5 Reasons to Study in Canada

“Why study in Canada”, you ask? While the US still attracts the most international students each year, there’s lots on offer north of the border.

From affordable tuition fees to a welcoming community, Canada is an excellent place to consider for postgraduate study. We’ve looked at the five biggest appeals Canada has for international students weighing up their options.

#1 World renowned universities

The Canadian government invests generously in its university system. The country has one of the highest state budgets for higher education out of the OECD countries and it shows!

Six of Canada’s universities feature in the Time Higher Education’s top 150:

University of Toronto
University of British Columbia
McGill University
McMaster University
University of Alberta
University of Montreal

#2 Affordable tuition

While Canada isn’t the cheapest country to study abroad, it’s a lot more affordable than other popular study abroad destinations, such as the US and UK. Universities set their own fees in Canada and so you’ll find many won’t charge higher tuition for international students.

The average cost of a PhD in Canada is between CAD $2,500 and CAD $17,000 (USD $1,830-12,425) per year. In the US, public universities charge around $12,400 per year which is the higher end of what you’ll find in Canada. In the UK, international students can expect to pay between £20,000 – 35,000 (USD $25000 – 44,500).

In addition to being the cheaper option, there are many scholarship and funding opportunities for international students. You can read more in our guide to Canadian PhD funding.

#3 Post-study work permits

Canada also has excellent post-study visas in place which allow graduates to live and work in the country after their studies.

The post-graduate work permit (PGWP) allows PhD students who studied in Canada for over two years to remain in the country for up to three years and find work. You can read more about this in our Canadian visa guide.

#4 Quality of life

Another great appeal of Canada is the lifestyle it can offer. In 2022 it was named the third best country for quality of life in the world. The country is very safe, with the crime rate steadily declining each year. It also has a very clean environment and high air quality!

International students have the same rights and freedoms as Canadian nationals and will find the country is very diverse and accepting. In 1971 Canada adopted a national policy of multiculturalism to celebrate the hundreds of ethnicities and languages which make up the country.

#5 Stunning landscapes

We couldn’t talk about Canada’s amazing features and opportunities without covering the country’s stunning and varied landscapes. From the Rockies to technically advanced cities, from ski trips to lake holidays, Canada has lots to offer the adventurous student.

Home to Niagara Falls, Whistler Mountain and Jasper National Park, Canada is rich in wildlife, history and culture. You’ll find plenty to keep you occupied throughout the year!

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