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Introduction

Once you have decided to study abroad, the next question that lingers in your mind is which country and university is the right one for you. There are countless countries and universities to choose from and it can be an overwhelming decision for a student to make. Among Indian students, Australia and Canada are two popular choices for studying abroad. In this article, let's compare these two countries to find out which is best suited for you: Australia or Canada.

To make an informed decision we need to differentiate the two countries based on certain factors which include the quality of education, university rankings, university acceptance rates, student visa permits, post-graduation opportunities, etc. This article covers each point in depth, for you to have clarity on your decision.

Australia vs. Canada: What are the Key Differences?

The decision to choose between Australia and Canada for higher education can be a daunting task, given their exceptional academic standards and diverse cultural experiences. Both countries attract a large number of international students because of the high quality of education and job prospects they offer. Australia and Canada are among the top English-speaking countries which makes them a popular choice among international young students for abroad education. The top cities in Australia for studying are Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and Canberra. The top cities in Canada for studying are Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Ottawa, Calgary, Edmonton, Waterloo, Kingston, and Halifax.

The table highlights some key differences, let’s look into it: 

(Read More:What are the advantages of studying abroad?)

Australia vs. Canada: A Comprehensive Guide for Indian Students

We need to look into the rules, criteria, and factors these countries have for Indian students. The popular courses, university acceptance rates, working hours, post-graduation opportunities, immigration rules, PR processes, etc. Both countries have different rules and norms that one should follow to get study and work permits. This article will serve as a comprehensive guide for you to understand all this.

Australia and Canada: What are the admission requirements?

Study in Australia Requirements

Australia is a top choice for Indian students and here are the eligibility requirements to secure a spot in Australian universities. 

For Undergraduate (UG) courses:

• Education: 12 years of pre-university education.
• Language Tests: TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE.

For Postgraduate (PG) courses:

• General Requirement: 3-year UG degree (4 years for engineering).
• Entrance Exams: GMAT  is widely accepted and GRE is less likely considered in Australian Universities.
• Language Tests: TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE.
• Work Experience: It is sometimes required for management courses. Consider a graduate certificate or diploma if lacking experience.

Language tests might be waived by some universities but are generally recommended for admission.

Study in Canada Requirements

Canada is also a very popular choice for Indian students and here are the requirements that you need to fill to secure a spot in Canadian universities:

Undergraduate (UG) Courses:

• Education: Completion of 12 years of schooling.
• Entrance Exam: SAT.
• Program Duration: 4 years for degrees, 2-3 years for diplomas.

(Read More: Check out the eligibility criteria to study in Australia)

Postgraduate (PG) Courses:

• For Vocational Courses: Relaxed admission criteria
• For Management Degrees: GMAT
• For Engineering Degrees: GRE.
• Cutoffs: Canadian universities don't have strict cutoffs. They mention average scores for each course on their website.
• Language Tests: TOEFL or IELTS. Some universities might relax the language criteria for Indian students but you should still take up the test for Visa approvals.

Check out the Visa Essentials for Australia and Canada

The Indian students who qualify for the exams and get selected for the universities have to apply for a visa to go and study abroad. The qualification criteria for a student visa varies country-wise. A detailed description is mentioned below.

Visa Essentials for Canada

• Acceptance Letter: A valid acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.   
• Proof of Funds: Demonstrating sufficient financial resources to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation.   
• Language Proficiency: Proof of English or French language proficiency through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent.   
• Medical Exam: This may be required based on your country of origin.   
• Study Permit: A study permit is the official document permitting you to study in Canada.  
• Cost of Visa: It costs $150 to apply for this visa.
• Working hours: As a student, you cannot work more than 20 hours a week and not more than 40 hours in the holiday season.
• Post-graduation work permit: You have to apply for a post-graduation work permit visa in canada within 9 days of your studies.

Visa Essentials for Australia

• Acceptance Letter: A valid acceptance letter from an Australian educational institution.
• Proof of Funds: Demonstrating sufficient financial resources to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation.
• English Language Proficiency: Proof of English language proficiency through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent.
• Health Insurance: Overseas students must have health insurance coverage.
• Character Requirement: A police clearance certificate may be required for certain countries.
• Student Visa: A student visa is the official document permitting you to study in Australia.
• Cost of Visa: The cost of the student visa application fee is AUD$1,600.
• Working Hours: International students are generally allowed to work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the academic year and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.
• Post-Study Work Visa: Graduates may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), which allows them to work in Australia for a specified period after completing their studies. The eligibility criteria and duration of the visa vary depending on the course and other factors.

List of Top Universities in Australia

(Note: Are you new to Canada? Here’s a checklist of essential things to do in Canada during your first week:)

List of Top Universities in Canada

Australia vs Canada: What is the cost of studying?

Studying abroad is expensive and thus a student should make an informed decision on the course, university, and country. To give you an idea of the studying cost, a table with details is mentioned below.

You have to remember certain factors affect tuition fees. These include the university and course you choose. Prestigious universities, and specialized, professional courses generally have higher fees. The city that you decide to pursue your course in also affects your cost of living. However, there are scholarships and financial aid in Australia and Canada that can help a student cover all costs of tuition and living. It's important to research specific universities and courses to get accurate tuition fee information.

Australia vs. Canada: Which country allows a work visa?

Foreign countries have their rules and regulations for people to work once they complete their education in these countries.

In Australia

Once you are done with your graduation in Australia, the country allows you to work as a full-time employee. Graduates with diplomas and other qualifying credentials are eligible for the 18-month subclass 485 visa through Australia's graduate work stream. This visa allows graduates to extend their stay in Australia by up to two years or six years, depending on their level of study.

In Canada
Canada allows students with study visas to apply for work visas once they are done with their graduation. The Canadian Post-Graduate Work Permit enables graduates from any post-secondary institution to work in Canada for a period of up to three years following their studies. This work permit grants flexibility, allowing graduates to explore employment opportunities across various fields and industries.

(Suggested Read: What are the medical tests required for applying Canada PR?)

Career Paths: Australia v/s Canada

The students who pursue their graduation in foreign countries, most likely want to pursue their careers in the same countries. Australia as well as Canada have a vast industrial sector with jobs in multiple branches and roles. Let’s explore them in the coming paragraphs.

Australia
Australia offers a wide range of job opportunities. Technology, healthcare, mining, education, finance, construction, agriculture, and tourism are among the most popular sectors. The specific job market can vary based on location and industry trends.

Canada
Canada offers a diverse range of job opportunities as well. Popular sectors include technology, healthcare, engineering, finance, education, and natural resources. The specific job market can vary based on location and industry trends.

Unlike Indian colleges, foreign universities do not have the concept of campus placements. The students are expected to apply and find work based on their interests and preferences.

Navigate the Permanent Residency in Australia and Canada

The students put in a lot of hard work to complete their education in foreign countries. Most of these students aspire to live in these countries once they complete their graduation and settle completely as well. Given their low population density, these countries are seeking individuals with specialized skills. The countries give permanent residencies to people.

PR in Australia
Getting a Permanent Residency in Australia is a difficult and long process but it's possible. Australia offers a pathway to permanent residency (PR) for skilled workers, family members, business investors, and individuals with exceptional talent.
The PR process involves meeting specific criteria, such as having a skilled occupation, fulfilling English language requirements, and scoring points based on factors like age, education, and work experience.
Once granted PR, individuals can live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely, enjoying access to healthcare, education, and social services. However, the process can be competitive, and meeting all the requirements is essential for successful application.

PR in Canada
Getting a Permanent Residency in Canada is comparatively easier. Like Australia, Canada also offers a pathway to permanent residency (PR) for skilled workers, family members, business investors, and individuals with exceptional talent. The PR process is also based on criteria like work and English speaking skills and specific PR point criteria are to be met.
Once granted permanent residency, individuals in Canada enjoy the privilege of living, working, and studying indefinitely. This status provides access to comprehensive healthcare, quality education, and various social services. However, securing permanent residency in canada can be competitive, and meeting all the requirements is essential for a successful application.

Conclusion

Both Australia and Canada offer excellent study-abroad options. The best fit among both depends on your priorities. Consider all factors before joining any program like course offerings, costs, climate preference, and future career aspirations. Make sure to research specific universities and programs to get a clearer picture.
At Global Tree, we're committed to providing top-notch services to make your study abroad aspirations a reality. We hope that this article has helped you to get a clear understanding and perspective on studying in Australia and Canada. All the best for your future champ!!!