Why Canada is one of the Best Counties for Studying Abroad?

5 min read

Education & Career Trends: May 11, 2023
Curated by the Knowledge Team of ICS Career GPS


Canada provides high-quality education at a more affordable cost when compared to nations like the USA and the UK.

  • Excerpts are taken from an article published on educanada.ca.

Each year, Canada welcomes thousands of international students from across the globe. Canada is one of the most popular study-abroad destinations globally, especially for Indian students. One of the main reasons is that Canada provides high-quality education at a more affordable cost when compared to nations like the USA and the UK.

At the end of 2021, there were a reported 621,565 international students studying at different levels in Canada, according to the Canadian Bureau for International Education. Data from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) show that there were about 551,405 foreign students pursuing their education in Canada in 2022, representing 184 different nations. There were around 226,450 Indian students among them.

According to the Times Higher Education rankings for 2023, seven Canadian institutions are among the top 200 worldwide. Canada has emerged as a top study destination for overseas students who desire to pursue higher education owing to an array of state-of-the-art colleges and universities.

Why Study in Canada?

1. Prestigious Universities

Canada is home to many prestigious universities. Canadian universities are ranked among the top universities in the world. There are eight Canadian universities in the top 200 in the QS World University Rankings 2023. On the other hand, a total of 7 institutions are among the top 200 spots of the Times Higher Education (THE) World Universities Rankings for 2023.

2. Cost-Friendly Education

Canada’s tuition costs are somewhat lower than those of the US and the UK. Canada is a highly appealing alternative for Indian students if the return on investment is taken into account. To lower the cost of study, one may also submit an application for a variety of Canadian scholarships.

3. Flexible and High-Quality Education Options

Canada is renowned for providing opportunities for high-quality and flexible education at every level of study, from elementary to post-secondary. You will also be able to switch between various types and levels of education without encountering difficulties that are frequent in other regions of the world.

4. Infinite Scope for Research

Research and development are highly valued in Canada, and the Canadian government has increased its emphasis on these areas. This is why choosing Canada is preferable for people who are passionate about science and research.

5. A Vibrant Campus Life

In order to keep you stimulated, almost every campus in Canada hosts a variety of programmes, fests, events, and other activities. Additionally, by interacting with different people and cultures you’ll develop important social and personal skills. 

What is the Education System in Canada?

Understand the different levels and educational stages available in Canada.

QualificationDuration
1. Certificates and Diplomas1-2 years
2. Associate Degree2 years
3. Bachelor’s degree3-4 years
4. Post-graduate diploma1-2 years
5. Master’s degree1-2 years
6. PhD or Doctorate4-7 years
7. Post-doctoral programNo time limit

Which are the Top Universities in Canada?

Below are the rankings of different important Canadian universities in the world by QS and Times Higher Education (THE).

Universities in CanadaQS World University Rankings 2023Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2023
1. McGill University3146
2. University of Toronto3418
3. The University of British Columbia4740
4. University of Alberta110118
5. University of Montreal116111
6. McMaster University15285
7. University of Waterloo154201-250
8. Western University172201-250
9. University of Ottawa237137
10. Queen’s University246251-300

What Exams are Necessary to Study in Canada?

Here is a list of the various tests and exams that you may need to take. It depends on the course and programmes you choose.

  • IELTS: A non-native English language speaker may be asked to appear for an IELTS test to study in Canada. The International English Language Training System (IELTS) score can vary from 5.0 to 7.5, depending on the university and course. However, a minimum score of 6.0 is required to get a Canadian visa. It tests a candidate’s listening, speaking, writing, and reading skills. The listening and speaking sessions are the same for all students, but the other two depend on your course. 

  • TOEFL: The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is customarily conducted as either a Paper-Based Test (PBT) or an Internet-Based Test (IBT). A TOEFL IBT score between 90-100 may be required to get into a Canadian university. 

  • PTE: The Pearson Test for English (PTE) is currently gaining popularity amongst Canadian universities. A PTE score is usually valid for two years.

  • GMAT: A Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) applies only to those who want to study management and business. It has a validity of five years.

There are also tests like GRE, LSAT, SAT, MCAT, CAEL, MELAB etc. They are all subject-specific and need not be taken by everyone who wishes to study in Canada.


Have you checked out yesterday’s blog yet?

7 Reasons Why USA is an Ideal Study Abroad Destination


(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in the article mentioned above are those of the author(s). They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of ICS Career GPS or its staff.)

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