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Canada is the second-largest country in the world * and is consistently ranked as one of the best countries to study in by international students. However, it is important to decide which Canadian province you want to study in.
International students must choose the right province in Canada to achieve their employment goals in the future. Given that Canada is the second-largest country globally, its provinces have a diverse range of resources, demographics, and employment prospects. Understand which province will better suit your educational aspirations by examining each of the different industries and skills they offer. List your preferences and narrow down your selection.
Each province in Canada consists of a vast range of resource endowments, employment opportunities, and demographics. To understand which province will better suit your educational aspirations examine each of the different industries and the skills they offer. Below is a brief overview of the Canadian provinces with the most sought-after institutions:
Population: 14,305,073
Capital: Toronto
Largest City: Toronto
Cost of living in Ontario: $4,975/ per month
Toronto is a multicultural city, that not only serves as the second-largest financial centre in North America but is also a prime destination for prospective students. With seven of the world's largest vehicle companies headquartered in the province, Ontario's economy heavily relies on manufacturing, making it an ideal location for those interested in pursuing mechanical engineering. Additionally, the " Technology Triangle" consisting of Ottawa, Toronto, and Waterloo , attracts talented individuals from around the globe, making it a hub for innovation and technological advancement. Furthermore, the media, arts, and cultural industries are emerging as pioneers in Ontario's diverse economy.
Ontario is a diverse province, with a mix of cultures and languages, making it a welcoming and inclusive environment for international students. While studying in Canada can be expensive, Ontario offers relatively affordable education compared to other provinces , with a variety of scholarships and financial aid options available to international students. It is also home to some of the top Canadian universities which offer high-quality education and are recognised globally for their research and innovation. Here are the top universities in the province:
University | Place |
Toronto | |
Waterloo | |
Ottawa |
Ontario’s strong economy focuses on industries such as manufacturing, technology, finance, and healthcare. Studying in Ontario can provide access to job opportunities and networking connections in these industries.
Population: 4,996,723
Capital: Victoria
Largest City: Vancouver
Cost of living in British Columbia: $4,923/month
Vancouver, located in British Columbia, is a well-known technology hub in Canada . The province's economy is mainly driven by small businesses, start-ups, and entrepreneurial ventures, which make up 98% of its commerce. Over the last decade, the tourism industry in BC has experienced significant growth, emerging as one of the most employable sectors in the province.
British Columbia (BC) is a popular destination for international students looking to study in Canada , offering a range of opportunities and benefits. Also, BC has several world-class universities , such as the University of British Columbia (UBC), Simon Fraser University (SFU), and the University of Victoria, which offer high-quality education and global experience. With its rapidly growing economy, BC mostly focuses on technology, natural resources, and tourism. It also offers affordable education, with a range of scholarships and financial aid options to international students. Here are the top-ranked universities in the province:
University | Place |
Kamloops | |
Abbotsford | |
Victoria |
Studying in BC provides international students with access to high-quality education , a diverse and inclusive community, employment opportunities, stunning natural scenery, and affordable education, making it a great choice for those looking to pursue their academic and career goals in Canada.
Population: 4.34 million
Capital: Edmonton
Largest City: Calgary
Cost of living in Alberta: $4,672/month
Alberta is the leader in Canada's forestry and energy sectors. Oil, gas, and coal are the major contributors to the GDP of the country. Also, managers, oil workers, and engineers in Alberta are paid a lot. If you're good at jobs like machinery, plumbing, or metalwork, you have a good chance of having a promising career there.
Alberta is known for its high standard of living, affordable housing, low crime rates , and excellent healthcare services. This is the reason that it makes a great place for international students to study and live. Alberta also offers a wide range of academic programs, from traditional subjects like business, engineering, and sciences to newer fields such as artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, and renewable energy.
Not just that it also has a strong job market, and many international students choose to stay in Alberta after graduation and take advantage of the various career opportunities available.
Alberta is also known for its top-ranked universities and colleges that have world-renowned academic programs and research opportunities. Here are the top universities in Alberta:
University | Place |
Edmonton | |
Edmonton |
Its high standard of living, affordable housing, low crime rates, and excellent healthcare services make it a great place for international students to study and live.
Population: 8,537,731
Capital: Quebec City
Largest City: Montreal
Cost of living in Quebec: $3,050/month
Montreal, a French gateway , is an attractive destination due to its thriving economy that includes major industries such as tourism, software development, and design . The province is also home to aviation giants like "Bombardier" and numerous international airlines , making it an excellent choice for graduates interested in pursuing careers in aviation. These industries offer hands-on experience in aircraft operations, providing valuable opportunities for career development. Additionally, the mining and forestry sectors in Montreal generate billions of dollars in revenue and provide employment opportunities for thousands of job seekers.
Quebec has a unique and rich cultural heritage , with French and English influences. This makes Quebec a vibrant and diverse place to study, with a thriving arts and cultural scene. It is also the only province in Canada where French is the official language. Studying in Quebec provides an opportunity for students to learn or improve their French language skills, which is an asset in today's globalised economy. However, many programs are also offered in English, making Quebec a bilingual environment that can accommodate both English and French-speaking students.
Most of the universities in Quebec have the lowest tuition fees in Canada , making it an affordable option for international students. It also offers many scholarship and funding opportunities for higher studies. Here are some of the top universities in Quebec:
University | Place |
Sherbrooke | |
Montreal |
If you are looking for affordable education, then Quebec is the place to be!
Population: 1,191,202
Capital: Regina
Largest City: Saskatoon
Cost of living in Saskatchewan: $4,030/month
Saskatoon, the largest city in Saskatchewan , is a hub for the mining industry in Canada and a significant centre for research and innovation . International students interested in pursuing careers in the agro-commodity sector can find excellent opportunities in the region, as many food and beverage companies have established manufacturing facilities there. As a result, Saskatchewan is increasingly becoming a popular choice for international students.
Saskatchewan has a vibrant culture that includes various events and festivals such as the Regina Folk Festival, Saskatoon Jazz Festival, and many more. The province also has a rich Indigenous history and culture, providing opportunities for students to learn and experience Indigenous traditions and practices. Saskatchewan is also known for its friendly and welcoming environment , making it easy for international students to adjust and feel at home. The province also has a low crime rate, ensuring the safety of students.
Saskatchewan is home to some of Canada's top universities offering excellent academic opportunities and research opportunities in various fields for international students. Check out some of the top universities in Saskatchewan:
University | Place |
Saskatoon | |
Regina |
Saskatchewan has a growing job market , and many graduates from Saskatchewan universities and colleges have excellent job prospects. International students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks, providing valuable work experience and opportunities to support their studies.
Population: 1,380,101
Capital: Winnipeg
Largest City: Winnipeg
Cost of living in Manitoba: $3,701/month
Manitoba has the lowest unemployment rate in Canada, with its economy centred on natural resources such as crop production, oil, mining, and forestry industries. Additionally, the cost of living in Winnipeg is significantly lower than in other parts of Canada. As a result, the region has experienced a significant influx of international students.
Manitoba has a strong education system , with excellent universities and colleges offering a wide range of programs. Also, the cost of living in Manitoba is generally lower than in other parts of Canada , making it an attractive option for international students who want to save money. It also has one of the top universities to study in Canada that has various course options.
University | Place |
Winnipeg |
Studying in Manitoba can be a rewarding experience, offering students access to high-quality education, a diverse community, and a range of opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Population: 787,014
Capital: Fredericton
Largest City: Moncton
Cost of living in New Brunswick: $3,654/month
New Brunswick's economy has traditionally relied heavily on industries such as mining, forestry, fishing, and energy . However, recent trends have shown a surge in the tourism and manufacturing sectors. As a result, students seeking job opportunities have begun to see the province as a promising option.
New Brunswick is the only officially bilingual province in Canada, and one of the four Atlantic provinces located on the east coast of the country.
New Brunswick has a reputation for being a friendly and welcoming place, which can make it easier for international students to adapt to a new culture and feel at home. Being the only officially bilingual province in Canada, offering students the opportunity to learn and practice both English and French , which can be beneficial for their future careers. Apart from that the cost of living in New Brunswick is relatively affordable , which can be an attractive option for international students who want to save money.
University | Place |
Moncton |
Studying in New Brunswick can provide students with excellent education opportunities, unique cultural experiences, and access to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Canada.
Population: 987,697
Capital: Halifax
Largest City: Halifax
Cost of living in Nova Scotia: $4,113/month
Nova Scotia, one of Canada's maritime provinces, is renowned for its history, seafood, and wildlife, making it a popular destination for international students seeking outdoor activities and nature-related experiences.
Located on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, Nova Scotia is a hub for fishing, mining, and drilling industries. Halifax, one of the major ports in the Atlantic, offers opportunities for students interested in shipping and navy-related fields. In recent years, history, music, and arts have emerged as new sources of employment in the region, providing international students with diverse opportunities in a growing industry.
Overall, Nova Scotia offers a unique blend of natural beauty, industry opportunities, and cultural experiences , making it an attractive destination for students seeking a well-rounded education and a chance to explore new interests.
Nova Scotia is considered one of the safest places to live and study in North Americ a, with low crime rates and a welcoming, inclusive culture. It also has a strong reputation for providing high-quality education, with many top-ranked universities and colleges offering a wide range of programs and courses. Here are the top universities in the province:
University | Place |
Halifax | |
Wolfville |
Nova Scotia is home to a diverse community of people from all over the world, making it a great place for international students to feel at home and connected with people from different cultures. It is also a great place to study for anyone looking for high-quality education, beautiful surroundings, a welcoming community, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Population: 158,901
Capital: Charlottetown
Largest City: Charlottetown
Cost of living on Prince Edward Island: $1,316/month
Prince Edward Island is a small province in eastern Canada, located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. It is known for its beautiful scenery, charming towns, and rich history. The island is named after Prince Edward, the fourth son of King George III. It is the smallest province in Canada, with a population of just over 150,000 people. This smallest province of Canada both in size and population majorly depends upon the agriculture industry. Tourism and small business are other sources which contribute to employment on the Island. In addition to tourism and agriculture, the economy of Prince Edward Island is driven by fishing and technology.
Prince Edward Island has a strong education system, with several top-rated universities and colleges. These institutions offer a wide range of programs in fields such as business, engineering, health sciences, and more. Here’s the most top-rated university in the province:
University | Place |
Charlottetown |
Compared to other provinces in Canada and the United States, tuition fee in Prince Edward Island is relatively low. This makes it an attractive option for students who are looking for quality education without feeling the financial burden. Students who study here can immerse themselves in the blended French and British culture and gain a broader perspective of the global market.
Population: 506,884
Capital: St. John’s
Largest City: St. John’s
Cost of living in Newfoundland and Labrador: $3,632/month
The economy of St. John's is primarily powered by energy, fisheries, mining, and forestry . In fact, the area is responsible for producing half of Canada's total iron ore, showcasing the abundance of natural resources available in the region. Additionally, St. John's has seen a surge in tourism, healthcare, and financial sectors, leading to an increase in employment opportunities for students .
Newfoundland and Labrador is known for its friendly and welcoming community. Students who come to study here can expect to feel supported and included in the wider community, making their experience of studying in this province a memorable one.
It also has several top-rated universities and colleges that offer a diverse range of programs in fields such as engineering, business, health sciences, arts, and more. These institutions are known for their academic excellence and supportive learning environment. Here’s the most top-rated university in the province:
University | Place |
St. John’s |
Studying in Canada can be a great opportunity for international students to gain valuable educational and cultural experiences. However, choosing the right province can be a daunting task, as each region has its unique features, advantages, and disadvantages.
To select the perfect province for you, it's important to consider various factors such as the quality of education, cost of living, climate, job opportunities, and cultural diversity. For example, if you prefer a milder climate, British Columbia or Ontario may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for lower tuition fees, Quebec may be a good option.
Ultimately, the perfect province for you will depend on your personal preferences, academic goals, and lifestyle. It's important to do your research and consult with education advisors or current students to make an informed decision. With the right preparation and planning, studying in Canada can be an exciting and rewarding experience that will shape your future career and personal growth.
If you want to know more about studying in Canada , get in touch with our international education experts at IDP. They will help you with the end-to-end admission process.
*Source : https://www.worldometers.info/geography/largest-countries-in-the-world/
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