Why Study in Canada? Top Reasons for International Students - Check Here

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. 

Read More: Master's in Economics Abroad

Canada Education System

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
• University of Saskatchewan: Agriculture, Engineering, Computer Science, Education, Business Administration
• 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
• Brock University: Business, Computer Science, Health Sciences, Education, Psychology
• Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador: Engineering, Business Administration, Computer Science, Marine Studies, Nursing
• Okanagan College: Information Systems, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Digital Marketing, Aircraft Maintenance
• University of Guelph: Agriculture, Veterinary Medicine, Environmental Sciences, Food Science, Business Administration
• McGill University: Microbiology and Immunology, Economics & Finance, Medical Radiation Physics, Computer Science, Engineering
• Concordia University: Engineering, Business, Computer Science, Fine Arts, Psychology
• University of Prince Edward Island: Biotechnology, Business Economics, Physics, Statistics, Environmental Studies

Read More:

• 1-Year Post-Graduation Courses in Canada - Your Guide
• Master's in Canada – Top Universities, Costs & PR Pathway
• 90 Master's of Education in Canada - Apply Now!
• PG Diploma Courses in Canada- Universities, Courses & Jobs

Affordable Tuition and Living Costs in Canada

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:

• Undergraduate program: $13,000 to $20,000
• Postgraduate master's degree: $17,000 to $25,000
• Doctoral degree: $7,000 to $15,000
• MBA: $30,000 to $40,000

Top Canadian Universities

These are the top 5 most affordable Canadian universities for international students:

University	Average Annual Fees in CAD
University of Prince Edward Island	$10,000
Cape Breton University	$18,000
University of Canada West	$21,000
University of the Fraser Valley	$21,000
University of Northern British Columbia	$22,000

Cost of Living in Canada

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.

Also Read:

• New Rules for International Students in Canada
• Study Abroad Safety: How to Stay Safe in a Foreign Country

Research and Innovation Opportunities

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. 

Also Read: Study in Canada in 2025

How to Get Permanent Residency in Canada?

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:

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
• Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
• Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)
• Atlantic Immigration Program
• Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)
• Agri-Food Pilot & Other Sector-Based Programs

Also Read: PR Visa for Canada: Application Process, Eligibility & Cost

Quality of Life in Canada

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. 

Student Life in Canada – Cost, Culture, Work & More

Conclusion

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.