Canada vs UK vs Australia – Which Country is the Best for International Students?
Canada, the UK, and Australia are popular study destinations for students who want to study abroad. Each of these countries has its unique qualities, but which one is the best for international students?
Let’s take a closer look to find out!
Climate:
The weather in the UK is generally mild and rainy throughout the year. Summers can be warm, and winters can bring snowfall with temperatures ranging from 0 to 7 degrees Celsius in winter and 15 to 25 degrees Celsius in summer.
In Canada, the weather varies depending on the location you choose to study. Toronto, for example, experiences cold and snowy winters with temperatures around -4.6 degrees Celsius. Summers are hotter than the UK, with temperatures averaging between 20 to 35 degrees Celsius.
Australia, on the other hand, offers fantastic weather all year round, with sunny and warm climates, making it a favorite for many students.
Tuition Fee Costs:
Tuition fees in the UK for undergraduate courses range from US$10,000 to US$19,000 per year, while postgraduate courses are higher, ranging from US$12,500 to US$25,000 per year.
In Canada, the average undergraduate fees start at US$7,500 and can go up to US$22,000, with postgraduate fees ranging from US$11,000 to US$26,000.
Australia, unfortunately, has higher tuition fees compared to the UK and Canada, with undergraduate fees at around US$22,100 per year and postgraduate fees at approximately US$22,700.
Cost of Living:
Besides tuition fees, students must consider the cost of living. In the UK, the estimated yearly cost for rent and living expenses is between US$12,000 to US$15,000, totaling US$36,000 to US$45,000 for a three-year undergraduate degree.
Canada’s cost of living for international students is cheaper than the UK, requiring US$7,500 to US$9,000 per year, but since degree programs are four years long, the total cost is similar to the UK.
Australia’s cost of living is higher, and students need about US$14,000 per year, adding up to US$42,000 for a three-year undergraduate degree.
Opportunities for Permanent Residency:
Staying after graduation is an essential consideration for international students. In the UK, it has become more challenging to remain and work after studies, with a current option of six months’ stay after graduation.
Canada provides more opportunities for international students to stay and work after graduation through its Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) program, which allows students to work in the country for three years after graduation and apply for permanent residency.
Australia also offers opportunities for students to stay after graduation, with an 18-month Skilled-Graduate Temporary visa. If you complete two years of study in Australia, you can apply for the Skilled-Independent (Resident) Visa to gain permanent residency.
In conclusion
each country has its pros and cons for international students. The UK offers beautiful universities but has limited opportunities for permanent residency. Canada provides more chances to stay after graduation and work towards permanent residency, while Australia has fantastic weather but higher tuition fees and living costs. Consider your priorities and choose the country that best fits your needs and goals for a fulfilling university experience abroad!”
