Explore the differences between Canada and Australia as study abroad options for international students
When it comes to studying abroad, both Canada and Australia are popular choices among international students. Both countries are English-speaking nations with top-ranked universities and diverse course offerings, but there are some key differences to consider when choosing between the two.
One major difference is the cost of living. According to data available, the average cost of living in Canada is between CAD 20,000 to CAD 30,000, while in Australia it is around AUD 22,000 to AUD 30,000. This means that both Canada and Australia can be expensive and the cost of living should be taken into account when making a decision.
Another important consideration is the type of courses offered. In Canada, the most popular courses among international students include MBA, Hospitality Management, Computer Programming, Business & Finance, and Engineering. In Australia, the top courses include Architecture, Psychology, Agricultural Sciences, Tourism and Hospitality Management, and Accounting. Students should research which country offers the courses that align with their interests and career goals.
The top universities in Canada include McGill University, University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, University of Alberta, and University of Montreal. In Australia, the top universities are Australian National University, The University of Melbourne, The University of Sydney, The University of New South Wales, and The University of Queensland. Both countries also have several affordable universities for students to consider.
Recently, Canada’s policy towards the Indo-Pacific region has been working towards bringing a larger number of Indian students and immigrants to the country, investing CAD 74.6 million to accelerate the process of visa application in regions such as Chandigarh and the national capital. Meanwhile, the number of Indian students moving to Australia for higher education has been increasing, with post-COVID Indian students opting for more diverse courses such as sustainable development, health sciences, AI programs, specialised IT courses, and environmental studies. However, it’s worth noting that the Australian immigration department has been rejecting student visa applications of Indian students suddenly for reasons not clear.
Both Canada and Australia are excellent options for international students, but the decision ultimately comes down to personal preferences and priorities. Factors such as the cost of living, course offerings, and university rankings should all be taken into consideration when making a decision. It’s important to research and compare the pros and cons of both countries before making a final decision.
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