6 Best Cities in Canada for Studying Abroad
Canada is home to approx 4 Lakh Indian students who are pursuing higher degree programs in fields like science, management, arts and humanities, engineering, life sciences, etc. These cities are popular for providing the best student experience in terms of the best universities, academic programs, employers’ activities, a strong focus on safety and security, and cultural diversity.
Decisions should be made after receiving thoughtful insights from experienced professionals or experts like AdmitX. This blog will guide you in understanding the important factors you should consider before deciding.
Top 5 Best Cities in Canada for Studying Abroad
The following are the 5 popular cities in Canada for studying abroad are listed below, along with their QS Best Student City Rankings 2024.
| City | QS Best Student City Rankings 2024 |
|---|---|
| Montreal | 10 |
| Toronto | 11 |
| Vancouver | 19 |
| Ottawa | 57 |
| Quebec City | 128 |
Montreal
Montreal is situated in Quebec, the largest province of Canada. The city is deeply influenced by French culture, attracting around 50,000 international students in 2023-24.
Montreal boasts around 11 universities and 60 colleges, offering diverse academic programs at all levels. Due to these reasons, Montreal is one of the best cities in Canada for studying abroad.
Why Study in Montreal?
Low Cost of Living: Compared to other metropolitan cities such as Toronto, the average rent of housing is approximately 40% less, which forms a significant part of the living expenses. The average cost of living in Montreal is around INR 15 Lakhs-19 Lakhs per year.
High Quality of Education: The various world-class universities and colleges located in Montreal offer excellent education to international students, making them ready for the future.
Cultural Significance: Montreal is the 2nd largest French-speaking city after Paris. The influence of French culture can be observed in everything in the city, from its architecture to cuisine and fashion to technology.
Leading Institutes in Montreal
The following are the leading universities located in Montreal, along with their QS World University Rankings 2024.
| University | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
|---|---|
| McGill University | 29 |
| University of Montreal | 159 |
| Concordia University | 415 |
| University of Quebec and Montreal | - |
| HEC Montreal | - |
Toronto
Toronto is considered one of the internationally popular cities in Canada for studying abroad. In 2023-24, approx 44,000 international students were enrolled in the various colleges and universities of the city.
Toronto is Canada’s largest centre of education, research, and employment. It is also home to 8 publicly funded universities, several colleges, technical and apprenticeship institutes, and research centres.
Why Study in Toronto?
Diverse Culture: Toronto is also one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world, with 44,000 international students from more than 10 countries. You don’t need to travel anywhere in the world to learn new cultures and languages as you can get all of them in one place.
Networking and Connections: Toronto is a major Canadian city that is the centre of education, research, and employment, providing numerous opportunities to connect with professionals from a diverse range of industries and global companies.
Quality of Life: Toronto is popular for offering a clean and safe environment along with an efficient transportation system, healthcare services, and cultural activities.
Leading Institutes in Toronto
The following are the leading universities and colleges located in Toronto, along with their QS World University Rankings 2024.
| University | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
|---|---|
| University of Toronto | 25 |
| York University | 362 |
| Toronto Metropolitan University | 801 |
| Humber College | - |
| Seneca College | - |
Vancouver
Vancouver is one of the best cities in Canada for international students to pursue higher studies because it consistently ranked among the QS top student cities in the world.
There are approximately 20,000 international students currently residing in Vancouver. The city is famous for offering high-quality education, exposure to natural landscapes, vibrant student life, and diverse career opportunities.
Why Study in Vancouver?
Academic Excellence: Vancouver is home to globally recognised universities such as the University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University, offering a diverse range of courses in technology, environmental sciences, business management, and arts.
Thriving Job Market: Vancouver is popular for providing opportunities in sectors like filmmaking, digital media, technology, and environmental sustainability.
Recreational Activities: Vancouver is also the home to arts and cultural scenes, with museums, theaters, festivals, and music events.
Leading Institutes in Vancouver
The following are the leading universities and colleges located in Vancouver, along with their QS World University Rankings 2024.
| University | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
|---|---|
| University of British Columbia | 38 |
| Simon Fraser University | 319 |
| Vancouver Island University | 1200 |
| Capilano University | - |
| Langara College | - |
Ottawa
Ottawa is the capital city of Canada, and it hosts some world-renowned institutes, such as the University of Ottawa. As the capital city, it provides international students with degrees in political science, law, and public administration to utilise their knowledge and skills in driving innovation toward the betterment of society.
Why Study in Ottawa?
Career Development: Ottawa provides access of government institutions, embassies, and international organisations to international students, creating opportunities for internships, networking, and career growth.
High Quality of Life: Ottawa is one of the best cities in Canada for international students because it provides them with a clean and green environment with a rich cultural experience.
Innovation & Research: The city is also popular for fostering innovation and research activities by promoting collaboration between leading research institutions, industries, and academic institutes.
Leading Institutes in Ottawa
The following are the leading universities and colleges located in Ottawa, along with their QS World University Rankings 2024.
| University | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
|---|---|
| University of Ottawa | 189 |
| Carleton University | 741 |
| Ottawa University College of Law | - |
| Saint Paul University | - |
Quebec City
Quebec City is the major town after Montreal, located in the Quebec province. It provides a warm and welcoming environment to international students. Quebec City is home to one of the world’s oldest universities, the University of Laval, which offers specialised study programs in the fields of humanities, arts, social sciences, and science.
Why Study in Quebec City?
Affordable Living: The average cost of living in Quebec City is around INR 7 Lakhs-15 Lakhs per year, which is much lower than other major popular cities in Canada.
Safety: Quebec is the city where the crime rate is much lower, approx 40% less than the national average, making it an ideal place for international students to live and work.
Cultural Heritage: Quebec City is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site as it is popular for places such as Château Frontenac and Old Quebec, along with a lively arts and festival scene.
Leading Institutes in Quebec City
The following are the leading universities and colleges located in Quebec City, along with their QS World University Rankings 2024.
| University | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
|---|---|
| University of Laval | 423 |
| University of Quebec | 851 |
Key Takeaways by AdmitX
Canada is one of the leading countries offering exposure to globally renowned universities, a diverse range of academic programs at all levels of study, post-study job opportunities, and the chance to explore its rich blend of Canadian and French cultures.
AdmitX is committed to assisting you in finding your dream Canadian university and academic program aligned with your career aspirations.
FAQs
What are the best cities to live in Canada for Indian students?
According to QS, the best cities to live in Canada for Indian students are are Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa, and Quebec City.
What is the cost of living in Canada for Indian students?
The average cost of living in Canada for Indian students is around CAD 15,000-30,000 or INR 9 Lakh-18 Lakh per year, depending on the location and lifestyle preferences of the students.
What is the cheapest city in Canada for Indian students to live in?
Quebec City is the cheapest city to live in Canada for Indian students since it provides affordable lifestyle options to them. The average living expenses in Quebec City are around CAD 11,000-24,800 or INR 7 Lakhs-15 Lakhs per year, much lower than the national average.
Is Toronto expensive for pursuing higher education?
Toronto is a metropolitan urban centre of Canada, where pursuing higher education might be more costly financially. The average cost of living in Toronto is around CAD 29,800-41,400 or 18 Lakhs-25 Lakhs per year, slightly higher than the national average.
How much does it cost to study in Canada?
The average cost of study in Canada is around CAD 18,000-50,000 or INR 10 Lakhs-30 Lakhs per year, depending on the study level, university, and academic program.
