Studying abroad is an excellent way to explore new horizons and enhance your academic experience. Here are five good reasons to study in Canada, one of the most popular destinations for international students.
1. Live in a Bilingual Environment
Canada is a bilingual country with both English and French as its official languages. While French is predominant in Quebec, English is more common in other provinces. This linguistic diversity allows you to develop valuable skills for the job market, with opportunities to study and work in both languages throughout your academic journey.
2. Take Advantage of the Student Direct Stream
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is a Canadian federal government program that accelerates the process of applying for a post-secondary study permit if you meet certain criteria. This program applies only to residents of countries on the Canadian government’s list. One key criterion for obtaining a study permit through SDS is acquiring a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from an eligible financial institution, with the minimum investment amount set at 20,635 CAD as of January 2024.
3. Access to Scholarships
Canada offers numerous scholarships to international students to help cover tuition fees and other costs such as travel and accommodation. Some notable examples include:
- International scholarship programs offered by Canada’s provinces and territories.
- Merit scholarships for foreign students in Quebec.
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, which provide $50,000 per year for three years to doctoral students.
- Trudeau Foundation doctoral scholarships, awarding up to 15 scholarships of up to $60,000 each.
- Scholarships from the International Council for Canadian Studies.
4. Benefit from a World-Class Education
Canada’s high-quality education system encourages the development of interdisciplinary and transferable skills such as critical thinking, teamwork, and communication. Canadian universities consistently rank high in international rankings, offering a wide range of programs and fields of study. Resources like the Government of Canada website can help you determine which educational institution is right for you.
5. Obtain a Post-Graduation Work Permit and Gain Work Experience
Post-graduation work permits (PGWPs) allow students who’ve graduated from eligible Canadian post-secondary institutions to stay in the country and gain valuable work experience. This experience will enrich your resumé and enhance your career prospects. Additionally, if you meet certain criteria, you might also be able to work while you study.
6. Enjoy the Canadian Quality of Life and Cultural Experience
Canada offers an enviable quality of life with its universal healthcare system, extensive social safety net, inclusive culture, and lower cost of living compared to many other Western countries. The country is culturally diverse, with a stable and safe living environment that respects individual and community rights. You can explore Canada’s stunning landscapes and vibrant cultural scene, enjoying activities such as skiing, hiking, kayaking, and attending numerous events and festivals.
All in all, Canada offers some of the best universities in the world, a diverse cultural environment, and the opportunity to gain work experience in your field of study. It’s a place where you can build a career and a future.
