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- 5 min
- Published: 18 August 2025
- Updated: 17 August 2025
The top universities preferred by international students for pursuing Data Science courses in the USA are Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, UC Berkeley, and Harvard University, among others. In Canada, the best choices include the University of Waterloo, the University of Toronto, and the University of British Columbia. These universities are regarded as the best in the field of data science because of the expertise of their faculty, the structure of the programs designed, the cost of studying, and the rank of the university. This blog takes a deeper look at why to choose the USA and Canada for data science courses, the key factors to take into account when opting for the best university, and the top universities for data science in both the USA and Canada. We also share the top scholarships and potential career prospects after completing a Master's in Data Science in the USA and Canada.
Why Study Data Science in the USA and Canada?
The USA and Canada are two widely preferred study-abroad destinations for Data Science among international students. These countries are top choices because of the presence of top-ranked universities, potentially strong career prospects, and future opportunities for growth.
Listed below are some top reasons for studying Data Science in these two countries:
The USA is home to some of the best-ranked universities for data science courses.
Canada provides a Post-Graduation Work Permit to international graduates after completing their course, thus paving the way for numerous jobs in data science in Canada.
Canada offers more affordable education than the other top study-abroad countries.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Data Science University
Some of the key factors to consider when choosing the best university abroad for data science courses are university rankings, course curriculum and duration, and cost of studying and living in the country.
Explore internationally-renowned universities: Research study institutions that have high rankings on the global platform. Also, make sure that their data science degrees are recognised worldwide.
Prioritise course curriculum: Look for the course design, structure, duration, and the core concepts covered. Focus on programs that offer a blend of academic excellence with practical application.
Consider the cost involved: The cost of studying and living abroad is a primary consideration. Look for more affordable options, both in terms of tuition fees and living expenses.
Top Universities for Data Science in the USA
Stanford University, MIT, and UCB generally figure in the top list of universities offering data science courses in the USA. These universities are renowned for their brilliant research facilities, academic excellence, and strong networking opportunities for students. Listed below are some of the best Data Science universities in the USA:
University | QS World University Rankings 2025 for Data Science |
|---|---|
1 | |
4 | |
6 | |
9 | |
=13 |
Related Source: https://www.topuniversities.com/university-subject-rankings/data-science-artificial-intelligence
Top Canadian Universities for Data Science
Canada offers a host of options for learning data science courses at its top institutions, such as the University of Waterloo, the University of British Columbia, and the University of Toronto. The table below shares the best data science universities in Canada for the program, along with their respective QS rankings.
University | QS World University Rankings 2025 for Data Science |
|---|---|
10 | |
23 | |
30 | |
=34 |
Related Source: https://www.topuniversities.com/university-subject-rankings/data-science-artificial-intelligence?countries=ca
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Comparison: Data Science in the USA vs Canada
To make an informed decision, it is essential to carefully review the data science courses in both the USA and Canada. Listed below are some key factors to help.
Parameters | USA | Canada |
|---|---|---|
Eligibility | Standardised test scores for UG programs IELTS proficiency test score Completion of 10+2 with Physics, Math, and Chemistry | GPA of 3.0 on a scale of 4.33 Background in Statistics, Math, and Computer Science GRE/GMAT (if required) |
Cost | USD 21,000 - USD 75,000 per annum | CAD 15,000 - CAD 30,000 per annum |
Work opportunities | Data Engineer, Data Analyst, Statistician | Lead AI Engineer, Data Scientist, Senior Analytics Engineer |
Source: https://www.idp.com/india/study-in-canada/masters-in-data-science/
https://www.idp.com/india/study-in-canada/masters-in-data-science/
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
The universities offering data science programs in Canada and the USA may have varying admission requirements.
USA:
Standardised test scores like ACT or SAT for Bachelor’s degrees
Completion of 10+2 with core subjects as Physics, Math, and Chemistry for Bachelor’s degrees
GRE test scores (if required)
Statement of Purpose (SOP) for MS in Data Science programs in the USA
3 Letters of Recommendation (LOR) from professionals in the same or related/relevant fields
IELTS test score (as required by the university being applied to)
CV/resume
Canada:
GPA with an average of 3.0 on a scale of 4.33 for MS programs
IELTS score of at least 6.5 overall or 110 for a Master’s in Data Science in Canada
Background in Statistics, Engineering, Math, and Computer Science is mandatory
GRE/GMAT (if applicable)
Source: https://www.idp.com/india/study-in-canada/masters-in-data-science/
Scholarship Opportunities for Studying Data Science Abroad
Some of the top scholarships for data science available for international students wanting to study data science abroad are the Fulbright International Scholar Program in the USA and Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships.
Ontario Graduate Scholarship Canada (OGS)
University of Waterloo David R. Cheriton Graduate Scholarships in Computer Science
National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship
MinneAnalytics Data Science Scholarship
Harvard University Scholarship
Career Prospects After Studying Data Science in the USA and Canada
International students graduating with a Data Science degree in the USA or Canada can opt for job roles like Data Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, and Data Architect, among many others.
The table below lists some more data science jobs in the USA and Canada for graduates in the field:
Job Role | Annual Salary (Approx) in the USA | Yearly Salary in Canada (Approx) |
|---|---|---|
Data Analyst | USD 83,884 | CAD 72,020 |
Database Administrator | USD 102,621 | CAD 78,589 |
Statistician | USD 92,912 | CAD 97,241 |
Data Architect | USD 132,862 | CAD 118,613 |
Data Scientist | USD 128,115 | CAD 96,870 |
Related Sources: https://www.indeed.com/career/data-analyst/salaries
https://ca.indeed.com/career/data-analyst/salaries
https://www.indeed.com/career/database-administrator/salaries
https://ca.indeed.com/career/database-administrator/salaries
https://www.indeed.com/career/statistician/salaries
https://ca.indeed.com/career/statistician/salaries
https://www.indeed.com/career/data-architect/salaries
https://ca.indeed.com/career/data-architect/salaries
https://ca.indeed.com/career/data-architect/salaries
https://ca.indeed.com/career/data-scientist/salaries
How Can IDP Guide You With University Selection?
Confused about the best universities to choose for Data Science courses abroad? IDP Education consultants can help. We help you identify the best university in both the USA and Canada offering data science degree programs. We also shortlist the various universities in both these countries based on their overall global rankings. Our experts understand your requirements and present you with the best university options in both countries.
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