Canada offers excellent opportunities for international students looking to further their education. However, with top universities and colleges across the country, it’s important to find the best places to study in Canada for international students. Cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are popular due to their high-ranking institutions, diverse cultures, and student-friendly environments. These cities also offer various services, including reliable moving companies like top movers Toronto, to help international students settle in quickly. You’ll also find plenty of social activities and support systems to make the transition easier. If you’re planning to study abroad, here’s where you should come to make the most of your experience!
The University of Toronto
The University of Toronto (UoT) is often listed as one of the best universities in the world. This is because it has tough academic courses, respected teachers, and makes important discoveries in research. UoT provides many programs for both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in several key areas. Among others, it’s known for strong programs in fields such as engineering, medicine, business, and computer science.
Diverse programs
With over 700 undergraduate and 200 graduate programs, students of UoTt have an unparalleled array of courses to choose from. This diversity ensures that every student finds a path that aligns with their interests and career aspirations. Moreover, the university’s global outlook and interdisciplinary approach to education encourage students to explore beyond their major. As such, it’s no surprise that plenty of students hire interprovincial movers to start their new life chapter here!
Campus and community
The University of Toronto has three campuses: St. George, Mississauga (UTM), and Scarborough (UTSC). The St. George campus, located in downtown Toronto, is the largest and most well-known. On the other hand, Mississauga and Scarborough offer unique learning environments and more intimate class sizes. However, each campus provides a supportive community, with plenty of extracurricular activities, student clubs, and diverse social scenes.
Cost of studying
Tuition fees at the University of Toronto vary by program and student status (domestic vs. international). For international students, undergraduate tuition can range from CAD 61,720 to CAD 71,560 per year, plus living expenses. Graduate tuition fees can vary even more widely, based on the specific program and department. When planning your budget, you should also think about extra expenses like housing and the cost of hiring long distance movers in Toronto.
Enrollment numbers
The University of Toronto is one of the largest universities in Canada, with a student population exceeding 90,000. While this population includes undergraduate and graduate students it’s still very impressive. This includes a significant number of international students (24%), reflecting the university’s global appeal and commitment to diversity.
University of Waterloo
The University of Waterloo, located in the heart of Ontario, is famous for its innovative teaching methods, which emphasize hands-on learning and entrepreneurship. It’s been around since 1957 and has a reputation for giving students a mix of challenging school courses and practical experience, mostly through its co-op programs. In fact, Waterloo’s co-op programs are among the best in the world, offering students the chance to gain valuable work experience while completing their degrees.
Why is the University of Waterloo among the best places to study in Canada for international students?
The University of Waterloo’s standout feature is undoubtedly its co-op program, recognized as the world’s largest post-secondary co-operative education program. This program integrates academic studies with work terms. Thus, it allows students to gain up to two years of paid work experience before graduation.
The University of Waterloo is especially prominent in fields such as engineering, computer science, and quantum computing. The university’s dedicated research parks and the Mike & Ophelia Lazaridis Quantum-Nano Centre are excellent for cutting-edge research and collaboration with industry leaders. They provide students with unparalleled opportunities to engage in pioneering work.
Academic offerings
The University of Waterloo offers various programs across six faculties: Applied Health Sciences, Arts, Engineering, Environment, Mathematics, and Science. Each faculty is known for its high standards and for pushing the boundaries of its field. The university’s emphasis on problem-solving and innovation is woven into the curriculum of every program, preparing students to think critically and tackle global challenges.
Cost of studying and student body
Tuition fees at the University of Waterloo are subject to variation based on the chosen program and whether the student is from within Canada or abroad. For those coming from outside Canada, tuition fees are higher, with annual expenses estimated to be between CAD 25,000 and CAD 60,000, depending on the academic program selected. It is also important to account for additional costs such as accommodation, textbooks, and other living expenses when planning your education at Waterloo. Moreover, The University of Waterloo has an assorted student population of over 30,000 undergraduate and 5,000 graduate students, including a significant number of international students from more than 120 countries.
The University of British Columbiа
The University of British Columbia (UBC), located in the breathtaking city of Vancouver, is a global center for research and teaching, consistently ranked among the top 20 public universities in the world. Its status as a leader in education is built on a foundation of innovation, discovery, and learning.
Academic excellence and research opportunities
UBC distinguishes itself through its commitment to research. It further offers students opportunities to engage in groundbreaking work. With a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, UBC can be excellent for students with distinct interests and career goals. The university is especially famous for its faculties of Science, Arts, Medicine, and the Sauder School of Business. Each of these faculties provides rigorous academic training and promotes an environment of innovation.
Cost of study
Tuition fees at UBC vary significantly between domestic and international students, and across different programs. International undergraduate students can expect to pay between CAD 39,000 and CAD 52,000 per year. Graduate tuition is similarly structured, while international students tend to pay higher fees compared to Canadians. However, living here is still more affordable in comparison to Ontario, so it’s no wonder why many students are moving from Ontario to British Columbia to study here.
Sustainability and innovation
Sustainability is a core principle at UBC, with the university taking a leading role in promoting environmental stewardship. The Vancouver campus is a living laboratory for sustainability, featuring green buildings, clean energy projects, and initiatives aimed at reducing the university’s carbon footprint. This commitment to sustainability extends into the curriculum, research, and community engagement. Therefore, you should look into moving from Toronto to Vancouver, since Vancouver is near UBC and has various living options!
Simon Fraser University
Simon Fraser University (SFU), is one of the best universities in British Columbia. SFU stands out as a leading complete public university notorious for its pioneering spirit and innovative approach to education. This university has three distinct campuses situated in Burnaby, Vancouver, and Surrey.
What makes Simon Fraser University stand out?
- SFU is famous for its high-quality academic programs in various fields such as business, computer science, engineering, environmental studies, and health sciences.
- It also enjoys global recognition, ranking highly both in Canada and worldwide for its efforts in sustainability, community impact, and scientific research contributions.
- SFU values diversity and inclusion, creating a welcoming environment for a wide range of students. It attracts students from all over the world. Lastly, it offers programs tailored to support international students and those from different cultural and economic backgrounds.
Academic Offerings and Opportunities
Simon Fraser University offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees across eight faculties. Its co-operative education program is one of Canada’s largest, providing students with the opportunity to integrate academic studies with paid work experience in their field of study. This hands-on approach enhances learning and further improves employability after graduation.
Cost of Attendance
The cost of attending SFU changes based on the program, study level, and if you’re a domestic or international student. International undergraduates will see their tuition fees vary widely each academic year, and this doesn’t cover living costs, books, or personal expenses. Graduate tuition fees also vary by program. Luckily, SFU offers financial aid, scholarships, and bursaries to help students finance their education. Meanwhile, if you need help putting your belongings somewhere while you study here, storage units Toronto can be of a greaat help!
McGill University
McGill University, located in the heart of Montreal, Quebec, is not just a cornerstone of Canadian higher education but also a globally recognized institution renowned for its research, teaching, and the diversity of its student body. As one of Canada’s oldest universities, McGill has cultivated a rich academic heritage since its founding in 1821.
What makes McGill University one of the top places to study in Canada for international students?
McGill University’s commitment to research is unparalleled, with contributions that have had significant global impacts, including advancements in medicine, science, and the humanities. The university’s urban campus is a lively community where students from over 150 countries come together. If you plan on moving from Toronto to Montreal in pursuit of higher education, this is the place to go.
Cost of studying at McGill, enrollment and diversity
McGill is home to over 40,000 students, with international students making up about 30% of the population, reflecting the university’s global appeal. Still, tuition fees at McGill are competitive, especially when compared to similar caliber institutions in the U.S. and the U.K. International undergraduate students can expect to pay between CAD 18,000 to CAD 48,000 per year, depending on their program of study. However, the university offers various scholarships, grants, and financial aid options to help mitigate these costs.
University of Alberta
The University of Alberta, situated in Edmonton, stands as a prominent pillar of higher education in Canada, renowned for its commitment to excellence across teaching, research, and innovation. Established in 1908, it has grown to become one of the top places to study in Canada for international students. Globally, it is also recognized for its astounding range of programs and pioneering research.
Academic excellence and research innovation
What sets the University of Alberta apart is its wide array of over studying programs. UoA has around 200 undergraduate programs and more than 500 graduate programs, spread across 18 faculties. Its research prowess is evident in its contributions to society, notably in areas such as artificial intelligence, energy, health, and environmental conservation.
Student Population and the cost of study
With a student body of over 40,000, including a significant number of international students, the University of Alberta has a divergent and global community. This diversity enriches the academic environment, providing students with a broad perspective on global issues and the opportunity to learn from different cultures.
Tuition fees at the University of Alberta are competitive and vary by program and student status (domestic vs. international). For international undergraduate students, tuition fees average between CAD 20,000 to CAD 30,000 per year, depending on the program. Graduate tuition can vary more significantly based on the field of study. Moving from Toronto to Edmonton seems attractive to students, since living here is more affordable and they still get to have an excellent education.
These are top places to study in Canada for international students
Canada’s education system has countless opportunities for international students. The 6 top universities to study in Canada for international students are located in mixed settings. There are the lively cities of Toronto and Montreal on the one side and the innovation hubs of Waterloo and Edmonton on the other. What’s more, you can attend one of these universities in the beautiful landscapes of Vancouver and British Columbia. They are celebrated for their academic rigor, research advancements, and nurturing environments. Additionally, these universities offer a quality of life and supportive communities that enhance the educational experience. Canadian universities are ideal for students seeking a mix of challenging academics, personal development, and global outlooks, marking them as standout options in Canadian higher education.