Studying in Canada: what does it offer your students?
Diverse, welcoming and not as cold as many people anticipate, Canada makes an excellent choice for international students, says Huron University’s Ryan Byrne
Ryan Byrne, associate vice president, marketing and communications, Huron University
Created in partnership with
Created in partnership with
There are a number of reasons why Canada makes a good choice for international students.
International enrolment in Canada grew by more than 30 per cent between 2021 and 2022, and by more than 43 per cent over the preceding five years. In all, there are more than 800,000 international students studying in Canada.
Stories about gun violence in the US, and especially on university campuses, are concerning for many potential students. By contrast, Canada’s low crime rate, stringent gun regulations and robust social safety net make it a safer place to study.
Just as importantly, Canada is a multicultural society that celebrates diversity. More than half the residents in the Toronto region identify as a visible minority – a higher percentage than in most global cities, including New York.
The freedom to work – during and after a university degree
This open attitude is reflected in Canada’s immigration policies for university students. In the US, international students are limited by highly restrictive laws regarding the ability to work off campus during their studies, or to stay long-term. However, in Canada, international students can work on or off campus in the same way Canadians can, and they can apply for the same internships, co-ops, practicums and research positions – it’s a level playing field.
After graduation, Canada gives international students a three-year work permit, and a pathway to permanent residency and ultimately citizenship. By contrast, most international graduates in the US are allowed to stay for just one year, and then face a complex lottery-style immigration process, requiring employer sponsorship. The UK provides two-year work visas, with no clear pathway to citizenship.
Consistent quality of education
Another big draw is the quality of Canadian post-secondary education. While the US has some of the world’s top universities, the university landscape is mixed, with public, private, for-profit and not-for-profit institutions, and no centralised accreditation or quality assurance.
In Canada, virtually all universities are public, and subject to a rigid framework of quality assurance. There are 96 universities across the country, offering 15,000 programmes, and all are regulated by a provincial ministry.
In some countries, there is such a difference in the quality of universities that the name of the institution is what counts most. In Canada, it’s the skills and professional experiences that students gain and the connections they make that really matter.
Access to scholarships and financial support
Many students will notice a higher cost of living in Canada than they are accustomed to. Housing in major urban areas, such as Toronto, Montreal or Vancouver, can be very expensive.
International tuition fees in Canada vary from CAD$20,000 to $70,000 per year, but merit-based and government-funded scholarships are available to help balance finances. For example, Huron University offers financial assistance to international students based on need, ranging from 5 to 50 per cent of tuition costs.
Students can also control costs by considering universities outside the major cities. International students can enjoy a good quality of life in cities beyond Toronto. London, Ontario, for example, is a fun and affordable student-focused city.
Culture – and climate – shock
Nonetheless, international students should expect to face some challenges in Canada. Despite the country’s multiculturalism, they will most likely experience a degree of culture shock. For example, some international students may find it difficult to adjust to living in co-educational university residences.
Weather can also be a deterrent. Canada is unfairly perceived as an Arctic country with a steady climate of frigid temperatures and snow. But most parts of the country experience four seasons, with the benefit of warm summers and colourful autumns.
Gaining insights from lived experience
Huron University, in London, Ontario, has a recruitment team with international experience and representation in several countries around the world. To speak to a recent grad who is now leading recruitment efforts, please visit admission support on our webpage for future international students.
About Huron
Established in 1863, Huron is the founding institution of Western University and one of Canada’s oldest universities. Huron’s distinctive business, liberal arts and ethics-based learning environments offer elite yet accessible education, where personalised learning experiences position students for leadership and professional success, while also developing their character.
Huron’s affiliation with Western University gives students all the benefits of a supportive, close-knit campus, plus all the amenities one would expect from a world-renowned institution. Being affiliated with one of Canada’s largest research universities means that students are visible and valued at Huron, while also having full access to Western’s limitless clubs, courses and events. Huron students also graduate with a Western degree.