Myths about studying in Canada

We are busting five common misconceptions that could be holding you back from choosing Canada as your study destination. Read on for some reassurances about this amazing country.

Myth #1: Toronto and Vancouver are the only places to study in Canada

Toronto and Vancouver are certainly a top draw for international students, but do you know that Montreal, Ottawa and Quebec have also been listed by QS rankings as among the top 100 Best Student Cities in the world for 2018? Montreal actually made it to No. 4, above Toronto’s No. 13.

Other cities in Canada also worth checking out are Calgary, Halifax, Manitoba, Victoria and Windsor. They have the same qualities that offer a great appeal to students, such as good, quality education institutions or programs in the city, safe community, nightlife, multiculturalism, acceptance of international students, and job or co-op opportunities.

Myth #2: It’s almost impossible to get a study permit (student visa)

Definitely not true! iae GLOBAL, Toronto have had years of experience helping students from all around the world obtain their visa for studying in Canada. We guide and help students throughout the whole application process, not just filling in the visa application form. Our visa success rate is well over 90 per cent. Contact iae GLOBAL, Toronto to find out more about how we can help.

Myth #3: Studying in Canada as an international student is unaffordable

While international tuition fees are rarely the cheapest option, when compared to other popular study destinations such as the US, UK and even Australia, Canadian institutions still offer equally world-class education at a lower cost.

For example, the average tuition fees for international students in 2017/18, according to Statistics Canada, are CA$25,180 (about US$20,540) per year, while Canadian student visa requires international students to put aside at least another CA$10,000 (about US$8,100) or CA$11,000 (about US$8,900) if studying in Quebec, for living expenses. Adding all these in will cost international students an estimated total of CA$35,180 (US$28,640) or CA$36,180 (US$29,440) to cover tuition and living expenses in Canada.

In comparison, across the border in the US, student support organisation College Board has estimated that international students living on campus at a four-year public college (university) will have to budget in 2017/18 on average US$36,420 per year for tuition and living expenses. The cost goes up to US$46,950 per year for a private non-profit four-year college.

Myth #4: Some Canadian universities are way better than others

Higher education in Canada is in a way unique when compared to other education systems around the globe. Virtually all universities in Canada are publicly funded and therefore required to meet high standards of quality.

So, although some programs may seem more relevant to some students in terms of interest or career preference, no matter which Canadian institution you choose to go to, you are guaranteed a top quality study experience.

Myth #5: It’s tough to find work while studying to keep my expenses down

Great news for international students at Canadian universities and colleges! Your study permit may allow you to work on-campus or even off-campus during your study program in Canada.

However, while this can help keep costs down, it is not realistic for any student to plan to find work to cover their entire tuition fees or living expenses. On average, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during their study term and full-time during scheduled breaks in the academic calendar. For those looking for some extra cash and/or international job experience, this is a brilliant opportunity! Just remember to be realistic when you budget your expenses.