Apart from subject and institution rankings, you should also consider the cost of living, weather, transportation, culture and other aspects when choosing your study destination. Do you know what are the most popular Canadian cities among Hong Kong students? In what ways are they better than the others? The following is a detailed comparison of major cities including Vancouver in British Columbia, Toronto and Ottawa in Ontario, Calgary in Alberta, Winnipeg in Manitoba, and Montreal in Quebec.
The provinces of Canada are in different time zones with huge temperature differences. In winter, cities along the west coast such as Vancouver is much warmer than that of the east like Toronto. The key industries of different cities also vary, such as the capital Ottawa is the political centre as well as high-tech hub, whereas Vancouver and Toronto focus on Business and Finance.
Students departing from Hong Kong can fly directly to Vancouver and Toronto, or transfer to other cities from there. Cities in Canada have a comprehensive transportation network, covered by rail or/and bus services. The national rail Via Rail Canada connects all Canada major cities and there is Amtrak heading to the US. In terms of transportation costs, 30 academic institutions throughout Canada participate in a Universal Transit Pass (U-Pass) program where students can enjoy unlimited access to local transit at a low price. Students are required to pay for U-pass together with their tuition. >>Contact IDP Counsellors for more information
Under the Canadian Constitution, the provincial governments have exclusive responsibility for all levels of education. There is no ministry or department of education at the federal level. Teaching is in English apart from certain schools in Québec where French is the sole official langauge. Students start compulsory education at the age of 6 (Grade 1), complete high school (Grade 11-12) at the age of 17-18, obtain High School Diploma and then progress to higher education. >>Read more
The tuition fees of Canadian higher education institutions are generally lower than those of other countries such as the UK, US or Australia. University and college fees vary from year to year, and also by city or the study program. Normally college and Pathway course fees range from CAD 10,000 to 20,000 per year, while university bachelor's degree range from CAD 20,000 to 50,000 per year. More popular subjects such as business and management, medicine, engineering and social sciences may cost even more. As for meals and accommodation, most university housing provide meal plans. The cost in Vancouver and Toronto may be more than twice than that in other cities. >>Read more
Each Canadian province has their unique food, natural and urban landscapes. Students can go sightseeing after class or during holidays, wandering through the streets and travelling across provinces to immerse in the local customs and culture. There is a huge Chinese community in Vancouver and Toronto, so you don’t have to worry about fitting in.
Food | Attractions/Entertainment | |
---|---|---|
Vancouver | ● Located on the west coast of Canada, famous for seafood ● Diverse cuisine with many Asian restaurants | ● Leisure ambience, citizens travel by bicycles ● Nearby attractions such as Grouse Mountain, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, Deep Cove in North Vancouver, etc. |
Toronto | ● Taste authentic dishes in immigrant communities, such as Little Italy, Little Portugal, Chinatown, Korea Town, etc. ● coexistence of modern facilities and historical sites | ● Full of celebrations in the summer like the Canadian National Exhibition ● Famous tourist attraction Toronto Islands |
Ottawa | ● A range of cuisines from various countries Beaver Tails, a dessert originated from Ottawa | ● Lots of museums, such as the National Gallery, War Museum, etc. ● Over 1,300 parks with beautiful scenery |
Calgary | ● Alberta is famous for beef and a widely known annual beef industry conference ● Full of low-priced and high-quality steak and burger restaurants | ● Calgary Cowboy Festival held every July ● Skiing in Canada Olympic Park, sightseeing in Banff Lake Lousie and Canmore in winter |
Winnipeg | ● Called “the capital of Slurpee” in Canada, dominating the country in demand for Slurpee ● Delicacies such as Farmer’s Sausage and Mennonite perogies introduced by Mennonite | ● Cycling and skiing along the Red River Mutual Trail ● Multiple music themed festivals in summer, such as Jazz Winnipeg Festival, Folklorama, and Great Ice Show in winter |
Montreal | ● Famous for French cuisine, including Poutine cheese fries with gravy, Montreal meat sandwiches, etc. ● Quebec is the world leader in maple syrup production | ● Old and new architectures showing its hybridity ● Enjoying nightlife on St. Laurent Avenue ● Strolling in Old Montreal |
Want to know more about cities in Canada before choosing where to study? Speak with IDP Counsellors today! Tel: 2179 3600
Ottawa is a beautiful city located in the eastern region of the province of Ontario. | Vancouver is known for its breathtaking views, scenic routes, cyclists and laid-back vibe. |
Toronto is a city full of diversity, energy, young people, and historical sites. | Canada is a country full of diverse people, cultures, languages and food and... |
With affordable tuition fees, quality institutions, post-study work and immigration options and welcoming people, it's no surprise that Canada is quickly becoming a leading destination for international students.
IDP Education represents over 10 universities in Canada, providing comprehensive study advise and application services.
Community colleges are government-regulated post-secondary institutions offering 1- to 2-year academic and pre-professional certificates, diplomas
International Students with a valid study permit can work on or off campus during their studies in Canada, and apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit to a maximum of 3 years after graduation!