Deciding between Canada and Australia for your higher education is a significant choice. Both countries have top-notch universities and a wide variety of courses to offer.

This decision can shape your future career, so it’s important. In this blog, we’ll weigh the costs of studying in both countries, the advantages and disadvantages of pursuing a Master’s degree in each place, and more.

Remember, the key is to base your choice on your personal goals and interests. Whether you’re drawn to Australia’s vibrant cities or Canada’s stunning landscapes, both countries provide excellent education and a path to a successful career.

So, let’s kick off this journey to explore studying in Canada vs. Australia! ๐Ÿš€

Study in Australia vs.Canada: A Guide For International Students

Let’s dive in! ๐ŸŒ๐ŸŽ“

Remember, “Every journey begins with a single step,” so consider this comparison as the first step to your global educational adventure!ย 

Aspects ๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡บ Australia ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฆ Canada
Academic Requirements Completion certificate of 12 years of primary and secondary education. A score of above 60% in the 12th grade for undergraduate programs.
Language Proficiency Accepted proofs are IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores with a minimum IELTS score often of 6.5. Accepted proofs are IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores with the IELTS score usually required between 6.0-7.0.
Additional Exams Certain courses like Engineering or Medicine have additional prerequisites like specific subjects at the school level or tests like ISAT for Medical programs. Specific exams like GMAT for Business and Management courses, or GRE for Engineering and Science programs may be required.
Other Requirements Students must prove they are Genuine Temporary Entrants (GTE) to ensure the student visa is used purely for study purposes. A crucial part of the admission process is the Statement of Purpose (SOP), which outlines your interest in the chosen course and your long-term goals.
Structure of Education System The Australian education system consists of three tiers: primary, secondary, and tertiary (subdivided into ten levels), with the duration of university courses ranging from 2-6 years. The Canadian education system is divided into four stages: preschool, primary education, secondary education, and post-secondary education (undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD), with degrees lasting 2-6 years.
Institutions Public and Private Universities, Private Colleges, TAFE, and Institutes of Technology/Australian Technology Network offering practical education and tech courses. Colleges, also known as Institutes of Technology, and Universities offering undergraduate and graduate programs.

Always remember to do your research and verify specific requirements with each institution you are considering. As the saying goes, “forewarned is forearmed.” So, the more you know about each country’s educational system, the better prepared you’ll be! ๐Ÿš€

Student Visa: Australia Vs. Canada For International Students

Let’s compare the student visa process for Canada and Australia in a structured way. After all, “The first step is the hardest in every journey of dreams.” So let’s make that first step a little easier for you! ๐ŸŒ๐ŸŽ“๐Ÿ’ผ

Aspects ๐Ÿ Canada ๐Ÿฆ˜ Australia
Type of Visa Study Permit Student Visa (Subclass 500)
Visa Application Requires an application form, necessary fees, and an application package containing documents such as proof of acceptance, proof of identity, proof of financial support, and a letter of explanation. Requires a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) at an Australian university, proof of financial capacity, English proficiency evidence, health insurance (OSHC), and a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement.
Work While Studying Permits students to work on or off-campus for up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions, and full-time during scheduled breaks. Allows students to work up to 40 hours per fortnight during term time, and unlimited hours out of term time.
Post-Graduation Work Permit Students can apply for a PGWP that allows them to work in Canada for a length of time equal to the length of their program, up to 3 years. Graduates can apply for a Post-Study Work Visa that allows them to stay and work in Australia for 2-4 years, depending on the qualification achieved.
Visa Application Cost USD 120 Approximately USD 535
Family Members Family members can apply to accompany students to Canada, regardless of the level of study. Spouse or common-law partner are entitled to work for up to 40 hours a week. The duration of their work permit depends on the student’s duration of the study. Spouses can only get dependent visas if students pursue a Master’s degree or PhD. Otherwise, the spouse needs to apply for an individual visa to work for endless hours.
Medical Certificates Mandatory for the student and accompanying family members to provide at the application. Not specified

Remember, as the proverb goes, “Every man for himself, and God for us all.” Make the choice that suits you the best. Happy planning, and may your educational journey be a fulfilling one! ๐ŸŒˆ๐Ÿ€

Study in Canada vs. Australia: Best Institutions for Indian Students

Here’s a comparison of some top universities in Australia vs. Canada for Indian students based on their average annual tuition fees according to the QS University World Rankings 2023.ย 

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡บ Australian Universities Average Annual Tuition Fees (AUD) ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฆ Canadian Universities Average Annual Tuition Fees (CAD)
The Australian National University 33,000 – 50,000 McGill University 21,000 – 56,000
The University of Melbourne 30,000 – 48,000 University of Toronto 30,000 – 58,000
The University of Sydney 30,000 – 59,000 University of British Columbia 32,000 – 55,000
The University of New South Wales 16,000 – 40,000 University of Alberta 13,000 – 49,000
The University of Queensland 30,000 – 43,000 University of Montreal 18,000 – 36,000
Monash University 25,000 – 37,000 McMaster University 25,000 – 60,000
The University of Western Australia 23,000 – 53,000 University of Waterloo 30,000 – 62,000
The University of Adelaide 23,000 – 53,000 Western University 21,000 – 52,000
University of Technology Sydney 20,000 – 37,000 University of Ottawa 16,000 – 32,000
University of Wollongong 20,000 – 30,000 University of Calgary 18,000 – 36,000

 

Keep in mind that tuition fees may vary depending on the program of study and the level of study (undergraduate or postgraduate). So, it’s always wise to check the official university websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Good luck! ๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿ’ผ๐ŸŽ’

Courses for Higher Education

In the challenging quest for selecting the perfect international study destination, one of the most pivotal aspects students need to consider is the variety and strength of the courses offered by each country. Let’s dive deeper into what the Canada education system for international students and Australia school education system has to present in this regard:

 

Courses Canada (Cost in USD) ๐Ÿ Australia (Cost in USD) ๐Ÿฆ˜
Diploma/ Certificate/ Vocational Training Ranges between $7,966 – $11,950 It’s a bit of a mixed bag down under, with costs ranging from $2,979 – $16,385
Undergraduate Program Fees typically fall in the range of $10,357 – $15,935 Australia’s undergrad programs can put a slightly heavier dent in your pocket, with costs between $11,188 – $26,106
Postgraduate Master’s Degree Moving up the academic ladder, Master’s degrees in Canada usually cost around $13,544 – $19,919 Australia continues the trend of being slightly pricier, with costs hovering between $14,918 – $31,327
Doctoral Degree For the ultimate academic achievement, Canada charges between $5,577 – $11,951 Australia, on the other hand, requires an investment of between $14,918 – $31,327
MBA The ticket to the high table of business in Canada ranges from $23,902 – $31,870 If you’re headed to the land of kangaroos for an MBA, be prepared to shell out a hefty $40,000 – $63,000

 

The ultimate choice depends on the student’s personal interest, career goals, and the specific strengths of each country’s education system.

Scholarships for International Students in Canada:

Hereโ€™s a list of the scholarships in Canada for Indian students as well as international students:

  • Vanier Graduate Scholarships
  • IDRC Research Awards
  • Ontario Trillium Scholarshipย 
  • Quebec Provincial Government Scholarship
  • Canada โ€“ ASEAN SEED
  • Canada Memorial Scholarship
  • Anne Vallee Ecological Fund
  • Trudeau Scholarships and Fellowships: These prestigious awards provide an opportunity for Indian students in Canada to engage in impactful research and policy work in Canada, inspired by former Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau’s legacy.

ย Scholarships for Indian students in Canada offer fantastic opportunities for Indian students looking to further their education in Canada.

Scholarship for International Students in Australia

ย Here is a list of scholarships to study in Australia:

  • Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS): Available for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral courses, these scholarships are funded by the Australian government and provide opportunities for international students, including those from India.
  • Endeavour PG Scholarship Award: This program offers Masters scholarships in Australia to outstanding students interested.
  • International PG Research Scholarship Award: Designed for postgraduate research students, this scholarship supports international scholars pursuing research degrees in Australia.
  • Indo-Australia S&T Visiting Fellowship Programme: This initiative fosters scientific and technological collaboration between India and Australia, offering visiting fellowships for researchers.
  • Australia-India Strategic Research Fund: This fund supports collaborative research projects between the two countries, facilitating academic exchanges and innovative research.
  • Australia International Postgraduate Research Scholarships (IPRS): These scholarships are aimed at international postgraduate students seeking to undertake research programs in Australia.

Medical Student Scholarships Australia

Scholarships available for MBBS programs in Australia along with their approximate values:

  • Scholarships for MBBS in Australia: Scholarships for medical students pursuing an MBBS degree in Australia are available, with award values varying from approximately AUD 10,000 to AUD 100,000.
  • Notable Medical Student Scholarships in Australia: Among these opportunities, two notable scholarships include:
  1. ย the Monash International Merit Award andย 
  2. the Sydney Achievers International Award.ย 

These awards aim to support international students pursuing their medical education in Australia.

It is recommended that students apply for Australia University scholarships approximately one year in advance after receiving an offer of admission from their respective Australian university. These programs and scholarships in Australia for Indian students provide valuable opportunities for students pursuing higher education in Australia.

Exploring Post-Study Opportunities: Canada vs. Australia for International Students

The potential for finding employment in a country after graduation is a key consideration for many international students when selecting their study location. In this respect, both Canada and Australia offer attractive stay-back options. Let’s study a comparative analysis:

 

Post-Study Opportunities Canada ๐Ÿ Australia ๐Ÿฆ˜
Stay Back Option Offers the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) which equals the length of the study program, up to 3 years Provides the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) under which students can stay up to 4 years depending on their qualifications
Pathway to Permanent Residency The work experience under PGWP can contribute towards an application for permanent residency Generally, does not directly provide a pathway to permanent residency
Job Scope Popular job sectors include teaching, pharmaceuticals, finance, construction, nursing, and program analysis Famous fields include education, hospitality, medical services, accounting, and computer system design

 

Job Role Average Salary Canada (CAD/year) Job Role Average Salary Australia (AUD/year)
Accounting Manager 178,000 CAD Legal 60,000 AUD
CA 104,000 CAD ICT 80,000 AUD
Financial Analyst 160,000 CAD Accountancy 92,648 AUD
Graphic Designer 75,800 CAD Banking and Finance 81,000 AUD
Architect 147,000 CAD Consultancy 79,000 AUD
Business Analyst 154,000 CAD Rail and Maritime Transport 120,000 AUD
Civil Engineer 111,000 CAD Sales 70,000 AUD
General Engineer 109,000 CAD Marketing and Communication 87,570 AUD
Mechanical Engineer 118,000 CAD Business Manager 112,737 AUD
HR Manager 178,000 CAD Engineering 110,032 AUD
Biomedical Engineer 98,500 CAD Human Resource 87,793 AUD
Pharmacist 151,000 CAD Health Care and Social Assistance 99,500 AUD

Understanding Tax Obligations: A Comparison Between Canada and Australia for Indian Students

As an international student, understanding the tax regulations of your study destination is a crucial aspect. Both Canada and Australia have specific tax guidelines for international students. Let’s examine the tax obligations in each country:

Tax Obligations Canada ๐Ÿ Australia ๐Ÿฆ˜
Residency Rule for Tax Taxes are based on residency status, not citizenship Temporary visa holders (e.g., student visa) are considered residents for tax purposes if they stay for more than six months
Essential Identification Number Students planning to work need a Social Insurance Number (SIN) All working individuals, including international students, need a Tax File Number (TFN)
Tax System Progressive, with both federal and provincial returns required Progressive
Tax-Free Threshold (2022) Earnings less than CAD 13,808 are not taxable Earnings less than AUD 18,200 are not taxable
Tax Rates (Above Threshold) Range from 15% to 33% based on income Range from 19% to 45% based on income
General Taxation Taxes tend to be higher, with income tax in major cities (e.g., Toronto and Vancouver) up to 53% Taxes tend to be lower, with income tax in major cities (e.g., Sydney and Melbourne) around 45%

At the end of the day, both Canada and Australia are fantastic destinations for international studies, each offering unique experiences and opportunities. “Variety is the spice of life,” they say. So remember, it’s ultimately your journey! Choose wisely, and make it count! ๐ŸŒŸ๐Ÿ˜Š

Cost of Living in Australia vs Canadaย 

Letโ€™s take a look at the cost of living of both the countries:

 

Expenses Australia Canada Difference
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant $22.52 $22.00 -2.3%
Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant $108.09 $90.00 -16.7%
One-way Ticket (Local Transport) $4.05 $3.25 -19.8%
Monthly Pass (Regular Price) $148.18 $100.00 -32.5%
Basic Utilities for 85m2 Apartment $270.80 $198.16 -26.8%
Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult $68.31 $56.14 -17.8%
Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat $18.02 $15.00 -16.7%
Preschool (or Kindergarten), Full Day $2,114.11 $1,087.75 -48.5%
1 Pair of Jeans (Levis 501 Or Similar) $107.54 $71.67 -33.4%
Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre $2,069.19 $1,636.61 -20.9%
Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre $3,391.65 $2,690.71 -20.7%
Price per Square Meter in City Centre $10,019.14 $8,933.55 -10.8%
Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax) $4,545.66 $4,070.23 -10.5%
Mortgage Interest Rate (Yearly, 20 Years) 5.05% 5.92% +17.3%

Canada or Australia – Which Country Takes the Crown for International Studies?๐ŸŽ“๐ŸŒ

Study Abroad Factors Canada ๐Ÿ Australia ๐Ÿฆ˜
Cultural Environment Diverse and inclusive cultural setting Unique lifestyle that blends leisure with learning
Education Quality Acclaimed universities offering a broad spectrum of courses World-class education across a comprehensive range of subjects
Post-Study Work Opportunities Wholesome experience with good opportunities, relaxed immigration policies aiding settlement post-education Robust economy offering lucrative job prospects for graduates
Climate Typically colder with four distinct seasons Warmer, with plenty of sunshine most of the year
Conclusion Offers a well-rounded study experience with potential for immigration Provides a unique lifestyle blending quality education with recreation

 

However, the final choice between Canada and Australia boils down to the individual student’s preferences, the course of study, budget considerations, and long-term goals. As a student, it’s essential to conduct thorough research and possibly seek advice from educational consultancies like Navigators Overseas, Chandigarh, known as the Best Study Visa Consultants in Chandigarh, with our extensive and customised assistance. Our services can simplify and streamline your path to Australian education. Whether it’s selecting the appropriate course and university, handling visa procedures, or providing pre-departure advice, our expert guidance can play a crucial role in turning your aspirations of studying in Australia into a reality. So, study in Canada vs. Australia. Which is better? The choice is yours!

Good luck! ๐ŸŒŸ๐Ÿš€

 

FAQs

Why might one choose Australia over Canada for study?

Australia and Canada each shine in their respective areas of academic expertise. Canada education system excels in disciplines like Business Management, Nursing, Engineering, Media, Hospitality, and Computer Science. Conversely, the current education system in Australia leads the pack in fields like Information Technology, Accounting, Education, Healthcare, MBA, and Hotel Management. Your choice would largely depend on your chosen area of study.

Is studying in Canada or Australia more cost-intensive?

On average, the cost of living in Canada ranges between 800-1,000 US Dollars monthly. On the other hand, international students in Australia may face expenses totaling up to 1,200 US Dollars per month. Thus, Australia can be slightly more expensive.

Where can one earn more – Canada or Australia?

In terms of productivity levels and average income (as measured by per-person gross domestic product, or GDP), Australia currently enjoys a slight edge over Canada. However, it’s essential to note that earning potential can also be industry and region-specific.

Is it simpler to obtain a Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia?

Obtaining an Australian PR visa can be straightforward provided you meet the eligibility criteria and secure a good score on the points system that Australia uses for PR applications. However, the ease of this process can depend on individual circumstances and qualifications.

Which country has a higher GDP – Canada or Australia?

Australia and Canada share similar GDP per capita levels. However, since 1990, Australia’s growth in real GDP per capita has been marginally higher than Canada’s. This doesn’t automatically translate into a richer experience for international students and would depend on various other factors like the cost of living and individual lifestyle.

How can I get scholarship to study in Australia?ย 

To secure a scholarship to study in Australia, follow these steps:

  • Research available scholarships: Explore scholarships offered by Australian universities, government programs, and private organizations.
  • Check eligibility criteria: Make sure you meet the requirements for the scholarships you’re interested in.
  • Prepare application materials: Gather necessary documents, including academic transcripts, reference letters, and a well-written personal statement.
  • Apply on time: Submit your scholarship applications before the specified deadlines.
  • Seek financial aid offices: Contact your chosen universities or institutions to inquire about additional scholarship opportunities.

What types of scholarships in Australia?ย 

Scholarships in Australia can be categorized into various types:

  • Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded based on academic excellence and achievements.
  • Need-Based Scholarships: Provided to students with financial need.
  • Government Scholarships: Funded by the Australian government for domestic and international students.
  • University Scholarships: Offered by Australian universities to attract talented students.
  • Research Scholarships: For postgraduate research students.
  • Sports Scholarships: Awarded to athletes with outstanding sporting achievements.
  • Industry-Specific Scholarships: Available for students pursuing studies in specific fields.

How can I get a scholarship to study in Canada?ย 

To obtain a scholarship for studying in Canada, follow these steps:

  • Research Canadian universities and identify universities that offer scholarships for international students.
  • Review eligibility criteria: Ensure you meet the requirements for the scholarships you’re interested in.
  • Prepare application materials: Gather essential documents, including transcripts, recommendation letters, and a compelling personal statement.
  • Apply before deadlines: Submit your scholarship applications on time, as missing deadlines can disqualify you.
  • Explore external opportunities: Look for scholarships provided by Canadian government programs, non-profit organizations, and foundations.
  • Seek guidance: Contact university financial aid offices or education consultants for advice on scholarship opportunities and application strategies.

SOURCES:
https://www.admitkard.com/get-australia-scholarships/ย 

https://www.affinityeducation.in/study-abroad-2023/

https://www.kanan.co/blog/canada-vs-australia

https://www.educanada.ca/scholarships-bourses/index.aspx?lang=eng

https://yocket.com/blog/canada-vs-australia

https://www.upgradabroad.com/articles/canada-or-australia-which-is-better-for-students/

Veena Goel

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