USA vs Canada for International Students 2026

The USA and Canada attract the most international students in the Western Hemisphere. But they offer very different value propositions — the US has unmatched university brands and scholarship funding, while Canada has offered (until recently) the most accessible PR pathway. Here is how they compare in 2026.

Head-to-head

The scholarship gap

The USA has the most generous scholarship ecosystem in the world. Many universities offer merit-based aid, need-based aid, or both — even to international students. Full-ride scholarships at schools like MIT, Stanford, and Harvard are need-blind for internationals. Canada offers far fewer scholarships to international students; most funding goes to domestic students.

Post-study work: OPT vs PGWP

Canada's PGWP gives up to 3 years of open work rights. The US's OPT gives 12 months, extended to 36 months for STEM graduates. The key difference: PGWP leads naturally to Express Entry PR, while OPT requires transitioning to an H-1B visa through an employer lottery with a ~25% success rate.

The immigration reality

Canada has been the clear winner on immigration for decades. But with the 48% study permit cut and tightening Express Entry draws, the gap is narrowing. The US green card process is longer and more uncertain, but for STEM graduates at top universities, the employer-sponsored pathway (H-1B + green card) is well-established at major tech companies.

When to choose the USA

You can get significant scholarship funding. You want to study at a globally top-ranked institution. You are in STEM and targeting the 3-year OPT. You value the campus experience and research opportunities.

When to choose Canada

Budget is a priority and you cannot secure US scholarships. You want open post-study work rights without employer dependency. You prioritise a clearer (if now harder) PR pathway. You prefer a more immigration-friendly political environment.