You Want To Study in Canada? Pick The Province That Fits You

It shouldn’t shock you to learn that international students are flocking to Canada in record numbers. Canada’s reputation as warm, welcoming, and friendly has its merits.

According to the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers, 39 percent of US schools saw a decline in international applicants a year ago, while Canadian schools have seen a dramatic uptick—20 percent to 40 percent increases in applications at some schools.

Recruitment experts attribute the surge to shifts in the visa and immigration policy both in the US and the UK. Some call it “the political climate” that is causing significant changes away—to the benefit of Canadian schools.

Want to study in Canada? Let’s take a closer look at the provinces—and find one that suits you.

For diversity: Ontario

Home to 40 percent of the nation’s population, Ontario has a diversity of people from around the world, landscape, weather, university options—and food. Yes, it’s true—there’s great food to be had in this province. Boasting wilderness and the great lakes, Ontario is home to six of the nation’s top schools. Its most diverse city, Toronto, has large populations of people from around the world—Greece, China, India, Poland, Italy, and the Philippines, among others. Did we mention a thriving arts scene, metropolitan cities, the great outdoors, and jobs galore?

For Francophone culture: Québec

Want to feel like you’re in France? The culture of Québec offers a distinct French culture, without being too overpowering. You’ll have the convenience and grandeur of living in one of the world’s most unique places, have access to amazing food, shopping, theater, and the arts, and study at some world-class universities—not to mention the chance to brush up on your French. Can you say “poutine?” We say “delicieuse.”

For the sea: Nova Scotia

If it’s briny air and wide tidal ranges that you crave, look no further than Nova Scotia. No point in Nova Scotia is more than 100 miles from the ocean. Studying in Nova Scotia gives you the opportunity to receive a high-quality education and to experience a distinct Atlantic culture. If you want a coastal, recreational paradise combined with top-notch universities, put Nova Scotia on your list.

For the landscape: Newfoundland and Labrador

With some of the most startling topography in the world, Canada’s most eastern province has its own time zone and offers its own vibrant Atlantic culture rich in music, art, food, and universities. Coupled with a relaxed lifestyle, relative affordability, myriad outdoor options, and superior schools, Nova Scotia is an international student’s dream. Paddle a river, hike a mountain, earn a degree, and explore all that Newfoundland and Labrador have to offer.

For healthcare: New Brunswick

We know that Canada is well-known for its healthcare system. This should sweeten the pot though: the government of New Brunswick will make Medicare available to all international students with valid study permits studying at institutions of higher education. We’re not kidding. New Brunswick is looking to attract more international students to its excellent schools. We think it will work.

For small, but cozy: Prince Edward Island

If you’re already a fan of Anne of Green Gables, this is an easy one. Canada’s smallest province is every bit as cute and cozy as you suspect. As an international student, you would join a vibrant community of students from over 60 countries—and enjoy the lifestyle, culture, and economic benefits of this unique province. Colleges and universities in the area boast high rates of satisfaction—and preparation for industry-specific careers.

For the low costs: Manitoba

With a high standard of living and low cost, Manitoba offers world-class education, cutting-edge facilities, and affordable tuition. International students in Manitoba also have the option to work while studying, have access to free healthcare, and participate in English or French immersion programs. There’s also a tuition tax rebate for international students—which offers up to 60 percent tax rebate on your tuition.

For the sun: Saskatchewan

Can you say it? Try it. Sas-catch-you-wan. Canada’s sunniest province offers the most sunlight hours of all the provinces. Despite its long winters, studying in Saskatchewan has its perks. With two world-class public universities, immersion programs in French and English, and opportunities in a growing economy, Saskatchewan offers international students an excellent—and sunny—choice on the prairie.

For the Rockies: Alberta

Are the mountains calling? To Alberta you shall go. With over 17,000 international students, Alberta is one of Canada’s biggest study-abroad destination. With highly ranked universities, the spectacular Canadian Rockies, plentiful industry, and youthful, innovative cities, Alberta is the place to be. Did we mention the snow? There’s a lot of it…

For quality of life: British Columbia

Boasting communities rich in ethnic and linguistic culture, British Columbia is home to nearly a third of Canada’s international population. Vancouver consistently ranks as one of the places in the world with the highest quality of life—and with good reason. British Columbia is home to some of the world’s best public services, recreation opportunities, housing, environment, and personal safety. It’s also home to world-class universities.

Not enough to think about? Consider the Canadian territories: the Yukon, Nunavut, and the Northwest territories beckon.