Where do you want to study?
Compare the four most popular destinations for international postgraduates, then open a guide for costs, visas and universities.
Side by side
A quick comparison of the rules that matter most. Figures change, so each guide links to the official source.
United Kingdom
- Master’s length
- 1 year
- Post-study work
- 2 years (3 after a PhD)
- Work while studying
- Up to 20 h/week
- Intakes
- September
- Currency
- GBP (£)
- Student visa
- Student visa
United States
- Master’s length
- 1–2 years
- Post-study work
- 12 months OPT (+24 for STEM)
- Work while studying
- On campus, up to 20 h/week
- Intakes
- Fall (Aug–Sep)
- Currency
- USD ($)
- Student visa
- F-1 student visa
Canada
- Master’s length
- 1–2 years
- Post-study work
- Up to 3 years (PGWP)
- Work while studying
- Up to 24 h/week
- Intakes
- September
- Currency
- CAD ($)
- Student visa
- Study permit
Australia
- Master’s length
- 1–2 years
- Post-study work
- 2–3 years (subclass 485)
- Work while studying
- 48 h per fortnight
- Intakes
- February and July
- Currency
- AUD ($)
- Student visa
- Student visa (subclass 500)