Life in Canada for international students offers a mix of quality education, safe living conditions, career opportunities and multicultural exposure. Canada has become one of the most trusted study destinations for Indian students because it provides globally recognized degrees along with work and immigration pathways.
Students not only gain academic knowledge but also practical work experience and global exposure that helps them build a strong future.
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In 2019, Canada hosted 642,000 international students, marking a threefold increase in its foreign student population over the past decade. This achievement positions Canada as the third most sought-after study destination globally, following the United States and Australia.
The number of Indian students studying in Canada has also witnessed remarkable growth, with 172,625 Indian students enrolled in Canadian universities in 2018
Canada’s total population is approximately 37,779,537, accounting for 0.48% of the world’s population. Although it is the second-largest country by land area, large portions of Canada remain sparsely populated. More than half of its population resides in just two provinces: Quebec and Ontario.
The most populous cities in Canada are
Canada is known for its high per capita immigration rate. In 2019, it welcomed 341,180 immigrants, with immigrants comprising approximately one-sixth of the total population. Asians represent a significant portion of these newcomers.
Canada’s immigrant-friendly economic policies make it an attractive destination for individuals seeking opportunities worldwide.
Given Canada’s vast size, distances between cities can be extensive, often requiring multiple modes of transportation. Here’s a guide to the various travel options within Canada:
Flights are the fastest way to travel long distances, especially between provinces.
Trains offer scenic routes and comfortable long-distance travel.
Buses are affordable and commonly used by students for local and intercity travel.
In coastal areas, ferries provide a scenic and convenient transportation option.
Most Indian students reach Canada by air. Direct and connecting flights operate from major Indian cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
Major Canadian international airports include
Toronto
Vancouver
Montreal
Calgary
Students are advised to book tickets early and plan arrival before their academic session starts.
Life in Canada for international students includes multiple housing options depending on budget and preference.
Colleges and universities offer dormitories that are safe and convenient. This option helps students adjust quickly to campus life. The average cost ranges from $3,000 to $7,500 CAD per school year.
Students can rent shared apartments. Rent varies depending on city and location. The rent varies significantly across cities, with average costs between $250 and $700 CAD per month.
Living with a Canadian family provides a homely environment and often includes meals. Costs typically range from $400 to $800 CAD per month, depending on the location.
Canada offers a wealth of stunning natural and cultural attractions for international students. Booking a sightseeing tour is a great way to explore the country affordably. Some must-visit destinations include:
Canada’s vast size results in diverse climates across the country. Summer daytime temperatures can exceed 35°C, while winter lows can reach -25°C or colder. Spring and fall are generally mild.
Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD). While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, foreign currency can be easily exchanged at airports, shopping malls, banks, and border crossings.
While 38.7% of Canadians follow Christianity, the country is not particularly religious, with 23.9% identifying as non-religious. Approximately 1.5% of Canadians follow Hinduism and 1.4% follow Sikhism, ensuring Indian students face minimal religious discrimination in this progressive and inclusive society
Canada boasts an exciting nightlife scene with vibrant bars, pubs, and music festivals. The country’s party-loving culture ensures there’s always something to do.
The top five cities with the best nightlife include
Canada is a top destination for immigrants seeking to live and work abroad. Known for its exceptional quality of life, it consistently ranks higher than developed nations like the UK, US, and Sweden in areas such as quality of life, entrepreneurship, and economic activity.
As one of the wealthiest nations with a robust economy, Canada offers high living standards, making it an ideal place for international students and professionals to thrive.
Many international students choose to remain in Canada after completing their studies, drawn by the country’s excellent lifestyle and opportunities.
Through the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP), students can work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies. The length of the work permit depends on the duration of the course:
Students must apply for a post-study work permit within 180 days of completing their course. For more information, visit the official government website.
Working part-time during studies is a great way for international students to manage tuition fees and daily expenses. Canada allows students to work up to 20 hours per week on a student visa.
Here are some popular part-time job options for students:
One major advantage of life in Canada for international students is the ability to work while studying.
Students can:
Work part-time during academic sessions
Work full-time during scheduled breaks
Common student jobs include retail, hospitality, campus jobs and administrative roles.
Work experience gained in Canada helps students build professional networks and improve employability.
Canada’s student-friendly environment and affordable tuition fees make it a top choice for international students. Here are some of the best cities for students in Canada:
Known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant multiculturalism, and high quality of life, Quebec City offers an excellent student experience. Affordable tuition fees and a low cost of living make it a popular destination for international students.
St. John’s, often called the “City of Legends,” is famous for its friendly residents and stunning coastline. This warm and safe city welcomes international students with open arms.
Although Canada’s smallest province, Prince Edward Island offers exceptional opportunities in higher education, particularly in trades and sciences. The University of Prince Edward Island is renowned for having some of the lowest tuition rates in Canada.
Saskatchewan is home to one of Canada’s leading research universities and offers numerous education and work opportunities for students and graduates.
Halifax boasts some of Canada’s best universities, including Dalhousie University, known for programs in medicine, law, and engineering. Other notable institutions include Cape Breton University, Mount Saint Vincent University, and St. Mary’s University.
A global city, Toronto is home to prestigious universities like the University of Toronto, Humber College, and Trent University. With over 160 languages spoken, Toronto offers a rich cultural experience for students from around the world.
Vancouver attracts students with its diverse educational opportunities and breathtaking landscapes. The city is perfect for adventure enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking and skydiving alongside its academic excellence.
Ottawa stands out with its world-class institutions and affordable living costs. Students benefit from excellent educational programs, transportation options, and employment opportunities.
Calgary combines natural beauty with academic excellence. Known for its rivers, mountains, and extensive bikeway system, Calgary is perfect for students who enjoy outdoor activities.
Canada’s culture reflects its colonial history under British and French rule. Quebec, in particular, showcases French influence, while other regions highlight British heritage. Officially established in 1867, Canada expanded by acquiring territories from British possessions, shaping its diverse and multicultural identity.
With a population of approximately 37.78 million, Canada ranks 39th in the world by population size. The country’s annual growth rate of 1.4% (2018/2019) is the highest among G7 nations, including the USA, UK, Germany, and France.
Canada is officially bilingual, with English and French as its primary languages. This linguistic diversity enhances the country’s multicultural character.
Canadians love to celebrate, offering a vibrant festival culture for students to enjoy. Some of the major festivals include
Health insurance is mandatory for international students. Some provinces offer public health coverage, while others require private insurance.
Emergency number in Canada: 911
Universities also provide:
Academic support services
Mental health counseling
Career guidance
International student help desks
For international students planning to study and work in Canada, obtaining the appropriate visa is essential. Categories include student and skilled worker visas.
The Student Direct Stream (SDS), launched by Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada, enables faster visa processing for Indian students. While typical processing takes 2-3 months, SDS reduces this to 4-6 weeks. Most applications are processed within 20 days, but it’s advisable to check the official website for updates.
Students wishing to continue their studies in Canada must apply to extend their study permit at least 30 days before it expires. Applications can be filed online, provided all required documents are ready.
Under its 2020-2022 Immigration Levels Plan, Canada aimed to welcome over one million permanent residents. Staying updated on immigration policies will help students plan their future in the country.
Students must graduate from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) to qualify. A list of DLIs can be accessed online. Applications for the PGWP can also be submitted through the official immigration portal.