Canada Vs UK Country Comparison: Which is Better to Study?

Canada and the United Kingdom (UK) are two prominent nations known for their excellent education system. These countries are also preferred destinations for Indian students to study, work, or settle abroad. However, they are often confronted with the difficult question: Canada or the UK Which is better for Indian students?

The two nations are widely different in their QS-ranked universities, programs provided, post-study employment, and study-away opportunities for international students. While making a choice between the two, students should consider several important factors such as cost, climate, immigration opportunities, course reputation, curriculum, university placement rate, and others.

Canada vs UK Key Highlights and Insights

Education Systems: Canada vs UK for Indian Students

Education systems to study in the UK vs Canada have different teaching styles, academic structures, and learning environments that need to be accounted for. The list intends to simplify the larger picture of studying in Canada vs the UK for Indian students.

Education System in Canada

1. In the Canadian education system, both public and private institutions have the ability to provide degrees.
2. For higher education in Canada, universities grant undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctorate degrees, while colleges grant certificates, diplomas, and vocational programs. For instance, you should apply to universities rather than colleges to pursue a degree program.
3. Technical schools and community colleges offer vocational and industrial training courses.
4. Grade point average (GPA) is used to evaluate international students' applications, particularly their academic standing and eligibility.

Education System in UK

1. In the UK's education system, both universities and colleges offer a range of academic and research programs. These institutions are both publicly and privately funded.
2. After high school, students can opt for two-year foundation degrees, vocational qualifications, A-levels, or higher national diplomas (HNDs), which are equivalent to the first two years of a bachelor's degree.
3. After high school, Indian students can also apply directly to universities for three-year bachelor's degrees through the UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) system after completing their A-levels or equivalent qualifications.
4. Academic performance, skills, and professional experience in applications are given more weight in the UK grading system.
5. UK universities employ a letter grading system that ranges from "A" to "F." An "A" grade signifies exceptional understanding and mastery of the subject, while an "F" denotes a failing grade, reflecting inadequate comprehension and a low score.
6. Institutions for higher education in the UK have come together to form various groups based on common goals in education, research, or policy advocacy. Famous groups include the Cathedrals Group, the Russell Group, etc. Membership in these groups can also help students build their identity and reputation in the higher education sector.

Top Universities for Indian Students: Canada vs UK

For Indian students, the top universities are always the priority in Canada vs UK higher education. These offer excellent academic curricula, industry exposure, and support services, which serve as pathways for stellar careers.

Popular Courses in Canada and UK

Diversified and highly desired courses are a major factor in considering Canada vs the UK for Indian students. Popular programs in both nations include engineering, business, and health science courses.

Popular Courses in Canada

The popular courses in Canada include:

1. Engineering programs include Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, and Computer Engineering. The curricula cater to the manufacturing, construction, telecommunications, and technology industries. These programs have strong linkages with firms like Bombardier and SNC-Lavalin.
2. Information Technology (IT) programs include Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, and Cybersecurity. These cater to tech giants like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and other firms in Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.
3. Business programs include MBA, Finance, Marketing, and International Business. These provide career opportunities in startups, consulting houses, and top corporations like Deloitte, KPMG, etc.
4. Programs in Health Sciences include Medicine, Pharmacy, Nursing, and Public Health. Some of the top programs in Canada, these cater to the high demand in medical colleges, hospitals, clinics, and medical research institutions.
5. Media Studies programs include Journalism, Digital Media, Film Production, and Communication Studies. These programs ensure employment opportunities at popular Canadian media houses, advertising agencies, and production companies (such as the CBC and Bell Media).

Popular Courses in UK

The popular courses in the UK include:

1. Business programs include an MBA and MSc in Finance and Business Analytics. The curricula include industrial case studies, internships, and projects for practical learning. All programs have great placement records with firms like HSBC, Deloitte, and Unilever.
2. The top programs in the UK in engineering include Engineering Tripos, Engineering Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, and Chemical Engineering. These programs mandate hands-on lab work, live projects, and collaborative research. Graduates enjoy placements with Rolls-Royce Holdings, BAE Systems, and other aerospace companies.
3. Medical programs include BM BCh, MB BChir, MBBS, and BSc in Medicine. The programs emphasise clinical practices, simulations, and hands-on care experience with patients. There are strong collaborations with NHS hospitals, research labs, and pharmaceutical giants.
4. Popular Environmental Science programs include degrees in Natural Sciences, BSc in Environmental Science, MSc in Environmental Technology, and MSc in Environmental Science and Management. Graduates get placements with environmental agencies, conservation groups, and government organisations.
5. Data Science courses include an MSc in Data Science and Machine Learning, an MSc in Social Data Science, and an MSc in Data Science. Students join coding boot camps and work on data analysis projects and machine learning applications. These programs have close industrial ties with major tech firms, financial institutions, and research laboratories in the UK and globally.

Cost of Studying in Canada and UK for International Students

International students need a sizable financial commitment to study in Canada or the UK. This section details tuition fees in UK vs Canada to help them plan effectively. It also provides estimates of living expenses and possible funding options in each country.

Cost of Studying in Canada

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.

Cost of Studying in UK

Annual tuition fees in UK, at both private and public institutions, generally range from £4,180 to £29,259. International students also incur additional fees and expenses, including a monthly living cost of approximately £1,000 to £1,500—depending on location and lifestyle. Therefore, meticulous financial planning is crucial to manage expenses.

Eligibility Criteria for Studying in Canada and UK

The eligibility criteria for studying in UK and Canada also vary:

Eligibility Criteria for Studying in UK

1. Academic Requirements: Students must graduate from a recognized institution or board with a 10+2 degree to qualify for undergraduate courses. For postgraduate courses, a three-year undergraduate degree with a minimum aggregate of 75% is required. For management courses, candidates need to submit GMAT or GRE scores, although some universities offer their own entrance exams and interview processes in place of these tests.
2. Language Proficiency Tests: The eligibility criteria for studying in UK include English language proficiency. Students can take exams such as the PTE, TOEFL, or IELTS. Most universities in the UK expect an overall IELTS score of 6.5, with no band scoring below 6.
3. Visa Requirements: Students must provide health insurance, evidence of sufficient finances, a statement of purpose, recommendation letters, and a Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) letter for visa applications.

Eligibility Criteria for Studying in Canada

1. Academic Requirements: International students need to submit original documents of their prior qualifications. Undergraduate applicants must have completed at least 12 years of education and must also provide SAT exam scores. Admission to MBA and Masters programs in Canada requires GRE or GMAT results. Each institution specifies its own average scores on official websites.
2. Language Proficiency Tests: Proficiency in English is assessed through exams such as TOEFL, IELTS, and C1 Advanced. For French language courses, proficiency in one of the exams (DALF, DELF, TEF, or TCF) is necessary.
3. Visa Requirements: Applicants must have a valid passport, a confirmation of admission, a letter of recommendation, proof of funds to sustain tuition fees and living expenses, and overseas student health coverage. If applicable, medical reports, police clearance certificates, and resumes are required.

Post-Study Work Opportunities for Students in Canada and UK

Post-study work opportunities for students in Canada and UK also vary.

Post-Study Work Opportunities for Students in Canada

Canada is often chosen by international students for its exceptional post-study opportunities. The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows graduates to stay and work in Canada for up to three years. Canada's job market is thriving and salaries range between CAD 55,000 to CAD 85,000 per year.

The permit is complemented by robust job search support from university career services (including workshops, informational interviews, and networking opportunities) and government programs. Graduates from India are commonly employed in:

• Software Development
• Data Analysis
• Mechanical Engineering
• Nursing (Registered Nurse)
• Financial Analysis

Post-Study Work Opportunities for Students in the UK

Post-study work opportunities in UK are equally attractive. The UK's Graduate Route visa offers international students the chance to work in the country for up to two years post-graduation. The tenure extends to three years for PhD graduates. The job market includes lucrative roles in finance, technology, engineering, and creative industries. Average annual salaries start from £42,210. Universities actively support students in their job search efforts through comprehensive career counselling and career events.

Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada and UK

The first step in settling in a foreign country is to apply for permanent residence (PR). Below are the details of permanent residency in UK vs Canada for Indian students:

Permanent Residency in Canada

A post-graduation work visa is essential for applying for permanent residency in Canada under the Canadian Experience Class. The process is more straightforward as there is a lack of competent labour and the country is quite thinly populated. This drives the Canadian government to actively seek skilled foreign workers.

Permanent Residency in UK

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is the equivalent of permanent residency in UK, granting individuals the right to live and work in the UK indefinitely. There are several routes to apply for ILR in the UK:

1. Residence in the UK for at least five years.
2. A family member of a UK citizen or long-term resident.
3. Work permit holder.
4. Individuals under humanitarian protection, discretionary leave, or refugee status.
5. Previous holders of ILR returning to the UK.
6. Military service personnel.

The UK or Canada Which is Better for Indian Students?

The choice between UK vs Canada for international Students depends on individual preferences and goals. From the excellent quality of education, emphasis on inclusivity and affordability, and post-graduation work opportunities in Canada to an unbroken historical legacy, prestigious universities, and close links with industries in the UK—both countries provide sufficiently strong support systems and promising career prospects for Indian students choosing to study abroad.

Discover your ideal study destination with AECC. Contact us today to explore your options between Canada or the UK. Allow us to help you through your international education journey today!