Best Cities in Canada for International Students

As per the recommendations made by a number of sources, Canada is considered to be one of the most sought-after study-abroad destinations for International Students. Canadian cities have been ranked among the top QS Best Student Cities 2024. Studying in Canada offers high-quality education facilities for overseas students but also guarantees the safety of its international students during their stay in Canada. The research methodologies employed at Canadian universities are considered most progressive globally, and this has placed them at favourable ranking points globally. For example, the best placement offers come from Canadian universities, which also provide great avenues for developing a full-fledged career. Perhaps you are now wondering what some of the best cities in Canada for International Students, precisely which could suit an Indian student.

The Municipalities of Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal are the best cities in Canada for International students to study and work in Canada. In choosing a city, students need to account for the cost of living in the province. These cities offer an excellent quality of life along with great educational facilities and affordable rates of maintenance. This article gives vital details on some of the best Canadian cities for students.

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Best Cities in Canada for International Students: QS Rankings 2024

According to QS Best Student Cities 2024, four Canadian cities have been ranked in the top 100. Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, and Ottawa are among the best student-friendly cities in Canada and North America. The following list would help Indian and international students decide on the best city to live in Canada.

QS Rankings for Top 5 Cities of Canada

Source: QS WUR Best Student Cities 2024

Top 5 Cities in Canada for International Students:

Montreal
When international students plan to study in Canada, Montreal is one of their top choices for overseas students because it is close to many renowned universities. Montreal ranked 13th on QS Best Student Cities Rankings 2024, which shows that many students prefer Montreal compared to other cities. It is also a go-to place for Indian immigrants to live in Canada.

Why study in Montreal?
There are several reasons that explain why this cultural capital of Canada is popular among international students:

• The city has an efficient transportation network that includes 196 day bus routes, 23 night bus routes, and 68 metro stations.
• A student can pay CAD 3.50 for a single trip while using BIXI bikes to explore the city at reasonable prices.
• Montreal is positioned 10th on the student view ranking indicator.
• And it holds the topmost position globally with regard to students' perception of cities and is number fifteen as the desirable city.
• It stands at 52nd position globally in terms of affordability; rent for a one-bedroom apartment costs about CAD 1,280.
• The city has diverse academic disciplines within its limits and ranks 33rd for employer engagement.
• It remains Quebec's centre for trade, transportation, manufacturing, and pharmaceutical companies, among others.
• Montreal ranks first for foreign investment by Americans. A favourable and dynamic job market opens leading industrial exposure, and students can gain the most from it.

Embrace the cold, and you’ll find warmth in learning – that’s the Canadian way.

Vancouver
The city of Vancouver was one of the cities listed on QS Best Student Cities 2024 due to its splendorous landscape. Vancouver is one of the best cities in Canada for International Students. The beauty of this town together with its safety features have made it rank as one of the leading destinations for students around the globe. The city is home to major tech companies which provide good job prospects for international students.

Why Study in Vancouver?
This article contains a few major reasons why Vancouver stands out among other Canadian cities preferred by Indian learners.

• Vancouver is a student-friendly town with students from different countries around the world. There are mainly students from Europe, China, England, Ireland, and Scotland who come here to pursue their education.
• It is among the world's top 50 universities whose graduates are highly regarded in employment circles.
• After considering everything, international students pay an average of CAD 15,735 annually as tuition fees.
• Taking into account that rent on one-bedroom flats in Vancouver city centre averages at CAD 2,047 monthly, it is essential for previous references to be updated.
• Vancouver has best public transport system with safety measures in place.

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Toronto
Toronto is a well-known student destination as it is home to many renowned Canadian universities. It is ranked high among world cities and also considered the best cities in Canada. Top-ranked University of Toronto (U of T) attracts international students to Toronto. QS Best Student Cities 2022 placed the city 13th among other cities worldwide.

Why Study in Toronto?
Here are reasons that make this city the best place for Indian immigrants to settle down in Canada.

• Toronto offers flexible and feasible transportation options for international students, TTC provides subways and buses.
• International Students have some of Canada's highest salaries in Toronto.
• The CAD 3.25 (around $2.50) for travelling by subway.
• A daily pass costs CAD 11.
• Students may also buy a 12-month pass that costs them CAD 143.
• The average international fee at the leading university stands at CAD 3,384,000.
• This city has been ranked as the second most desirable city.
• There are plenty of job opportunities in Toronto for students and graduates in Toronto. In terms of employer activity indicators globally, the city comes in at the joint 22nd.
• The cost of living in Toronto, on average, is about CAD 3200 per month.

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Ottawa
Another place where students can live and study in Canada is Ottawa, which is one of the best places to study in Canada. The city is recognized by QS Best Student Cities 2022 as number 53. International students are attracted by the diverse and vibrant culture, coupled with good job opportunities. Moreover, two leading learning institutions in Ottawa are ranked among the top 650 worldwide.

Why Study in Ottawa?
Reasons that make Ottawa one of the preferred destinations for international students include:

• In terms of the student view index, which demonstrates how lively a city is, its friendliness, and its diversity, Ottawa ranks among the top fifty cities globally.
• A student would require approximately CAD 1185 for a month's living expenses and use around CAD 1625 on rent in Ottawa.
• It has many high-tech industries, healthcare providers, and Canadian government offices.
• The Federal government's employment hub is located in Canada.
• Because of its cultural diversity, this city has positioned itself as a cosmopolitan centre across Canada.
• This offers students a chance to visit world heritage sites or historical places such as the Canadian Museum of History or even Centre Block, which are few of the most visited places in Canada.

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Quebec City
Quebec City is a beautiful and historic provincial capital city of Quebec, which is often regarded as the best Canadian province for international students. The secure ambience has allowed Quebec to be among the top 50 places for student mix, according to QS Best Student Cities 2022. Some notable universities in Quebec are Université du Québec and Université Laval. Among the oldest educational institutions for women in North America is the Ursuline Convent ofQuebec City. Teaching in Quebec City primarily takes place in the French language. It is very important to assess where to study best in Canada.

Why Study in Quebec City?
Here are some more reasons why Quebec is such an incredible experience for international students:

• There's a wide range of transportation options available, including buses (CAD3), taxis (CAD1.70 per 0.6 miles), ferries and two-wheeled vehicles.
• The desirability rank of the university is 62nd, while the affordability rank stands at 55th.
• The rank according to 115th student view.
• Prices per one-bedroom apartment range from CAD 525-700
• The average cost this institution charges international students amounts to CAD 1,44,130
• Employer activity rank in this city stands at 93
• On average, students will pay CAD 10,000 – CAD 40,000 for tuition fees in Quebec.

5 Benefits of Studying in Best Cities in Canada

Studying in Canada's top cities has many benefits for international students. These are the top five advantages:

Exceptional Educational Opportunities: One most noticeable thing about Canadian Cities is that they contain among others the few finest academic institutions the globe. International students can avail themselves of quality education in top cities in Canada since these regions have internationally recognized tertiary level colleges which provide a diverse range of courses as well as research avenues, thus ensuring that their graduates get better educational qualifications acknowledged all over the world.

Diverse Career Options: Global top companies in Canada's major cities help them emerge as important centres for banking, technology, healthcare, tourism and more. A student studying in a popular Canadian city has access to numerous opportunities related to careers, internships and employers themselves. Also, in Canada, students are likely to find employment after Graduation through co-ops, career fairs or even by participating in networks since they are close to flourishing businesses.

In Canada, education is the snow that blankets us all, bringing unity through knowledge.

Cultural Vibrancy and Diversity: Diversity is one thing that distinguishes the best Cities in Canada from other places around the world. Multiculturalism has helped to preserve the unique elements of every culture – such as different ways of dressing, speaking or constructing things – while still allowing them to be themselves in some ways. By studying in Canada, international students not only meet new people but also learn how to understand people from different cultures and engage with them on a deeper level. The end result is an education that not only employs diverse teaching methodologies but also equips students with the skills necessary for interpersonal relationships. Overseas Students are exposed to fresh viewpoints, intercultural awareness is fostered, and possibilities for cultural interchange and inquiry are presented by studying in these multicultural urban hubs. The lively and welcoming community of Canada that results from this ethnic setting enhances the educational experience for all overseas students.

Access to Facilities: Top Canadian cities offer first-class amenities, structures, and tools that correspond with the expectations of scholars. A variety of resources and services that facilitate academic, social, and personal growth are within the reach of students such as the world-famous libraries and research centres, recreation spots, dining options and cultural institutions. The best cities in Canada are also accessible to overseas students due to the availability of easy public transport systems.

Professional Development and Networking: There are numerous opportunities for professional growth and advancement, mentoring and networking in the best cities in Canada when studying there. Students can take part in professional associations or student groups related to their respective areas of study, interact with experts from the sector and attend seminars, among other events. Networking throughout one’s academic journey can help obtain a promotion at work, find a mentor in the field, and make lifelong friends and support systems

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Conclusion

When considering the best student cities in Canada, evaluating various factors and carefully prioritising your preferences is important. This will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your academic, personal, and professional aspirations.

Reach out to SIEC for Application inquiries and assistance.

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