If you’re reading this then you must be interested in comparing Study in the USA vs. Study in Canada as an international student.
Well, you’re in the right place – because in this article we’ll cover some of the major benefits of studying in these countries.
So let’s dive right in with
Why you should consider studying in the US
Flexibility in deciding your major field of study
48 of the top 100 universities around the world are reported to be in the USA. One of the biggest factors that differentiates US colleges from other universities around the world is the flexibility in academic fields.
You are not usually required to decide your major until after your second year of study. Most students will use these two years to pursue different academic interests before they settle on a major. In most other nations, students are required to decide their field of study before they even apply.
A varied, general education
Most colleges in the U.S. require you to take general education or core courses.
These give you the opportunity to learn about a wide range of academic subjects – not just your major or concentrated research area. These “liberal arts” courses cover topics from writing to science.
Opportunities for internships & career prospects
You can get a head start on your career with an internship – which most US colleges offer. You can get hands-on experience and gain real-world exposure to your field, plus the chance of better-paid work after graduation because you already have some in-work experience.
Read more about working in the US
On-campus activities
U.S. colleges and universities are renowned for offering a huge variety of sports, clubs, societies and activities outside of the classroom. Whatever you’re interested in – you’ll find it on campus!
Diversity
Students from all over the world study in the US. When you’re one of them, you’ll have the ability to meet new people from different cultures every day, learn new languages, make friends and learn about other cultures.
Specialist International Student Assistance
Many schools have a dedicated office entirely devoted to helping their foreign students with any needs. They might assist you with improving your English, or dealing with visa problems , financial aid and even adapting to cultural differences in your new home.
One important thing to note with studying in the US is that it can be very expensive – significantly more expensive than many other countries around the world. you can learn more about how to fund your education in the US in this article:
Financial Aid for International Students in the USA
And you can find out if you are eligible for a loan:
You can also find International Scholarships.
Why you should consider studying in Canada
High Quality Education
A Canadian degree is just as valuable as a degree from the United States , Australia, or the United Kingdom.
Canadian universities perform well in international rankings, and Canadian Universities rank in the top 50 universities worldwide.
Whether you’re attending a university, college, or technical school, there’s no doubt that a Canadian education is a world-class education.
Economically Viable
For most students looking to study abroad, expense is the most significant barrier.
And while international students at Canadian universities do pay higher tuition fees than domestic students , the average annual tuition for a Canadian undergraduate degree for a foreign student is significantly lower than the United States, Australia, or the United Kingdom.
Foreign students also need to find housing and fund their daily life. Relative to many other top destinations for foreign students the cost of living in Canada is quite affordable. And when you add the average annual cost of living being lower than other countries with average annual tuition fees which are also lower, Canada seems like a very good opportunity, indeed.
Remember that loans for international students in Canada are also available if you need additional funding:
You can also find International Scholarships.
Work And Study
While Canada is a fairly affordable option in global terms, studying abroad is unquestionably costly.
Thankfully, foreign students in Canada are entitled to work up to 20 hours per week during school term time and full time (30 hours per week) during scheduled breaks such as vacations. Most students don’t need a work permit to work while they are studying.
Security
Personal safety is another big reason many students choose to come to Canada. It can be scary to study abroad, because you leave your family and friends – your safety net – in your home country. Canada was ranked 8th most peaceful nation in the world by the Institute for Economics & Peace. Canada’s location and relative isolation offers a bit of a buffer against most international disputes.
Canada has a freely-elected government, and Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects the basic rights and freedoms of people living in Canada. Canada’s reputation around the world is that of an inclusive and non-discriminatory country. Immigrants make up 20% of the entire population of Canada and Canadian laws ensure that all people are shielded from discrimination regardless of their circumstances.
Opportunities for Immigration
As an international student you usually get temporary status in the country where you study. When you graduate, you usually need to return home.
Unlike many countries, though, Canada has a number of programmes that enable the transfer of international students to permanent residence status after their studies. Options such as the Post-Graduation Work Permit allow students to stay and work after graduation on an unrestricted work permit, and give them the opportunity to gain some Canadian work experience. Most Canadian provinces have Provincial Nominee programs for applicants with experience studying or working in the province, and the points-based immigration system rewards Canadian work and study experience. About half of all international students consider applying for permanent residence in Canada after their studies end.
The Economy
Canada is one of the world’s biggest economies, and there are plenty of incentives for graduates to work. You have the ability to meet and network with leaders in your chosen field. And you can gain valuable experience working for industry-leading companies in Canada while you study, or after graduation.
If you want to return to your home country, your Canadian education and enhanced language skills in either English or French might provide global opportunities.
If you choose to live in Canada, Canadian employers appear to favour Canadian work experience over international work experience , so your student and work experience could make you stand out above other applicants!
So there you have it! Some great reasons why you might want to choose to study in the US or Canada! Let us know in the comments where you want to study!
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[…] Compare the US and Canada as a Student […]
Hello, please I want to ask if it’s possible I can get a student loan in Canada as an international full time student
Thank you for your comment.
We have loan programs available to international students studying at an approved school in Canada.
You should apply for a loan after you have been accepted and enrolled into an eligible school.
You can see eligible schools in Canada here: https://www.internationalstudentloan.com/eligible_schools/international/Canada/
You can start the application process and find all available lenders here: https://www.internationalstudentloan.com/apply/
Please let us know if you have any further questions.