Study in Canada

Canada is a country that offers exceptional quality of education combined with a friendly, multicultural society. Canadian universities are known for modern curricula and innovative teaching methods, which makes them a popular choice among students from all over the world.

Why choose to study in Canada?

In Canada, you will gain access to world-class faculty as well as modern laboratories and research centers, which will open many doors for you in the job market.
Additionally, Canada offers the possibility to work while studying, which not only provides financial support but also allows you to gain valuable professional experience.
The country is also renowned for its high standard of living, safety, and stable economy, making it an ideal place not only for learning but also for career development.
Imagine that over 800,000 international students have already chosen Canada as their place to study!

Doesn’t that sound like a country worth spending a few years of your life in? :)

And you – which city will you choose, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, or maybe Vancouver, or another one?

Keep reading to discover more details!

The Canadian education system offers flexibility and a wide variety of programs. Canadian universities are known for emphasizing both practical and theoretical skills, which makes them attractive to students from all over the world.

Bachelor’s studies usually last 3–4 years, master’s studies 1–2 years, and doctoral programs can take anywhere from 3 to 7 years. In undergraduate programs – unlike in the American system – you begin your chosen specialization right away (in the USA this usually happens after 1 or 2 years). This means that from the very beginning you can focus on the field that interests you most, without spending the first two years on general subjects.

Canada strongly emphasizes the development of critical thinking, teamwork, and innovation skills. Moreover, universities offer a very wide range of programs in English, so you can be sure to find your dream course.

Canada boasts more than 90 universities, many of which regularly rank among the top institutions worldwide. Wondering where to study? Below you will find 5 Canadian universities that are highly rated in global rankings:

• University of Toronto (25th place in QS World University Rankings 2024) – One of the most recognized universities in the country, located in the heart of Toronto, offering exceptional program diversity and world-class research.
• McGill University (29th place in QS Rankings) – An English-speaking university in French-speaking Montreal, known for its high academic standards and relatively low cost of living compared to other major cities.
• University of British Columbia (38th place in QS Rankings) – Famous for its beautiful location and international environment, situated on the picturesque west coast of Canada, near Vancouver.
• University of Alberta (96th place in QS Rankings) – Located in Edmonton, it is known for strong research and innovative programs, especially in engineering and natural sciences.
• University of Waterloo (115th place in QS Rankings) – Located in Waterloo, it stands out for its strong focus on innovation and industry collaboration, particularly in technology, engineering, and computer science.
• Western University (120th place in QS Rankings) – Based in London, Ontario, it is renowned for its programs in medical sciences and research, particularly in public health and engineering.

By choosing to study in Canada, you can count on receiving an education at a university that ranks among the global leaders, offering high-quality learning and opportunities for international growth.

Cost of studies

Although studying in Canada may seem expensive, there are many opportunities for financial support. Tuition fees for students from the European Union depend on the chosen university and program of study, ranging from 12,000 CAD to as much as 65,000 CAD (34,000 PLN to 184,000 PLN) per year. However, at less well-known universities, tuition fees can start as low as 6,000 CAD (17,000 PLN) per year, making Canada comparable to some public universities in Europe and even cheaper than many private institutions.

Cost of living

In addition to tuition fees, students must consider living expenses, which on average range from 1,200 to 2,000 CAD (3,400 PLN to 5,600 PLN) per month. The main expenses include:

Accommodation: Depending on the location, renting a room or an apartment costs between 600 and 1,200 CAD per month.
Food: Average monthly expenses for food range from 300 to 500 CAD.
Transport: The cost of a monthly public transport pass in cities like Toronto or Vancouver ranges from 100 to 150 CAD.
Other expenses: Going out with friends, cinema, theatre, and other activities – on average, students spend between 100 and 250 CAD per month.
Additional expenses should not be forgotten, such as study materials, which can cost from 500 to 1,000 CAD per semester, and health insurance, which ranges from 600 to 1,000 CAD per year.

In Canada, many international students choose to work while studying in order to support their finances and gain experience. It is estimated that around 70–80% of foreign students take up jobs during their studies, taking advantage of the possibility of legally working up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during holiday breaks.

Average student earnings in Canada depend on the type of job and location, but in most cases, students can count on minimum wage or slightly higher. In 2024, the minimum hourly wage in Canada ranges from 15 to 18 CAD depending on the province. This means that by working part-time for 20 hours a week, a student can earn an average of 300 to 360 CAD per week, which translates to a monthly income of 1,200 to 1,440 CAD (3,400 PLN to 4,100 PLN).

Students working in more specialized fields (e.g., IT, engineering, or marketing) can earn more – up to 25–30 CAD per hour. In addition, on-campus jobs, such as in libraries, laboratories, or university offices, are a popular choice since they offer flexible hours tailored to class schedules.

Scholarships

Wondering if financial support for studying in Canada is available? Yes – both government organizations and the universities themselves offer scholarship programs, which in some cases can even cover the full tuition fees.

Canada offers a wide range of popular study programs that attract international students:

• Business and Management: Excellent MBA programs and international management courses at universities such as the University of Toronto and the University of British Columbia. Students gain skills in business strategy, marketing, and HR.
• Engineering: Engineering programs enjoy worldwide recognition. Universities like the University of Waterloo offer specializations in mechanics, electrical engineering, and computer science.
• Medicine and Healthcare: High-quality teaching in fields such as nursing, pharmacy, and rehabilitation, for example at the University of Toronto.
  Information Technology: Programs in IT, cybersecurity, and programming at top universities such as the University of British Columbia.
• Economics and Finance: Leading programs at schools such as the Schulich School of Business, offering knowledge in financial analysis and markets.
• Law: Renowned law programs at universities such as McGill University and the University of Toronto prepare students for international careers in areas such as corporate and international law.

No matter what field of study interests you, you can be sure to find it in Canada :)

Studying in Canada is not only about gaining knowledge but also about immersing yourself in a diverse culture and meeting new people from all around the world. Academic cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Ottawa, and Calgary offer vibrant student life filled with entertainment, festivals, cultural events, and plenty of sports attractions.

Toronto, the largest city in Canada, attracts students with its ethnic and cultural diversity. In this bustling city, you will find both modern skyscrapers and charming parks, museums, and world-class restaurants.
Vancouver, known for its breathtaking landscapes, is the perfect place for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts – with mountains and the ocean just within reach.
Montreal, an energetic city with strong French influences, is a hub of art, music, and culture, offering lower living costs compared to other large cities.
These are just a few of the many exciting cities in Canada. Each of them has something unique to offer, making student life in Canada not only educational but also full of unforgettable experiences.