Engineering in Canada vs. Australia: Choosing the Right Path for Indian Students

In terms of the system of education, Canada is widely preferred for affordable education in Engineering at its several top-ranked universities. Australia, while relatively costlier, has a cutting-edge research infrastructure and provides graduates the option of post-study work settlement too. 

When comparing the two countries to make the best choice for studying Engineering, several factors are taken into consideration. Their education system is the primary point of review. Both countries are equally assessed based on the following:

Engineering Degrees & Duration

The types of Engineering programs offered at different levels of study in both Canada and Australia, and their duration, can help international students make an informed choice in line with their preferences and needs.

Top Universities for Engineering in Australia and Canada

The table below highlights the top engineering universities in Canada and Australia based on their global rankings:

_{Related Source: https://www.topuniversities.com/university-subject-rankings/engineering-technology?countries=ca}

_{Related Source: https://www.topuniversities.com/university-subject-rankings/engineering-technology?countries=au}

This is yet another key consideration when choosing between Canada and Australia for Engineering programs. 

Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students in Australia and Canada

Canada

• UG courses

  • At least 70% in 10+2 with a minimum aggregate of 55% in Math

  • Proof of English proficiency, such as IELTS, with at least 6.5 overall and no less than 6.0 in each band

• PG courses

  • Completion of 16 years of schooling is mandatory 

  • Bachelor’s degree of 4 years in Engineering or a related or relevant field of study from a recognised institution 

  • At least 3.0 GPA in the last 2 years of the Bachelor’s program

  • Prior work experience preferred but not compulsory

  • Proof of IELTS proficiency - overall 6.5 with 6.0 in each band

_{Related Source: https://www.grad.ubc.ca/prospective-students/application-admission/ielts-program-minimum-requirements} 

Australia

• UG courses

  • Completion of senior secondary education in India at the time of application

  • Proof of English proficiency, such as IELTS, with at least 6.5 overall and no less than 6.0 in each band

• PG courses

  • Proof of completion of a Bachelor’s degree, along with senior secondary certificates, at the time of application

  • Proof of IELTS proficiency - overall 6.5 with 6.0 in each band

_Source: https://www.idp.com/india/study-in-australia/engineering/ 

Intake Seasons and Application Timeline

_{Related Sources: https://uwaterloo.ca/future-students/admissions/deadlines}

_{https://www.rmit.edu.au/study-with-us/international-students/apply-to-rmit-international-students/application-dates}

The cost of studying and living expenses for international students in both countries is an important consideration when deciding where to pursue Engineering.

Engineering Tuition Fees in Canada and Australia

The table below shares the cost of engineering in Australia and Canada:

_Sources: https://www.idp.com/india/study-in-canada/btech-in-canada-for-indian-students/ 

https://www.idp.com/universities-and-colleges/carleton-university/master-of-engineering-in-electrical-and-computer-engineering/PRG-CA-00415541/ 

_{Related Source: https://www.rmit.edu.au/study-with-us/levels-of-study/postgraduate-study/masters-by-coursework/master-of-engineering-aerospace-mc225}

Living Expenses for Indian Students

_Source: https://www.idp.com/india/study-in-australia/cost-of-living/ 

_{Related Sources: https://www.ucanwest.ca/students/new-students/cost-of-living}

Canada and Australia both offer a host of scholarship options to international students aspiring to pursue Engineering in these countries. The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship and Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship are popular choices in Canada. In Australia, international students prefer the Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships and the Australia Awards Scholarships.

Listed below are more engineering scholarships in Australia and Canada.

Canada:

• University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship

• University of Alberta Graduate Entrance Scholarship

• University of Winnipeg Scholarships

Australia:

• Macquarie University Vice Chancellor’s International Scholarship

• Destination Australia Scholarship

• UNSW International Scholarships   

Both Canada and Australia permit international students to continue to stay and work in the country after completing their engineering studies. Canada offers a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and Australia provides a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485). 

Post-Study Work Visas  

Average Salaries for Engineers

• Average salary of Engineers in Canada: CAD 94,622 per annum (approx.)

• Average salary of Engineers in Australia: AUD 101,246 per annum (approx.)

Related Sources: https://ca.indeed.com/career/engineer/salaries

Whether Canada is a better choice for engineering courses or Australia solely depends on the student’s preferences and a host of other factors. Both countries have their respective strengths. Canada offers more affordable study programs and a relatively more straightforward immigration process, while Australia is home to top-ranked universities globally and offers higher pay packages. 

However, to make an informed choice, it’s best to keep in mind the following points:

• University rankings: Canadian universities enjoy a higher global ranking in the field of engineering.

• Cost of studying and living: Canada seems to be more affordable and budget-friendly for international students.

• Immigration processes: Canada offers an Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), offering faster pathways to PR  

How Can IDP Help You with Studying Engineering Abroad?

IDP Education is the best study-abroad consultant for Canada and Australia, serving the overseas education industry for 55+ years. We are the best in the industry for offering study-abroad assistance to students aspiring to pursue higher education overseas. Our experts will help identify the top courses in Engineering in both Canada and Australia, as well as the top universities to study them in. Based on your personal preferences, academic/career goals, and budget, we help you shortlist the best country for engineering. Speak to our IDP Australia or IDP Canada experts today!

1. What are the benefits of studying abroad for engineers?

Studying abroad enables aspiring engineering students to seek better career opportunities, gain exposure to a variety of engineering practices, and foster personal growth.

2. What are the best scholarships for Indian engineering students?

Some of the top scholarship options available to international students in the field of engineering are:

• Chevening Scholarship UK

• Fulbright Foreign Student Program

• Commonwealth Scholarships

3. What is the age limit to study engineering abroad?

There is no age restriction as such. However, different countries and universities may have different entry criteria; hence, it’s best to check specifically with each before applying.

4. Can I settle abroad after completing my engineering degree?

Of course! It is possible to settle overseas after completing your study program in engineering. Several countries offer post-study work opportunities to international graduates upon course completion.

5. Are jobs easier to find in Canada or Australia for engineers?

Generally, engineering jobs in Canada are easier to find for international students, as they offer simpler immigration processes and an Express Entry program.

6. What are the language requirements for Canada & Australia?

Both countries require proof of English language proficiency for international students to study in Canada or Australia. While the exact requirements may vary from one university to another, generally, both countries require an overall of at least 6.5 in IELTS, with no band score less than 6.0.

7. What is the post-study work visa duration in Canada & Australia?

The Canadian Post-Graduation Work Permit is valid for a total of up to 3 years. In Australia, however, the post-study work visa duration ranges between 2 and 4 years.