Study Abroad Costs: UK vs. Canada - A Breakdown for Indian Students

The UK and Canada: Which is the Ideal Destination for International Students?

Studying abroad opens doors to unparalleled experiences, offering a blend of academic excellence, cultural immersion, and personal growth. Among the top destinations for international students, the United Kingdom (UK) and Canada stand out for their renowned institutions, diverse cultures, and promising opportunities. Delving into the comparison between the two, let's explore which country emerges as the ideal choice for international students.

Admission Requirements to Study Abroad UK vs Canada

Eligibility criteria is the most important factor in determining whether Canada or the UK is best for a student. The students in both countries must adhere to stringent rules set forth by their respective universities and countries.

UK

• Students should complete their 10+2 from a recognized board or institution. 
• Candidates may be required to submit their GMAT or GRE results for specific courses. A few universities also hold their own entrance exams as well as interview rounds.
• IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL are the English language competence exams that UK universities accept. Most UK universities will accept an overall IELTS score of 6.5, including 6 in each band.
• Proof of funds
• Medical Insurance
• A Valid Passport
• A Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• A Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
• Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) letter

Canada

• Original copy of students’ previous qualifications.
• GRE or GMAT scores for MBA and master’s courses.
• Letter of Recommendation (LOR) and Statement of Purpose (SOP).
• Scores of English proficiency tests: C1 Advanced, IELTS, and TOEFL. If students are pursuing any course in the French language, they need scores on either one French proficiency tests: DALF, DELF, TCF, and TEF.
• Legal evidence that students have enough funds sources to study and survive in Canada.
• A well-updated resume.
• Students planning to pursue a master’s or Ph.D. program must offer employment letters and two academic references. 

The concept of cutoffs doesn’t apply to Canadian colleges. Colleges provide average scores accepted to different courses on their websites. That will give some idea about what’s considered a good score. You will also need to appear for language exams like TOEFL or IELTS, irrespective of the degree. There are some colleges that may not require language tests for Indian students, but it is advisable you still give either TOEFL or IELTS as they are important for the purpose of getting a visa. If the visa interviewer is not sure of your spoken skills, they may not grant you the visa.

Costs for Undergraduate Courses in UK and Canada

Costs for Postgraduate Courses in UK and Canada

Student Visa for UK and Canada

UK

Students, who wish to pursue an academic course in the UK, have to apply for a UK Student Visa (formerly Tier 4 UK Visa). Recently, UK Post-Study Work Visa Rules were relaxed for international students. To apply for a UK Student Visa, the following rules apply:

• It is granted only for a full-time study program
• It costs £363 to apply for a UK Student Visa.
• One can work part-time during his/ her studies, and only up to 20 hours per week (on campus or off campus), and full-time during vacations (only on-campus). 

Canada

The Canadian student visa has the following regulations -

• You will have to apply for a post-graduation work permit within 90 days of finishing your studies.
• The visa application process to Canada requires a compulsory medical test for Indian applicants.
• Spouses can also work full-time if his/her stay is for a year or more.
• It costs C$150 to apply for this visa.
• You cannot work more than 20 hours per week. During holidays, breaks, and summer sessions, the student may work up to 40 hours per week.

Post-graduate Work Visa in UK and Canada

UK

Recently, the UK Home Office formally opened its new post-study work visa (Graduate route visa) for international students. The Graduate Route will allow international students who have earned a degree from a recognized university in the UK to stay there and search for work for at least two years. If you want to work there after your studies, then you need to apply for a Graduate Visa (PSW UK).

Canada

Canadian Post Graduation Work Visa allows students graduating from any post-secondary institute to work post-studying for an uptime period depending on the duration of their course to a maximum of three years. Under this work permit, the student can work in any field or industry.

Popular Jobs in UK and Canada

UK

Some of the high-paying jobs in the UK are Lawyers, IT Directors, Engineers, Orthodontists, Dermatologists, Advertising and Public Relations Directors, etc. 

Canada

Some of the popular professions in Canada are Project Managers, HR Managers, Nurses, IT Managers, Financial Analysts, Engineers, etc. 

Scholarships to Study in UK and Canada

List of scholarships to fund your higher education in the UK and Canada.

The Climate in the UK and Canada

UK

The climate in the UK is temperate. The summer months are the best months of the year with an average temperature ranging from 15-25°C. Winters in the UK are characterized by cold weather, rain, and sometimes snow and fog. The temperature during the winter ranges from 0 to 7 degrees Celsius. The rain in the UK is unpredictable.

Canada

The weather in Canada remains cold in most of the regions. The temperature can go below -30 degrees Celsius in specific locations. The summers can be hot and dry in Canada on the Prairies, humid in Central Canada, and milder along the coasts. The Spring season is generally pleasant across the country.

UK vs Canada – Which is Better?

The answer to the question, “UK or Canada which is better for Indian students?” depends on the priorities of the students. For those looking to pursue research from premier universities, the UK is a better option. Those who are looking for relaxed post-study visa norms and an affordable postgraduate education can opt for Canada. Certain other factors include your course, university, location, job prospects, PR requirements for the UK and Canada, etc.

UK

• Many prestigious universities are situated in The UK and students get to be a part of these universities on a global level
• Quality education is offered along with the best infrastructure and faculty
• Students have access to a multicultural contemporary society that operates globally within every industry

Canada

• The universities in Canada teach with the holistic educational mindset
• The cost of living and education fee is more affordable than the universities situated in The UK
• There is a vast landscape and aesthetic beauty in Canada
• Good job opportunities after the completion of studies

Browse Some Popular Universities in UK and Canada:

Popular Jobs in the UK vs Canada

What are the most in-demand jobs? We are frequently asked this question since the number of individuals moving abroad increases yearly. The jobs that are most in demand in Canada and the UK are mentioned below, making it simpler for people to pursue careers in those fields.

UK

Canada

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing between the UK and Canada depends on various factors, including academic preferences, cultural experiences, and financial considerations. Both countries offer unparalleled opportunities for international students to pursue their educational and personal goals. Whether seeking academic prestige in the UK or embracing Canada's welcoming environment, students can embark on a transformative journey that enriches their lives and expands their horizons.

For more assistance, please visit our study abroad consultancy services and explore our wide range of offerings for students interested in studying in the USA, studying in the UK, studying in Canada, studying in Australia, studying in Ireland, and many other countries.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the costs associated with undergraduate courses in both the UK and Canada?
   Tuition fees and living expenses vary. In the UK, tuition fees are higher, while Canada offers lower tuition fees and relatively affordable living costs.

2. What are the visa requirements for international students studying in the UK and Canada?
   In the UK, students must apply for a UK Student Visa, while in Canada, a student visa application is required, along with a medical test for Indian applicants.

3. What post-graduation work opportunities are available in the UK and Canada for international students?
   The UK offers the Graduate Route visa, allowing students to stay and work for up to two years post-study. Canada provides the Post-Graduation Work Permit, allowing work for a duration dependent on the course length.

4. What are some popular jobs in the UK and Canada for graduates?
   High-paying jobs in the UK include roles in law, IT, engineering, and healthcare. Canada offers opportunities in project management, nursing, IT, and engineering.

5. How does the healthcare system in the UK compare to that in Canada for international students?
   The UK provides access to the National Health Service (NHS), while Canada offers a publicly funded healthcare system.

6. What are the climate and environmental differences between the UK and Canada?
   The UK has a temperate maritime climate, while Canada experiences diverse climates ranging from temperate to subarctic.

Read More: Study Abroad in UK vs Australia: Detailed Comparison