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MS in Foreign – Top Countries, Universities, Ranking & Fees

Updated on 07 February, 2025

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad abroad Editorial Team

How do students decide where to study for their MS in foreign countries? The country and university you choose can shape your career and open up big opportunities at companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon.

Today, MS from a foreign university helps you learn from the best, build strong industry connections, and get better job offers. Many countries also give work visas after graduation, so you can stay and work at top companies.

So, where should you go? Which universities rank the highest? How much does it cost? In this blog, we’ll walk you through the best countries, top universities, and what to expect when planning your MS abroad.

Must Read: Benefits of Studying Abroad – Top 10 Advantages

Top Countries for MS in Foreign Countries in 2025

Thinking about pursuing an MS in a foreign country in 2025? Every student wants a place that offers top-quality education, reasonable costs, and good post-graduation opportunities. Here are some of the best countries for an MS degree and what you can expect from each.

1. United States

Best Universities for MS

  • MIT, Stanford, Berkeley – AI, Robotics, Data Science
  • Harvard, Wharton – Finance, Business Analytics
  • Carnegie Mellon, UT Austin – Engineering, Cybersecurity

Cost of Studying & Living

  • Tuition Fees: $20,000 – $50,000 per year (₹16.5 – ₹41.5 lakh)
  • Living Expenses: $1,000 – $2,500 per month (₹82,000 – ₹2 lakh)
  • Affordable Cities: Texas, Ohio, Michigan
  • Expensive Cities: New York, California, Boston

Post-Study Work & PR Options

  • OPT (Optional Practical Training) – 12 months (Up to 36 months for STEM)
  • H-1B Visa – Required for long-term work, but lottery-based
  • Green Card (PR) – Possible through employer sponsorship, but takes years

2. Canada

Best Universities for MS

  • University of Toronto, McGill – Engineering, AI, Data Science
  • University of British Columbia (UBC) – Business Analytics, Finance
  • University of Waterloo – Tech & IT-focused programs

Cost of Studying & Living

  • Tuition Fees: CAD 15,000 – CAD 35,000 per year (₹9 – ₹21 lakh)
  • Living Expenses: CAD 800 – CAD 2,000 per month (₹48,000 – ₹1.2 lakh)
  • Affordable Cities: Calgary, Halifax
  • Expensive Cities: Toronto, Vancouver

Post-Study Work & PR Options

  • Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) – Up to 3 years after graduation
  • Express Entry System – Fast PR process; a Canadian degree gives extra points
  • High Job Demand – Especially in tech, healthcare, and finance

3. United Kingdom

Best Universities for MS

  • University of Oxford, University of Cambridge – Business, Engineering, AI
  • Imperial College London – Data Science, Cybersecurity, Finance
  • University of Edinburgh – Renewable Energy, Machine Learning

Cost of Studying & Living

  • Tuition Fees: £15,000 – £35,000 per year (₹15 – ₹35 lakh)
  • Living Expenses: £800 – £1,500 per month (₹85,000 – ₹1.6 lakh)
  • Affordable Cities: Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow
  • Expensive Cities: London

Post-Study Work & PR Options

  • Graduate Route Visa – Stay in the UK for 2 years after MS to find a job
  • Skilled Worker Visa – Needed for long-term work, must be sponsored by an employer
  • PR (Indefinite Leave to Remain - ILR) – Requires 5 years of work in the UK

4. Germany – Tuition-Free Education & Strong Job Market

Best Universities for MS

  • Technical University of Munich (TUM) – Best for Engineering, AI, and Robotics
  • RWTH Aachen University – Known for Mechanical and Electrical Engineering
  • University of Stuttgart – Top choice for Automotive & Aerospace Engineering
  • Humboldt University of Berlin – Strong in Data Science & Physics

Cost of Studying & Living

  • Tuition Fees: €0 – €1,500 per year (₹0 – ₹1.3 lakh) at public universities
  • Living Expenses: €800 – €1,200 per month (₹72,000 – ₹1.1 lakh)
  • Affordable Cities: Leipzig, Dresden, Aachen
  • Expensive Cities: Munich, Frankfurt, Berlin

Post-Study Work & PR Options

  • 18-Month Job Search Visa – Stay in Germany to find a job after graduation
  • EU Blue Card – Work for 33 months and apply for PR (21 months if you know German)
  • PR (Permanent Residency) – Eligible after 5 years of living & working in Germany

5. Australia – High Salaries & Easy PR Pathway

Best Universities for MS

  • University of Melbourne – Strong in Engineering, IT, and Business
  • Australian National University (ANU) – Best for Research-Based MS Programs
  • University of Sydney & UNSW – Great for Data Science, Cybersecurity, and Finance
  • Monash University – Popular for Biotechnology & Health Sciences

Cost of Studying & Living

  • Tuition Fees: AUD 25,000 – AUD 45,000 per year (₹13 – ₹24 lakh)
  • Living Expenses: AUD 1,500 – AUD 2,500 per month (₹82,000 – ₹1.4 lakh)
  • Affordable Cities: Adelaide, Brisbane
  • Expensive Cities: Sydney, Melbourne

Post-Study Work & PR Options

  • Post-Study Work Visa – Stay for 2–4 years, depending on your location
  • PR Pathways – Points-based system; studying in regional areas increases PR chances
  • High Demand Jobs – IT, Engineering, Healthcare, and Finance sectors are booming

Suggested Read: How to Choose Where to Study Abroad – Vital Tips

6. Ireland – The European Tech Hub

Best Universities for MS

  • Trinity College Dublin (TCD) – Ranked #1 in Ireland, strong in AI & Business Analytics
  • University College Dublin (UCD) – Best for Computer Science & Data Analytics
  • National University of Ireland, Galway (NUIG) – Great for Engineering & Life Sciences
  • Dublin City University (DCU) – Top choice for Cybersecurity & FinTech

Cost of Studying & Living

  • Tuition Fees: €10,000 – €25,000 per year (₹8.9 – ₹22 lakh)
  • Living Expenses: €1,000 – €1,800 per month (₹90,000 – ₹1.6 lakh)
  • Affordable Cities: Galway, Limerick
  • Expensive Cities: Dublin

Post-Study Work & PR Options

  • Stay-Back Visa – Stay for 2 years to find a job after MS
  • PR Pathway – After 5 years on a work visa, you can apply for PR
  • Booming Job Market – Ireland is home to Google, Facebook, Amazon, and other top tech firms

7. France – Low-Cost Education & Global Business Hub

Best Universities for MS

  • École Polytechnique – Best for Engineering & AI
  • HEC Paris – Top-ranked for Finance & Business Analytics
  • Sorbonne University – Strong in Humanities & Sciences
  • Grenoble INP – Known for Electrical & Mechanical Engineering

Cost of Studying & Living

  • Tuition Fees: €3,000 – €30,000 per year (₹2.6 – ₹26.7 lakh)
  • Living Expenses: €900 – €1,500 per month (₹80,000 – ₹1.3 lakh)
  • Affordable Cities: Lyon, Grenoble
  • Expensive Cities: Paris

Post-Study Work & PR Options

  • 2-Year Stay-Back Visa – Allows you to stay in France after MS to find a job
  • PR Eligibility – After 5 years of working in France, you can apply for PR
  • Global Business Opportunities – France is home to top companies like L’Oréal, Airbus, Renault, and BNP Paribas

8. Singapore – Asia’s Business & Tech Hub

Best Universities for MS

  • National University of Singapore (NUS) – Ranked #1 in Asia, strong in AI, Engineering, and Finance
  • Nanyang Technological University (NTU) – Best for Data Science, Robotics, and Cybersecurity
  • Singapore Management University (SMU) – Known for Finance, Business Analytics, and Marketing

Cost of Studying & Living

  • Tuition Fees: SGD 25,000 – SGD 50,000 per year (₹15 – ₹30 lakh)
  • Living Expenses: SGD 1,500 – SGD 3,000 per month (₹90,000 – ₹1.8 lakh)
  • Expensive Areas: Central Singapore, Marina Bay
  • Cheaper Areas: Jurong, Woodlands

Post-Study Work & PR Options

  • Work Visa (Employment Pass) – Stay back if you earn SGD 4,500+ per month
  • PR Route – Apply for Singapore PR after working for a few years
  • Booming Job Market – Strong demand in Finance, IT, and Engineering

9. Netherlands – Europe’s Innovation Hub

Best Universities for MS

  • Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) – Best for Engineering & Renewable Energy
  • University of Amsterdam – Known for AI, Data Science, and Finance
  • Eindhoven University of Technology – Strong in Robotics, IT, and Business Analytics

Cost of Studying & Living

  • Tuition Fees: €10,000 – €25,000 per year (₹8.9 – ₹22 lakh)
  • Living Expenses: €800 – €1,500 per month (₹72,000 – ₹1.3 lakh)
  • Affordable Cities: Eindhoven, Groningen
  • Expensive Cities: Amsterdam, Rotterdam

Post-Study Work & PR Options

  • Orientation Year Visa – Stay for 1 year to find a job after MS
  • Highly Skilled Migrant Visa – Convert to a work visa with a minimum salary of €3,500 per month
  • PR Pathway – Eligible for PR after 5 years of working in the Netherlands

10. New Zealand – Low Competition, High Job Demand

Best Universities for MS

  • University of Auckland – Best for Business, Data Science, and Health Sciences
  • Victoria University of Wellington – Strong in Environmental Science & IT
  • University of Canterbury – Known for Engineering & Renewable Energy

Cost of Studying & Living

  • Tuition Fees: NZD 20,000 – NZD 40,000 per year (₹10 – ₹20 lakh)
  • Living Expenses: NZD 1,200 – NZD 2,000 per month (₹60,000 – ₹1 lakh)
  • Affordable Cities: Christchurch, Hamilton
  • Expensive Cities: Auckland, Wellington

Post-Study Work & PR Options

  • Post-Study Work Visa – Stay 1–3 years based on your course
  • Skilled Migrant Visa – Helps transition to PR if you work in a high-demand field
  • High Job Demand – IT, Healthcare, and Engineering professionals are in demand

Top Universities for MS in Foreign Countries

Planning to do an MS abroad? The right university can shape your career, so choosing wisely matters. Here’s a look at the best universities.

1. Best MS Universities in the USA

The USA is a top destination for MS, known for its research-driven programs, strong industry ties, and job opportunities.

Top Universities & Popular MS Courses:

  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) – Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Data Science
  • Stanford University – Computer Science, Engineering, Business Analytics
  • Harvard University – Biotechnology, Finance, Data Science
  • University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) – Electrical Engineering, AI, Public Policy
  • Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) – Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, Machine Learning

Admission Requirements:

  • A bachelor’s degree with a good GPA (3.0+ on a 4.0 scale).
  • GRE scores (310–330) for most STEM programs (some universities may waive it).
  • English proficiency tests: IELTS (6.5–7.5) or TOEFL (90–110).
  • A well-written SOP, LORs, and a strong resume.

2. Best MS Universities in Canada

Canada offers high-quality education, reasonable tuition fees, and an easy PR pathway for international students.

Top Universities & Popular MS Courses:

  • University of Toronto – Data Science, Mechanical Engineering, Business Analytics
  • University of British Columbia (UBC) – Computer Science, Environmental Science, Civil Engineering
  • McGill University – Finance, Neuroscience, Biomedical Engineering
  • University of Waterloo – Software Engineering, AI, Cloud Computing
  • University of Alberta – Petroleum Engineering, Biotechnology, Physics

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree with at least a B+ average.
  • Some universities require GRE (300–320), but many don’t.
  • IELTS (6.5+) or TOEFL (90+).
  • A strong academic and research background.

3. Best MS Universities in the UK

The UK is popular for its one-year MS programs, which help students graduate faster and enter the job market sooner.

Top Universities & Popular MS Courses:

  • University of Oxford – Business Analytics, Law, Economics
  • University of Cambridge – Computer Science, Physics, Engineering
  • Imperial College London – Data Science, AI, Finance
  • University of Edinburgh – Cybersecurity, Public Health, Robotics
  • University College London (UCL) – Biomedical Science, Urban Planning, Architecture

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree with at least 60% (UK 2:1 classification).
  • No GRE required for most programs.
  • IELTS (6.5–7.5) or TOEFL (90+).
  • Some courses prefer work experience.

4. Best MS Universities in Germany

Germany is one of the top choices for MS programs, especially in STEM fields. Many public universities charge little to no tuition fees.

Top Universities for MS in Germany

  • Technical University of Munich (TUM) – Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, and AI.
  • RWTH Aachen University – Industrial Engineering, Robotics, and Energy Systems.
  • University of Stuttgart – Automotive Engineering, Aerospace, and Data Science.
  • Heidelberg University – Life Sciences, Biotechnology, and Physics.
  • Humboldt University of Berlin – Applied Mathematics, Computational Science, and Environmental Studies.

Admission Requirements

  • A bachelor’s degree with a good GPA (typically 2.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale).
  • IELTS (6.5+) or TOEFL (90+) for English programs. Some universities may require German language proficiency (TestDaF or DSH).
  • GRE may be required for some technical courses.
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letters of Recommendation (LORs).

5. Best MS Universities in Australia

Australia has some of the world's best universities for MS programs. Graduates can apply for a Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) and later for Permanent Residency (PR) under skilled migration pathways.

Top Universities for MS in Australia

  • University of Melbourne – Data Science, Business Analytics, and Cybersecurity.
  • Australian National University (ANU) – Research-based MS, AI, and Environmental Science.
  • University of Sydney – Biomedical Engineering, IT, and Finance.
  • Monash University – Pharmacy, Biotechnology, and Renewable Energy.
  • University of Queensland – Civil Engineering, Robotics, and Supply Chain Management.

Admission Requirements

  • A bachelor's degree with at least a 65% aggregate (varies by university and course).
  • English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 90+).
  • Some courses may require GMAT (for business-related MS) or GRE (for technical fields).
  • Relevant work experience is preferred for professional MS programs.

Popular MS Courses to Study Abroad

Studying for a master's degree abroad can give you access to top universities, better job opportunities, and experience in your field. 

Here’s a look at some of the best options.

1. Computer Science and IT

Tech is booming, and companies everywhere need skilled professionals. An MS in Computer Science or IT opens doors to jobs in AI, cybersecurity, and cloud computing.

Popular Specializations

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) – Machine learning, automation, and robotics.
  • Cybersecurity – Protecting online systems from hackers and security threats.
  • Cloud Computing – Managing data storage and online services.

Top Universities for Computer Science

University Country Specializations
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) USA AI, Machine Learning, Software Engineering
University of Toronto Canada Cybersecurity, Big Data, IT Management
ETH Zurich Switzerland Cloud Computing, AI, Embedded Systems
Technical University of Munich (TUM) Germany Software Systems, Computer Vision

2. Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, etc.)

Engineering is a solid choice if you want a hands-on career with strong job prospects. Whether you’re into robotics, automotive technology, or sustainable construction, there’s a specialization for you.

Popular Specializations

  • Mechanical Engineering – Robotics, energy systems, and automation.
  • Electrical Engineering – Power systems, telecommunications, and AI hardware.
  • Civil Engineering – Infrastructure, smart cities, and construction tech.

Best Universities for Engineering

University Country Specializations
Stanford University USA Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace Engineering
RWTH Aachen University Germany Civil, Automotive, Renewable Energy
University of Melbourne Australia Sustainable Engineering, Urban Development
Delft University of Technology Netherlands Civil Engineering, Water Resources

3. Data Science and Artificial Intelligence

Big data is everywhere, and companies need experts to analyze it. If you love working with numbers and solving problems, an MS in Data Science or AI could be a perfect fit.

Key Skills You'll Learn

  • Data visualization and statistical modeling.
  • AI-driven automation and deep learning.
  • Predictive analytics and data-driven decision-making.

Best Universities for Data Science & AI

University Country Specializations
Carnegie Mellon University USA AI, Data Analytics, Deep Learning
University of British Columbia Canada Business Analytics, Big Data
National University of Singapore (NUS) Singapore AI Engineering, Data Engineering
University of Oxford UK Statistical Learning, AI Research

4. Business and Management

Want to build a career in finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship? A master’s in business gives you leadership skills and practical experience to thrive in the corporate world.

MS vs. MBA – What’s the Difference?

  • MBA – Best for professionals with work experience who want to move into leadership roles.
  • MS in Management – Ideal for fresh graduates who want to specialize in finance, marketing, or HR.

Best Universities for Business & Management

University Country Specializations
Harvard Business School USA MBA, Finance, Marketing
London Business School UK International Business, Strategy
INSEAD France Leadership, Entrepreneurship
University of Sydney Australia Business Analytics, Supply Chain Management

5. Biotechnology and Life Sciences

If you’re passionate about healthcare, genetics, or pharmaceuticals, this field is full of opportunities. Life sciences are important in medicine, drug development, and environmental sustainability.

Key Areas of Study

  • Biomedical Engineering – Creating medical devices and prosthetics.
  • Genetics & Bioinformatics – DNA sequencing and gene therapy research.
  • Pharmaceutical Sciences – Developing new medicines and vaccines.

Best Universities for Biotechnology & Life Sciences

University Country Specializations
Johns Hopkins University USA Biomedical Science, Public Health
Karolinska Institute Sweden Molecular Biology, Neuroscience
University of Cambridge UK Genetics, Bioinformatics
University of Toronto Canada Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biotech

Cost of Studying MS in Foreign Countries: Tuition Fees & Living Expenses

The total cost includes tuition fees, accommodation, daily expenses, and transport. Some countries, like Germany and Sweden, offer free or low-cost education, while others, like the USA and UK, have higher tuition but more scholarship opportunities.

Tuition Fees for MS in Different Countries

Tuition fees depend on factors like university ranking, course specialization, and whether it’s a public or private institution. Below is a general idea of what you can expect to pay:

Country Average Tuition Fees (Per Year) Notes
USA USD 20,000 – 50,000 (₹16.6L – ₹41.5L) Private universities are more expensive than public ones.
Canada CAD 15,000 – 35,000 (₹9L – ₹21L) Affordable compared to the USA; many scholarships available.
UK GBP 14,000 – 35,000 (₹14L – ₹35L) Tuition varies by university and course type.
Germany €0 – €20,000 (₹0 – ₹18L) Public universities charge little to no tuition for international students.
Australia AUD 25,000 – 45,000 (₹13L – ₹24L) Living costs can be high, especially in major cities.
Ireland €10,000 – 30,000 (₹9L – ₹27L) Tech and business courses are more expensive.
Sweden SEK 80,000 – 150,000 (₹6L – ₹12L) Free for EU students; non-EU students pay tuition.

Living Costs for MS Students Abroad

The cost of living depends on where you study, your lifestyle, and whether you choose on-campus or off-campus accommodation. Major cities like New YorkLondon, and Sydney are expensive, while smaller cities can be more affordable. Here’s an estimate of yearly living expenses:

Country Average Living Cost (Per Year) Key Considerations
USA USD 12,000 – 20,000 (₹10L – ₹16.6L) Rent, food, and transport are higher in cities like NYC and SF.
Canada CAD 10,000 – 15,000 (₹6L – ₹9L) Affordable healthcare and student discounts help reduce costs.
UK GBP 10,000 – 15,000 (₹10L – ₹15L) London is the most expensive, while smaller cities are cheaper.
Germany €8,000 – 12,000 (₹7L – ₹11L) Public transport and student housing make it budget-friendly.
Australia AUD 18,000 – 25,000 (₹9.5L – ₹13L) Rent is high in Sydney and Melbourne.
Ireland €10,000 – 15,000 (₹9L – ₹13.5L) Dublin is expensive compared to other cities.
Sweden SEK 90,000 – 140,000 (₹7L – ₹11L) Students get discounts on transport and food.

How to Reduce Study & Living Costs?

  • Many universities and governments offer funding for international students.
  • Countries like Germany, Sweden, and Norway offer free or low-cost tuition.
  • Most countries allow students to work 10-20 hours per week to manage living expenses.
  • On-campus housing is often cheaper than renting private apartments.
  • Cooking at home, using public transport, and looking for student discounts can help save money.

Eligibility Criteria for MS Abroad

MS in foreign countries requires meeting specific academic and language requirements. While these vary by country and university, here’s what you need to qualify:

1. Academic Requirements

  • A four-year bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Some universities accept three-year degrees from India but may require additional coursework.
  • A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (65-75% in Indian grading). Highly competitive programs may require 3.5 or higher.
  • Strong foundation in subjects related to your chosen MS specialization.

2. Standardized Test Scores

  • GRE/GMAT:
    • Required for MS programs in USA, Canada, and some European countries.
    • Recommended minimum scores:
      • GRE: 310+
      • GMAT: 650+ (for business-related programs).
  • English Proficiency Tests:
    • IELTS: 6.5 – 7.5
    • TOEFL: 90 – 100
    • PTE: 60 – 75
  • Some universities may waive these exams based on your academic background.

3. Work Experience (Optional)

  • Not mandatory for most MS programs.
  • Some specialized courses (Business Analytics, Engineering Management) may prefer 1-2 years of work experience.
  • Research-based programs may require prior research experience or published papers.

4. Application Documents

  • Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Highlights academic background, career goals, and reasons for choosing the program.
  • Letters of Recommendation (LORs) – Usually 2-3 letters from professors or employers.
  • Resume/CV – Should include projects, internships, and relevant experience.
  • Research Proposal – Required for thesis-based MS programs.

5. Financial Proof & Visa Requirements

  • Proof of funds to cover at least one year’s tuition and living expenses.
  • Financial documents are required for student visa applications.

Admission Process for MS Abroad

Step 1: Research and Shortlist Universities

Compare universities based on rankings, tuition fees, job prospects, and research opportunities.
Check if GRE/GMAT is required or if universities offer waivers.
Look for programs that align with your career goals.

Step 2: Prepare and Take Required Exams

GRE/GMAT: Take the test 6-12 months before application deadlines if required.
IELTS/TOEFL/PTE: Book the test early and aim for the required score.
Retake exams if necessary to improve scores.

Step 3: Gather Application Documents

Academic Transcripts – Bachelor’s degree certificates and mark sheets.
SOP (Statement of Purpose) – A compelling essay explaining your career goals.
LORs (Letters of Recommendation) – Usually 2-3 letters from professors/employers.
Resume/CV – Should highlight internships, projects, and work experience.

Step 4: Submit Applications Online

Applications are submitted through official portals (Common App, ApplyCanada, UCAS, DAAD, etc.).
Pay the application fee (Varies from $50 – $150 per university).
Ensure you meet deadlines, usually 6-12 months before the intake.

Step 5: Attend Interviews (If Required)

Some universities conduct online admission interviews.
Be prepared to discuss your academic background, career goals, and research interests.

Step 6: Receive Offer Letters and Accept Admission

Universities send an offer letter (conditional/unconditional) if selected.
Confirm admission and pay the initial deposit if required.

Step 7: Apply for a Student Visa

Submit visa application with proof of admission, financial documents, and health insurance.
Attend a visa interview (Required for USA, Canada, UK, Australia).
Visa processing time varies between 4-12 weeks.

Step 8: Plan Travel and Accommodation

Book flight tickets early to get better prices.
Arrange on-campus/off-campus housing before arrival.
Attend pre-departure sessions organized by universities.

Scholarships for MS Abroad

Governments, universities, and private organizations offer funding to help students cover tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.

Did you know? Over 50% of international students in the USA receive some form of financial aid, while countries like Germany and France offer tuition-free education at public universities.

Let’s explore some of the top scholarships available for MS students.

Types of Scholarships for MS Abroad

Merit-Based Scholarships – For students with a strong academic record (GPA 3.5+ on a 4.0 scale).
Need-Based Scholarships – For students who require financial assistance.
Government Scholarships – Funded by governments to support international students.
University Scholarships – Provided by universities to attract talented students.
Research-Based Scholarships – Available for students in STEM, healthcare, and data science fields.

Top Scholarships for MS in Popular Destinations

Scholarship Name Country Coverage
Fulbright Foreign Student Program USA Tuition, living, travel
Chevening Scholarships UK Full tuition, living costs
DAAD Scholarships Germany Tuition, stipend
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship France Monthly stipend, travel
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships Canada CAD 50,000/year (₹30L)
Australia Awards Scholarships Australia Full tuition, health cover
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree Europe Tuition, travel, living

How to Get a Scholarship for MS Abroad

Maintain a high GPA – Most scholarships require at least 3.5/4.0 or 85%+ in undergrad.
Score well on entrance exams – A GRE 320+, GMAT 700+, IELTS 7.5+ can boost eligibility.
Prepare a strong SOP & LOR – Showcase achievements and career goals.
Apply early – Deadlines are 6-12 months before the course starts.
Look for university-specific scholarships – Many top universities offer tuition waivers.

Jobs & Salary After MS Abroad

A master’s degree from a reputed international university can increase your earning potential by 40-60% compared to a bachelor’s degree. On average, an MS graduate earns $80,000 - $140,000 per year (₹66L - ₹1.15Cr), depending on the field and location.

Want to know which careers pay the most and where you can work after your MS?

Top-Paying MS Careers and Salaries

Job Role Average Salary (USD/Year) Hiring Countries
Software Engineer $80,000 - $120,000 (₹66L - ₹99L) USA, Canada, Germany
Data Scientist $90,000 - $140,000 (₹74L - ₹1.15Cr) USA, UK, Canada
Cybersecurity Analyst $85,000 - $130,000 (₹70L - ₹1.07Cr) USA, Australia
Mechanical Engineer $75,000 - $110,000 (₹62L - ₹91L) USA, Canada, Germany
Financial Analyst $70,000 - $100,000 (₹58L - ₹83L) UK, Canada, Australia
AI & Machine Learning Engineer $100,000 - $150,000 (₹82L - ₹1.2Cr) USA, Canada, UK

Post-Study Work Visas & PR Opportunities

Many countries offer work visas for MS graduates to gain experience and apply for PR.

USA – OPT (1-3 years) → H1B Visa → Green Card.
Canada – PGWP (Up to 3 years) → Express Entry → PR.
UK – Graduate Route (2 years) → Skilled Worker Visa → PR.
Australia – Temporary Graduate Visa (2-4 years) → PR via GSM.
Germany – Job-Seeker Visa (18 months) → EU Blue Card → PR.

How to Get a Job After MS Abroad

Build a strong resume – Highlight projects, internships, and research work.
Apply on top job portals – LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor.
Network with alumni and recruiters – Attend career fairs and industry events.
Work on soft skills – Communication and leadership help in job interviews.

How upGrad Abroad Can Help You with Your MS Abroad

Planning to pursue an MS abroad? upGrad Abroad makes the process simple with expert guidance on university selection, applications, exams, and scholarships.

Why Choose upGrad Abroad for Your MS?

What You Need With upGrad Abroad
University Selection

Expert guidance for top universities. 

Study in USA

Study in Finland

Study in France

And more locations

SOP & LOR Assistance Structured guidance to create strong SOPs and LORs for better chances of admission.
Exam Preparation Access free IELTS & PTE resources to help you prep well.
Scholarship Support Explore scholarships and funding options to make your MS more affordable.
Blended Learning (Save Costs) Start your MS online in India and finish abroad, reducing tuition and living costs by up to 50%. - Check out pathway programs!

Your MS Abroad Journey, Made Simple

upGrad Abroad helps you find the right university, prepare your application, and save on costs with flexible learning options.

Explore your MS options today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which country is best for MS in Computer Science?

The USA is best for research and job opportunities, while Canada offers affordable education and post-study work visas. Germany is great for low-cost, high-quality education, and the UK has top-ranked universities with one-year MS programs. Australia provides strong career prospects in AI, cybersecurity, and IT.

What is the minimum GRE score required for MS abroad?

For the USA and Canada, a 310+ GRE score is preferred, while top-tier universities may require 320+. In Germany, UK, and Australia, GRE is usually not required, though some universities might ask for it. Always check university-specific requirements.

Do I need work experience to apply for an MS?

No, most MS programs accept students straight after their bachelor’s degree. However, for fields like Data Science, AI, and Business Analytics, having work experience can give you an edge, especially in competitive universities.

How much does it cost to study MS in the USA vs. Canada?

The USA costs $20,000 – $50,000 per year (₹16.5 – ₹41.5 lakh), while Canada ranges from CAD 15,000 – 35,000 per year (₹9 – ₹21 lakh). Canada is generally cheaper, but the USA offers more funding and research opportunities.

What are the top scholarships available for MS abroad?

Popular scholarships include Fulbright (USA), Vanier (Canada), DAAD (Germany), Chevening (UK), and Australia Awards. Many universities also offer merit-based and need-based scholarships, so check their websites for details.

Which countries offer post-study work visas for MS graduates?

The USA offers 1-3 years (OPT for STEM), Canada provides up to 3 years, and Germany allows 18 months to find a job. The UK has a 2-year post-study work visa, while Australia grants 2-4 years based on location.

What are the English language requirements for MS abroad?

Most universities require IELTS (6.5–7.5) or TOEFL (80–100). Some countries like Germany and Canada may waive the requirement if you studied in an English-medium institution, but it varies by university.

How can I improve my chances of getting admission to a top university?

A strong academic record, high GRE/IELTS scores, research experience, and well-written SOPs and LORs improve your chances. Networking with professors and applying early also help.

Do I need a research proposal to apply for an MS program?

For course-based MS programs, a research proposal is not required. However, for thesis-based or research-intensive MS programs, especially in Germany and Canada, a well-defined research proposal can strengthen your application.

Can I work part-time while pursuing an MS abroad?

Yes, most countries allow part-time work. The USA permits 20 hours/week on campus, while Canada, UK, Germany, and Australia allow 20 hours/week off-campus during term and full-time during breaks.

Which country has the highest job opportunities after MS?

The USA offers the most jobs, especially in STEM fields. Canada and Australia have growing demand in tech and healthcare. Germany has high demand for engineering and IT professionals, while the UK has strong job prospects in finance, AI, and business.

Are there fully funded MS programs for international students?

Yes, Germany offers tuition-free education at public universities. In the USA, UK, and Canada, some universities offer fully funded MS programs through assistantships, fellowships, and external scholarships.

Can I apply for PR after completing my MS abroad?

Canada and Australia have direct pathways to PR after completing an MS. Germany offers PR after two years of work experience, and the UK has a skilled worker visa route. In the USA, PR is challenging due to visa limitations.

How long does the MS application process take?

The process takes 6-12 months, including test preparation (GRE/IELTS), application submissions, visa processing, and financial documentation. Apply at least a year in advance to avoid last-minute delays.

What are the differences between an MS and an MBA?

An MS is specialized and research-focused, ideal for tech, engineering, and sciences. An MBA is business-oriented, best for those aiming for leadership and management roles. MS grads work in technical fields, while MBA grads take up corporate leadership roles.

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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