The USA and Australia stand out among the popular destinations for their renowned educational institutions and promising career prospects. Both countries offer unique advantages and challenges, making the decision complex. From academic excellence and cultural diversity to cost of living and post-study opportunities, we will understand the key factors defining educational experiences in these two leading study destinations.
This blog aims to show the USA and Australia across various parameters, helping Indian students choose where to pursue their higher education.
Study In The USA Vs Australia: Top Universities
The USA and Australia are home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world, attracting students from across the globe with their stellar academic reputations and vibrant campus environments.
For many Indian students, the dream of studying at one of these top-tier institutions is driven by the promise of high-quality education, advanced research opportunities, and a multicultural experience that broadens their horizons.
Below, we have given a list of top universities in the USA and Australia, along with their rankings from the World QS Rank.
| USA Universities | World QS Rank 2024 | Australian Universities | World QS Rank 2024 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 1 | The University of Melbourne | 13 |
| Harvard University | 4 | The University of Sydney | 18 |
| Stanford University | 6 | University of New South Wales (UNSW) | 19 |
| California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | 10 | Australian National University (ANU) | 30 |
| University of Pennsylvania | 11 | Monash University | 37 |
| Cornell University | 16 | The University of Queensland | 40 |
| University of Chicago | 21 | The University of Western Australia | 77 |
| Princeton University | 22 | The University of Adelaide | 82 |
| Yale University | 23 | University of Technology Sydney (UTS) | 88 |
| Columbia University | 34 | University of Wollongong | 167 |
Study In The USA Vs Australia: Top Courses
Each country offers a range of courses and world-renowned universities. In the USA, students can access many programmes and advanced research opportunities, particularly in technology, business, and the arts. On the other hand, Australia is known for its strong emphasis on research and practical learning. Below is a list of top courses in the USA and Australia.
| Top Courses In Australia | Top Courses In the USA |
| Nursing | Computer Science |
| Computer Science Engineering | Engineering |
| Automotive | Communication and Media Studies |
| Bachelor’s in Accounting | Social Sciences |
| Psychology | Economics |
| Architecture | Mathematics |
| Teaching | Biology |
| Cybersecurity | Business Management |
| Agriculture Science | Physics |
| Actuarial Science | Psychology |
Study In The USA Vs Australia: Eligibility Requirements
International students must meet specific eligibility criteria and entry requirements when applying to international universities, particularly in the United States and Australia. This section provides a detailed breakdown of the essential requirements for both countries, helping prospective students understand what they need to prepare for a successful application.
| Eligibility Criteria | Australia | United States |
| Bachelor’s Degree | A minimum score of 65% in the 12th examination | Complete 12 years of pre-university education |
| Postgraduate Degree | Accepts a three-year graduation degree | Complete 3-4 years of undergraduate education |
| English Language Proficiency (Bachelor’s) | IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent | Minimum IELTS score of 5.5 |
| English Language Proficiency (Master’s) | IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent | Minimum IELTS score of 6.0 |
| Standardised Tests | Not typically required | GRE or GMAT exam, if required |
Study In The USA Vs Australia: Cost Of Studying
When considering higher education abroad, one of the most important factors for students and their families is the cost of studying. The United States and Australia are popular destinations for international students, offering a unique educational experience. However, the expenses associated with studying in these countries can vary significantly. Below, we have given the costs of learning in the USA and Australia.
Cost Of Studying In The USA
For an undergraduate degree, the average tuition fees are approximately INR 27.41 lakhs for a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech), INR 25.13 lakhs for a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), and INR 24.14 lakhs for a Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM), each typically spanning four years.
For postgraduate studies, the cost is similarly substantial, with the average tuition fee for a Master of Science (MS) around INR 24.01 lakhs and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) costing about INR 28.45 lakhs. These postgraduate programmes generally last two years.
Cost Of Studying In Australia
For an undergraduate degree, the average tuition fees are approximately INR 20.08 lakhs for a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech), INR 18.43 lakhs for a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), and INR 16.93 lakhs for a Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM). These programmes generally span three to four years.
For a Postgraduate degree, the average tuition fee for a Master of Science (MS) is around INR 21.14 lakhs and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) approximately INR 19.93 lakhs. These postgraduate programmes typically last for two years.
Study In The USA Vs Australia: Cost Of Living
Understanding the cost of living in potential destinations is crucial when considering higher education. The USA and Australia offer distinct lifestyle benefits but also have varying price tags. From accommodation to transportation, the cost of living in these countries can significantly impact your budget and overall quality of life. Below, we have given a breakdown of the monthly cost of living in the USA Vs Australia.
| Items | Cost Of Living In Australia (Monthly) In AUD | Cost Of Living In the USA (Monthly) In USD |
| Off-Campus Accommodation | 800 | 525 |
| On-Campus Accommodation | 1,754 | 871 |
| Transportation | 150 | 70 |
| Food Cost | 780 | 527 |
| Utility Cost | 205 | 180 |
| Entertainment | 80 | 48 |
| Groceries | 68 | 52 |
| Clothes | 153 | 102 |
| Total Cost of Living with Off-Campus Accommodation | 2,236 | 1,504 |
| Total Cost of Living with On-Campus Accommodation | 3,190 | 1,850 |
| Annual Cost of Living | 26, 832 | 18,048 |
Visa Requirements In The USA Vs Australia
The USA and Australia each have their own set of regulations and processes for obtaining visas. Understanding these requirements is essential for a smooth transition and successful application. We have given the Visa requirements and process for the USA and Australia.
Visa Requirements In The USA
- In the USA, international students must apply for an F-1 student visa to study there.
- The F-1 visa costs $160 to apply in the USA
- F-1 visa processing time is ten days to 1 year in the USA
- Required Documents: Passport-size photographs, Passport, Transcripts, English language proficiency test scores, Standardised Test Scores (SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT), I-20 form fee receipt and Financial documents
Visa Requirements In Australia
- In Australia, international students must apply for a subclass 500 student visa.
- The subclass 500 visa costs AUD 680 (around INR 38,000) in Australia
- The processing time is 1 to 11 months in Australia.
- Required Documents: Identity proof, Passport copy, English language score, Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE), Proof of financial funds, Health insurance, Genuine Temporary Entrant document
Employment And Average Salary In The USA Vs Australia
The USA and Australia provide ample opportunities for students to secure employment during and after their studies. In the USA, numerous universities offer campus placements, directly connecting students with potential employers. Similarly, Australia hosts several job fairs and career events, helping students network and find suitable job opportunities. Below, we have given a breakdown of the potential career prospects and the average salaries.
| Jobs | Avg Salary in Australia (AUD) | Avg Salary in the USA (USD) |
| Accountant | 90,000 | 87,851 |
| Teacher | 94,750 | 41,923 |
| Data Analyst | 92,500 | 89,903 |
| Marketing Manager | 1,79,000 | 1,07,948 |
| Civil Engineer | 1,13,949 | 1,10,361 |
| Pharmacist | 1,07,816 | 1,32,520 |
| Software Engineer | 1,20,000 | 1,43,736 |
| Lawyer | 1,16,828 | 1,69,848 |
| Pilot | 3,16,476 | 2,49,325 |
| Doctor | 1,00,000 | 2,64,068 |
Life In The USA Vs Australia
Living in the USA and Australia offers distinct experiences shaped by differences in healthcare, education, lifestyle, and cultural diversity. Understanding these contrasts can help individuals decide where to live, work, or study.
- Healthcare: Australia’s healthcare system, Medicare, offers free or subsidised medical services to citizens and permanent residents, ensuring accessible healthcare. In contrast, the USA’s predominantly private healthcare system often leads to high costs without comprehensive insurance coverage, significantly impacting financial security and quality of life concerning health-related expenses.
- Safety and crime rates: Australia generally has a lower crime rate than the USA, making it a safer option for families. Its better global ranking in crime rate contributes to a perception of safety and stability that many expatriates value.
- Work-life balance: Australians typically enjoy around four weeks of paid vacation per year, compared to the average of two weeks for Americans. This reflects Australia’s more relaxed work culture prioritising work-life balance, whereas the USA often emphasises longer working hours.
- Cultural Differences: Australia is known for its outdoor lifestyle, emphasising nature and community activities. In contrast, the USA offers a range of cultural experiences across its many states and cities, providing a rich tapestry of traditions and events.
FAQs
Is Australia or the USA better for Indian students?
Both Australia and the USA present outstanding opportunities for international students. The choice between the two largely depends on individual preferences, financial considerations, and career aspirations.
Which is safer, Australia or the USA?
Previous analyses of police crime reports have shown that crime rates in Australia are generally much lower than in the USA.
Is Australian education better than the USA?
While Australian and American universities rank globally, TopUniversities lists 5 American institutions in the top 10, with no Australian universities in that range.
Is health care free in Australia?
Essential and urgent hospital treatment is free, but there are fees for visiting GPs and getting prescriptions.
How safe is Australia for Indians?
Yes, Australia is very safe for everyone, including students and Indians, with one of the lowest crime rates in the world.
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1 thought on “Top PGDM Courses In Canada: Universities, Specialisations & Eligibility”
I have done Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts from India and completed my graduation in the year 2022 .I am 22 years old. After graduation, I have done 1 year paid internship from USA .Now, I would like to take occupational experience and learn culinary skills and also do masters in Culinary arts.How can I find the college n best course / country where I can persue studying further