Why are International Students Choosing Canada Over America?

Our message to international students and graduates is simple: we don’t just want you to study here, we want you to stay here.”  

—The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, P.C., M.P., Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

America has been a top destination for international students for decades, but the trend is now changing. More students are coming to Canada for higher studies as America has stricter visa requirements, there is more intolerance towards foreigners in America and because of depreciation of currencies of certain source countries such as the Indian rupee. Canada is an attractive option now. As per the Canadian High Commissioner in India, as many as 83,540 study permits were issued to Indian nationals in 2017. Especially, the number of students enrolled in science and technology courses keeps increasing by the year. The opportunities to continue living in Canada post graduation, and obtaining work authorization are a few reasons students choose Canada.

World-Class Education

Canada is home to world renowned Universities and Colleges. A university degree from Canada is respected around the world and offers doors to work in international firms around the world. According to times higher education, the University of Toronto is ranked #18 in the world, even more respected than the esteemed Cornell University in the United States. They are equipped with world class infrastructure and research facilities. They also offer a wide variety of courses ranging from STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) courses to specialized areas of studies, depending on the students’ interests.

The University of Toronto is Ranked #18 in the World - even higher than Cornell University in the United States

Fraction of the Cost - Affordability

Affordability is another reason why students choose Canada. Compared to America, the tuition fees and cost of living is much cheaper in Canada. Though the averages vary, international student can expect to pay $33,215 per year studying in the United States vs. $23,300 average for Canadian Universities according to iSchoolConnect. Given the opportunities in Canada, there is no surprise that more and more students are choosing Canada as their study abroad option.

An average difference of almost $39,660 for a 4 year Degree

Ease of Getting Work Authorization After Graduation

It is one thing to have a degree, but many international students from the United States have had problems finding work permits after graduation. In Canada, however, students can apply for post graduate open work permits which are not tied to a single employer. If a student completes a degree or diploma course of two years duration in Canada, from an approved educational institution, then that student may be eligible for a three-year open work permit. This work permit helps students gain valuable Canadian work experience, without the pressure to find a job or be forced to leave the country.

Though many international students from the United States have problems finding work permits after graduation, Canada offers more lenient/ flexible options

A Clear Path to Status (Permanent Residency / Citizenship)

Many international students in the United States have problems finding work permits after graduation. Students who come to study in Canada however have a clear path to become a welcome member of Canadian society. Their education and work experience gained on the post graduate work permits help them in applying for Permanent Residence in Canada through the Canadian Experience Class. The Express Entry system which is used for processing Permanent Residence applications for Canada, awards extra points for Canadian education and Canadian work experience, helping such candidates become Permanent Residents of Canada.

Safe environment and friendly people

Canadians are known for their hospitable nature. Canada is safe for international students. The people are welcoming and warm towards foreigners. There are very few cases of racial discrimination. The government is open to all nationals and promotes diversity in the society. Just compare the diversity found in the political classes of the United States vs. Canada, and you will find that diversity is not only practiced but prioritized in the Canadian society.

Need Help Navigating the Study Permit Process in Canada?

If you or anyone you know needs help with this process - feel free to reach out to me (Sajjad Malik) on Linkedin.