Best Cities to study in Canada

If you're contemplating pursuing higher education at a university of your choice, it's also wise to consider the best student cities in Canada. The QS Best Student Cities Rankings 2023 highlight Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Ottawa, and Quebec as top-notch choices.

Here's a brief overview of these Canadian urban centers.

Study in Toronto:

Nestled in Ontario, Toronto is not only Canada's largest city but also a cultural melting pot, hosting the prestigious University of Toronto. It's recognized as Canada's financial hub, housing the headquarters of the nation's five biggest banks.

Study in Montreal:

Standing as Canada's second-largest city, Montreal is a beacon for post-secondary education with a dense population of students. It boasts esteemed institutions like McGill University, Université de Montréal, and Concordia University, offering a vibrant study atmosphere.

Study in Vancouver:

As the third-largest city in Canada, Vancouver is famed for its exceptional quality of life. It's home to the University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, and the University of Victoria, making it an ideal location for students seeking a balance between urban living and nature.

Study in Ottawa:

Ottawa is celebrated for its academic excellence and research, with universities that attract international students across various disciplines. The city offers accessible transportation, affordable living, job opportunities, and scholarships, enhancing its appeal as a student destination.

Canada Education System

Canada's education system, known for its affordability and high standards, has become a magnet for international students, with a staggering increase of nearly 400% in international student enrollment.

The Canadian education framework is structured into three tiers: Elementary, Secondary, and Post-secondary Education. After completing their elementary and secondary education by the age of 16 to 18, students are eligible to progress to Post-secondary Education. Education governance is decentralized, with each Canadian province overseeing its system. Despite some regional differences in education levels, the overall system across Canada is renowned for being cost-effective and globally recognized. For a detailed understanding of Canada's education system, refer to the table below.

Popular Courses to Study in Canada

Top Universities in Canada

Canada Student Visa Requirements for International Students

International students planning to pursue their studies in Canada require a study permit, a crucial immigration document that authorizes their educational stay in the country. This permit must be accompanied by either a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to ensure lawful entry into Canada. The study permit is particularly vital for Indian students, allowing them to enroll at Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) across Canada.

It's important to understand that a study permit differs from a visa; the latter facilitates your entry into Canada. To secure a Canadian Student Visa, initiate the application process 4 to 6 months before your academic program starts, following the receipt of an Admission Offer from a DLI in Canada. Applications can be submitted online via the Government of Canada Key (GCKey) portal, through a Visa Application Centre (VAC), or directly upon arrival at a Canadian entry point. The application fee for a Canadian Student Visa is set at $150 CAD, which includes additional charges for biometrics ($85 CAD) and service fees ($45 CAD).

Typically, the processing time for a study visa ranges from 4 to 8 weeks. For expedited processing, the Student Direct Stream (SDS) is available, offering a 20-day processing timeframe. Indian students can take advantage of the SDS by providing the required documentation for their visa application.

What are the documents required to apply for a Canadian study visa?

Education Loan for Studying in Canada

The cost of studying in Canada can vary based on your program, university, course length, and living expenses. For students needing financial support, numerous banks and financial institutions offer education loans specifically for studying in Canada. It's crucial to check the eligibility criteria before applying to ensure you qualify for a loan. Since loans can differ in what they cover, it's wise to talk to your bank to get the lowdown on what expenses are included. Typically, education loans can help with costs like:

• Enrollment and tuition fees

• Travel expenses

• Course materials like books and stationery

• Lab fees

• Accommodation and meal costs in a hostel

• Buying a laptop if it's needed for your studies

• Funding for any project work or educational trips

Cost of Studying in Canada

The annual tuition fees in Canada vary, ranging from CAD 13,000 to CAD 35,000, depending on the program and institution. Typically, courses in humanities, education, and arts are less costly, whereas medicine and engineering come with higher price tags. On average, an undergraduate program might cost about CAD 6,800 (which is roughly Rs. 4,16,582) per year, while a master's degree could set you back about CAD 21,100 each year, according to 2022 data from Statistics Canada.

For postgraduate courses, especially MBAs, expect tuition fees to fall between CAD 30,000 and CAD 42,000. When you stack it up against other developed nations, Canada is relatively affordable, offering a range of financial aid options like scholarships, loans, bursaries, and assistantships for international students.

For a clearer picture, refer to the table below that outlines the estimated tuition fees based on the program level.

Cost of Living in Canada

Post-Study Work Opportunities in Canada

• Proof of identity
• Employment verification
• Evidence of relationship status
• A valid visa for at least six more months
• A letter from the Designated Learning Institution (DLI) confirming completion of studies
• Degree completion certificate
• Two recent passport-size photos
• Academic transcripts
• Medical certificate

Job Prospects in Canada