UK vs Canada: Which is Better for International Students?
Choosing a study destination abroad can be an exciting yet daunting task. Two popular destinations for international students are the United Kingdom and Canada. Both countries offer unique advantages and disadvantages that should be carefully considered before making a final decision. While both the UK and Canada are excellent choices for higher education, the UK often holds a slight edge in terms of institutional prestige. According to the QS World University Rankings 2023, four of the world's top universities are located in the UK. Some of these renowned institutions, known for their pioneering education and research, include Cambridge, Oxford, and Imperial College London.
Factors Influencing the Choice of Study Destination
When considering a move to a foreign country for higher education, numerous factors should be taken into account. Key considerations include the institution's academic reputation, employment opportunities for international students, including permissible work hours and wages. Other influential factors encompass:
- Cultural nuances and lifestyle
- Visa regulations and requirements
- Part-time and post-study work prospects
- The perceived value of the degree in the student’s home country
- Cost of living
- Language proficiency requirements
- Climate of the destination country
Education Quality and Universities
United Kingdom
According to the Times Higher Education ranking, the UK boasts over 100 public institutions, with 11 universities ranking among the top 100 globally. Four prestigious British universities, including the renowned Oxford and Cambridge (collectively known as Oxbridge), are consistently placed among the top 20 worldwide for their exceptional education. The teaching style is primarily lecture-based, and final grades are typically determined solely by end-of-term examinations. When applying to UK universities, students are usually required to specify their final degree subject at the time of application.
Canada
Canada houses 90 universities, of which 30 are ranked internationally. Notable institutions include the University of Toronto and the University of British Columbia. Although Canadian universities hold three spots within the top 100 global rankings, universities such as Toronto, British Columbia, and McGill are consistently ranked among the world's best for business administration and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs.
While Canadian universities adhere to a predetermined curriculum, they offer flexibility for students to choose electives, explore their interests, and personalize their academic journey.
University Admissions in Canada and the UK
Both Canada and the UK are home to world-class universities, making their high acceptance rates unsurprising.
A proficiency in English, preferably demonstrated through an IELTS score, is a mandatory requirement for both countries. Even if the university’s language requirements are less stringent than those of the government, a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or 6.5 overall and in each band is typically necessary for a visa.
Both countries require a 12-year high school diploma for undergraduate programs and a 3 or 4 year bachelor’s degree for graduate programs. The primary difference lies in their grading systems.
As mentioned earlier, the UK has more stringent academic requirements. Consequently, they typically demand a minimum of 80% for both high school and undergraduate admissions, with only a few institutions accepting a minimum of 75% depending on the specific program. Canada, on the other hand, generally requires an average of 70% for both undergraduate and graduate programs.
Canada's admission requirements are generally considered more lenient. For undergraduate programs, the SAT is often required, while the GMAT is typically needed for graduate programs and the GRE for engineering. In the UK, MBA applicants may be required to submit GMAT scores, depending on the program and institution, while those applying for science-related programs may need GRE scores.
It's important to note that each university in both countries has its own specific requirements. To determine which country is the best fit for you, your academic record and personal interests play a significant role.
Popular Programs and Course Structures
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom offers a wide array of highly sought-after programs that attract international students. These fields of study include management, nursing, psychology, law, computer science, design, and medicine.
Most academic programs in the UK are lecture-based, with final grades primarily determined by examinations and assignments. While students pursuing arts-related disciplines often engage in more discussion-based classes and actively create work, those studying science and mathematics typically spend more time in laboratories or clinical settings.
Canada
Canada has established itself as a leading destination for international students, particularly in fields such as agriculture and forestry, business administration, biology, information technology and computer science, finance, and engineering.
Canadian universities typically evaluate students through a combination of examinations and assignments. However, there may also be opportunities for independent research and project-based learning. Your final grade is often influenced by a variety of factors, including coursework, group projects, and workshops.
Program Duration
Undergraduate programs in Canada generally last between three and four years, while graduate programs typically take one to two years to complete.
Tuition Fees and Living Costs
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is known for having some of the most expensive international education programs. While specific costs can vary widely between institutions, you can expect to pay between $18,000 and $28,000 USD per year for undergraduate and postgraduate studies. Living costs in the UK typically range from $2,100 to $3,200 USD per month, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses.
Canada
Tuition fees in Canada can vary significantly depending on the university and the specific program. Undergraduate tuition fees typically start around $28,000 USD per year, while postgraduate fees can be around $19,000 USD. Living costs in Canada can also vary depending on the city and lifestyle. On average, you can expect to spend between $1,300 and $2,000 USD per month on accommodation, food, and other expenses. This brings the total annual living cost to around $16,000 USD, though it could be as low as $10,000 USD or as high as $20,000 USD.
Work Permits for International Students
United Kingdom
International students studying in the UK are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and an unlimited number of hours during vacations. Upon graduation, international students can apply for a Post-Study Work visa, which allows them to stay in the UK for up to two years to seek employment or work in a relevant field.
Canada
International students with a study permit in Canada are allowed to work on or off-campus for up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions.
Canada offers a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to international students who have graduated from a designated learning institution. This permit allows graduates to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies.
Popular Job Opportunities
United Kingdom Lawyers, IT managers, engineers, orthodontists, dermatologists, advertising and public relations managers, and other professionals are among the highest-paying occupations in the United Kingdom.
Canada In Canada, project managers, human resources managers, nurses, IT managers, financial analysts, engineers, and other professionals are in high demand.
Safety and Security
Both the UK and Canada prioritize the safety and security of their international students. Universities in the UK, particularly within their campuses, have robust security measures in place, including CCTV surveillance and trained security personnel, to provide students with a safe and comfortable environment to pursue their studies. Canada is generally considered a very safe country, and students often feel comfortable and secure walking the streets. Canadian universities also implement various security measures such as patrols and safety programs to maintain a safe environment both on and off campus.
However, given the current global climate, it is always advisable for international students to connect with local students and advisors to ensure their personal safety in a foreign country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which country offers more affordable tuition fees, the UK or Canada?
Canada generally offers more affordable tuition fees, especially for postgraduate studies. Overall, the cost of postgraduate studies in Canada is lower than undergraduate studies in the UK.
Is IELTS mandatory for both the UK and Canada?
To demonstrate English language proficiency, you will need to take a standardized test such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic.
Can international students work part-time while studying in the UK and Canada?
Yes, international students are generally allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations.