Many of us have dreamed of studying abroad. However, selecting a country is not just a matter of personal preference but requires careful consideration and thorough research. In recent years, countries like Australia, Germany, Canada, and New Zealand have become popular choices for those seeking to escape a highly competitive environment. 

If you have looked into a comparison between Canada and Australia, you may have discovered that both countries are known for their exceptional global educational infrastructure. They have some of the best education systems, with universities consistently ranked among the top in the world. Although one country may excel in one area, the other may offer unique advantages. 

Canada and Australia are two countries that are highly popular for international students who wish to study abroad. Both countries offer excellent education, a multicultural environment, and personal and professional growth opportunities. However, choosing the correct country to study in can take time and effort, and students must weigh various factors before deciding. 

Let's examine both countries based on several parameters.

Canada vs Australia Comparison

Education System

The education systems of Canada and Australia are similar in many ways. Both countries offer high-quality education, with universities and colleges recognized globally. In Canada, universities are either publicly funded or private, and the quality of education is consistently high across all institutions. The same is true for Australia, where universities are public or private, and the quality of education is top-notch. Both countries have strict quality control measures to ensure that all educational institutions maintain high standards.

In Canada, the education system is categorized into four stages: preschool to primary education, secondary education, and post-secondary education, encompassing college and university courses. Post-secondary education is further divided into three stages, namely, Undergraduate Bachelor's degree, Postgraduate Master's degree, and PhD, with degree programs lasting for 2-6 years.

Australia's education system, on the other hand, has three tiers: primary, secondary, and tertiary. The tertiary tier is composed of ten levels, which include a certificate, diploma, advanced diploma, associate degree, bachelor's degree, bachelor's honors degree/ graduate certificates and diplomas, master's degree, and doctoral degrees. Like Canada, Australian university programs also last 2-6 years.

Cost of Living and Tuition Fees

The cost of living and tuition fees are important factors that international students must consider before choosing a country to study in. 

The cost of living in Canada is relatively high, with tuition fees averaging around CAD 30,000 per year. However, scholarships and bursaries are available to eligible students, which can help offset the cost of tuition. 

The cost of living in Australia is slightly lower than in Canada, but tuition fees are higher, averaging around AUD 40,000 per year. Like Canada, scholarships and bursaries are available to international students to help cover the cost of tuition.

Total Expenses to Study in Canada for International Students

Cost of Living in Australia for Indian Students

Admission Requirements

Canada

• Applicants should have completed their 10+2 with a 70-80% score for undergraduate admissions.
• Applicants must have taken the IELTS test and scored 6.5, with each band score above 6.0, to be considered for admission.
• When applying for postgraduate programs, students must take standardized entrance exams such as SAT/ACT and other relevant exams.
• To apply for a postgraduate program, candidates must have completed their bachelor's degree with first-class honors.
• Applicants wishing to enroll in an MBA program must have at least 2-3 years of work experience.
• Students pursuing management programs should aim for a GMAT score above 550.
• Some universities may require applicants to take the GRE for admission to specific postgraduate programs.
• Applicants must achieve an IELTS score of 6.5 with all band scores above 6.0 for postgraduate admission.

Australia

• To be eligible for postgraduate admission, students must have completed their pre-university education for 12 years.
• An overall minimum score of 5.5 is required in the IELTS exam.
• Students must have completed an undergraduate degree to be considered for postgraduate admission.
• Depending on the course, applicants may be required to submit GRE scores.
• A minimum IELTS score of 6.0 is mandatory for postgraduate admission.

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Canada vs Australia: Top University 

Popular Courses

Canada

• Computer Science and Information Technology
• Business Administration and Management
• Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, etc.)
• Health Sciences (Nursing, Medicine, etc.)
• Environmental Sciences
• Architecture and Planning
• Education and Teaching
• Hospitality and Tourism
• Media and Communication
• Arts and Humanities

Australia

• Business Administration and Management
• Accounting and Finance
• Information Technology and Computer Science
• Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, etc.)
• Health Sciences (Nursing, Medicine, etc.)
• Law
• Environmental Sciences
• Education and Teaching
• Hospitality and Tourism
• Media and Communication

Work Opportunities

One of the main reasons international students choose to study abroad is to gain work experience and enhance their career prospects. Both Australia and Canada offer numerous job opportunities across a wide range of industries. However, there are some differences in terms of job availability and demand between the two countries.

In Canada, international students can work part-time while studying and full-time during scheduled breaks. After graduation, students can apply for a work permit, which allows them to work in Canada for up to three years. 

In Australia, international students can work up to 20 hours per week while studying and full-time during scheduled breaks. After graduation, students can apply for a post-study work visa, which allows them to work in Australia for up to four years.

Both Australia and Canada offer numerous job opportunities across a wide range of industries. However, there are some differences in terms of job availability and demand between the two countries.

Australia is known for its vital mining and resources industry, with many job opportunities.

The healthcare, education, tourism, and construction industries are also growing and offer job opportunities.

On the other hand, Canada has a strong technology industry, with many job opportunities in software development, data analysis, and other tech-related fields. Canada also has a strong finance and banking industry and a growing healthcare and biotech industry.

Both countries have a high demand for skilled workers, particularly those with experience in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), healthcare, and education. However, the job market in Australia may be more competitive, with a higher unemployment rate than in Canada.

Visa Process

Canada

• To apply for a Student Visa in Canada, there is a mandatory fee of USD 120.
• The student and any accompanying family members must provide their medical certificates during the application process.
• Family members can apply to join the student in Canada, regardless of the level of study the student is pursuing.
• The visa allows students to work up to 20 hours per week during regular school sessions and up to 40 hours per week during scheduled breaks.
• If a spouse or common-law partner accompanies the student to Canada, they can work up to 40 hours a week, and the duration of their work permit depends on the student's study duration.
• If the student's visa application is approved outside Canada, they will receive a sticker on their passport. A CBSA officer will issue them a study and work permit upon entry to Canada.
• Students can apply for a postgraduate work permit within 90 days of their studies.

Australia

• The fee for applying for a student visa in Australia is around USD 535.
• Individuals holding a study visa in Australia must work 40 hours per fortnight.
• If a student is pursuing a Master's degree or PhD, their spouse can obtain a dependent visa. However, if the student is pursuing other programs, the spouse must apply for an independent visa to work without restrictions on their working hours.

Student Life

International students can expect a vibrant and active life in Canada and Australia. Both countries have a variety of extracurricular activities and clubs available, and students can participate in sports, cultural events, and volunteer opportunities. Canadian universities and colleges are known for their student-run societies, which offer a variety of activities and events. In Australia, universities also offer a range of clubs and societies, and there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in the local community.