Studying and Living in Canada

Studying in Canada is a rewarding investment in your future with access to leading education, exhilarating cross-cultural experiences, and a globally recognized degree. Canada extends the lowest tuition fees for international students compared to the U.K., Australia, New Zealand and the U.S.

Campus Life in Canada

With two official languages, viz. English and French, Canada is a contemporary, progressive multicultural nation. Canada has been successful in consistently ranked among the top countries in the United Nations Quality of Life Index.

As an international student, one can look forward to a vibrant and fulfilling campus life in Canada that enriches and enhances the student experience while in Canada.

The Highlights of Campus Life for International Students

Most of Canadian educational institutions offer a comprehensive orientation process for international students. The orientation program involves academic recommendations and procedures, rules and regulations, activities, clubs and associations information. These orientation programs are indispensable to learning about the campus and its surroundings. Most campuses are home to a variety of student associations, clubs, sports programs and interest groups that welcome international students and help them to fully participate in campus and local spirit. Typically, there is a general student association for all students. Many schools have federations or associations that are entirely comprised of international students. Participation in one of more of these associations or clubs encourages students to become deeply involved in campus life. All in all, Canada provides an enriching experience.

Accommodation

Students in Canada have a wide range of different accommodation options available for students during their studies in Canada. Some popular accommodation choices in Canada include private flats/apartments, hostels, home stays, on campus residence and hotels.

Choosing your accommodation is an important step in your transition so, start searching for the same as early as possible, especially if you want to apply for on-campus accommodation.

Home stay Accommodation

The home stay in Canada helps a student to practice their English skills in an informal setting and to experience Canadian culture first-hand. It is a cultural exchange between a local individual or family and a visiting international student. The home stays usually all meals.

Private Apartments

Many students prefer private apartments, but price, quality and availability vary greatly. Student share accommodation to keep costs down and usually find places to meet their needs and preferences.

Hotels

Hotels are available in every city in Canada. It is extremely costly when used over a longer period of time. Hotel rates vary from city to city.

Hostels

Hosteling is a temporary and inexpensive way to stay in major cities. A hostel is an economical accommodation with primary facilities available, i.e. toilets, bathrooms and kitchens. The hostel rooms are available on sharing basis.

On-Campus Residences

On-Campus Residences are available at many schools in Canada and are a popular way for students to live, study, and make friends. Rooms vary in size and in quality and are separated by gender. Many dormitories have shared kitchens, bathrooms and laundry facilities.

Working while you study

Working while you study in Canada can help complement your study and living experience. There is a mass of data available over the Internet that will help you identify how many jobs are available to somebody with your skills and experience at whatever broken time in any given area of Canada.

On-Campus Work

Full-time students registered in a degree or diploma-granting course can work up to 20 hours on the campus of the institution at which they are registered without the need for an employment authorization. You just need a valid Study Permit.

Off-Campus Work

International students are allowed to work off campus while completing their studies in Canada.

Internships

Paid or unpaid internships can be a great way to get exposure to the professional, financial and creative industries. Getting involved in something is a great way of networking. Many people are able to discover their interests and values through getting involved in various activities different from a regular routine. Internships provide students with a great opportunity to acquire real-world experience.

Working after graduation

The Post-Graduation Work Permit Program allows you to gain valuable Canadian work experience after you have completed your studies in Canada. This can help you apply to become a permanent resident of Canada. Work permit is valid for three years under this program.
Eligibility Criteria: You must have graduated from a public or private institution that grants degrees recognized by the province or territory. These institutions may include a university, college or CEGEP.

Transportation

Canada has a vast network of well maintained roads. The transport options available in Australia include buses, trains, etc.  The access to these transport services will vary depending on where you live.  One can also access private and public car services from taxis to hired limousines, available to take you from door to door. Some larger education providers will likewise have their own in-house transport system, especially useful if you have to leave your campus late at night or live in a hard-to-reach area.

If you are staying in Canada for less than three months, you can use a valid driver’s license issued by your country. If you are staying longer than three months, you must hold an international driver’s license (IDL) from your country of abode.

Health and Safety

Canada is a peaceful, secure and spick and span country.

Emergency

Call 911 in any emergency situation. This is a central number for police, fire and ambulance throughout Canada.

Personal

Canada is a safe place to live and study. Public transport is reliable and widely used in Canada. A number of security measures have been implemented to maximize the safety of public transport users, including security officers and guards, help points, good lighting and security cameras.