The United States and Australia are both popular choices for Indian students who want to study abroad. Both countries offer exceptional education, career opportunities, and cultural experiences. Degrees from both countries are highly respected internationally.
This article evaluates education quality, tuition costs, and post-graduation options to guide your decision.
USA vs Australia: Key highlights
Choosing between the United States and Australia to study abroad can be difficult. Studying in both countries has quite a few advantages. Yet there are also differences that can affect your stay. Here are a few key aspects to consider:
Quality of Education
- United States
The USA is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities. These include Harvard, MIT, Caltech, and many more eminent names. There are over 5,000 universities and these offer undergraduate and postgraduate courses on every possible subject.
- Australia
There are great universities in Australia as well. These include institutions like the University of Melbourne, the Australian National University, and the University of Sydney. Australia is known for its strong education system and noted for study and research in environmental science, engineering, and healthcare.
Cost of Education
- United States
Tuition fees in the USA are higher, especially at private institutions. At the best universities like Berkeley, an MS in Computer Science can cost US $28,000 per year (two-year course). That is more than ₹46 lakhs for the course. In addition, there is the cost of living, airfare, health insurance, and many other expenses.
- Australia
Australian universities generally have lower tuition fees compared to their American counterparts. The fees range from AUD 20,000 to AUD 45,000 per year. The cost of living in Sydney and Melbourne is also less compared to the USA.
Post-Graduation Opportunities
Upon graduation, international students in both the USA and Australia have opportunities for post-study work.
- The USA offers OPT training for 12 months. It can be extended to 36 months for STEM graduates.
- Australia provides a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) allowing international students to work for up to 4 years.
Global Recognition and Job Market
Universities in the USA have prestige and a degree from a top university can be a valuable addition to any resume. They are highly regarded especially in business, technology, and sciences.
Australian degrees are also well-known globally. In healthcare, engineering, and environmental science, a degree from a reputed Australian university can enhance your career.
The US skilled labor job market is the largest in the world. At this moment there are 75,600 startups in the country and 8 of the top 10 companies globally by market capitalization are from the USA. There is never a dearth of jobs for graduates willing to work hard.
Australia also has a strong job market and unemployment is low at 4.1%. However, it is a sparsely populated nation with only 26 million inhabitants (compared to the 333 million strong population in the USA). Therefore the size of the job market in Australia is far smaller than in the USA.
Also Read: Study Abroad Guide for Indian Students 2024
Popular courses in the USA vs Australia
Both the United States and Australia offer a wide range of popular courses that attract thousands of international students.
Popular Courses in the United States
- Data Science
- Computer Science
- Business Administration
- Engineering
- Nursing
- Master of Business Administration
- Architecture
- Biomedical Engineering
Popular Courses in Australia
- Accounting
- Information Technology
- Nursing
- Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Psychology
- Engineering
- Agricultural Sciences
- Cybersecurity
Also Read: Best Exams to Study in USA for Indian Students 2024 (Masters & UG)
Top universities in the USA vs Australia
The United States is regarded as having the world’s best higher education systems and 9 out of the top 20 global universities are situated there.
Australia too has an impressive reputation, with more than 30 of its universities featured in the prestigious QS World University Rankings 2024 top 100 list.
Here is a list of the top 10 universities in both countries.
United States
| # | Name of University | QS 2024 Rank | Location |
| 1 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 1 | Cambridge, United States |
| 2 | Harvard University | 4 | Cambridge, United States |
| 3 | Stanford University | 6 | Stanford, United States |
| 4 | California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | 10 | Pasadena, United States |
| 5 | University of Pennsylvania | 11 | Philadelphia, United States |
| 6 | University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | 12 | Berkeley, United States |
| 7 | Cornell University | 16 | Ithaca, United States |
| 8 | University of Chicago | 21 | Chicago, United States |
| 9 | Princeton University | 22 | Princeton, United States |
| 10 | Yale University | 23 | New Haven, United States |
Australia
| # | Name of University | QS 2024 Rank | Location |
| 1 | The University of Melbourne | 13 | Parkville, Australia |
| 2 | The University of Sydney | 18 | Sydney, Australia |
| 3 | The University of New South Wales (UNSW) | 19 | Sydney, Australia |
| 4 | Australian National University (ANU) | 30 | Canberra, Australia |
| 5 | Monash University | 37 | Melbourne, Australia |
| 6 | The University of Queensland | 40 | Brisbane City, Australia |
| 7 | The University of Western Australia | 77 | Perth, Australia |
| 8 | The University of Adelaide | 82 | Adelaide, Australia |
| 9 | University of Technology Sydney (UTS) | 88 | Haymarket, Australia |
| 10 | RMIT University | 123 | Melbourne, Australia |
While rankings are a good proxy for the quality of education, they aren’t the only factor to consider. The right university for you will depend on many aspects like ROI, your chances of admission, alumni network, and career placement records. Navigating through all these factors can get complex and confusing, which makes finding the right university overwhelming.
That’s where SelectRight by GradRight comes in. It simplifies your search for the ideal program by analyzing over 8 million data points and matching you with universities that align with your unique academic profile, financial situation, and career goals.
Here’s how SelectRight helps:
- Create your free profile and provide your academic background and preferences.
- The AI-powered algorithm compares your profile against thousands of universities and programs.
- Get a personalized shortlist based on ROI, career opportunities, and admission chances.
- Access unbiased insights and expert guidance to make informed decisions.
- Network with alumni, peers, and experts to explore your future university before you apply.
Get started with SelectRight today and take the guesswork out of choosing your ideal university.
Also Read: Study in Australia 2024: Process, Eligibility, Documents, Visa & More
Admission requirements in the USA vs Australia
Universities in the USA and Australia have varying requirements. There are differences in application processes, standardized testing, and necessary documentation.
Knowing these differences is essential before seeking admission.
Applying to a university in the USA
- Application Process
The USA lacks a centralized college and university admissions system. Students have to apply individually to each university using institution-specific portals.
- Standardized Tests
Undergraduate programs require SAT or ACT scores. Reputed colleges also expect AP scores. Graduate programs require GRE, GMAT, or specialized tests like LSAT and MCAT.
- GPA
Applicants must submit high school transcripts for undergraduate courses and college transcripts for graduate courses. A competitive GPA of 3.2 (and above) on a 4.0 scale is a must for top universities.
- English Language Proficiency
International students must provide TOEFL or IELTS scores.
Australia
- Application Process
Australia has centralized systems known as UAC and VTAC. These enable students to apply to multiple universities simultaneously.
- Standardized Tests
Australian universities rarely require SAT/ACT scores. Instead, the focus is more on high school and college grades and English proficiency.
- Academic Transcripts and Qualifications
Official high school and college transcripts are required, with English translations if necessary.
- English Language Proficiency
You need to score satisfactorily on English proficiency tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.
Undergraduate study costs in the USA vs Australia
The cost of college education in the United States and Australia varies significantly. There are notable differences in tuition fees.
Tuition Fees
- United States
The average tuition fee for undergraduate programs ranges from US$20,000 to US$40,000 (approximately ₹1,660,000 to ₹3,320,000).
- Australia
The average tuition fee for undergraduate programs is between AUD 20,000 and AUD 45,000 (₹1,140,000 to ₹2,565,000).
Postgraduate study costs in the USA vs Australia
Postgraduate study costs too widely differ between the US and Australia.
Tuition Fees
- United States
Postgraduate tuition fees range from US $20,000 to US $50,000 (approximately ₹1,660,000 to ₹4,150,000).
- Australia
For postgraduate programs, fees range from AUD 22,000 to AUD 50,000 (approximately ₹1,254,000 to ₹2,850,000).
Living Expenses
These are the same regardless of the level of study. Australia is more affordable but offers an excellent standard of living.
- United States
Estimated living expenses for students are around US $12,000 to US $24,000 annually (approximately ₹ 996,000 to ₹ 1,992,000).
- Australia
The living cost in Australia for international students is about AUD 29,000 per year (around ₹ 1,653,000).
While the costs of studying abroad can seem intimidating, it’s crucial to look at the return on investment (ROI). After all, most students secure well-paying jobs post-graduation, allowing them to repay their education loan in 5-8 years.
However, finding an affordable education loan that fits your needs can be challenging with so many options and confusing information in the market.
This is where FundRight by GradRight makes the process easier. The platform allows students to compare multiple lenders, including top public and private banks, NBFCs, and international lenders, with just one application. By using FundRight, lenders compete to offer you the best loan deal based on your profile.
Here’s how FundRight works:
- Create your profile with details about your academic background and financial needs.
- Submit your loan request, and FundRight will send it to over 15 top lenders.
- Receive competitive offers from multiple lenders.
- Compare interest rates, repayment terms, and value-added services.
- Select the best loan option and finalize the process in just a few steps.
Don’t let the costs deter you—let FundRight help you secure the best loan and make your study abroad dream a reality.
Scholarships for international students in the USA and Australia
The USA and Australia offer multiple scholarships for international students. These help students meet the huge cost of studying abroad.
Scholarships in the USA for international students
Here’s a table summarizing the scholarships available for Indian students to study in the USA.
| Scholarship Name | Description | |
| 1 | Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowship | A prestigious fellowship that supports Indian PhD students conducting research in American universities. |
| 2 | Tata Scholarship | An endowment providing financial aid to undergraduate students from India at Cornell University. |
| 3 | Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships | Scholarships for Indian students with excellent academic records to pursue postgraduate studies at law schools in the USA. |
| 4 | AAUW International Fellowships | A scholarship for women to pursue doctoral studies in USA universities. |
| 5 | Rotary Peace Fellowship | A scholarship for individuals wanting to pursue master’s degree programs related to peace and conflict resolution at USA universities. |
| 6 | Fulbright Scholarships USA | Covers tuition fees, airfare, textbooks, and living costs for Indians pursuing a master’s course or conducting research in the USA.S. |
| 7 | Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program | A Fulbright scholarship for mid-career professionals with leadership qualities and a track record in public service. |
| 8 | Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation | A loan-based scholarship that is exclusive of any interest, notable for MBBS students in the USA. |
Scholarships in Australia for international students
Here is a table with a few scholarships available for Indian students in Australia.
| Serial Number | Scholarship Name | Description |
| 1 | Destination Australia Scholarship | Helps students pursue higher education in Australia, while also empowering regional Australia. |
| 2 | Australian Government Research Training Program | Offers a stipend and tuition fee offset to international postgraduate students pursuing research degrees. |
| 3 | Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship | Provides financial support to international undergraduate students who show academic excellence and potential. |
| 4 | Endeavour Awards | Provides financial aid for international postgraduate students, covering tuition, travel, and living expenses. |
| 5 | Macquarie University International Scholarships | Offers half the cost of tuition to excellent applicants for undergraduate or postgraduate degrees at Macquarie University North Ryde campus. |
| 6 | Monash University Scholarships | Offers a wide range of equity-based and merit scholarships for both international and Australian students. |
| 7 | University of Queensland Scholarships | Provides various scholarships for international students, including merit-based and need-based options for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. |
| 8 | Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarships | Available for international students wishing to study postgraduate courses at Flinders University, offering a tuition fee reduction. |
Also Read: Types of Scholarships to Study Abroad for International Students
Student visa requirements in the USA and Australia
Understanding various types of student visas and their requirements is essential when considering studying abroad.
Below is an overview of the essential requirements in the USA and Australia
Student Visa Requirements for the USA
F-1 Visa is necessary for students attending a full-time course at a college, and university
Documentation needed for F-1 visa:
- Valid passport (must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay)
- Form I-20 from the institution
- Proof of financial support (bank statements, scholarship letters)
- Passport-sized photos (according to U.S. visa photo requirements)
- Visa application fee receipt
Student Visa Requirements for Australia
A subclass 500 visa is required for students enrolled in a full-time course at an Australian educational institution.
Documentation needed for Subclass 500 Visa:
- Valid passport (must be valid for the duration of your stay)
- Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE)
- Evidence of sufficient funds (bank statements, sponsorship letters)
- Health insurance (Overseas Student Health Cover)
- Academic qualifications and English language proficiency evidence (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL scores)
Popular jobs in the USA and Australia
Both Australia and the United States offer a variety of job opportunities across different sectors. Below is a table that highlights popular jobs in both countries:
| Job Type | Average Salary AUD/USD | Average Salary (₹) |
| Australia | ||
| IT Systems Architect | AUD 140,000 | ₹7,980,000 |
| IT Manager | AUD 125,000 | ₹7,125,000 |
| IT Security Architect | AUD 124,000 | ₹7,068,000 |
| Cloud Engineer | AUD 112,000 | ₹6,384,000 |
| Data Scientist | AUD 100,000 | ₹5,700,000 |
| Python Developer | AUD 100,000 | ₹5,700,000 |
| IT Consultant | AUD 80,000 | ₹4,560,000 |
| Project Manager | AUD 80,000 | ₹4,560,000 |
| Telecoms Technician | AUD 80,000 | ₹4,560,000 |
| DevOps Engineer | AUD 70,000 | ₹3,990,000 |
| United States | ||
| Software Developer | US$ 110,140 | ₹ 9,134,620 |
| Data Scientist | US$ 98,230 | ₹ 8,167,090 |
| Financial Analyst | US$ 134,180 | ₹ 11,144,940 |
| Registered Nurse | US$ 75,330 | ₹ 6,251,490 |
| Secondary School Teacher | US$ 62,870 | ₹ 5,217,210 |
| Civil Engineer | US$ 92,360 | ₹ 7,671,880 |
| Marketing Manager | US$ 135,900 | ₹ 11,267,700 |
| Human Resources Specialist | US$ 63,490 | ₹ 5,268,670 |
Employment opportunities for students in USA vs Australia
The USA and Australia provide students with a diverse scope of work. We explore the various employment opportunities available to students in each country.
Employment Opportunities in the USA
- On-Campus Employment
Work on-campus is available for F-1 visa students. These jobs are at university departments, libraries, and cafeterias. Students can work up to 20 hours/week during academic terms and 40 hours/week during vacation.
- Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Optional Practical Training (OPT) lets international students gain valuable work experience for 12 months after graduation. For STEM graduates the duration is extended to 36 months.
Employment Opportunities in Australia
- On-Campus Work
International students can work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the semester. During a break, they can work as many hours as they want.
- Post-Study Work Visa
After completing their degree, international students can apply for a post-study work visa. This allows them to stay and work in Australia for up to four years if they have completed their master’s.
Permanent residency in the USA and Australia
Permanent residency offers a pathway to settlement and potential citizenship.
United States
In the USA it is known as the Green Card, a coveted status that allows you nearly the same rights as a US citizen (barring some matters like voting).
However, the process is far from simple. After completing your degree, you have to first obtain an employment and H1-B work visa.
After a few years’ stay, you can apply for permanent residency. There is no direct path to PR from being a student.
Australia
For PR in Australia after your education, you have to apply for a skilled visa like subclass 189 or 190.
The Australian PR system is based on points. Various factors that influence the decision include age, education, work experience, and occupation.
Gaining PR status in both nations is possible but not assured.
Climate in USA vs Australia
Here’s a climate comparison between the United States and Australia:
- United States Climate
The United States has a diverse climate, ranging from tropical in Florida to extremely cold in northern regions. The southern half of the USA is quite warm for most of the year. Parts such as Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico are also extremely arid. California is known for exceptional weather around the year.
- Australian Climate
Most of Australia is uninhabited. Humans occupy only 0.22% area of the vast country in the temperate southeast.
The rest of the country is known for rugged outbacks and tropical weather. Overall, Australia’s climate is generally warmer and sunnier than the United States. Being in the southern hemisphere, Australia celebrates Christmas in summer.
FAQs
Both the USA and Australia are highly developed Western nations with per capita income of $85,373 and $67,800 respectively. Both have very well-known colleges and universities. The USA has a far larger population than Australia and is the global leader in technology. This makes it a better destination for job seeking.
The best technological universities in the world are located in the US. Pursuing an MS degree from the USA is highly desirable and there is the possibility of employment at the best tech companies in the world. This makes the US the preferred destination of students who want to pursue an MS degree.
Overall, studying in the USA is more expensive than in Australia. This is in part due to higher tuition fees and health insurance costs. The cost of living varies by city but major urban centers in both countries can be costly to live in.
Australia offers a higher quality of life than the USA, because of factors like a strong social safety net, and an excellent healthcare system. You also get more vacation time compared to the USA. But if you want to work at the cutting edge of technology, the USA is the place to be.
