Life in Canada as an Indian Student: Cities & Activities to Explore
Canada is a premier study destination for Indian students. With over 4 Lakh Indian students residing in the country, pursuing various study programs and employment opportunities, students get a platform for academic and career growth.
In this blog, we have given you a brief snapshot of life in Canada as an Indian student, highlighting academic experiences, cultural diversity, and social opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Student Life in Canada: Key Highlights
- The history and tradition of Canada are significantly influenced by French and American culture, providing a unique experience to international students.
- Canada is also known as an immigrant-friendly country since it welcomes people from almost 100+ countries who come there for studies and job opportunities.
- Due to this reason, Canada has gained the reputation of being a country of diverse ethnicity and inclusiveness.
- Life in Canada for Indians is enriching and diverse because there are numerous opportunities for them to grow themselves personally, professionally, and socially.
| Total Population | 4 Crore |
| Number of Public Universities | 100 |
| Number of Private Universities | 250 |
| Number of Indian Students | 4 Lakhs |
| Popular Cities Among Indian Students | Toronto Vancouver Ottawa Montreal Winnipeg Calgary Halifax |
Academic Life in Canada
The academic programs available at Canadian colleges and universities aim to develop a research-oriented mindset in the students. There is a continuous emphasis on hands-on learning, with skill development and vocational training to meet the demands of various industries and prepare students to take on real-life challenges.
- The academic life in Canada is both fulfilling and enriching as the curriculum is based on a research and development-oriented framework.
- The coursework of Universities in Canada fosters skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership abilities.
- Lectures and classroom discussions in Canadian universities and colleges are student-centric, so students can respectfully ask questions and challenge the professor’s viewpoint.
- Students benefit from interactive teaching methods that include group projects, case studies, and hands-on learning experiences.
- Universities in Canada encourage students to participate in career fairs, networking events, sports activities, mentorship programs, etc., to facilitate the building of a strong network globally.
Cultural and Social Life in Canada
Life in Canada as an Indian student is exciting and a blend of cultural inclusiveness, diversity, and dynamic experience. They get opportunities to interact with peers from different countries and cultures, celebrate global traditions, and immerse themselves in local traditions.
Inclusiveness: International students in Canada are expected to share their traditions and appreciate diversity by participating in networking events and local festivals.
Equality and Respect: International students from over 100+ countries are treated equally and respectfully. Canadian people are tolerant and community-oriented, emphasising the importance of giving back to the people of the society.
Local Events: Students are often encouraged to take part in music concerts, art exhibitions, cultural exchange programs, and sports activities, which foster a sense of community and belongingness.
Exploring Life in Canada as an Indian Student: City by City
Exploring life in Canada as an Indian student means immersing yourself in vibrant cultural traditions and discovering the rich historical significance of the country. Below, we have briefly described the unique aspects of some popular Canadian cities, such as Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa, and Montreal, which are hotspots for Indian students.
Toronto
Toronto is one of Canada’s most culturally diverse and vibrant cities, with a large Indian community residing in the neighbourhoods of Brampton, Scarborough, and Mississauga. Toronto is popular for winter activities such as skiing and snowboarding as it experiences the maximum snowfall in a year during winter.
| Popular Institutes | University of Toronto York University Humber College Toronto Metropolitan University Seneca College |
| Cost of Living (Per Year) | INR 15 Lakh-25 Lakh |
| Popular Attractions | Royal Ontario Museum St. Lawrence Market High Park Nathan Phillips Square Kensington Market |
| Famous Cuisines | Butter Tart Poutine Peameal Bacon Sandwich Bannock Cinnamon Buns |
| Popular For | Snow Tourism Adventure Games Architectural Buildings |
Vancouver
Vancouver is popular for hosting several Indian festivals and cultural celebrations throughout the year. It offers a blend of traditional culture exposure, academic opportunities, and outdoor activities. As compared to Toronto, the climate is mild in this city due to its proximity to coastal regions. It makes the atmosphere warm and pleasant, suitable for pursuing outdoor activities.
| Popular Institutes | University of British Columbia Simon Fraser University University of Vancouver Island Capilano University Langara College |
| Cost of Living (Per Year) | INR 14 Lakh-25 Lakh |
| Popular Attractions | Stanley Park Greenville Island Capilano Suspension Green Park Grouse Mountain Kitsilano Beach |
| Famous Cuisines | Candied Salmon Japadog B.C Roll Poutine Tacofino |
| Popular For | Iconic Beaches Water Sports Diverse Wild and Marine Life |
Ottawa
Ottawa is the capital city of Canada and is home to some of the prestigious national museums. The city is well known for hosting the Canadian Tulip Festival every spring. Bilingualism is a unique aspect of Ottawa City since both English and French are recognised as the city’s official languages.
| Popular Institutes | University of Ottawa Carleton University Ottawa University College of Law Saint Paul University |
| Cost of Living (Per Year) | INR 11 Lakh-22 Lakh |
| Popular Attractions | Parliament Hill National Gallery of Canada Canada War Museum Rideau Hall National Arts Centre |
| Famous Cuisines | Mapon Bacon Donuts Pancake Buttered Bacon Tourtiere Moo Shu Icecream Shawarma |
| Popular For | National Museums Spring Festivals Parks and Gardens |
Montreal
Montreal is the largest Canadian metropolis and offers exposure to a blend of Canadian-European culture and traditions. It is the second largest French-speaking city in the world after Paris. The French influence can be visualised in everything from the city’s marvellous architecture to cuisine and art.
| Popular Institutes | McGill University University of Montreal Concordia University University of Quebec and Montreal HEC Montreal |
| Cost of Living (Per Year) | INR 15 Lakh-19 Lakh |
| Popular Attractions | Mount Royal Park The Underground City (RECO) Le Ronde Amusement Park Montreal Tower Jean-Talon Market |
| Famous Cuisines | Mish Mash Omelette Beautys Special Cheesecakes Poutine Snowdon Deli |
| Popular For | Creative Arts and Festivals Winter Activities European Charm |
Key Takeaways by AdmitX
Pursuing higher studies in Canada gives an immense opportunity to explore the country’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant lifestyle, and world-class education system.
Influenced by European and American cultures, Canada is home to international students from 100+ countries. Canada is one of the most developed countries, offering something valuable to everyone who wants to fulfill their dreams and establish their identity.
Reach out to AdmitX for personalised and end-to-end assistance to help you reach Canada.
FAQs
What difficulties are faced by Indian students in Canada?
The most common problems or difficulties faced by Indian students in Canada are cultural adaptation, financial management, homesickness, loneliness, job market difficulties, etc. However, these problems stimulate students to develop resilience and build a growth mindset.
Can I take my family to Canada while studying?
While on a study visa, Indian students can invite their parents to visit on a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA), which allows them to travel to Canada.
How much can students earn in Canada while studying?
An Indian student can earn upto CAD 25 or INR 1,500 per hour in Canada while working part-time on a study visa. As per new rules, international students can work 24 hours a week.
What is the minimum requirement of funds to go to Canada as an international student?
International students, including Indians, must have CAD 20,635 or INR 12 Lakhs in their bank account as proof of financial stability to cover their living expenses while studying in Canada.
What is the cost of living in Canada for Indian students?
The average cost of living in Canada for Indian students is around 1,040-2,810 or INR 62,600-1.70 Lakh per month, depending on the city, location, and lifestyle preferences of the students.
