Read on to get your latest updates on Universities, Courses Offered, Student Visa Updates, and lots more!
Read on to get your latest updates on Universities, Courses Offered, Student Visa Updates, and lots more!
Australia and Canada are highly regarded for providing some of the best education available worldwide. But Indian students opting for studies in these countries are always posed with a tricky question: Which is better—Canada vs Australia for Indian students?
Both countries have a significant number of QS-ranked universities, a wide variety of degree options, and several practical study-away opportunities for international students. However, these two nations have widely different education systems.The table shows the unique selling points (USPs) and major differences in studying in Canada vs Australia. It gives prospective Indian students a clear-cut study–abroad comparison to help them choose the appropriate destination to launch their careers.
Aspect |
Canada |
Australia |
Top Universities |
|
|
Exams Required |
PTE Academic Score and GMAT/GRE/IELTS exam/TOEFL |
|
Cost |
Tuition fees are generally less expensive for international students than in Australia. The average annual tuition fee runs between CAD 20,000 and CAD 30,000. |
Higher tuition fees for international students, ranging from AUD 30,000–45,000 per year. |
Funding Sources |
Scholarships, financial aid, part-time jobs, paid internships |
Part-time jobs, university grants, fellowships, bursaries, etc. |
Lifestyle |
Diverse, multicultural cities that are very communal and safe. Various outdoor activities intersect with seasons. |
A rich cultural environment, beautiful coastlines, and pleasant year-round weather result in a carefree outdoor lifestyle. |
Student Support Services |
Extensive support programs like International Student Services and several scholarships are available for international students. |
Strong focus on student welfare through services like the Overseas Student Health Cover and similar support networks. |
Post–Graduation Opportunities |
Lots of choices for work permits after graduation. You could be able to work for three years following graduation. |
Depending on qualifications, competitive post-study work rights allow you to stay and work for two to four years. |
Top Courses |
Education and Teaching, Computer Science, IT, Engineering, Business Management, Medicines, Health and Science, Law, Arts and Design, Banking, and Accounting. |
Media and Journalism, MBA Finance, Business Administration, Computer Science, and IT Engineering. |
The education systems of Australia vs Canada for Indian Students require understanding each system distinctively. While both are world-class destinations for education, their approaches, structures, and opportunities are different and impact the total student experience.
The four stages of the Canadian education system are pre-elementary, elementary/primary, secondary, and post-secondary. The system is overseen by the provinces. The universities are the avenues for higher education in Canada offering bachelor's, master's, and doctorate programs. Its colleges offer certifications, diplomas, and vocational training programs.
The Canadian education system is characterised by:
High Academic Standards: Exclusive academic programs and globally recognised degrees.
Co-op Programs: Unique programs with integrated work and learning opportunities in collaboration with practical work experiences.
Research: Financed research facilities for postgraduate students.
Student Support Systems: Full-fledged services that include career counselling, mental health facilities, and academic advising.
The Australian education system prioritises strong practical skills alongside higher education. Courses in the three-tiered educational system are divided into primary, secondary, and institutional categories. Australia's educational system complies with the Australian Qualifications Framework's (AQF) requirements.
Institutions of higher education in Australia include universities, technical institutes, and colleges for advanced learning. Educational pathways are flexible, and switching courses and institutions is easy. Practical skills and industry exposure, developed through hands-on learning and placements, are highly valued.
Quality Institutions: High-quality educational institutions are consistently featured in national rankings, resulting in globally competitive teaching and learning.
Innovative Teaching Methodologies: The system makes use of the latest technology in teaching and learning.
Scholarships: Several prestigious scholarships are available for prospective international students.
English Language Support: The courses also come with English language assistance to promote inclusivity.
The top universities in Canada and Australia are distinguished destinations for advanced studies. These offer excellent academic curricula and support services that accommodate the needs of Indian students.
Top Universities in Canada |
Top Universities in Australia |
QS Ranking 2025 |
|
The University of Toronto |
25 |
The University of Melbourne |
13 |
McGill University |
29 |
The University of Sydney |
18 |
The University of British Columbia |
38 |
The University of New South Wales |
19 |
The University of Alberta |
96 |
Australian National University |
30 |
The University of Waterloo |
115 |
Monash University |
37 |
Canada and Australia are great study destinations, thanks to a wide array of academic and industrial programs that suit popular career options. These education systems, when coupled with employment and residential opportunities, have generated great global appeal for the top courses in Australia and Canada.
The top courses in Canada include:
Some of the top programs in Australia include:
For Indian students aspiring to study abroad, it is essential to understand the cost of education in Canada and Australia. This section compares the tuition fees, living expenses, and possible funding options in each country to help them plan effectively.
Program fees comprise a significant portion of the cost of studying in Canada. In most cases, international students pay CAD 12,436 to CAD 35,000 as tuition fees in Canada. In top Canadian universities, the fees are at par with the upper end of the cost.
The monthly cost of living in Canada is CAD 1,100, excluding the tuition fees. However, a person's expenditure for a Canadian degree largely depends on the chosen program, university, place of residence, and scholarship support.
The cost of studying in Australia varies depending on the chosen program and university. On average, tuition fees in Australia range from 20,000 AUD to 50,000 AUD. However, for professional courses like MBA and Medicine, fees can go as high as 100,000 AUD.
The eligibility criteria for studying in Australia and Canada also vary:
Graduates can apply for a post-graduation work permit allowing them to stay and work in Canada for up to three years. Moreover, post-study work opportunities in Canada are coupled with strong support for job searches through college career services and government programs. Indian graduates can successfully seek employment in career choices like:
There are also great post-study work opportunities in Australia. After graduation, students can apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa, allowing them to work for two to four years. Career development centres, conferences, and job fairs at Australian universities provide well-rounded support for job searches. While the Australian job market is dynamic, cities like Sydney and Melbourne are teaming with popular jobs like:
The first step in settling in a foreign country is to apply for permanent residence (PR). Below are the details of Australia vs Canada immigration for Indians:
A post-graduation work visa is essential for applying for permanent residence in Canada under the Canadian Experience Class. The process is more straightforward as the Canadian government actively seeks skilled foreign workers.
When choosing academic or vocational programs, it is common to encounter the question: Is Australia better than Canada for India's budding professionals? Or vice versa?
Thousands of Indian students venturing to either of the two nations choose programs depending on career and lifestyle goals. Both countries offer excellent education systems, great post-study work opportunities, and multicultural environments.
Canadian programs excel in technology and healthcare with a straightforward work permit process; in comparison, Australia offers strong engineering programs and a unique cultural mix. Both destinations provide quality education for international students seeking growth and global exposure.
Discover your ideal study destination with AECC. Contact us today to explore your options between Canada and Australia. Allow us to help you through your international education journey today!
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