Canada or UK Which is Better for International Students
In this guide, we will be choosing between Canada and the UK for your studies in abroad.Well, it is not easy to choose one because these two countries plays a huge role in international education. In addition to that, both of these countries attracts thousands of students every year.Specifically, these countries are best among others is due to the good opportunities that are available after graduation.But here's the thing - they're quite different from each other, and you'll want to know these differences before making your choice.
Cost of Education
Tuition Fees
In Canada, you must expect to pay between CAD 20,000 to CAD 30,000 per year for undergraduate programs.If you're going for a graduate degree, that's going to be CAD 16,000 to CAD 40,000.On the other hand, the UK tends to be more expensive where undergraduate programs cost between £12,000 to £32,000 yearly, and graduate programs are between £15,000 to £35,000.Let’s assume that you want to study medicine or engineering for your higher studies.In that case, those programs usually cost more in both countries. As in you will need to pay for things like lab fees, technology fees, and student union memberships.
Living Expenses
Your living costs really depends on which city you pick.In Canada, living in Toronto or Vancouver means that you will need about CAD 15,000 to CAD 20,000 each year just for accommodation.Conversely, if you pick a smaller city like Halifax or Winnipeg, you can expect around CAD 10,000 to CAD 15,000 per year.On the other hand, the UK gets pretty expensive, especially in London where you might spend over £15,000 a year.However, cities like Manchester or Edinburgh are a bit easier on your wallet, where on a yearly budget these cities' living expenses may cost around £10,000 to £12,000.Note: Both countries requires to have a health insurance. In Canada where you'll usually need to top up the provincial healthcare with private insurance, while in the UK, you'll pay something called an Immigration Health Surcharge before you arrive.
Immigration and Visa Policies
Study Permits/Visas
Getting a study permit for Canada is something easy to do.It usually takes 4-8 weeks, and if you've got all your documents in order, you have a good chance of approval.Moving on, the UK student visa which they call it as Tier 4 is faster when it comes to processing.This takes about 3 weeks - but they want to see more detailed proof of your finances.Both countries need to see that you've been accepted to a university, have enough money to support yourself, and haven't gotten into any legal trouble.On the other hand, Canada looks into evidence of whether you can pay for your first year plus a ticket back to home or not. While the UK needs to see whether you can cover your first year of studying and living costs without facing any issues.
Post-Study Work Opportunities
Canada has a great deal with its Post-Graduation Work Permit Programs.Where you can work for up to three years after graduating by depending on how long your program was.Nevertheless, the UK gives you two years of work time after graduating (three years if you complete a PhD).However, Canada's system is particularly effective because the work experience you get can really help if you want to become a permanent resident through their Express Entry program.Note: The UK has ways to settle down too, but the rules are a bit hard to pass.
Academic Excellence
University Rankings
Remember that both countries got universities which have a good rank among the world's best.For example, the UK has a couple of world-known ones like Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College London.Whereas, to mention some, Canada has particularly the University of Toronto, McGill, and the University of British Columbia.Remember that UK degrees carry special weight in some fields, particularly business and humanities. While Canadian schools are known for their strength in engineering, computer science, and natural resources programs.
Course Flexibility
The UK keeps things focused where you must study your subject intensively and finish in three years for undergraduate degrees.Besides, Canadian programs take four years and gives you more room to mix and match courses. Plus you can usually combine majors and minors as for your needs.Overall, both countries are great for research, but the UK has a particularly strong research tradition in certain fields.
Work While Studying
You can work while studying in both countries, as in up to 20 hours per week during term time.During breaks, Canada and the UK allows you to work full-time.When it comes to the salary, it usually starts at minimum wage for campus jobs, but you might earn more by working off-campus.This is especially effective if you find work-related jobs that matches with your field of study.
Healthcare and Safety
You're in good hands in both countries when it comes to healthcare and safety.In Canada, you might get provincial healthcare coverage, but some places want you to have a private insurance.On top of that, in the UK, you can use the National Health Service once you've paid your Immigration Health Surcharge.Note: Both countries are very safe, especially around university locations.
Job Market Prospects
Right now, Canada makes it easier to find work after graduating, particularly in tech, healthcare, and engineering fields.On the other hand, the UK job market is more competitive, but there are great opportunities in finance, technology, and creative fields.Overall, both countries pay well for skilled graduates, eventhough exact salaries depends on your field and location.
Scholarship Opportunities
If you are looking for funding, both of these countries are in better prospects.Canada has more government scholarships, especially if you're doing research at the graduate level.Whereas, the UK's top universities offers their own scholarships, and they're quite practical.As a matter of fact, both places supports the research more strongly, especially in science and technology fields.ConclusionPicking between Canada and the UK really comes down to what matters most to you.Canada often wins on affordability, work opportunities, and immigration options.On the other hand, the UK is well-known for its wonderful schools, types of programs, and amazing academic aspects.Therefore, we advise that when making a choice, it is a must to think about:
Your long-term plans
Your budget
The kind of life that you want to live while achieving your goals.
