9 Unique Advantages of Studying in Canada
as an International Student

Introduction 
​​​​​​​Canada is truly a top destination as the world waits anxiously to know which location provides the best study ambiance, strong employment prospects, and a diverse range of opportunities for international students. The institutions in Canada, their friendliness in welcoming international students, as well as the moral, behavioral, and professional training offered, all make up one of the strongest aspects of international education in Canada. This article highlights 9 important advantages of studying as an international student in Canada. Join Radsam Education Agency as we explore the nine unique advantages of studying in Canada as an international student.

1. Quality of Education

World-Class Institutions

Canada has the highest-ranked universities and colleges in the world. In the heart of each city, you will find educational institutions that require their students to work hard to complete their degrees. Universities such as the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia are some of the oldest and top-ranked institutions that are widely known across the globe. Throughout the centuries, academic standards within these universities have improved to ensure that they continue to attract the best academics and researchers from around the world and to give their students an education that is unparalleled in other countries.

Emphasis on Critical Thinking

In Canadian educational establishments in particular there is a focus on developing good basic skills in critical thinking, analytical thinking, and practical knowledge. Hence, students should be encouraged to think independently, find good academic sources use them in their writing, and practice their skills at using them in work-related settings so they are prepared for work life when they graduate.

Research Opportunities

Canada is a leader in research and innovation, offering numerous opportunities for students to participate in cutting-edge research projects. Such involvement may be part of their coursework, but frequently there are opportunities for students to get involved in corporations or public sector agencies or organizations on groundbreaking research projects. Students can get practical experience in research, make substantive contributions to breakthroughs, and develop or augment their academic credentials.

2. Safety, Security, and a Welcoming Environment

Safe Communities

Canada is recognized as one of the safest places in the world to study. It has very low crime rates and a well-established reputation for justice and being able to live a fulfilling community life. In contrast to cities in places like Europe and South America, Canadian cities are clean and orderly. The city runs although many streets, parks, and green spaces are excellently maintained. This supports a safer environment for students. They can concentrate on their study and their personal development without fear for their safety.

Inclusive Society

 policy is committed to inclusivity and multiculturalism. So many people come from different cultures and they can live together in Canada. The policy in Canada is very clear, it is to make this country suit everyone. All international students who come to a new country leave their families and come to Canada in the sense of avoiding the political environment. So international students can study with fewer worries in Canada and lots of support are under international students in place. There are more services and policies to them to adjust them. Overall Canada is a place that can help the new generation to learn, and study in peace and culture.

Supportive Community

International students in Canada find a supportive community that respects different cultures and backgrounds. Canadian universities and colleges provide a friendly, respectful, and non-judgemental community where students can feel comfortable with a community that not only respects different cultures but also welcomes their identity and background. The dedicated staff there provides various services such as counseling, guidance, and orientation aimed at international students' academic, cultural, and personal needs. Through a series of orientation programs as well as cultural and social events during orientation weeks, international students are given opportunities to meet and rub shoulders with others, tackle various challenges and issues, and become integrated into Canadian society.

3. Multicultural Society and Vibrant Environment

Cultural Diversity

Canada prides itself on its multicultural communities. Large cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are microcosms where people with diverse cultures converge, creating lively environments in which students can partake in having a taste of global life by experiencing myriad traditions, cuisines, and festivals. Canada hosts multicultural activities, which students can look forward to experiencing during their stay.

International Festivals

In Canada, every major city is host to a number of cultural festivals celebrating the various heritages, at any point in time during the year. These festivals invite the students to experience the cultures, taste a variety of cuisines, and even take part in some of the cultural traditions. The Caribana Festival, which takes place in Toronto, or the Vancouver International Film Festival, and, of course, Montreal’s Jazz Festival offer a glimpse into the color of the Canadian cultural scene.
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Language Opportunities

CCanada is a bilingual country, with English and French as its official languages. Studying in Canada allows students to improve their language skills in both languages. Many institutions offer language courses and support services to help international students enhance their proficiency, making them more competitive in the global job market.

4. High-ranked universities and Industrial-Based Colleges

Academic Excellence

Canada boasts numerous high-ranked universities that offer a wide range of programs and degrees. These institutions are recognized globally for their academic excellence and research contributions. Universities like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia consistently rank among the top in global university rankings.

Practical Education
Besides the universities, there are industrial-based colleges where students obtain training that corresponds closely with industry needs. The colleges, such as Humber College and Sheridan College, are known for their strong ties to industry. Students prepare for the real-world workplace through internship and co-op positions with companies that partner with the college.

Industry Collaboration

Canadian colleges and universities have very strong partnerships with industry. Students get the benefit of an applied learning environment. In many programs, students have access to internships, co-op placements, and industry projects to hone their skills and make contacts in the business world. The amount of practical learning available at post-secondary institutions provides graduates with a head start to succeed in the workplace.

5. The Student Work Advantage

Part-Time Work Opportunities

IAn international students in Canada can work on-campus up to 20 hours part-time during their period of study and full-time during school breaks and holidays. As of September 2024, students can work full-time during study viz 24 hours which was increased from the previous 20 hours. This is to help students get practical experience, make money, spend after school, and meet new people.

Financial Support

Working part-time while studying helps international students support themselves financially. On the one hand, it decreases the financial stress of students, as tuition and living expenses account for a large proportion of students' budgets. Moreover, the extra income can allow them to gain professional experience on a college campus. On the other hand, it could have a negative effect. For instance, too much time spent working for tuition fees will consume students' study time. What is more, practical experience obtained from part-time work is unrelated to their major, which is not likely to contribute to their future employment. In conclusion, based on my viewpoint, although working could be burdensome for international students, it can be helpful for international students with a suitable amount of part-time work and a proper combination of professional experience and study.​​​​​​​

Building Professional Networks
Working part-time while studying didn’t only help with finance, but assisted in forming a social network of professional groups that could come in handy in finding a full-time job after graduation. This way students can learn more about the Canadian job market and have a sense of industry trends as well.

6. Up to Three Years Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

Post-Graduation Opportunities

Among the most important advantages of studying in Canada is its Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, which allows post-secondary graduates of eligible programs to obtain a work permit of up to three years (depending on the length of their study program). Graduates who enter the workforce can obtain a great deal of Canadian work experience, which is invaluable for those pursuing permanent residency through a variety of immigration pathways.

Gaining Canadian Work Experience

Through the PGWP program, they can gain entry-level work experience in their field of study – a highly desirable commodity in the Canadian workplace – and are better positioned to compete for permanent employment. Graduates are able to experience the ways of the workplace and build up their resumes with real-life work experiences. For example, those who studied accounting can apply their coursework to entry-level accounting positions in Canadian firms.

Pathway to Permanent Residency

Canadian work experience gained through the PGWP program is a valuable asset for those looking to apply for permanent residency. Programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) consider Canadian work experience as a key criterion. These programs offer international students a clear pathway to permanent residency in Canada. 

7. Applying with Spouse and Child

Family Integration

On 22 January 2024, families of international students admitted to a Master’s or Ph.D. program could apply for the study permit concurrently with the spouse’s open work permit and the visitor visa for children under 18. The primary applicant would thus be able to stay with their spouse and children who can work full-time while studying. Minor children would go to public schools at no cost per child and save parents approximately CAD 18,500 per year.

Financial Support

The spouse has a full-time job and it brings lots of income to the family. When one of the spouses has quit her job to focus on his/her studies, the main student could be able to study without studying and working at the same time. The income earned by the spouse can cover living expenses, making the family's stay in Canada more comfortable and sustainable.

Educational Opportunities for Children

Here in Canada, minor children of international students can enjoy the benefits of studying in Canada’s public schools. The public education system offers top-level quality of instruction that is made free for local school-going children. International student children can also take advantage of this free service and even get a chance to be part of Canadian society, study and explore new ways of living, and eventually build a strong educational foundation.
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8. Possibility of Becoming a Canadian Permanent Resident

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

Studying in Canada can lead to permanent residency in numerous ways. Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is a program for graduates who gained Canadian work experience. The CEC is specifically for international students and temporary foreign workers who have Canadian work experience and want to stay permanently in Canada.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)

A second option in the path to PR is through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP). These PNPs are operated by each province and territory of Canada, which nominate individuals who possess the right skill set, work experience, and track record of contributing to a province’s economy. International students graduating from a Canadian institution who can secure a job offer that relates to their field of study may be nominated by the respective province, improving their chances of permanent residence.
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Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)

Students and temporary workers who fulfill the requirements of the PEQ receive permanent residency in Quebec The Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) provides a fast track to permanent residency for international students (who have studied in Quebec) and temporary workers who have worked for at least 12 of the past 24 months. It is an economic selection designed to attract talented individuals who have already studied or worked in the province, and it offers these individuals the opportunity to apply with the federal government for permanent residency via the Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ).

9. Possibility of Becoming a Canadian Citizen and Getting a Reputable Passport

Canadian Citizenship

Canada’s passport is highly respected globally, allowing visa-free travel to many countries. To become a Canadian citizen, permanent residents must live in Canada for 1095 days (three years) within five years. Importantly, half of the time spent studying in Canada, up to one year, counts towards this residency requirement. For instance, a student completing a three-year College Advanced Diploma Program can become eligible for citizenship faster.

Benefits of Canadian Citizenship
There are many advantages of becoming a Canadian citizen such as the right to vote and to get better job opportunities; you also have the right to sponsor your family members for immigration. Canadian citizens have the right to be protected by the Canadian government and to receive help while traveling abroad. Canadians have top-ranking citizenship in the World ranking list and their passport gives visa-free opportunities to go to a bunch of countries.

Global Mobility

Canadian citizenship provides people so many advantages including mobility all over the world. There are various countries where people with Canadian passports can easily go and work without any problem since a Canadian passport is well known and is accepted in many countries such as visa-free or visa on arrival. It increases the opportunity for international business and travel. It also provides an opportunity for people to visit many countries and explore different cultures.

Conclusion
Studying in Canada offers numerous unique advantages that can significantly impact your academic and professional journey. From high-quality education and safety to work opportunities and pathways to permanent residency, Canada provides a supportive and enriching environment for international students. Radsam Education Agency is here to guide you through every step, from application to admission and beyond.


Author
Dr. Pouya Shafabakhsh
The Education Consultant of Canada
Co-Founder and Managing Director of Radsam Education Agency