Canada vs Australia Which Country is Better for International Students

Choosing the right country for your study abroad journey can be an overwhelming task with so many factors to consider. To help make this decision easier, we’ve compared two of the most popular study destinations: Canada and Australia. Both countries offer stunning landscapes, world-class universities, and unique opportunities for international students. Below, we’ll break down the key factors that distinguish studying in Canada and Australia in 2024, so you can make an informed decision.

Study Permits and Work Opportunities: Canada

Temporary Cap on Study Permits

In 2024, Canada is implementing a 35% reduction in study permits, issuing a total of 360,000 permits. This cap is part of a larger effort to manage the increasing number of international students while ensuring the quality of education remains high.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Changes

• From September 1, 2024, students enrolled in private colleges with licensed curriculums will no longer be eligible for the PGWP, limiting post-study work opportunities for those in private institutions.
• Master’s graduates, however, will benefit from three-year PGWPs, giving them ample time to work and gain experience in Canada after graduation.

Spousal Open Work Permits

Only spouses of students enrolled in master’s, doctoral, or professional programs will be eligible for open work permits, narrowing the scope for spousal employment opportunities during the student’s study period.

Cost of Living

Starting January 1, 2024, international students will need to demonstrate $20,635 (previously $10,000) to cover living expenses in Canada, excluding Quebec. This increase reflects the rising cost of living and ensures that students are financially secure during their studies.

Study Permits and Work Opportunities: Australia

Financial Requirement

As of May 10, 2024, the financial requirement for student visas in Australia is set at $29,710. This ensures that students can comfortably manage their living expenses, including accommodation and daily necessities.

• Study Visa Acceptance Rate

Australia boasts a high visa acceptance rate of 96.8%, making it an accessible destination for eligible students. With clear eligibility criteria, many international students find Australia to be a welcoming and straightforward option.

• Spousal Dependents

Spouses of students pursuing master’s or Ph.D. programs in Australia are eligible for dependent visas, allowing them to accompany the student and live in Australia during their study period. This adds flexibility for families who wish to stay together while pursuing higher education.

Land Area Comparison Between Canada and Australia

Both Canada and Australia are vast countries, but they differ significantly in terms of land area and geographic features.

• Canada is the second-largest country in the world, covering 9.98 million square kilometers. Its diverse landscape includes dense forests, towering mountains, and countless lakes and rivers. Despite its size, much of Canada is sparsely populated, with the majority of people living along the southern border near the United States.

• Australia, the sixth-largest country, spans 7.69 million square kilometers. Its landscape features arid deserts, tropical rainforests, and long coastlines. Unlike Canada, Australia’s population is more evenly spread across its coastal regions, especially in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Although smaller in land area, Australia has a higher population density compared to Canada.

Employment Rate Comparison Between Canada and Australia

Factors	Canada	Australia
Employment Rate	Approximately 62%	Approximately 64%
Economic Sectors	Technology, natural resources, services	Mining, agriculture, finance, tourism
Regional Employment	Higher in provinces like Ontario and British Columbia; lower in rural areas	Higher in urban areas like Sydney and Melbourne; lower in rural regions
Economic Performance	Resilient job market despite global challenges	Strong economic performance with job creation policies
Workforce Participation	Affected by regional disparities	Encouraged by government policies to boost workforce participation

Both Canada and Australia have strong labor markets, with slight differences in employment rates and economic structures. Canada’s employment rate stands at 62%, while Australia’s is slightly higher at 64%. Urban areas in both countries tend to have stronger employment rates, while rural regions face more challenges.

Universities and Courses: Canada vs. Australia

Canada		Australia
Best Universities	Courses	Best Universities	Courses
McGill University	MBA in Canada	Australian National University	MBA in Australia
University of Toronto	Hospitality Management	The University of Melbourne	Bachelor of Community Services
University of British Columbia	Computer Programming	The University of Sydney	Early Childhood Education
University of Alberta	Nursing	The University of New South Wales	Cyber security
University of Montreal	Engineering	The University of Queensland	Nursing
McMaster University	Media & Journalism	Monash University	Accounting
University of Waterloo	Health & Management	The University of Western Australia	Tourism and Hospitality Management
			Business and Management
			Agricultural Sciences
			Architecture
			Psychology

 

While both Canada and Australia offer world-class education, Australia provides a more extensive range of programs, covering fields from Business and Nursing to emerging areas like Cybersecurity and Agricultural Sciences. This makes Australia a diverse and attractive destination for students looking to pursue a wide variety of career paths.

Climate Considerations: Canada vs. Australia

Before deciding on your study destination, it’s essential to understand the climate of both countries as it can greatly impact your living experience.

Canada’s Climate

Canada’s climate varies widely due to its vast size, spanning five time zones. Winters are typically cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, especially in northern and inland areas. Summers are cooler, with refreshing weather, making it a pleasant time to explore the country’s natural beauty.

Australia’s Climate

Australia, on the other hand, enjoys a warmer, more temperate climate. Summer begins in December and lasts until February, with average temperatures around mid-20s degrees Celsius. Winter starts in June, but temperatures remain relatively mild, especially in coastal cities like Sydney and Brisbane. Australia’s sunny weather is ideal for outdoor activities year-round.

Need More Information?

For more detailed insights into study options, visa processes, and living conditions in Australia, reach out to Bansal Immigration Consultants. We offer expert guidance tailored to your educational background and career aspirations, ensuring you make the best choice for your future.

DISCLAIMER
The content provided is for informational purposes only and does not constitute immigration or legal advice. Policies and regulations are subject to change. Consult an Australian MARA registered agent or immigration lawyer for professional advice before making any application.

Make your study abroad dreams a reality with the right knowledge and expert support from Bansal Immigration Consultants!