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Studying physics on a wider level after high school can strengthen your quantitative reasoning and problem-solving skills which are valuable in areas beyond physics. If you want to study physics on a higher level and work frontline in Science and technology then there are a lot of universities in the world that offer undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD/Doctoral Degrees in Physics. From Geophysicist, Metallurgist, Nanotechnologist, Research Scientist, Sound Engineer, Astronomer, and Radiation Protection Practitioner to Data Analyst, Clinical Technologist and much more, a degree in Physics paves the way for endless career opportunities. Let’s explore popular countries to study physics around the world.
Best Countries to Study Physics
| Country | Top universities for physics |
| USA | Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
| UK | University of Cambridge |
| Canada | University of Toronto |
| Australia | University of Melbourne |
| Ireland | University College Dublin |
Studying physics in any of the above-mentioned universities can definitely help you reach greater heights and build a stable career for yourself. The degrees offered at the universities are internationally recognised and can be used worldwide. Countries like the USA, UK and Canada are known for providing excellent education to both domestic and international students from around the world. Studying abroad in the mentioned countries can also help you improve your English communication skills to a native level, you may get to rock that American Accent. Isn’t that interesting?
Top Universities to Study Physics
USA
The USA is already way ahead as compared to other countries in the field of technology, education & research. The country is home to the number #1 University in the world. Listed below are the top universities in the USA offering physics programs along with their QS World University Rankings 2022.
| University | QS World University Rankings 2023 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | #100 |
| Stanford University | #3 |
| California Institute of Technology | #=6 |
| Harvard University | #5 |
| Princeton University | #=16 |
| University of California- Berkeley | – |
| Cornell University | #20 |
| University of Chicago | #10 |
| Columbia University | #22 |
UK
The UK has a strong reputation for providing top-class higher education and excellent research facilities. A lot of UK academics are great world leaders in their respective fields and universities in the UK ensure that students are provided with the best learning facilities. Listed below are the top universities in the UK for physics:
| University | QS World University Rankings 2023 |
| University of Cambridge | #2 |
| University of Oxford | #4 |
| Imperial College London | #7 |
| King’s College London | #37 |
| University of Manchester | #28 |
Canada
It is a fact that Canada has less population in comparison to the United States, hence paving the way for ample career opportunities for international students. Canada is ranked among the top countries in the world for a quality life. Apart from this, Canada is home to some of the best universities offering great physics programs at undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral levels.
| University | QS World University Rankings 2023 |
| University of Toronto | #=34 |
| University of British Columbia | #47 |
| McGill University | #77 |
| University of Alberta | #110 |
| University of Waterloo | #154 |
Australia
Australia has a relatively smaller population compared to other countries, the country has great career opportunities and is best known for research and development that has made a big impact on the world. Universities in Australia are known for providing excellent education and have a great reputation around the world.
| University | QS World University Rankings 2023 |
| Australian National University | #30 |
| University of Adelaide | #109 |
| University of Melbourne | #33 |
| Monash University | #57 |
| University of Sydney | #41 |
Ireland
The government of Ireland has made noteworthy investments in the country’s academic infrastructure, making Ireland a popular study destination around the globe for international students. The country is home to numerous top universities offering physics programs.
| University | QS World University Rankings 2023 |
| University College Dublin | #=471 |
| Trinity College Dublin | #98 |
| University College Cork | #303 |
| Dublin City University | #=471 |
Eligibility Requirements
To study Physics at the undergraduate, postgraduate or doctoral level at any of the above-mentioned universities, you must first be able to meet the specific eligibility criteria set by the respective countries and universities. The eligibility requirements may vary for different universities and countries but a general criterion is mentioned below for studying physics abroad:
- You must have passed 12th standard/high school with good grades in the science stream for a bachelor’s degree in Physics.
- For pursuing a master’s degree in physics you must have completed your bachelor’s degree in physics with a minimum GPA of 2.5 or above.
- To pursue a master’s in physics, you must obtain 4 years of a bachelor’s degree in Physics with an average GPA of 3.0 or 65 – 70% and above.
- To pursue a doctorate/PhD program in physics, you must have a Postgraduate degree in Physics or connected studies from a recognised university with a minimum of 50%.
English Language Requirements
To study abroad, the first thing you’ve got to prove is your English Language Proficiency. Mentioned below are the minimum English Language Test Scores requirements for each country:
| Country | Minimum IELTS | Minimum PTE | Minimum TOEFL |
| USA | 7 and above | 65-70 | 90-100 |
| UK | 6.5 or above | 70 | 90 |
| Australia | 6.0 or above | 65 | 79 or above |
| Canada | 6.5 or above | 61 | 90 |
| Ireland | 6.5 or above | 61 | 88 |
How to Apply?
The application process takes place over a period of time and begins months before the commencement of classes. The universities have two main intakes known as the fall intake and winter intake for international students to kickstart their journey. You can call our Leverage Edu experts on 1800 572 000 to find out how the application process can be fast-tracked!
- Call our experts on 1800 572 000 to shortlist your favourite universities and courses. Start your application to multiple universities through our one-dashboard platform
- Compile all your documents like SOPs, essays, certificates and LORs and exam scores like IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, GMAT, etc
- Meet all the applications deadlines and start the application process for accommodation, USA students visa, and scholarships/student loans
- Accept the offer letter and meet your teachers, college mates and roommates virtually
- Get your visa approved and fly to your dream university!
Documents Required
Here is a quick checklist of all the important documents required for admission as an international student:
- All official academic Transcripts and diplomas if any
- Passport
- Visa
- Updated CV/Resume
- English Language Proficiency Test Scores
- Letter of Recommendations
- Statement of Purpose
- TB Test Certificate (UK Admission)
- Financial Evidence
- Portfolio or writing samples (PhD/Doctoral Physics programs)
Cost of Study and Living
The average cost of studying a Physics Program and living abroad in the above-mentioned countries is depicted in the tables below:
| Country | Average cost of studying |
| USA | $25,000 – $37,000 (INR 18.87 Lakh – INR 27.93 Lakh) |
| UK | GBP 12,000 – GBP 35,000 (INR 12.26 Lakh – INR 35.78 Lakh) |
| Canada | CAD 13,000 – CAD 25,000 (INR 7.70 Lakh – INR 14.82 Lakh) |
| Ireland | EUR 9,000 – EUR 27,000 (INR 7.70 Lakh – INR 23.11 Lakh) |
| Australia | AUD 20,000 – AUD 55,000(INR 10.76 Lakh – 29.61 Lakh) |
Check out Leverage Edu’s Cost of Living Calculator to find out a detailed breakdown of expenses in different cities of the world and plan accordingly
| Country | Average cost of living per month |
| USA | $1,000- $1,500(INR 75k – INR 1.13 Lakh) |
| UK | GBP 800 – GBP 1,000(INR 81k – GBP 1.02 Lakh) |
| Canada | CAD 1,000 – CAD 2,000(INR 59k- INR 71,000) |
| Ireland | EUR 1,000 – EUR 1,200(INR 85k – INR 1.02 Lakh) |
| Australia | AUD 1,400 – AUD 2,000(INR 75k- INR 1.07 Lakh) |
FAQs
A bachelor’s degree in physics in the United States takes 4 years to complete in full-time mode.
Canadian Universities have three major intakes for international students i.e. Fall, Winter and Summer.
The government of the United States allows international students to work 20 hours a week during an ongoing session whereas 40 hours a week during session breaks.
Are you planning to study in one of these best countries to study Physics but not sure where to start? Call our Leverage Edu experts at 1800 57 2000 for a FREE 30-minute counselling session today!
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