Reasons to Study in Canada for International Students

Canada has steadily become one of the top destinations for students worldwide, and for good reason! On November 15, 2024, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), introduced new regulations designed to benefit international students. These updates focus on flexible work hours during school and holiday breaks, simplified processes for students wishing to change schools, and more accurate reporting of international student information by designated learning institutions (DLIs). All these changes show Canada’s commitment to creating a more supportive and transparent environment for international students. If you are considering reasons to study in Canada then be assured for a perfect destination of world-class education, and career opportunities. 

Overview of Top 10 Reasons to Study in Canada

Studying in Candad offers international students the chance to experience new cultures, gain a world-class education, and build a global network. It not merely helps develop essential skills but also enhances career prospects, and fosters personal growth, making it a life-changing journey. To learn more, let us overview the reasons to study in Canada:

Reason	Key Points	Benefits for Students
Academic Excellence	Top-ranked universities such as the University of Toronto, UBC and McGill University	Opportunities to work with leading researchers
Work Opportunities and Skill Development	Co-op programs offer work placements in the student’s field of study	Valuable hands-on experience
Earn While You Learn	International students can work 20 hours/week during academic sessions and full-time during breaks	Helps cover living expenses
Affordable Tuition Fees	Tuition fees range from CAD 7,000 to CAD 29,000 depending on the program	Lower education costs
High Quality of Life and Safety	Canada is one of the safest countries globally	Quality healthcare services
Cultural Diversity and Inclusiveness	International student community from all over the world	Opportunity to engage in different cultural traditions
Immigration Pathways for International Students	Express Entry system for permanent residency	Pathways to permanent residency
World-Class Infrastructure	Access to state-of-the-art research labs and libraries	Easy access to educational and living resources
Post-Study Work Opportunities	Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for up to three years	Increased chances of securing long-term employment
Supportive Student Environment	Comprehensive support systems including orientation programs, mental health services, and international student offices	Support in adjusting to life in Canada

Also Read: Top 9 Things Asked IELTS Canadian Immigration

1. Academic Excellence

One of the most compelling reasons to study in Canada is its high standard of education. Canadian universities and colleges are globally recognized for their academic rigor and commitment to research and innovation. Whether you are pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s, or a diploma, you can be assured that Canadian institutions maintain high academic standards across a wide range of disciplines.

For instance, prestigious institutions like the University of Toronto, University of British Columbia (UBC), and McGill University are ranked among the top universities globally. 

These universities offer programs in diverse fields such as engineering, healthcare, IT, business, and environmental sciences, providing students with opportunities for both personal and academic growth.

University	Popular Programs	Estimated Annual Tuition Fees (CAD)
University of Toronto (UofT)	Engineering, Computer Science, Business, Medicine	CAD 7,000 – 60,000 (Undergrad to Postgrad)
University of British Columbia (UBC)	Environmental Sciences, Business, Engineering, Arts	CAD 42,000 – 55,000 (Undergrad to Postgrad)
McGill University	Medicine, Business, Engineering, Law	CAD 18,000 – 53,000 (Undergrad to Postgrad)
University of Alberta	Engineering, Education, Business, Arts	CAD 10,000 – 30,000 (Undergrad to Postgrad)
University of Waterloo	Engineering, Computer Science, Arts, Mathematics	CAD 16,000 – 48,000 (Undergrad to Postgrad)
McMaster University	Engineering, Health Sciences, Business, Arts	CAD 24,000 – 56,000 (Undergrad to Postgrad)
Queen’s University	Business, Law, Engineering, Social Sciences	CAD 16,000 – 55,000 (Undergrad to Postgrad)
University of Calgary	Engineering, Business, Medicine, Arts	CAD 12,000 – 28,000 (Undergrad to Postgrad)
Simon Fraser University (SFU)	Business, Engineering, Health Sciences, Arts	CAD 14,000 – 30,000 (Undergrad to Postgrad)

2. Work Opportunities and Skill Development

Canada is not just about academic knowledge; it emphasizes skill development and practical work experience as well. One of the standout features of the Canadian educational system is the co-op program, which allows students to work in their field of study while completing their academic course. This program helps students gain hands-on experience and develop a professional network even before graduation.

For instance, if you are enrolled in an engineering program, you may get the opportunity to work for an engineering company, applying your knowledge in real-world scenarios. 

This is an invaluable experience that significantly boosts your employability. Over a four-year degree, students can gain up to 16 months of Canadian work experience.

Work Opportunity	Work Opportunity	Estimated Salary (CAD/Year)
Co-op Programs	Industry knowledge, teamwork, project management	CAD 35,000 – 60,000
On-Campus Jobs	Customer service, communication, time management	CAD 15 – 20 per hour
Internship Opportunities	Professional experience, networking, problem-solving	CAD 30,000 – 55,000
Part-Time Jobs	Multi-tasking, customer service, time management	CAD 12 – 18 per hour
Research Assistantships	Research skills, data analysis, academic writing	CAD 20,000 – 45,000
Teaching Assistantships	Communication, teaching, leadership skills	CAD 25,000 – 50,000
Freelancing/Consulting	Entrepreneurship, technical skills, client management	CAD 30,000 – 80,000
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)	Professional experience, industry-specific skills	CAD 40,000 – 100,000
Startup Entrepreneurship	Innovation, business management, problem-solving	Varies significantly based on success
Remote Work	Digital skills, self-management, time management	CAD 25,000 – 60,000

3. Earn While You Learn

In addition to co-op programs, Canada offers the opportunity to earn while you learn. International students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks. This allows students to earn money to cover living expenses while pursuing their studies, making Canada a financially viable option for many international students.

Furthermore, Canada offers a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) that allows students to work in the country for up to three years after completing their studies, depending on the program’s duration. 

This is an attractive option for those wishing to gain more experience and potentially settle in Canada after graduation.

4. Affordable Tuition Fees

When compared to other top destinations for international education, tuition fees in Canada are relatively affordable. While the fees vary by institution and program, Canadian education offers excellent value for money. Many institutions offer scholarships, grants, and bursaries that can help reduce tuition costs for international students.

According to recent statistics, international students can expect to pay between CAD 7,000 and CAD 29,000 annually for undergraduate programs, depending on the field of study and institution. 

Graduate programs may be slightly more expensive, but the cost is still much lower than other popular study destinations such as the US or the UK.

5. High Quality of Life and Safety

Canada is known for its high quality of life and safety. It consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world. The Global Peace Index ranked Canada as the sixth most peaceful country globally, providing students with peace of mind while studying abroad.

The country’s healthcare system is also world-class, and international students benefit from various healthcare programs based on their province of study. Additionally, students have access to clean air, clean water, and a high standard of public services, making it an ideal place for international students to live and study.

Life Safety and Quality of Life Measures	Best Example
Low Crime Rate	Toronto, Ontario
Global Peace Index Ranking	Canada (Ranked 6th in Global Peace Index 2024)
Healthcare System	British Columbia’s Medical Services Plan (MSP)
Emergency Services	Vancouver, British Columbia
Public Safety Initiatives	Montreal’s Community Safety Program
Air Quality Standards	Vancouver, British Columbia
Clean Water Supply	Ottawa, Ontario
Accessible Healthcare for International Students	Quebec’s Health Insurance Program
Well-Developed Public Transport	Toronto’s TTC (Toronto Transit Commission)
Inclusive Society	Toronto’s Multicultural Festivals (Example: Caribana)

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6. Cultural Diversity and Inclusiveness

Canada is a culturally diverse country, with a rich history of immigration. This diversity is reflected in the student population, with international students from all over the world. Canadian society embraces this diversity, fostering an environment of inclusivity where students from different backgrounds feel welcomed and supported.

Throughout the year, students can experience and celebrate a wide array of cultural festivals, from Christmas to Diwali, Chinese New Year to Holi. This exposure to different cultures and traditions enriches the student experience and helps foster a global outlook.

Cultural Diversity & Inclusiveness Measure	Best Example	Impact on International Students
Multicultural Festivals	Toronto’s Caribana Festival (Caribbean Carnival)	A celebration of Caribbean culture, attracting thousands of international students
National Cultural Celebrations	Vancouver’s Lunar New Year Celebration	International students from East Asia can celebrate their culture alongside Canadians.
Community Support for International Students	Montreal’s International Student Center (IEC)	The IEC offers provide support to international students, helping them adjust to Canadian life.
Celebrating Diverse Religious Holidays	Ottawa’s Annual Interfaith Dialogue Conference	The event creates understanding and respect for different religious traditions among students.
Access to Multilingual Resources	University of British Columbia’s Multilingual Library Services	Provides multilingual resources to assist international students in their studies and adjustment.
International Student Organizations	McGill University’s International Student Network (ISN)	The ISN hosts social events, networking opportunities, and support services for international students.
Integration of Immigrant Communities	Winnipeg’s Multicultural Council	Acts as a platform for immigrant communities to share their traditions, making international students feel at home.
Cultural Awareness Programs	University of Calgary’s International Education Week	This event includes a range of cultural activities, such as food festivals and performances, promoting awareness.
Welcoming Environment for Refugees and Immigrants	Halifax’s Refugee Integration Program	Helps refugees and international students from diverse backgrounds integrate into Canadian society.

7. Immigration Pathways for International Students

Canada provides attractive immigration opportunities for international students. The Canadian government recognizes that students who have spent several years in the country are well-equipped to become future citizens. As a result, Canada offers various pathways for international students to transition from study to permanent residency.

Through programs such as the Express Entry system, the Canadian Experience Class, and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP), international students who graduate from a Canadian institution may be eligible for permanent residency. 

This makes Canada a top choice for students who are not just looking for an education but also aiming to build a future in the country.

Immigration Program	Details and Benefits
Express Entry System	A points-based system for skilled workers, including international graduates.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)	Allows graduates with at least one year of work experience in Canada to apply for permanent residency.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)	Provinces select individuals who meet their specific labor market needs, offering a route to permanent residency.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)	Allows graduates to stay and work in Canada for up to three years, gaining work experience before applying for residency.
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)	Offers a pathway for students who studied in the Atlantic provinces to apply for permanent residency.
Provincial Nominee Program for International Graduates	Specific PNP streams for international students, helping them apply for permanent residency after graduation.
Skilled Worker Immigration	Students with specific skills or occupations that are in demand may qualify for skilled worker immigration.
Employer-Specific Work Permits	Students who receive job offers from Canadian employers may be eligible for employer-specific work permits, leading to PR opportunities.
Start-Up Visa Program	For students who want to start their own business in Canada, offering a direct route to permanent residency.
Family Sponsorship	International students can apply for family sponsorship if they have close relatives who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents.

8. World-Class Infrastructure

Canada’s educational institutions offer state-of-the-art infrastructure and facilities to students. Whether it’s modern classrooms, advanced labs, or well-equipped libraries, students have access to all the tools they need to excel academically. 

Furthermore, Canada boasts top-innovative research facilities, which allow students to engage in groundbreaking research in fields like healthcare, technology, and the environment.

Additionally, the country’s public transport systems, healthcare facilities, and accommodation options contribute to an overall positive living experience for students.

Facility/Infrastructure	Example
Modern Classrooms	University of Toronto offers classrooms with smart boards and multimedia equipment.
Advanced Laboratories	McGill University has specialized labs for research in biotechnology and chemistry.
Well-Equipped Libraries	University of British Columbia (UBC) library has over 8 million books and digital resources.
Research Facilities	The University of Waterloo is known for its research in advanced robotics and AI.
High-Speed Internet Access	Dalhousie University provides fast internet access across all its campuses.
Sustainable Campus Buildings	Simon Fraser University boasts LEED-certified green buildings with energy-saving features.
Public Transport System	Montreal’s metro system is a popular and affordable transportation option for students.
Healthcare Facilities on Campus	University of Alberta offers comprehensive health services, including mental health support.
Student Accommodation Options	University of Ottawa provides various on-campus housing options to accommodate students.
Sports and Recreational Facilities	Western University’s campus has a top-tier athletic complex with gyms, pools, and fitness centers.

9. Post-Study Work Opportunities

As mentioned earlier, Canada offers a unique opportunity for international students to work after completing their studies. With a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), international students can stay in Canada for up to three years to gain work experience in their field of study. This provides students with a significant competitive advantage when seeking permanent employment.

The Canadian labour market is growing, and there is high demand for skilled workers, particularly in fields such as technology, engineering, and healthcare. Many international students who stay and work in Canada after graduation are able to secure long-term jobs and even permanent residency.

Post-Study Work Opportunity	Average Salary (CAD/year)	Opportunities
Software Developer/Engineer	65,000 to 90,000	High demand in tech startups, software companies, and multinational firms
Registered Nurse	60,000 to 85,000	Hospitals, clinics, and healthcare institutions
Civil Engineer	55,000 to 85,000	Engineering firms, construction companies, and municipal planning roles
Data Scientist	70,000 to 100,000	Tech companies, financial services, and consulting firms
Teacher/Instructor	45,000 to 70,000	Public and private schools, tutoring centers, and post-secondary institutions
Project Manager	60,000 to 90,000	Companies across various sectors including tech, healthcare, and construction
Marketing Specialist	50,000 to 75,000	Marketing agencies, corporate marketing teams, and tech companies
Electrical Engineer	55,000 to 85,000	55,000 to 85,000
Human Resources Manager	55,000 to 90,000	Corporations, recruitment agencies, and consulting firms
Graphic Designer	40,000 to 60,000	Design studios, marketing agencies, media companies, and freelance work

10. Supportive Student Environment

Finally, one of the most important reasons to study in Canada is the supportive student environment. From orientation programs to mental health services, international students are well-supported throughout their academic journey. 

Many Canadian universities and colleges have dedicated international student offices that help students with everything from visa processing to settling into their new life in Canada.

Additionally, student associations, career centers, and other support networks are available to help students navigate life in Canada. This strong support system ensures that students feel comfortable and confident while pursuing their studies.

Also Read: Study in Sussex University Dubai as International Student

Steps to Apply for Study in Canada

1. Research Canadian Institutions and Programs

Begin by researching universities, colleges, and programs that align with your academic goals. Use the Designated Learning Institutions (DLI) list to ensure that the institution is approved for international student enrolment. Verify the specific program prerequisites, including grade requirements, language proficiency, and program duration.

 It’s also suggested to explore programs that offer post-graduation work permits (PGWP), as these can provide opportunities for career growth in Canada.

2. Check Eligibility Requirements

Canadian institutions have specific eligibility criteria. Ensure you meet the academic qualifications (e.g., secondary school graduation for undergraduate programs, bachelor’s degree for postgraduate programs) and language proficiency requirements. 

Most universities require IELTS or TOEFL scores, though some institutions may offer alternative language proficiency assessments. Make sure your financials (proof of funds) meet the requirements to cover tuition and living expenses during your studies.

3. Prepare Required Documents

Gather all the necessary documents, such as academic transcripts, language proficiency test scores, recommendation letters, a statement of purpose (SOP), and a valid passport. 

Also, provide proof of financial resources, including bank statements or affidavits, to demonstrate your ability to support yourself while studying in Canada. Some programs may ask for a portfolio or additional specific documents.

4. Submit Application For Admission

Submit your application directly through the institution’s official website or an online application portal. Pay the application fee (if applicable) and double-check that all required documents are submitted on time. 

Each Canadian institution has its own application deadline, which can range from several months before the start of the program. Be sure to check for program-specific deadlines and ensure everything is accurate.

5. Receive Offer Letter

Once your application is reviewed, the institution will send you an offer letter (also known as an admission letter). This letter is required to apply for a study permit. If you meet all conditions outlined in your offer, you can proceed to the next step. If there are additional requirements (For example: academic improvements or English language courses), make sure you fulfill them before proceeding.

6. Apply for a Study Permit (Student Visa)

After receiving your offer letter, apply for a study permit through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The study permit is typically processed online. You’ll need your offer letter, proof of funds, biometric information, medical exams (if applicable), and a passport. The application can be submitted either online or at a Visa Application Center (VAC) depending on your country of residence.

7. Complete Biometrics and Medical Examination (If Required)

Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) are required for most applicants. You will be notified of your biometrics appointment after submitting your application. Additionally, some students may be required to undergo a medical examination by an approved doctor, especially if they’ve lived in certain countries or plan to study in programs involving healthcare or childcare. Ensure you book these appointments promptly to avoid delays.

8. Wait for Canada Visa Approval

After submitting your application and biometric data, your study permit application will be processed. Processing times vary based on your home country, the time of year, and the volume of applications. You can check the current processing times on the IRCC website. It’s advisable to apply at least 3–4 months before your program’s start date.

9. Plan Your Travel and Accommodation

Once your study permit is approved, start planning your arrival in Canada. Book your flight and arrange accommodation. You can choose between on-campus housing or off-campus options. Many Canadian universities offer accommodation assistance, so check with your institution for housing options. Don’t forget to purchase health insurance if it’s not provided by your institution or province.

10. Arrive in Canada and Begin Your Studies

Upon arrival, go through immigration and present your study permit approval, along with your passport and other documents. Your study permit will be issued upon entry. Once settled in, attend orientation sessions at your institution, which often include important information about academic policies, student resources, and life in Canada. Start attending classes, engaging with peers, and making the most of your Canadian study experience.

Conclusion

Canada continues to be a reason to study in Canada for international students due to its world-class education, career opportunities, safety, and cultural diversity. The attractive tuition fees, support services, post-study work options and other top 10 reasons to study in Canada make it an ideal choice for those looking to study abroad. 

The new regulations, like the flexibility in work hours and simplified processes for changing schools, show that Canada is dedicated to making the student experience even better. 

With all these benefits, it’s no wonder Canada remains one of the best countries to study in for international students.

We hope this blog gives you a complete overview of reasons to study in Canada for International Students. Stay tuned to Leverage Edu for more such content on student life abroad. Thank you for reading!

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