Choosing a study abroad destination can be perplexing, especially for international students. The entire decision-making process is challenging due to many reasons, including the cost of living, cultural diversity, unfamiliar processes, etc.
Out of many countries, the two countries that consistently receive the maximum interest from the international student community are Canada and Australia. Both countries are top-ranked English-speaking nations that draw over 50% of overseas students. According to the QS World University Rankings, 2024, the Australian National University ranks first in Australia and 34th globally, while McGill University in Canada is ranked first in Canada and 30th globally.
A comparative analysis of both countries will help you decide which country is more suitable for you.
Cost of Study: Canada v/s Australia
The cost of living is a significant consideration when choosing a study abroad destination. These expenses will include the cost of education and housing, food, and entertainment. Additional charges include travel fees to and from the country of residence, medical insurance premiums, and expenses associated with furnishings, books, and educational supplies.
The cost of living is $7,965 to $9,558 in Canada and $14,146 to $14,890 in Australia. In comparison, Canada’s average cost of living is about 50% lower than Australia’s.
Student Visa Requirements: Canada v/s Australia
Students must submit a study permit application to study in Canada. The study permit is good for the whole study term and an additional 90 days post-completion of the course. At the same time, students who want to enrol in a full-time programme in Australia must apply for the Subclass 500 visa, which is available. This student visa for Australia is valid for a maximum of five years. Before applying to any programme in Australia or Canada, international students must take English language tests like the IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE, along with applicable qualifying tests like SAT, GMAT, GRE, etc., with guidance from the Best Australia and Canada immigration consultants in Noida.
Work Options: Canada v/s Australia
In Canada, students can work while holding their student visas. Students may work 20 hours per week at on-campus or off-campus positions during the course, though they can work full-time during vacations. Coming to post-study employment, an overseas student may work there for up to three years after graduating from a Canadian post-secondary institution. Students must apply for a work visa within 180 days of receiving their degree.
Similarly, working while studying is possible for international students in Australia. While engaged in class, they are only permitted to work 48 hours fortnightly, but during breaks, they are free to work as much as they want. No limitations on working hours apply to those seeking a master’s or a doctoral degree. And after completion of their studies, students are eligible for up to 7 years of work visa.
Immigration Opportunities After Study: Canada v/s Australia
You must apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) if you want to remain in Canada after finishing your education. The duration of a PGWP’s validity in Canada varies depending on the programme’s length and can be anywhere from eight months to three years. You can also initiate the PR (permanent residence) and your job to secure a long-term future in the country.
The most popular type of visa used by international students to remain in Australia after graduation is the 485 Graduate Work Stream. Suppose you have finished a programme lasting two years or more. In that case, a Skilled Graduate Temporary Visa enables you to live and work in Australia for three years to obtain work experience. There are several subclasses/streams in which you can apply for your permanent residence after hitting the required points.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, when choosing between these two options, take your financial condition, professional aspirations, and preferred immigration pathway into account. Thorough research is essential, and speaking to study abroad experts or networking with students already in either of the countries will provide you with real insights to assist in making this decision.
