Canada has seen consistent growth in its stature in the past 8 to 10 years as one of the most preferred destinations chosen by international students for higher studies. Today, it is one of the most sought-after countries in the world, and the number of international students in Canada is steadily increasing. The cost of studying and living in Canada is lower and of a higher standard, which is why students choose Canada over other developed countries.
Canada is famous for its high-quality education, topped with work and internship opportunities that make it a great destination for students. To top it off, the liberal government immigration policies make it a perfect destination to move to.
Read on to know the main reasons students choose to study in Canada.
Quality education
Education in Canada is recognised worldwide for its excellent academic standards and Canadian universities’ top-tier rankings. Canada is also recognised as one of the most educated countries in the world. Their undergraduate degrees can take up to four years, depending on the university. However, postgraduate programs do not take more than a year or two. Degrees from Canadian universities are highly valued all over the world, given that the Canadian government spends the most on education than any other country. These degrees are considered to have the same competency as their US and UK counterparts.
A multicultural environment
International students find Canada a safe haven with a very welcoming and warm society, with people from different countries migrating for work or a better quality of life. This gives Canada the crown in terms of a rich and diversified cultural life. As a student, you will get the opportunity to experience a horde of festivities rooted in all sorts of communities, but where all are welcome. From New Year’s to Holi, the celebration is always on in Canada!
Affordable cost
Canada not only offers quality education, but it does so at very affordable rates when compared to other leading countries. The cost of education in Canada is reasonable, and there are several funding aids available for students who need them.
Funding and support (Scholarship in Canada)
Canada has plenty of programs that offer financial support to students during their studies. They can be scholarships provided by Canadian universities, or scholarships available to non-Canadian academic institutes that facilitate certain collaborations. Scholarships in Canada are also available for international students studying in various fields. Students can also support themselves by working part-time. The Canadian student visa allows students to work 20 hours a week. You can learn more about the part-time job openings from university bulletin boards or on-campus advertisements.
Visa and stay-back options
Applying for a study permit in Canada costs about $150. Some of the documents which are needed when applying for the visa are as follows:
- Proof of acceptance by an institution
- Statement of purpose
- Valid passport
- Proof of funds
- Immigration medical examination
- Passport-size photos
- English language proficiency score
Students who are married can bring their spouses on a dependent visa. You will have to provide proof of enough funds to support them. Spouses can also take up full-time job opportunities in Canada if they are staying for more than a year.
Here are some eligibility criteria that need to be fulfilled in order to get a post-study work permit:
- You have finished a full-time course in Canada that lasted more than 8 months.
- You have graduated from a public or private post-secondary institute.
- You get the work permit only if you have a valid student visa.
- You cannot get a work permit for a duration greater than your course duration.
Work opportunities
Canada has a high graduate employability rate and the excellence of its universities is well-recognised. The Canadian Ministry of Education welcomes the admission of foreign students to their universities to nurture a more diverse learning environment. Canada is also a very stable country in terms of quality of work-life balance, and its citizens enjoy a very high standard of living. Scholarships for international students in Canada make it an easier choice for students than in other countries.
Planning to move to Canada for your higher education? If you are in search of good programs, you should check out the ones offered by the Toronto School of Management (TSoM). TSoM is well-recognised for its hands-on learning techniques and interactive classrooms that prepare students to become successful professionals.
The programs and courses are varied. There are also co-op programs specifically designed for working individuals to advance their skills. TSoM also has a dedicated career service team that helps students transition from classrooms to workplaces. Click here to learn about these programs at TSoM.