Student guide: What is the cost of living in Canada?

Canada needs immigrants to grow its population. And there’s good news for students: foreign learners and people with a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) are some of the most important propellers of the country’s population growth.  

So how does a PGWP work? In this guide, we cover what you need to know. You’ll learn about who’s eligible, how much it costs, and most importantly, how long you can stay in the country after graduation to gain Canadian work experience.  

Canada’s post-graduation work permit: how does it work? 

The PGWP lets international students who have graduated from an eligible designated learning institution to stay in Canada and work for up to three years. Not surprisingly, the program is a big draw to work and study in Canada for international students – and it’s grown in popularity over the last several years.  

Just take a look at the numbers: between 2005 and 2016, the amount of permits issued to new graduates increased by 15 times – from 7,400 to 117,700 per year. By 2018, 143,000 permits were issued. And in the first quarter of 2021, PGWPs increased 160% year-over-year.  

The PGWP is an open work permit, which means you can work for any employer in Canada. You also don’t need a job offer to apply. The length of your PGWP depends on how long you’ve studied in Canada. For example, if your program was: 

• Under 8 months, you won’t be eligible for a PGWP. 

• Less than 2 years, you may get a permit for the same amount of time as you studied (for example if your program was one year, you might get a permit for one year).

• More than 2 years, you could be eligible for a 3-year permit. 

If you studied more than 1 program, you may also get a PGWP that combines the length of each program.  

Who is eligible?  

To be eligible for a PGWP, you need to meet a number of criteria. For example, you need to have graduated from a program that was at least 8 months long at a designated learning institution – and have earned a degree, diploma, or certificate from that. 

International students who were approved for a study permit and are studying online outside Canada due to the pandemic are also eligible for a PGWP.  

However, people who’ve only studied English or French as a second language in Canada are not.  

For a full list of criteria, make sure to check out the Government of Canada website.  

How can you apply? 

Before you begin the application process, you need to have proof that you’ve completed your studies. You need to show either: 

• An official letter from your institution 

• An official transcript  

• A degree or diploma  

After you’ve got one of these, you need to apply for a PGWP within 180 days.  

Instructions for exactly how to apply depending on whether you’re applying from inside or outside Canada. You can find the step-by-step instructions on the Government of Canada website – including an official guide and a document checklist.  

How much does it cost? 

It costs $255 CAD to apply for a PGWP. Processing times differ, but it can take up to 73 days to be approved on average. However, the good news is that many graduates can work while they’re waiting on a decision.  

Other visa options  

Being able to work and study in Canada for international students around the world is often a dream come true. However if you’re not eligible for a PGWP, you do have some other visa options.  

An employer-specific work permit 

This type of work permit allows you to work for a certain amount of time for a specific employer. You might be eligible for this if you’ve gotten a job to be a researcher at a university, or a charitable worker at an NGO, for example.  

Canada has a tool to help you learn more about what type of work permit you could be eligible for. You can check it out here.  

Permanent residence  

If you’ve worked full-time for 12 months after graduation in a skilled trade, a professional job that requires a degree, or a management-level job, you could be eligible for permanent residence.

You’ve always dreamed of studying in the UK. But what’s student life in the UK actually like?  

From living costs to class schedules, to accommodation options, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions we get from international students coming to study at UK universities. Check them out! 

What will my class schedule be like? 

University classes in the UK typically run between late September and June. At some universities, courses are divided between two semesters: fall (or autumn) and spring. But at others, courses are divided into three terms. In the last term students usually take exams.  

How many hours you’ll spend in class each week will depend on the course you’re studying. If you study something like English - which requires a lot of reading outside of class - you might only spend 10 hours in lectures and seminars each week. But if your course is more hands-on, you could be in class for several hours each day. You’ll also have several weeks off each year - usually around April or March (Easter), December and January (Christmas), and in July and August (summer).  

And what will classes look like this upcoming term as coronavirus restrictions ease? Well, the UK has allowed students to head back to campus starting in May. However, many universities say they’ll run hybrid classes (both online and in-person) this fall, so that’s something you should be prepared for.  

Check out our blog: Study tips for the UK 

What housing options will I have? 

Lots! As an international student in the UK you can choose to live in residence on-campus, or similarly, in student housing off-campus.  

These options are designed for students in mind. They usually feature study spaces, social rooms, as well as restaurants and cafeterias. Many people decide to live in student accommodation because it gives you a real taste of student life in the UK. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet and socialize with other students from around the world. 

You might also decide to rent a room in a shared space with roommates. Alternatively, you can find your own private apartment, which can provide you with a bit more independence abroad.  

Check out our blog: How to choose international student accommodation in the UK.

What will my living costs be? 

Living costs in the UK can vary depending on where you’re located. For example, university life in London will be more expensive than in smaller cities like Leicester or Nottingham. But a survey conducted by Save the Student found that students across the UK spend an average of £795 each month. Expenses include things like rent (£418), groceries (£100), going out (£46) and getting around (£46).  

Can I work? 

Many students who move overseas want to work while studying. And in the UK, lots of international students can. If your course is at a degree level and you’re studying full-time, you should be able to work for 20 hours each week during the semester. If you’re studying below a degree level full-time, you should be able to work 10 hours per week. The rules surrounding exactly how many hours you can work will be clearly stated when your student visa is approved. 

Learn more about the minimum and living wage in the UK.    

What can students in the UK do for fun? 

With its multicultural cities, charming towns and breathtaking rolling landscapes, the UK is an incredible place for international students to explore. Why not hop on the train to visit some centuries old castles? Or spend an afternoon alone exploring a renowned museum? Wherever you are in the UK, there’s no shortage of activities to take part in between classes - all of which can help you experience the different cultures across the UK. 

If you’re looking for something unique to do, design my night is a good website to check out. It lists events across more than a dozen UK cities. It includes activities like quiz nights, escape rooms, pop-up cinemas, afternoon tea, and more. There’s also Sofar, which plans intimate, pop-up gigs in secret locations around London – and work to follow COVID-19 regulations.  

Lots of restaurants, museums, and stores also boast generous student discounts. You can take a look through them on Save The Student’s student discount directory.  

Now, what does the PTE team like to do in London? Here’s what they recommend: 

“I've really enjoyed cycling on all of the bike routes in London during lockdown! There are so many cycle highways that it's easy to see the whole city on bicycle," said Richelle Zakrzewski, who’s the Digital Marketing Manager at PTE Academic.  

“I've been making the most of the great British countryside and going hiking at the weekends in small group," said Melanie Drake, our global training and resources manager. 

“I've become a member of the National Trust and have enjoyed visiting the UK's historic houses and gardens. My favorites include Chartwell - Winston Churchill's house growing up - and Osterley House - a Georgian country estate in West London. I also went to a socially-distanced concert and really enjoyed it! I saw a band called Squid play outside in London's docklands, at sunset, with Canary Wharf and the Emirates Cable Cars in the background. It was a really nice way to see live music, and we felt very safe with mask wearing, social-distancing and table-service in place,” said Gemma Considine, who is the director of English Assessment Marketing at PTE Academic.  

"With less people in town, I’ve been enjoying taking photos of iconic landscapes that would normally be very crowded,” said Erica Da Rocha, our Global Marketing Manager.  

Are there support services for international students? 

Yes. International student life in the UK can be full of great moments - but it can also be challenging at times. Your university will have a team to support international students, who should give accessible information on university matters. These teams help foster a community for international students and provide general support for every international student on campus.  

You will also be able to get academic, well-being, and community support through your university. This might include language support, study skills programs, employment and housing services, academic accommodation, and financial support.  

Student Minds, a UK charity which focuses on student mental health, also has a great resource for university students. It addresses a number of issues that might come up such as questions about identity, excelling in courses, and developing positive mental health.  

How should I plan for life after graduation?  

There are new visa changes in the UK - and they make them much easier for students to plan for after graduation. The UK’s new post-study work visa - called the Graduate Route - opened on July 1st. It lets bachelor’s and master’s students stay in the UK to work (or job search) for two years after completing their studies.  

Doctorate students will be allowed to stay for three years. So, graduates are now able to take time to grow their careers in the UK - and make long-term plans to stay if they choose.  

Looking to study in the UK?

PTE Academic can help you begin your adventure. Our computer-based test is accepted by 99% of universities across the UK as proof of English language proficiency and it’s also accepted by the UK government for immigration purposes. Learn more today!

In Canada, the average cost of living for an international student is S12,000 CAD per year. So, it makes sense to both work and study in Canada to help cover some costs - as well as to enrich your professional experience abroad. 

Now, what’s the job market like for international students? There are plenty of jobs out there that will allow you to work while you study. In this blog, we’ll outline our 10 top picks for part-time student jobs in Canada:  

1. Jobs on campus   

What you could make: about $11.45-$16 CAD/hour across Canada 

Looking for a job close to university? Well, why not work right at your university? There are a whole range of jobs for international students on campus - such as at the athletic center, the library, or with an organization whose work you care about.  

And, getting a job on campus isn’t just convenient. It also lets you become even more involved in the student community - as well as help you network with other students and professors you may not have otherwise met through your studies.  

How much you make will depend on where you work on campus. However, you will make at least minimum wage. This is different in each province but ranges between $11.45 and $16 CAD/hour across the country.  

2. Barista 

What you could make: $13.26 CAD/hour on average across Canada 

Canadians love coffee. In fact, Canada is actually one of the largest coffee-consuming countries in the world. So, what better place to experience Canadian culture than at a coffee shop? Working as a barista will not only teach you how to make some delicious hot drinks, but also give you the chance to practice your English skills as you chat with customers.  

Canada’s famous coffee chain, Tim Hortons, is by far the most prevalent coffee shop in the country. There are more than 5000 Tim Hortons restaurants worldwide (and the big majority of them are in Canada!). 

3. Snow Removal/landscaping 

What you could make: $20 CAD/hour on average across Canada 

If you don’t mind the cold, snow removal might be a great high-paying job for you. This involves shoveling snow from sidewalks and driveways, as well as putting salt down on walkways or stairs so people don’t slip and fall. Since it doesn’t snow all-year-round, snow removal companies often work with the same people to landscape in the spring and summer, or rake leaves in the fall - it’s a four-season job! 

4. Sales assistant  

What you could make: $17 CAD/hour on average across Canada 

Being a sales assistant is a great way to practice your language skills in a fast-paced environment. As a sales assistant, you’ll operate the cash register and support customers in the store. It’s a job that requires you to be on your feet all day, but you likely won’t have to work very early mornings or late nights.  

5. Server 

What you could make: $12.20 CAD/hour on average across Canada 

The restaurant industry is a great place to work in Canada. Tipping is part of Canadian culture - it’s common to tip 15-25% - so you can expect to get paid quite well. In fact, some servers at busy restaurants can make hundreds of dollars in tips a night! It’s one of the reasons being a server is so popular among students who work and study in Canada.  

6. Tour guide  

What you could make: $15.50 CAD/hour on average across Canada 

Are you an energetic people person? Being a tour guide could be a great opportunity. Whether you work with a museum, walking tour company, or tourist attraction, you’ll get to share the knowledge you have of your new city. You also have the chance to meet interesting people from around the world, and perhaps even give tours in your own language to tourists from home.  

7. Dog walker  

What you could make: $13 CAD/hour on average across Canada 

If you’re used to having a dog at home, it can feel weird to be without your furry friend while studying abroad - we get it! So, why not try out dog walking? It’s great exercise, and better yet, spending time with a dog can help reduce stress. Sounds like the perfect job to us.  

8. Teaching assistant  

What you could make: $25.15 CAD/hour on average across Canada 

Being a teaching assistant is a popular job for university students in Canada - especially since it’s a position that gives you professional experience in your industry. As a teaching assistant you’ll help with lectures, marking, and support students in their studies, and professors usually require you to be a graduate student or have experience in the course.   

9. Residence advisor 

What you could make: about $7500-$9000 CAD/2 semesters  

A residence advisor is an undergraduate student who lives in residence with fellow students (usually 1st years) and is responsible for their well-being on campus. They act as role models, help to build community, and plan team-building events for students. It’s an excellent job to put on your resume to demonstrate those important leadership skills. Plus, many residence advisors get a rent subsidy - which is a good benefit.  

10. The National Research Council Student Employment Program  

What you could make: $563-$1274 CAD/week (when working full time) 

The Student Employment Program by Canada’s National Research Council (NRC) is an opportunity open to international students studying full-time at Canadian educational institutions. It offers you the chance to work at a Canadian research facility for four months. You will contribute to research and development projects in STEM (Science, technology, engineering, math), business, marketing, finance, and more. Learn more about the program here.  

How many hours can I work? 

If you are a full-time student at a designated learning institution, you can work up to 20 hours each week off-campus during the semester. Then, during scheduled breaks (like during summer vacation) you can work full time. Unlike in the UK, you can also be self-employed as an international student in Canada.  

You might be interested in our blog: How to apply for a Canadian student visa 

Where should I look for work?  

There are plenty of websites that can help you look for work in Canada. The Government of Canada’s Job Bank is designed specifically for people aged 15-30 to look for both full-time and part-time jobs. There are also websites like Indeed, Workopolis, and Monster.  

Overall, there are many job opportunities for international students in Canada. And after you graduate, you can also apply for a Canadian post-graduation work permit – which may allow you to stay in Canada to work for up to three years.  

Read more about Canada’s post-graduation work permit our blog, and learn more about how PTE Academic can help you succeed in Canada today.