10 things you need to know about studying in Canada

PTE Author
PTE Author
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Reading time: 6 minutes

Have you considered moving to Canada to study? With more than 100 world-class universities across the country, there’s good reason to. From coast to coast to coast, it offers many international students a safe and supportive learning environment – as well as the opportunity to work after graduation.  

Want to learn more? In this guide, we cover 10 things you should know about studying in Canada:  

1. Canada is incredibly diverse 

More than one in five Canadians were born outside the country – making Canada one of the most multicultural places in the world. According to the most recent statistics, nearly half of the people born outside Canada are from Asia. About 28% of the people are from Europe, and 8.5% are from Africa. Even more, 37.5% of children in Canada were either born abroad or have a foreign-born parent.  

A large number of students at Canadian universities and colleges also come from abroad – which is a big draw for many international students. In fact, international students are driving university enrolment across Canada!  

Discover the five most diverse and multicultural cities in Canada!  

2. The country has two official languages 

Canada has two official languages: English and French. The English-speaking part of the population is called anglophone, while the French-speaking part of the population is called francophone. About 23% of people in Canada have French as their first language, and the majority of them live in the province of Quebec. There are also more than 100 French-speaking universities and colleges across Canada.  

It’s important to note that federal government institutions are all bilingual. This means you can submit your student visa documents in either English or French. When you enter Canada at the border, you’ll also notice the officer will greet you by saying “bonjour, hello” (or vice versa) 

In addition to English and French, there are also 70 indigenous languages spoken in Canada. 

3. Tuition costs can be more reasonable  

International student tuition fees in Canada are usually lower than in places like the US and UK. However, they are still a big expense. According to the government website EduCanada, tuition ranges between $1,800 CAD–$20,000 CAD per year for an undergraduate university degree. Colleges are sometimes less expensive; however, tuition can still reach $18,000 CAD per year.  

4. There are scholarships available  

Good news: there are lots of scholarships for international students in Canada. Many scholarships, called entrance scholarships, are offered to students by institutions upon acceptance based on academic performance. So, you don’t have to apply for them.  

Others are offered by the government. For example, if you’re studying in the province of Ontario, the Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program offers masters and doctoral students up to $15,000. To learn more about scholarships and awards for international students, EduCanada is a good resource.  

5. Institutions provide lots of support 

Universities and colleges in Canada want their international students to succeed. Your institution will have an international student office that should provide services like visa and health insurance support, upskilling workshops, and advice on how to adjust to life in Canada. There will also be campus-wide support services. These include: 

  • Mentorship programs 

  • Mental health services 

  • Academic accommodations 

  • Language workshops

  • Housing support

  • Employment support  

Find out how you can seek help from international student communities.  

6. On-campus housing is a community hub  

The majority of institutions in Canada offer on-campus housing. Sometimes, student residences are reserved for first-year students. But many universities and colleges will also offer on-campus housing to students coming from abroad.  

Residences can consist of dorm rooms, private studio apartments, or shared houses, and often come with a meal plan. Living on-campus is a great way to meet new people from around the world – and for many students, residences become a real community hub.   

But, you can still have a student housing experience off-campus. In most cities, there are student housing options that aren’t affiliated with any particular institutions, but still offer a similar experience with the same amenities – things like cafeterias, study spaces, and entertainment areas.  

Curious about how much it costs to live in Canada? Our student guide examines the living costs across a number of major cities – including Toronto, Vancouver and Halifax. 

7. You might be able to work while you study  

As an international student in Canada, you can only work if you’re enrolled full-time at a designated learning institution (DLI). If so, you’ll be able to work for 20 hours per week off-campus, and full-time during scheduled semester breaks. Your study permit should have your work conditions printed on it.  

However before you begin work, you’ll need to apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN). This is free and only takes a few minutes to do online.  

How much you make will depend on where you live. The minimum wage in Canada varies by province and territory. For example, in Ontario minimum wage is $14.25 per hour while in British Columbia it’s $15.20 per hour.  

Check out these 10 part-time jobs for international students in Canada!  

8. Travel can be expensive – but there are some cheaper options 

Did you know Canada is the second-largest country in the world? It has a landmass of 9.1 million square kilometers! This is one reason traveling in Canada is expensive. There are also high airport taxes and a lack of competition in the aviation industry, so flying can be particularly pricey. For example, a 1-hour flight between Toronto and Montreal can cost up to $300.  

However, if you want to explore the country – and travel is deemed safe by government authorities this year to do so – there are some cheaper ways to see Canada. For example, the country’s train service VIA Rail offers discounts to students and riders under 25. Alternatively, Megabus is a discount bus service that offers routes throughout Canada and the U.S.   

9. Canada offers post-study visas  

Want to settle in Canada after you graduate? You’re not alone. Three in 10 international students who came to Canada after 2000 have become permanent residents.  

Canada offers a few ways for students to work in the country after graduation. For example, the post-graduation work permit could allow you to stay in Canada for up to three years after studying, if you are eligible. You could also apply for a work permit through an employer.  

10. Canadians value a global perspective  

Having international experience in Canada is viewed as a big advantage. Nearly every university in the country offers their students the opportunity to study or work abroad. Better yet, 80% of employers that hire people with international and intercultural experience say it makes their business better.

To study in Canada, most students need to take an English language proficiency test. PTE Academic is accepted by more than 200 Canada institutions – and the best choice to help you get accepted.

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    Are you an international student in Australia who has recently completed your degree? Congratulations! With your studies complete it is now time to think about your future in Australia. Did you know you can apply for a post-study work visa (also known as a Temporary Graduate visa or subclass 485) following the completion of your studies? This enables you to work, live and travel in Australia. Find out more about this visa below.

    What is the post-study work visa and what does it mean for you?

    Depending on the qualification you graduate with, this visa allows you to stay in Australia for up to 8 years following the completion of your studies, depending on your field of study and degree level. Recent changes have extended work rights for graduates in areas of workforce need. The Australian government currently estimates application processing times to range from 3 to 6 months. 

    Eligibility requirements  

    Before you apply, check to see if you meet the Australian government’s study requirements to ensure you meet eligibility requirements. A post-study work visa is only available if you successfully applied for your first student visa on or after November 5th, 2011. In order to ensure your application for this visa is processed by the Australian government, you’ll need to have held an Australian student visa for a period greater than 6 months before your application date and currently hold a substantive visa.

    Eligibility Requirements   

    Before you apply, check to see if you meet the Australian government’s study requirements to ensure you meet eligibility requirements. A post-study work visa is only available if you successfully applied for your first student visa on or after November 5th, 2011. In order to ensure your application for this visa is processed by the Australian government, you’ll need to have held an Australian student visa for a period greater than 6 months before your application date and currently hold a substantive visa. 

    Please note that you are not eligible for a post-study work visa if you have previously held a Temporary Graduate visa or a Recognised Graduate visa as a primary visa holder. However, graduates who studied at regional institutions may qualify for a second Post-Study Work visa. This second visa allows an additional 1–2 years of stay, provided that the applicant lived, worked, or studied in a regional area throughout their first PSW visa period. This initiative is part of the Australian government’s efforts to attract skilled graduates to regional areas and promote economic growth outside major cities. 

    Check your eligibility in full on the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website. 

    The application process 

    The Australian government provides a useful step by step visa guide so students have a simple resource to follow once they’re in the position to apply for their Temporary Graduate visa.

    1. When should you start the application process? 

    It’s important that you start the application for your post-study work visa as soon as you receive confirmation from your education provider that you’ve successfully completed your studies. You must apply for this visa within 6 months of completing your eligible course.

    2. Ensure you have the required documents and paperwork 

    As with any application, you’ll need to provide documented evidence to support your application. It’s important that you thoroughly review all required documentation so you do not accidentally miss items essential to your application. Given that some documents may be harder to source than others, it’s important to get started on your application as soon as you receive notice of your successful completion. Please ensure you check the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website to make sure you have up to date advice and a detailed list of required documentation.

    One of the most important documents to provide with your application is your English language test results to prove your proficiency. PTE Academic is accepted by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs for all visa categories, including post-study visa applications.

    To use PTE Academic to apply for an Australian visa, you need to select ‘Australia’ on the country dropdown menu and ‘work’ on the current goal options. You can choose to have your scores allocated to the DHA when you register or simply provide the Score Report Code on your visa application form so they can access your result.

    Find out more about PTE Academic and the test centers near you.

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    As is the case when applying for a student visa, the Australian government will notify you of any additional required documentation through your Immi account. It’s important to note that if you choose to leave Australia once you’ve filed your post-study work visa application, you’ll need to inform the government. If you’re not in Australia when the government makes the decision about the status of your application, you may run the risk of your visa expiring.

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    Last updated 20 December 2024.

  • Image- A woman in front of Big Ben- 800px
    Job opportunities for international students in the UK
    By PTE Author
    Reading time: 4 minutes

    Studying abroad is rarely cheap. Even if you’ve got a scholarship, a job on the side can help you live a little more comfortably during your degree. Luckily, there are lots of jobs for international students in the UK. You just need to know where to find them.  

    Once you arrive, you’ll be able to do the traditional resumé drop-offs and ask about opportunities in the store. But you don’t have to wait until then to start your hunt. Jumping online and applying in advance is the best method for getting a job in the UK for international students. It’s also nice to know that you’ve got a casual or part-time position waiting for you.  

    This quick guide discusses a variety of jobs in the UK for international applicants including: 

    • Part-time jobs in the UK for international students

    • Summer jobs in the UK for international students 

    • Graduate jobs for international students in the UK

       

    Part-time jobs in the UK for international students

    If you’ve got strong time-management and organization skills, working a part-time job while you study can be an effective way to earn an income. On an international student visa (Student route visa), you’re able to work up to 20 hours per week during the term. 

    Common part-time jobs for international students in the UK include: 

    • Receptionist

    • Retail worker

    • Mystery shopper

    • Shelf packer 

    • Waiter/barista/bar tender

    • Student ambassador

    • Library assistant

    Would you prefer a part-time job that is more academic in nature will intellectually challenge you as much as your actual course? You might consider becoming a research assistant at your university.

    If you’re studying a postgraduate degree or PhD, you could even apply for part-time teaching jobs in the UK for international students. Sharing your experience with undergraduates in tutorials is a great way to solidify your own knowledge while earning some money.

    The UK’s largest job databases are a good place to start your hunt:

    If you’ve got a specific job in mind, try searching for a niche jobs website (e.g. C+D Jobs is a great place to find pharmacy jobs in the UK for international students).

    Most UK universities have support services that can help you find a part-time job (as well as a job after you graduate). As an example, the career center at University College London helps UCL students with all types of career-related activities – including finding part-time jobs in London for international students. Similarly, the University of Edinburgh runs a careers service where international students can get advice about part-time jobs in Scotland. Visit your chosen university’s website to see what kind of career services they provide.

    Summer jobs in the UK for international students 

    Prefer to focus all your time and energy on your studies? That’s alright – a casual job during semester breaks might be a good alternative for you. A student visa allows you to work full-time during vacation periods.

    Most of the part-time jobs listed above are also great options for working during your time off. You may also find an opportunity over summer to work as a:

    • Sales representative

    • Event assistant

    • Call center operator

    • Private tutor

    The resources previously mentioned for part-time jobs are also relevant for international students finding a summer job in the UK. You should also consider talking to your university’s career support staff about any summer internships that might be available – these can provide a great experience and give you a foot in the door.

    Graduate Jobs in the UK for International Students

    As your final exam and graduation approach, you’ll naturally start thinking about your first job after university. The UK’s immigration program will allow you to transition from a student visa to a working visa if you secure a position that meets the relevant salary and time criteria.

    This is where your university’s career center will really come in handy, so make sure you’ve made appointments with them well ahead of your last class. They can help you find and apply for UK jobs for international graduates.

    Many jobsites allow you to filter your search to jobs that are marked as suitable for new graduates. Check that you’re searching in the right area/with the right filter.  

    Whether you’re looking for a part-time role while you study or a full-time job to extend your stay in the UK, you’ll find a wide range of opportunities available to you.