Introduction

Top universities, amazing research opportunities, and one of the best lifestyles in the world. Canada truly has it all. If you’re looking for the next step in academia, career, or life, Canada could be just what you’re looking for.

Canadian degrees are highly sought after by employers, as they are relevant, modern, and equip you with the skills you need. While studying, your quality of life will be among the best in the world. And what you do in Canada could lead you to permanent residency.

Benefits of studying in Canada for International students

There are so many benefits to living and studying in Canada.

1. The best education

Canadian universities are very well respected around the world, with ten of the top 250 universities in the world. The degrees are taught by highly qualified and experienced academics, with two out of five academics having at least one international degree.

2. Great quality of life

Canada is ranked number one in the world for quality of life. It also has four of the top 100 student cities in the world.

3. Canadians are super friendly

Not only are Canadians polite and friendly (SO polite!), but they also really welcome diversity. They embrace the richness that a diverse student population brings, and Canada is also considered to be one of the safest countries in the world for students. Most immigrants come from India, China, the Philippines, the USA, Nigeria, Pakistan, Brazil, France, Syria, and the UK. Typically, Canada welcomes more than 300,000 immigrants a year from more than 150 countries.

There are many ISO’s (immigrant serving organisations) to meet others and connect with communities and form social groups. There are mentoring programs too, so new immigrants can be matched with a local Canadian to help you settle. There are also loads of social clubs to join in most regions, like book clubs, ethnocultural clubs, music or art groups, and neighbourhood groups.

You’ll find huge populations of French in Quebec, Indians (typically from Punjab) move to Ontario, Alberta, and British Colombia. Chinese immigrants settle in BC, Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, and Toronto, Vancouver and Calgary.

Typically, immigrants settle in Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary and Quebec. There are higher densities of some populations of immigrants, such as French in Quebec and Indians in Ontario and BC.

4. Affordable living and studying

Canada is mostly considered an affordable place to live. It has some of the lowest university fees in English-speaking countries, with tuition fees 10 to 20 percent more affordable than Australian universities.

5. Canada is a land of amazing experiences

Adventure awaits you. Each season has its own beauty and experiences, whether it’s snowshoeing through the forest in winter, tramps and treks in summer through alpine environments, or the simple beauty of the blaze of autumn leaves, there’s something for everyone.

6. Your future looks bright in Canada

The graduate outcomes from Canadian tertiary education are very promising. Canada’s graduates have high levels of employability and a strong earning potential. The quality education and a focus on real life skills will help you succeed in whatever field you choose.

The co-op programs in Canada are a huge drawcard too. These programs allow students to work for companies in their field, giving them valuable insight and experience in their future career. As well as that, students meet people in their industry, helping them with job prospects in the future. Also, these roles are often paid – this is a fantastic program with huge benefits to employers and students alike.

7. Get permanent residency in Canada

If you’ve studied in Canada, you might be eligible for permanent residency. There’s a bunch of ways you can make your immigration permanent.

• Canadian Experience Class is a program that allows tertiary level international students who have worked in a relevant role to apply for PR.

• There are options for provincial programs, where in-demand roles may get you the opportunity to fast-track your PR application.

• Post-graduation work permits allow you to stay in Canada once you graduate, giving you time to find a great job.

• There’s Quebec immigration options, where you can apply for Quebec Skilled Worker (QSW) programs or Quebec Experience Program (PEQ).

• The Federal Skilled Worker Program is an express entry visa that is a merit-based visa that ranks you against other candidates. The candidates with the competitive profiles are invited to apply for PR.

Your checklist for studying in Canada

Want to study in Canada? Follow our simple checklist to get the jump.

Check your passport is valid. Make sure it’s got at least a year left on it so you don’t need to renew it while you’re away from home.

1. Apply for your study permit or visa. Canada’s study permit is their version of a student visa, and you’ll need it before you arrive.

2. Sort out your accommodation. Where do you want to stay—a uni dorm, on-site accommodation, homestay with a family, or rent your own place?

3. Budget. We know, it’s not very exciting, but you need to know how you will be able to afford to live and study in Canada. Will you have enough? Can you get a scholarship or sponsorship?

4. Get your health A-Okayed. You’ll need medical and immunisation records, and a list of your prescription meds. Check you can access your medication in Canada, as you may want to buy extra.

5. How will you do your banking? Can your existing account work in Canada? Should you open a Wise account or something in Canada?

6. Do you need travel insurance? What happens if your laptop gets stolen or you have a medical event that requires treatment? Can you afford that?

7. Get your phone approved for international use. Some plans work overseas, some don’t. It might be cheaper to have a dual- SIM phone and get a cheap Canadian plan.

8. Double check your documents. Have soft copies somewhere accessible, like files in your email, and hard copies on hand.

Canada jobs and future growth for international students

While you study in Canada, you may be allowed to work. If you are a full-time student with a valid study permit, have a social insurance number (SIN), and are enrolled at a designated leaning institution that will result in a degree, diploma or certificate, you are eligible to work off- campus.

You will be allowed to work up to 20 hours a week during term time, and up to 40 hours a week during holidays. You can also get an internship or volunteer.

There are a range of roles that are commonly filled by students:

• Lifeguard

• Shop assistant

• Teacher’s assistant

• Server/ bartender

• Barista

• Customer service assistant

• Bookkeeper

• Uber driver

• Freelance designer, developer, or writer

• Cook

• Nanny

• Office assistant

• Tour interpreter or translator

• Painter

• Camp counsellor

• Baker

These may not be in your study area of interest, but they help you to fund your studies, and are a great way to meet people too.

If you can find a job in your area of study, that’s even better. Your university may offer study-to-work programs, or be able to connect you with relevant employers in your field. If you do manage to find employment in an in-demand or relevant role, this can give you a head start on a PR application too.

Contact IDP today

If you are thinking about studying in Canada, contact us. We can help you find your perfect course, qualification or learning institution. We can also offer advice about visa processes and help you plan your future; so get in touch today, to start your journey to success.