All About: 5 Reasons to Study in Canada, in 2025 and Beyond
Canada's a global leader in international education. Find out why!
Update: as of March 2025, incoming international students can now apply for a PGWP from any degree program, regardless of field of study.
Canada's one of the world's most popular destinations for international students, and it's easy to see why. Canada's home to incredible schools, safe cities and towns, friendly locals, a diverse population, and of course, plenty of maple syrup.
Canada has a lot to offer. If you're eager for a change of pace, and want to study abroad, Canada may be a great choice for you. Let's find out why:
1. Get a world-class education in Canada
Some of the world's best universities and colleges call Canada home.
Studies at university
Universities tend to offer a broad array of programs, with a heavy focus on research and academic skills.
Canada's home to some of the world's greatest universities — four major schools rank in the top 100 across the globe. These are:
(Find a full list of programs at Canadian universities here!)
Studies at college / polytechnics
Colleges and polytechnic institutes tend to offer a narrower range of programs, with a focus on hands-on, practical, job-ready skills.
Just like universities, Canada's colleges are excellent. Explore how schools perform on Research InfoSource's annual ranking of the top Canadian research colleges — find the full list here. You'll get a well-rounded education in practical subjects that can help you build your career. Here are the top five research colleges of last year:
As you can see, Alberta and Ontario are booming. (Find a full list of programs at Canadian colleges here!)
Post-graduate studies
Canada's also a leader in post-graduate education. In fact, students at the master's or doctoral level have more privileges in terms of living and working in Canada after graduation, so post-graduate study is sure to grow. Post-graduate studies can be pursued at colleges or universities, depending on your field of study.
After completing an undergraduate degree or diploma, students have options for further education:
- Post-graduate diploma: Usually a year or less, post-grad diplomas are designed to help you deepen your skills and knowledge in a particular subject.
- Master's: Usually a year or two, a master's degree is the next step for students who have a bachelor's degree and want to explore advanced ideas or conduct original research.
- Doctorate: Doctoral degrees take several years to complete, and typically follow a master's degree. Doctoral studies are quite advanced.
(Find a full list of post-graduate programs in Canada here!)
2. High quality of life in Canada
Canada's got a reputation for cold winters, but the overall quality of life in Canada is excellent — all year 'round.
US News and World Report ranks Canada as #4 globally in its overall rankings, behind Switzerland, Japan, and the United States. Canada also ranks #4 in the world for quality of education, and on quality of life, Canada's in the top five globally.
Another small but meaningful benefit to studying in Canada is our two official languages, English and French. English is the first language of business and education worldwide, and French is spoken by over 320 million people, so you can be confident you'll learn a language you can use wherever you live and work. There are plenty of official resources to help you learn!
3. Diverse and welcoming population
Canada is world-famous for its multiculturalism and diversity. Rightly so — nearly 250 "ethnic origins or ancestries" were reported on the 2021 census, and that number has surely grown since.
As of 2022, about 23% of Canada's population came to Canada from elsewhere. Statistics Canada estimates that by 2041 — just 16 years from now — immigrants could represent as much as 34% of Canada's total population.
Of course, Canada's also home to a wide array of Indigenous peoples and communities. Nearly two million people have an Indigenous background.
In terms of international students, Canada accepts eager pupils from around the globe. Here are the five most popular regions of origin, per Higher Ed Strategy Associates:
- University students:
- 1. China
- 2. Asia (excluding China and India)
- 3. India
- 4. Africa
- 5. Europe
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- College students:
- 1. India
- 2. Asia (excluding China and India)
- 3. Latin and Central America
- 4. China
- 5. Africa
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Canada even makes Preply's list of the top 20 friendliest cities for newcomers — twice — with Toronto, Ontario taking the top spot!
4. Work while you study
Every international student with a valid study permit is allowed to work while in Canada. The standard is 24 hours per week while you study — and there's no limit during study breaks, like summer vacation, winter holidays, and so on.
Canada's colleges and universities will offer support services to help you find a part-time job — most schools even have on-campus jobs specifically for students. Many co-op or internship programs include paid work, and in some cases, students can even be paid to help with faculty research projects. Statistics Canada offers info on the types of summer jobs most popular with students to help you.
Ask about student services or the career centre at the schools that interest you.
Bonus: work after you study, too!
Once you complete your studies in Canada, you may be eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP), allowing you to remain in Canada to work for up to three years after graduation.
The PGWP program is great if you want to build a life in Canada after graduation, or even if you just want a bit more Canadian work experience for your resumé. A PGWP can also help you on the road to permanent residence in Canada, if that's your goal.
5. Experience a grand adventure
Uprooting your life to study in another country takes bravery, resilience, and an adventurous spirit.
Canada's an enormous country filled with natural beauty and more incredible sights than you could see in a lifetime. While most of the population lives within driving distance of the United States border, Canada's also home to mountain ranges, sprawling plains, rugged coasts, and nigh-endless tundra.
Whether you intend to stay in the heart of one of our major cities, you prefer a more natural environment, or you're seeking the best of both worlds, Canada has plenty to offer those who are looking for something new.
Studying in Canada has its share of challenges, and it may not be right for everybody, but if you're looking for a globally-respected education in a safe, friendly, welcoming country — especially if you're considering a master's program — consider Canada!
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