Canada is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, friendly people, and world-class education system; it is rapidly becoming one of the top choices for many students looking for options to pursue their education abroad.
With over 1 million international students currently studying in Canada, the country has plenty to offer to students from across the world. From high-quality education and state-of-the-art facilities to a multicultural society and excellent career prospects, there are several reasons why Canada is a great destination for international students to have an unforgettable academic experience.
If you, too, want to be an active part of Canada's vibrant international student community and have the option to settle here after graduation, book a free consultation with SI-Canada today. Our team can answer your queries regarding scholarships, courses, universities and other important aspects of studying in Canada.
10 Reasons to Study in Canada
1. High-Quality Education
Canada's top universities offer diverse bachelor's and master's degrees across various disciplines. The Canadian education system is known for its high standards and rigorous academic curriculum, which are recognized worldwide. Its universities consistently rank among the top 100 in major international rankings.
According to the QS World University Rankings 2024, the top three universities in the country are the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia, which are ranked at the 21st, 30th, and 34th positions respectively. These three universities rank consistently among the top institutions due to the high quality of education and research activities in various disciplines, including Health, Science, Engineering, Computer Science, and many others.
2. Multicultural Society
Canada is a diverse country with people from different cultural backgrounds living together harmoniously. It was also the first country to officially adopt a multiculturalism policy nationally. As an international student, you'll have the opportunity to learn about various cultures and traditions and broaden your horizons. This aspect also helps make the country a perfect place for students looking for a welcoming and inclusive community of people who extend a warm welcome to them.
3. Affordable Education
Compared with other popular study destinations like the US and the UK, education in Canada is relatively affordable. Even the cost of living in many cities is much less than in the other major cities. Canadian universities offer high-quality education at reasonable tuition fees, making them desirable options for international students from all parts of the world.
| Country | Average Tuition Fees/Year | Average Cost of Living/Year |
|---|---|---|
| US | $32,000-60,000 | $10,000-18,000 |
| UK | $25,000-38,000 | $176,000-22,000 |
| Canada | $15,000-20,000 | $10,000-15,000 |
4. Post-graduate Work Permit
International students who can complete their education in Canada are eligible for a Post-graduate Work Permit (PGWP), which makes it possible for them to stay back and work for up to three years after graduation. The PGWP provides an excellent opportunity for students to gain relevant and valuable work experience to jumpstart their international careers. After that, if they want to settle in the country, the route to permanent residency becomes easier with a Canadian education and work experience.
5. Safe and Secure Environment
Canada is known for its safe and peaceful environment, making it an ideal destination for international students. The country has low crime rates, strict gun laws, and a strong social welfare system that ensures its citizens' and residents' safety and overall well-being. Canadians happily accept people of other cultures living with them, so the overall environment is much safer than in other countries.
6. High Standard of Living
Canada is regarded for its high standard of living, with excellent healthcare, social services, and infrastructure. The government ensures that benefits are given to people from other parts of the world regarding work opportunities even while studying. International students can expect to enjoy a comfortable and convenient lifestyle while studying in Canada, as they are officially allowed to work for up to 20 hours per week. This opportunity makes it easy for them to have additional income for a better quality of life.
7. Natural Beauty
Canada has some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world, including the Rocky Mountains, Niagara Falls, and Banff National Park. International students can exploit the country's natural beauty by exploring its parks, hiking trails, and ski resorts. Even though Canada is cold for most of the year, it witnesses all the major seasons and gives plenty of opportunities to students to explore the country in any season.
8. Canada Scholarships
There are a wide variety of scholarships for international students in Canada, including:
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: Awarded to outstanding students worldwide who demonstrate leadership skills and a high standard of scholarly achievement.
- Trudeau Foundation Scholarships: For international students pursuing a degree in social sciences and humanities, with a focus on public policy and leadership.
- Canada Graduate Scholarships: For high-achieving students pursuing a master's degree in various disciplines.
- Ontario Graduate Scholarship: The OGS program provides scholarships to international students pursuing graduate studies (master's or doctoral) in Ontario, Canada. The scholarships are awarded based on academic merit.
9. High Employment Rates
Canada is known to have among the lowest unemployment rates globally, making it an attractive destination for international students looking for employment opportunities after graduation. The country's strong economy and thriving job market ensure that graduates have a high chance of finding employment in their chosen field. The major cities, in particular, have many businesses looking to hire talented graduates, making it possible for students to get appropriate job opportunities.
Top universities in Canada are known for their high employment rates, particularly for their best courses. The Times Higher Education Global University Employability Rankings 2023-2024 placed the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia as the top three Canadian universities for graduate employability.
The University of Toronto has a placement rate of 97% for full-time MBA graduates, and most of them secure a high-paying job six months after graduation. McGill University graduates also get placements within six months of graduation, with 92% having jobs of the same duration. Around 88% of MBA graduates from the University of British Columbia get relevant placements after six months of graduation.
10. Exciting Cities
Canada has several vibrant and multicultural cities, including Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary. Each fabulous city has its unique culture and attractions, offering students diverse experiences. These cities perfectly blend natural beauty and facilities for a fast-paced modern life. This combination allows students to enjoy the best of both worlds and strive towards a successful career.
Study in Canada
SI-Canada can help you secure your Canada study permit, apply to top universities and find out what Canadian university scholarships you are eligible for. Arrange a free consultation to get started.
