Which is better for studying abroad? The UK vs Canada for international students

You can compare the quality of higher education in the UK and Canada by looking at university rankings. This can help you decide between the two study destinations. According to the QS World University Rankings, these are some of the top universities in each destination:

You can also check the most recent updates to universities' rankings from here.

Have you ever considered integrating your two talents, business and food, into a single career? Holding two degrees, whether undergraduate or graduate, provides you with an edge in the competitive job market.

Let's take a look at some of the top dual degrees available in both the UK and Canada:

Postgraduate degrees in the UK are classified into master’s (taught or research) and PhD courses. On the other hand, Postgraduate degrees in Canada are classified into diplomas, courses, and programs.

Universities and colleges in the UK and Canada have long been recognised as among the greatest in the world, and many of them offer a variety of scholarships to international students each year.

Check out the list of the top scholarships for international students in each study destination below:

University admission requirements vary by institution, subject, and level of study. However, if you want to apply to a prestigious university in the UK or Canada, you must have the following:

• Accredited basic education degree

• Transcripts for your school degree or courses

• Application form

• Resume

• Statement of Purpose

• GMAT or GRE scores

• Recommendation letters

• English language test, such as IELTS or TOEFL

Student Visa Requirements in the UK

The type of UK visa you require is determined by your age and the type of studies you choose to pursue. The following is a summary of study visa types and application criteria.

• Student route (General) visa:

  For students aged 16 and up who have been accepted into a course at a UK educational institution.

• Student route (Child) visa:

  For students between the ages of 4 and 17 who have been awarded a place on a course at a UK educational institution that has a valid student route sponsor, such as an independent fee-paying school.

• Short-term study visa:

  For students who have been offered a spot in a short-term course in the UK, such as an English language or training program.

For more information, please visit the Gov.UK website.

Student Visa Requirements in Canada

The Canadian Student Visa is commonly referred to as a "study permit."

Due to the possibility of rapid changes in study permit regulations, you must stay up to date. This information is most easily accessible through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website

You can always come to us for a free counselling session where we can advise you on the complete visa application procedure.

Work in the UK

If you want to stay in the UK and work after graduation, you must first get a new visa or apply for an extension.

The three most common working visas for international students are Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur), Tier 2 (General), and Tier 5 (Temporary Worker). You can find out if you are qualified for one of these visas and how to apply on the UK Government website.

Work in Canada

If you plan to work in Canada after graduation, the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PWPP) allows you to earn work experience. If you are accepted into the PWPP, you will be granted a work visa that will allow you to work in any profession and move employers freely for the duration of your initial study program (up to three years).

The cost of studying in the UK or Canada will vary depending on the field of study and university you choose. Here’s an overview of the estimated annual tuition fees in each destination. (Indicative)

The cost of living in the UK or Canada will depend on your lifestyle and the city in which you choose to study. Use the IDP cost of living calculator or get in touch with your certified counsellor for a more accurate estimate of how much money you will need in each destination.

According to the QS Best Student Cities Ranking, 3 of the ten most student-friendly cities in the world are located in the UK and Canada. And here are some of the best cities for international students in each country:

If you have made it this far, this is your sign to take the first step towards your journey abroad. Contact your certified IDP counsellor, who will help you choose the best study abroad destination and course for you and will guide you through your application process for FREE.