Are you ready for an exceptional study experience? Look no further than Canada! Now, you must be thinking, why study in Canada? Renowned for its outstanding education system (ranked 4th worldwide), Canada offers top-ranked universities and colleges that attract international students. In fact, multiple Canadian universities are included in the QS World University Rankings 2024.
Not only that but studying in Canada is also affordable, with lower tuition fees compared to other popular study destinations.
Moreover, with its diverse and inclusive society, you'll find a multicultural and academically stimulating environment. And here's the cherry on top: Canada provides excellent post-graduation work opportunities, allowing you to gain valuable international experience. The list of benefits of studying in Canada makes it the top choice for international students.
Get ready to embark on a remarkable journey of academic growth & personal development and unlock why you should choose Canada as a study-abroad destination.
[Infographic] Top Reasons to Study in Canada.
10 Top Reasons to Study in Canada
World-Class Education
Canada offers unparalleled education opportunities across the globe. A Canadian degree is highly acclaimed and globally recognized. The universities ' top-quality curricula and experiential learning impart holistic education, which is one of the biggest reasons to study in Canada. The programs enhance subject knowledge and skills such as teamwork, effective communication, critical thinking, and leadership qualities.
Canada has more than 20+ private universities and 90+ public universities, offering 15,000 study options across fields. Although some universities don't offer courses in English and only teach in French. Moreover, you can look for community colleges. Some of the popular community colleges are Humber College, Seneca College, Centennial College, and Selkirk College.
You can also pursue an associate's degree in Canada. It is a two-year undergraduate degree and is equivalent to the first two years of a four-year undergraduate program. Students can enter the third year of a bachelor's degree via this degree.
Before enrolling in any Canadian course, you should have a fair idea about the course fee. Per a survey by Statistics Canada, the annual average undergraduate tuition fee for international students in the 2023 academic year was CAD 36,123. Annual average tuition fees for graduate international students can range between CAD 6,210 and CAD 43,990. Moreover, thesis and project-based master's programs can cost you around tuition fees of CAD 9,396. A PhD course might cost between CAD 2,500 and CAD 17,000 per year.
Average Annual Tuition Fee for Canadian Universities
University
Average Annual Tuition Fees
University of Toronto
UG: $60,000-$70,000
PG: $40,000-$60,000
The University of British Columbia
UG: $42,000–$59,000
PG: $6000–$78,000
University of Alberta
UG: $30,000–$40,000
PG: $20,000–$35,000
McGill University
UG: $40,000–$70,000
PG: $15,000–$20,000
Queen's University at Kingston
UG: $56,000–$96,000
PG: $20,000–$42,000
Source: University’s Official Website
Top Community Colleges in Canada
Community College
Average Tuition Fees
Humber College
CAD 14,500
Seneca College
CAD 5000
Centennial College
CAD 15,000
Selkirk College
CAD 7,900
Source: Official Website
Apart from the tuition fees, you would have to manage the cost of living in Canada. Your expenditure will vary based on the province you decide to live in and your lifestyle. The average living cost for a year can be around CAD 12,000. Here is a quick rundown of the expected expenses that you will bear while living in Canada.
Cost of Living in Canada
Category
Yearly Expenses (Estimated)
Books and supplies
CAD 2,000+
Health and Dental Insurance: International
CAD 1,247
Public Transportation
CAD 1,250+
Incidental Fees
CAD 2,000
Accommodations (rent and food)
CAD 13,800
Study Trip
CAD 1,500
Note: The expenses can vary based on the province/ university chosen by the student.
Scholarships
Canada is one of the coveted destinations to study and an equal opportunity provider. Thus, offersencouraging international students from all backgrounds to enroll in Canadian universities by offering scholarship opportunities for those in need. Students can receive need-based and merit-based scholarships in Canada.
Government Scholarships
Scholarship
Description
Benefit(s)
Vanier Canada
Graduate Scholarships
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS) program, named in honor of Major-General Georges P. Vanier, the first francophone Governor General of Canada, aims to assist Canadian institutions in attracting exceptionally skilled doctoral students. Each year, a maximum of 166 scholarships are granted, and there can be a total of up to 500 active scholarships at any given time.
Valued at $50,000 per year for three years during doctoral studies.
Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
The Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships program provides funding to the best postdoctoral applicants, nationally and internationally, who will positively contribute to the country's economic, social, and research-based growth. Around 70 fellowships are granted each year, with approximately 140 awards being active at any time.
Valued at $70,000per year (taxable) for two years (non-renewable).
Source: Official Website
University-Based Scholarships in Canada
Scholarship
Description
Benefit(s)
Carleton Entrance Scholarships
You will be automatically eligible for a renewable entrance scholarship if you have been accepted to Carleton University with an admission average of 80 percent or higher. This consideration takes place at the time of admission.
An unlimited number of scholarships of values of $16,000, $12,000, $8,000, and $4,000 are offered based on the admission average.
Concordia Presidential Scholarship
The Concordia Presidential Scholarship is the university’s most prestigious undergraduate entrance scholarship that supports international students.
The award covers all tuition fees, books, residence, and meal plan fees for up to four years, assuming the student maintains renewability requirements.
McGill's entrance scholarships
McGill's Scholarships and Student Aid offer merit-based entrance scholarships to first-time university students entering a full-time undergraduate degree program.
Transfer, Mature, Diploma, Exchange, Special, Part-time, and Visiting students are not eligible for entrance scholarships.
There are two types of centrally-administered entrance scholarships:
i)One-year Scholarships valued at $3,000 (non-renewable).
ii) Major Scholarships, valued between $3,000 and $12,000 (renewable annually up to 3 or 4 years provided criteria for renewal are met).
Concordia International Scholars
The Concordia International Scholars is an undergraduate award that aims to acknowledge students who demonstrate academic excellence, resilience, and ability to overcome personal hardship.
Each year, two renewable scholarships covering tuition fees will be awarded to candidates from any faculty.
FDU International Scholarship
FDU offers a range of merit scholarships for international undergraduate students.
Up to $24,000 annually
Dalhousie University’s CorpFinance International Limited (Kevin Andrews) Indian Scholarship
It is Open to Students from India entering the Bachelor of Commerce program who demonstrate good academic standing.
Up to $15,000
HEC Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
The Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships program provides funding for the best national and international postdoctoral candidates to contribute to Canada's economic, social, and scientific development.
Scholarship(s) of $70,000.00
Source: Official Website
Work Opportunity During and Post Study
Canada is also a member of the G7, a group of the world's most advanced economies, which indicates the country's stability. So, it makes it one of the best reasons to study in Canada for Indian students.
Once the student has selected one of the best short-term or full-time courses to study in Canada, they can look for what more the country can offer them. The country allows international students to work up to 20 hours a week while studying full-time during summer and winter breaks. However, this work-hour cap has recently been lifted. Via this income, you can continue living in Canada while diversifying your professional career.
Moreover, it is imperative to start a course before working in Canada. Also, students need to have relevant study permit to pursue these jobs. There are a plethora of ways to work in Canada while the students complete their education:
On-campus work
Off-campus work
Co-op placements
Internships
Wages or salaries for the work vary based on the student’s skills and position. Moreover, graduate students must check if they are eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP).
Opting to continue education in Canada for Indian students is beneficial as they can leverage co-op programs offered by Canadian universities. It allows them to amalgamate their studies with an official paid work term. They are eligible to apply for it under the following conditions:
Students possess a valid work permit.
Work experience is indispensable for completing the degree/program.
Students’ co-op placement totals 50% or less of the program.
Coveted Jobs and Lucrative Salaries
Per the OECD Better Life Index, in Canada, the average disposable income per capita is CAD 46,000 a year, above the OECD average of CAD 41,000. This indicates good growth opportunities for Indian students studying in Canada. The average annual salary for a bachelor's degree holder in Canada was $64,311 per year (in 2023). However, this number can vary depending on the specific field of study. Moreover, at entry-level positions, graduates get an annual average salary of CAD 50,915, while an experienced graduate can earn as high as CAD 126,564 annually.
In a nutshell, Canada is a paradise for international students who are looking for the best-paying jobs.
Abundant Research Opportunities
One of the reasons students choose to study in Canada rather than in their home country is its emphasis on research and development. Canada's gross domestic expenditures on research and development rose 3.1% from 2019 to $41.9 billion in 2020. For someone interested in science and research, there is no overseas country better than Canada. This cogently instates that the Canadian government pays special attention to research.
Immigration Benefits
Canada offers a post-graduation work permit program that allows students to stay and work in the country for the next three years after completing their graduation. While getting international work experience after completing the course, they can settle there permanently by applying for permanent residency. This is one of the biggest reasons students choose courses in Canada after 12th.
In tandem with it, the student can also leverage the spousal visa option. A foreign national is approved for a study permit in Canada with their spouse accompanying; then, the spouse will be eligible to apply for a spousal open work permit.
Safety and Peace
Per OECD Better Life Index, about 78% of people living in Canada say that they feel safe walking alone at night, which is more than the OECD average of 74%.
Canada ranks 13th according to the World Happiness Report 2023, which indicates less corruption, more social support, freedom, generosity, healthy life expectancy, and more. In fact, according to the 2023 Global Peace Index, Canada ranks 11th among the 163 nations listed. One of the most peaceful countries in the world, Canada offers the best life an international student can ever ask for in a foreign country. Moreover, per QS Best Student Cities 2024, Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa, and Quebec are some of the best student cities in Canada. This indicates a seamless transition to a new country for international students. Thus, opting for higher studies in Canada is a prudent decision.
Canada is one of the most diverse countries in the world. Warm and friendly locals of Canada welcome international students with open arms. Per Statista Canada, there are more than 250 ethnic origins, along with 200 languages from around the world and 70 indigenous languages spoken. A multicultural environment promotes peaceful living, and therefore many students prefer to settle in Canada after completing their course.
Vibrant Cities, Scenic Beauty and High Quality of Life
Besides calculating the cost of studying in Canada, students should look into other parameters before choosing the country. Canada is a high-tech industrial society with a high standard of living. Per U.S. News & World Report, Canada ranks #3 globally for the best quality of life. This indicates that the country has a good job market, a well-developed public education system & health system, a rich history, and more. Vibrant cities equipped with excellent living standards, infrastructure, and job opportunities make it much sought-after among international students.
Pre-Arrival Cost for Studying in Canada
Students will have to invest money in the form of one-time expenses, such as exam fees, visa fees, and application fees, even before leaving their home countries. These expenses come in addition to the tuition fees and living expenses in Canada.
If students decide to study in Canada, they must take standardized exams. Specific tests are taken depending on the level of study you want to pursue. Different entrance exams are required for different college and degree programs. The most common admission tests are SAT, TOEFL, GRE, GMAT, MCAT, and LSAT. Language competency is required for a Canadian student visa, and educational institutions require both language proficiency and academic expertise.
Required Documents to Study in Canada
A student can study in Canada only if:
A student should have a GIC account with CAD 20,635. It would provide documentation proof of having enough money to pay for tuition, living, transportation, and other costs.
Students must have a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
Study permit issued by an officer (not indispensable for a course/program which is six months or less).
Follow all the rules and regulations of the government, and the candidate should not have any criminal record.
The student is required to submit health proof.
Need to prove that they will leave Canada once your study is over.
How to Study in Canada without IELTS
Some students want to study in Canada without IELTS, which is a prerequisite for most universities. Many Canadian universities do not require IELTS scores to prove their English proficiency. If they can meet any of the down-listed criteria, then they can study at certain Canadian Universities without IELTS:
Take other English proficiency tests to show your expertise in the English Language. For instance, Can TEST (Canadian Test for English for Scholars and Trainees), PTE (Pearson English Language Test), and CAEL (Canadian Academic English.
Submit the documents proving that they have studied in an English medium school.
Provide proof of an official English language to Canadian universities.
The best way is to attend a Canadian English language program for a semester or year.
Discover Canadian Advantage: Your Pathway to Success Awaits
Now that you know the best reasons to study in Canada (in 2024), you will be able to make the right choice. If you still have not decided which course to study in Canada, our study-abroad counselors can guide you.
“Disclaimer! All course fees/salaries/expenses are indicative.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to study in Canada?
Annual average tuition fees for graduate international students can range between CAD 6,210 and CAD 43,990. Moreover, thesis and project-based master's programs can cost you around tuition fees of CAD 9,396. Whereas a PhD course might cost hover between CAD 2,500 and CAD 17,000 per year.
Why choose Canada to study?
Canadian universities are rated among the best. They are renowned for offering high-quality education, experienced faculty, quality curricula and unparalleled infrastructure. Students can learn in a student-friendly country and leverage an academically stimulating environment. Moreover, the comprehensive programs offered meet the demands of new-age education.
Why should students choose a BBA program in Canada?
Five Canadian universities rank among the top universities for Business Administration. It is a four-year program. Per Payscale, the average annual base salary of BBA graduates is CAD 64k. Moreover, the opportunities for financial analysts and auditors have skyrocketed, with 90% employment for BBA graduates.
What are the options available for work permits in Canada?
Indian students have various options to apply for work permits. Students can apply via Permanent Residency once they have substantial work experience. Students can look for the following type of work permits available in Canada.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Only Designated Learning Institutes (DLI) can apply for these work permits. The stipulated time is within 180 days of receiving the final results.
Other Work Permits: Other graduates are eligible for an Open Work Permit or Employer-specific work permit. The former option enables an individual to work with any employer, whereas the latter allows an individual to possess an offer letter from a specific employer or organization.
Are international students covered by Canada’s Healthcare System?
The government of Canada does not pay for the medical costs of international students. Health coverage for an international student varies between provinces. Therefore, they must purchase private health insurance. Moreover, it depends on the college a student chooses. For instance, if a student decides to study in Brunswick, they can get health insurance from the respective University/College for CAD 275 (yearly).
Can I work while studying in Canada?
Students can only bring their spouse or common-law partner, and dependent children, with them while pursuing their studies in Canada. Moreover, students must submit their applications online when they apply for their study permits.
Can I bring my family with me while I study?
Students can only bring their spouse or common-law partner, and dependent children, with them while pursuing their studies in Canada. Moreover, students must submit their applications online when they apply for their study permits.
How to stay in Canada after I graduate?
After a student graduates, they may be able to work temporarily or even live permanently in Canada. To do so, they would require a Canadian work permit after graduation.
Akansha Semwal is a content marketer at upGrad and has also worked as a social media marketer & sub-editor. Experienced in creating impressive Statement of Purpose, Essays, and LOR, she knows how to captivate the attention of Admissions Committee. Her research-driven;study-abroad articles helps aspirants to make the prudent decision. She holds a bachelor's & master's degree in Literature from the University of Delhi.
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