hospitality management, and life sciences. Its focus on precision industries and research makes it an attractive destination for students aiming for high-quality education.

Why Choose this Country?

  • High-quality education with universities like ETH Zurich and EPFL.
  • Known for its strength in engineering, finance, and business.
  • High wages and strong job market post-graduation.

Cost of Studying and Living

  • Tuition Fees: Public universities charge CHF 1,000–CHF 4,000 per semester (₹90,000–₹3.6 lakhs), while private universities can cost significantly more.
  • Living Expenses: Monthly costs range from CHF 1,800–CHF 2,500 (₹1.6–₹2.2 lakhs) depending on the city, with Zurich and Geneva being the most expensive.

Popular Universities Offering MS Programs

  • ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
  • École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)
  • University of Zurich
  • University of Geneva

Switzerland allows international students to stay for 6 months after graduation to search for jobs. Sectors like pharmaceuticals, finance, and engineering are in high demand, with global companies like Nestlé, Roche, and UBS headquartered here.

12. New Zealand

New Zealand is becoming a favorite for students in environmental sciences, agriculture, engineering, business, and IT. Its hands-on learning approach and emphasis on sustainability make it stand out.

Why Choose this Country?

  • Great environment for students, with a strong focus on research and innovation.
  • High-quality education at affordable rates.
  • Safe, welcoming environment and easy access to work after graduation.

Cost of Studying and Living

  • Tuition Fees: MS programs cost NZD 20,000–NZD 40,000 per year (₹9.6–₹19 lakhs) depending on the field and university.
  • Living Expenses: Monthly living costs are around NZD 1,500–NZD 2,500 (₹72,000–₹1.2 lakhs).

Popular Universities Offering MS Programs

  • University of Auckland
  • University of Otago
  • Victoria University of Wellington
  • University of Canterbury

New Zealand offers a post-study work visa of 1–3 years based on the qualification level and location of study. The country’s growing job market in IT, renewable energy, and agriculture provides ample opportunities for international students.

13. Finland

Finland is highly regarded for technology, education, environmental sciences, and sustainable development. The country’s focus on innovation and research attracts students aiming for cutting-edge careers in green energy and IT.

Why Choose this Country?

  • Known for research, technology, and education excellence.
  • Affordable living costs compared to other European countries.
  • High quality of life and strong job market, especially in technology.

Cost of Studying and Living

  • Tuition Fees: For non-EU students, MS programs cost €10,000–€15,000 per year (₹9–₹13.5 lakhs).
  • Living Expenses: Monthly living costs range from €800–€1,200 (₹70,000–₹1 lakh), depending on the city.

Popular Universities Offering MS Programs

  • Aalto University
  • University of Helsinki
  • Tampere University
  • University of Turku

Finland offers international students a 2-year post-study work visa. Graduates are in demand in fields like renewable energy, software development, and environmental engineering.

14. Italy

Italy is known for arts, design, architecture, business, and engineering. It combines historical significance with modern academic programs, making it a unique choice for students in creative and technical fields.

Why Choose this Country?

  • Affordable tuition fees at public universities.
  • Strong focus on engineering, design, and arts.
  • Beautiful surroundings and rich culture for an inspiring student life.

Cost of Studying and Living

  • Tuition Fees: Public universities charge between €1,000–€4,000 per year (₹90,000–₹3.6 lakhs). Private universities cost more, ranging from €10,000–€15,000 per year (₹9–₹13.5 lakhs).
  • Living Expenses: Monthly costs range from €800–€1,200 (₹70,000–₹1 lakh), with cities like Milan and Rome being more expensive.

Popular Universities Offering MS Programs

  • Politecnico di Milano (Engineering and Design)
  • University of Bologna
  • Sapienza University of Rome
  • Bocconi University (Business)

Italy offers a 12-month job search visa after graduation, which can be extended. Industries like luxury goods, engineering, and finance offer great opportunities for international students.

15. Spain

Spain is a top choice for business, tourism, arts, architecture, and renewable energy. Its warm climate and vibrant culture make it a favorite among international students.

Why Choose this Country?

  • Affordable living costs and tuition fees.
  • Excellent universities, especially in business, engineering, and arts.
  • Vibrant culture and a relaxed lifestyle for students.

Cost of Studying and Living

  • Tuition Fees: Public universities charge between €1,500–€3,500 per year (₹1.3–₹3.1 lakhs) for international students, while private universities cost more at €10,000–€20,000 per year (₹9–₹18 lakhs).
  • Living Expenses: Monthly costs range from €800–€1,200 (₹70,000–₹1 lakh) depending on the city, with Madrid and Barcelona being pricier.

Popular Universities Offering MS Programs

  • University of Barcelona
  • Autonomous University of Madrid
  • IE Business School (for Business)
  • Polytechnic University of Valencia

Spain offers a 1-year job search visa after graduation. Industries like tourism, renewable energy, and business have strong demand for skilled graduates, and fluency in Spanish can be an added advantage.

 

Best Countries for Specific MS Specializations

Some countries are known for excelling in specific areas like Computer Science, Engineering, Business Management, or Medicine. If you know which field you want to focus on, it’s important to pick a country that offers strong programs and job opportunities in that field.

Let’s take a look at the best countries for the most popular MS specializations and why they stand out for each:

MS Specialization Best Countries Why These Countries Stand Out
Computer Science United States, Canada, Germany The US has top schools like MIT and Stanford. Canada is great for tech jobs and immigration. Germany is strong in AI and robotics.
Engineering Germany, United States, United Kingdom Germany is known for its engineering excellence, especially in automotive and mechanical engineering. The US offers cutting-edge research opportunities, and the UK has great programs in civil and aerospace engineering.
Business Management United States, United Kingdom, Canada The US has top business schools like Harvard and Wharton. The UK offers prestigious MBA programs, and Canada is known for its diverse business environment.
Medicine and Life Sciences United States, Sweden, Australia The US leads with world-renowned medical schools. Sweden is known for its innovation in medical research, and Australia offers strong programs with a focus on life sciences.

How to Choose the Right Country for Your MS: Practical Tips

1. Match the Country with Your Career Goals

Think about where you want to work after your MS. Some countries have strong industries in certain fields:

  • Tech & AI → USA, Canada, Germany
  • Business & Finance → UK, Singapore, France
  • Engineering → Germany, Australia
  • Healthcare & Medicine → USA, UK, Sweden

2. Compare Tuition Fees, Living Costs & Scholarships

Studying abroad is expensive, but some countries are more affordable:

  • Tuition-free or low-cost → Germany, Norway, France
  • High tuition but good scholarships → USA, UK, Canada
  • Living costs vary – Cities like London and New York are expensive, while smaller cities in Germany, Canada, and Australia are cheaper.

3. Check Work Opportunities During & After Studies

Most students need part-time jobs to manage expenses.

  • Australia, Canada, and Germany allow students to work 20 hours per week during the semester.
  • The USA has strict rules on part-time jobs but offers OPT (Optional Practical Training) for STEM students after graduation.
  • Germany and Canada offer longer post-study work permits, making it easier to stay and find a job.

4. Consider Language & Lifestyle

  • English-speaking countries → USA, UK, Canada, Australia
  • Non-English-speaking countries → Germany, France, Sweden (many programs are in English, but knowing the local language helps with jobs and daily life).

Also, think about the weather, culture, and lifestyle. Big cities like Toronto, Melbourne, and London are diverse and busy. Smaller towns may be quieter and cheaper.

5. Understand Visa Rules & Work Permits

Post-study work options vary by country:

  • Canada → Up to 3 years work permit after MS
  • Australia → 2-4 years post-study work visa
  • Germany → 18-month job search visa
  • USA → 1-3 years work permit for STEM graduates (OPT), but getting an H-1B work visa is tough.

How upGrad Can Help You with Your MS Abroad

With upGrad Abroad, you get expert guidance at every step. Here’s how we compare:

Why Choose upGrad for Your MS?

Factor Without upGrad With upGrad
University Selection Hours of research, unclear rankings, and confusing application processes.

Expert guidance for top universities. 

Study in USA

Study in Finland

Study in France

And more locations

SOP & LOR Assistance Struggling with formats, rejections due to weak documents. Step-by-step guidance with SOP format and LOR format to improve admissions.
Exam Preparation No structured plan, expensive coaching centers. Free resources for IELTS, PTE, and more—IELTS guides, PTE guides.
Scholarship Support Difficult to find relevant funding options. Access to exclusive scholarships—Browse here.
Blended Learning (Save Costs) Expensive tuition and high living costs abroad. Start online, finish on-campus—save up to 50% on expenses with Hybrid Learning Programs.

Make Your MS Abroad Journey Hassle-Free

We help you select the right university, prepare applications, find scholarships, and save on tuition with smart learning options.

Let’s make it happen. Explore Your Options Now!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which countries offer the most affordable MS programs?

Countries like Germany, Norway, and Italy are known for offering low-cost or tuition-free MS programs, especially at public universities. Other affordable options include France and certain universities in Canada.

2. How do I assess the ROI of an MS in different countries?

To assess ROI, compare tuition fees, living costs, and expected salaries post-graduation. For example, studying in Germany offers low tuition but moderate salaries, while the USA has high tuition but higher earning potential.

3. What work visa options are available in top MS destinations?

  • USA: OPT for up to 12–36 months, depending on the field.
  • Canada: Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for up to 3 years.
  • Australia: Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485).
  • Germany: Job-seeker visa for 18 months post-graduation.

4. Do I need to know the local language for studying in non-English-speaking countries?

Not always. Many countries offer MS programs in English, but learning the local language can help in daily life and job hunting. For example, in Germany or France, basic language skills are useful.

5. Which countries have the best post-graduation work opportunities?

  • USA: Known for high salaries and tech jobs.
  • Canada: Strong demand for skilled workers.
  • Australia: Plenty of job opportunities in STEM and healthcare.
  • Germany: Focuses on engineering and research roles.

6. Can international students apply for fully-funded scholarships?

Yes, many universities and governments offer scholarships. Examples include DAAD (Germany), Chevening (UK), and Fulbright (USA).

7. How do I compare the job markets for MS graduates across countries?

Research industry growth, demand for skills, and average salaries in your field. For example, IT and engineering jobs are booming in the USA and Canada, while Germany has strong demand in manufacturing and research.

8. What is the typical duration of MS programs in different countries?

  • USA and Canada: 1.5–2 years.
  • UK: 1 year.
  • Germany and Australia: 2 years.
  • Singapore: 1–1.5 years.

9. Can I transfer credits from Indian institutions to foreign universities?

Yes, some universities allow credit transfers, but it depends on the institution’s policies and the course you are enrolling in. Check with the university directly.

10. Are internships or co-op programs common in MS courses?

Yes, internships and co-op programs are common, especially in the USA, Canada, and Germany. These provide hands-on experience and help in building industry connections.

11. Which countries are better for STEM-focused MS programs?

The USA, Canada, Germany, and the UK are excellent for STEM fields due to their advanced research facilities, strong industry connections, and job opportunities.

12. What is the role of research opportunities in choosing an MS destination?

Countries like Germany, the USA, and Australia have strong research focus with funding opportunities. Research facilities and faculty expertise should be key factors when choosing a destination.

13. How do living costs differ between urban and rural study destinations?

Living in urban areas like New York or London is more expensive than smaller towns. Rural areas often offer lower rent and food costs but may have fewer part-time job opportunities.

14. Which countries allow dependents to accompany MS students?

  • USA: F-2 visa allows dependents but restricts work.
  • Canada: Spouses can apply for an open work permit.
  • Australia: Dependent visas allow work and study rights.
  • UK: Dependent visas allow work rights.

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad abroad Editorial Team

We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education process for all. Our diverse experience as journalists, content writers, editors, content strategists, and marketers helps create the most relevant and authentic blogs for our readers.

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