Why Study in Canada?

Host to cities that rank as some of the highest in the world in terms of quality of life, Canada is becoming an increasingly popular destination to study. In this article we are going to delve a little deeper into some of the reasons why students are studying and should study in Canada!

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Academic Excellence

Canada’s universities provide extremely high quality education, with strong global reputations in research and education. 5 of Canada’s universities are ranked within the top 100 universities in the world according to Times Higher Education Rankings for 2022. Perhaps best known are its top 3 universities, McGill University**, University of Toronto, and **University of British Columbia (UBC). McGill, known as the Harvard of Canada, University of Toronto and UBC all offer a wide range of programs and have impressive research institutes, attracting international students from all over the world.

Beyond the top 3, Canada is also host to a plethora of highly ranked tech and business schools. For example, Waterloo, Canada’s equivalent to MIT and best known for its strong STEM programs, has unparalleled research facilities. Standouts include: Velocity, which links research and entrepreneurship and is one of the world's most productive start-up incubators, and the Science Innovation Hub, a prototyping lab. Waterloo alumni have secured employment with Google, Apple, Microsoft, and Amazon. Western University, located about 2 hours from Toronto, has 12 different faculties, offering students 400 specializations, majors, and minors. It’s best known for its globally reputable Business Program Ivy, which opened North America’s first business school campus in Hong Kong. University of Alberta offers students opportunities to study programs ranging from nanoengineering and design, to petroleum engineering, to agricultural and environmental research using the University's own Botanic Gardens and large ranches.

Canada’s universities also offer co-op programs, where students can have the opportunity to work while they study. These work-study programs are becoming increasingly popular and more and more universities in Canada are providing this as an option. In last month’s blog post, we reviewed how international students are also able to work up to 20 hours per week without a work permit on their student visa (check it out for more information Study and Work in Canada as an International Student ). These options can provide international students with valuable paid work experience while they study and potentially offsetting some tuition costs.

Cost

Speaking of tuition, Canada’s universities are typically less costly for international students compared to other countries like The United States. Top Canadian schools can cost approximately $35,000 to $67,000 Canadian dollars per year for tuition, which is substantially lower than US schools (tuition costs vary by program and this range does not include housing costs). However, there are even cost options  available at some lesser known schools, ranging from $20,000-25,000 Canadian dollars per year.

International Students Services

Canadian universities have been increasing their international student numbers substantially in the last several years. On average in schools such as University of Toronto, UBC, and McGill, international students make up approximately 28% of the student population for undergraduate degrees. With large numbers of international students, these universities are providing more services and support for international students, including international student advising, orientation and workshop events, and wellness support.

Diversity of Options

Canada is also diverse. Looking for a big city experience with a feast of cultural activities? Universities in Toronto and Montreal would be great options for you! Are you looking to experience a little more nature, hiking, skiing and being close to the ocean? Universities in Vancouver and Victoria would be a good fit! Or what about a smaller city or town with a more intimate and smaller campus experience, then Queen’s, McMaster, and Waterloo are for you!

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Working with a Crimson strategist is the best way to find out which Canadian university is right for you! Reach out to a Crimson Education specialist today!

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