Canada is an educational hub for international students. Every year, thousands of international students migrate to Canada seeking higher studies and research opportunities. However, why study in Canada? But Canada is the 4th best country in the world for international students to study and live.
Canada offers a blend of high-quality education, cultural diversity, and promising career prospects for overseas students. Many Canadian universities, such as McGill University, University of Toronto, etc, are ranked among the top 100 universities in the world for offering high-quality teaching, top MS abroad programs, advanced infrastructure, and strong research opportunities.
Moreover, Canada provides post-study work opportunities, permanent residency pathways, and global employment chances to its international applicants. This article delves into the key reasons why studying in Canada is a wise choice for students worldwide.
The quality of education offered in Canadian universities is one of the first reasons that captivates international students to move to Canada for studies. There are over 8,000 college and 16,000 university programs available in Canada. Canada is ranked the top #4 country in the world according to the US News and World Report 2025.
Canadian colleges and universities offer high-quality education in multiple specializations, advanced research experience, and technological facilities for international students. Institutions like the University of Toronto, McGill University, the University of British Columbia, and the University of Alberta rank among the top global universities as per the QS World University Rankings 2025.
Canadian institutions offer a wide range of programs from undergraduate to postgraduate studies to meet global industry demands. Some popular programmes offered at Canadian universities are listed below:
University of Winnipeg: Business and Economics, Computer Science, Applied Project Management, Digital & Social Media Marketing, Human Resource Management
Cambrian College: Nursing, Occupational Therapist and Physiotherapist Assistant, Power Engineering Technology, Business Analytics, Global Business Management
Seneca College: Data Science, Computer Science, Business Analytics, Business Administration, Engineering
Tuition fees in Canada are comparatively cheaper than in the USA and the UK. Many top-ranked MS universities in Canada offer scholarship opportunities to international students to support their financial needs. The ROI in Canada is also very high for Indian students.
The cost of studying in Canada for international students for different courses is as follows:
The living expenses in Canada are also relatively cheaper for Indian students than in other destinations like the USA and the UK. Cities like Montreal and Ottawa provide a high standard of living at a relatively lower cost, making Canada an economically viable option for students.
Expense Category
Average Monthly Cost (CAD)
Accommodation
$700 – $1,500
Food
$300 – $600
Transportation
$80 – $150
Utilities & Internet
$150 – $250
Health Insurance
$70 – $100
Miscellaneous Expenses
$100 – $300
Total Estimated Cost
$1,400 – $2,900
Work Opportunities During and After Studies in Canada
Canada offers diverse work opportunities for international students. Students living and studying in Canada get the opportunity to work part-time in Canada. These part-time work options help students to get real-life work experience to advance their careers.
Many universities in Canada also offer internship opportunities and on-campus jobs for Indian students to help them experience a practical work environment. Some work opportunities in Canada for international students are as follows:
Part-Time Work: International students can work up to 24 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Canada allows international students to stay in Canada for up to 3 years after the completion of their studies.
On-Campus Jobs: Many universities and colleges in Canada offer on-campus work opportunities for international students studying there. Students can work and get professional experience without a work visa in Canada.
Co-op/Internship Programs: Many universities in Canada offer courses that include co-op options to provide relevant work experience during their studies.
Safety in Canada for Internationals
Canada is one of the safest countries in the world. Canada is the 4th-best country in the world in terms of “Quality of Life” as per the US News & World Report. Due to its low crime rates, political stability, and inclusive society, Canada consistently ranks high in global safety indexes. Most Canada universities offer dedicated international student support to their international students to help them adapt to the multi-cultural environment in Canada. Canada promotes multiculturalism and inclusivity, ensuring that students from diverse backgrounds feel welcomed and respected.
Canada offers ample research opportunities to its international students. Canadian universities offer cutting-edge research facilities to students. Students can work on various global projects and gain experience from them.
Many universities collaborate with government bodies and industries to provide a real-life research experience for their students. Most Canadian universities offer scholarships and research funds to continue their work on global projects. Moreover, the universities are equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories, innovation hubs, and research centers for advanced research opportunities.
Another significant benefit of choosing Canada as your perfect study abroad destination is its PR (permanent residency) policies. Canada is a top-ranked country that offers its international students to apply for a PR in the country. Many international students over the years have been applying for PR in Canada after completing their higher education in the country.
This practice has helped them lead a more advanced life and secure a career path aligned with their goals. Students in Canada apply for permanent residency in Canada via the following routes:
The quality of life in Canada is another important factor that impresses many international students. Canada offers a luxurious lifestyle for its citizens at an affordable price. The healthcare and public services in Canada are excellent, providing a high standard of living.
Apart from the infrastructure and services, the scenic beauty of Canada is also very captivating. Starting from the Rocky Mountains to the Atlantic coastline, Canada is a land of diverse and breathtaking landscapes. Canada offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern living.
Canada has everything you need. The universities, job options after graduation, and a safe and welcoming environment in Canada answer all queries about why Canada is still the most preferred study abroad destination among international students.
Talk to upGrad’s expert counselors today and get help to make your dream of studying in Canada come true.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the language requirements for studying in Canada?
Most Canadian universities require proof of English language proficiency to study in Canada. You can take exams like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic to demonstrate your language proficiency.
Can international students access healthcare services in Canada?
Yes. International students can access healthcare services in Canada. Some provinces offer government health coverage to international students. Candidates can purchase private health insurance from different sources.
Are scholarships available for international students in Canada?
Yes, many scholarships are available for international students in Canada. These scholarships are offered by the Canadian government, private organizations, and universities.
How can I apply for a Canadian study permit?
To apply for a Canadian study permit, you need a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. Candidates must apply online through the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) portal, submit their documents, and pay the visa fee.
Can international students work while studying in Canada?
Yes! International students can work up to 24 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks. Many universities also offer on-campus jobs and internships.
What are the pathways to permanent residency for international graduates in Canada?
The pathways to permanent residency for international graduates in Canada are the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), and Quebec Experience Program (PEQ).
How much does it cost to study and live in Canada as an international student?
The cost of studying in Canada ranges between CAD 7,000 to CAD 40,000 per year, whereas the cost of living in Canada ranges from CAD 1,400 to CAD 2,900 per month. These expenses include university fees, accommodation, food, transport, and other expenses.
What are the best cities in Canada for international students?
Some of the best cities in Canada for international students are Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Ottawa, and Calgary. These cities provide top-ranked universities, low crime rates, luxurious lifestyles, and safety measures for international students.
Is it safe for international students to live and study in Canada?
Yes, it is safe for international students to live and study in Canada. Canada is one of the safest countries for international students. The country has low crime rates, a stable government, and supportive international student policies for student safety.
What types of programs are available at Canadian universities?
Canadian universities offer a wide variety of programs, such as undergraduate, postgraduate degrees, PG diplomas, research programs, short-term certifications in various fields, and more.
