Many students ponder whether studying in the UK or Canada is the better option. Both destinations offer excellent education, a comfortable lifestyle, and dependable public services. This comprehensive guide aims to help you decide if the UK or Canada is the best place to pursue your academic goals abroad.
Education System Comparison: UK vs. Canada
Education System in the UK
The UK has a rich academic heritage and is renowned for its state-of-the-art research facilities. The exceptional quality of education at UK universities attracts international students seeking to enhance their career opportunities.
Education System in Canada
Canadian higher education institutions are committed to supporting student success in all areas—academic, professional, and personal. Canadian universities blend lectures and tutorials and are dedicated to high standards in both research and teaching.
Types of Higher Education Institutions
In the UK
- Autonomous Institutions: Privately or publicly funded and independently operated.
- Degree-Granting Institutions: Award a range of degrees, including foundation, teaching, and research degrees.
- Universities: Can be either privately or publicly funded.
- Group Institutions: Many have formed alliances, such as the Russell Group and the Cathedrals Group.
In Canada
- Universities: Offer associate degrees, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.
- Colleges: Provide diploma and university transfer programs.
- Community Colleges: Offer certificates, diplomas, associate degrees, bachelor's, and master's degrees.
- Career and Technical Colleges: Focus on technical training, concluding with certificates or degrees.
Top Universities: UK vs. Canada
Comparing university rankings is an excellent way to gauge the quality of education in the UK and Canada. According to the QS World University Rankings, some of the top universities in each country include:
Dual Degrees: UK vs. Canada
Pursuing dual degrees can be an excellent way to combine different skills, such as business and food. Here are some notable dual degree programs available in both the UK and Canada:
Dual Undergraduate Degrees
- Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and Bachelor of Business
- Bachelor of Business Administration and Bachelor of Information Technology
- Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts
- Bachelor of Design and Bachelor of Media Communication
- Bachelor of Pedagogy and Bachelor of Music
Dual Master’s Degrees
- Master in Cyber Security Analysis and Master in International Relations
- Master in Accountancy and Master in Business Law
- Master in Creative Industries and Master in Management
- Master in Planning and Master in Architecture
- Master in Business Analytics and Master in Management
Types of Postgraduate Degrees: UK vs. Canada
In the UK
Master’s Degrees (Taught/Research): 1 to 2 years
Doctorate (PhD): 3 to 7 years
In Canada
Postgraduate Diplomas: 1 year
Master’s Programs: Up to 2 years
Doctorate Courses: Up to 6 years
Top Scholarships: UK vs. Canada for International Students
Both the UK and Canada offer numerous scholarships to international students. Here are some of the top scholarships available in each country:
University Admission Requirements: UK vs. Canada
Admission requirements vary by institution, subject, and level of study. Generally, prestigious universities in both the UK and Canada require the following:
Visa Requirements: UK vs. Canada
UK Student Visas
- Student Route (General) Visa: For students aged 16 and over admitted to a UK educational institution.
- Student Route (Children’s) Visa: For students aged 4 to 17 attending an independent fee-paying school.
- Short-Term Study Visa: For short-term courses like English language or training programs.
Canadian Student Visa
The Canadian student visa, or study permit, requirements can change rapidly. Stay updated through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
Student Employment: UK vs. Canada
Working in the UK
To work in the UK after graduation, you need a new visa or an extension. The most common work visas are Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur), Tier 2 (General), and Tier 5 (Temporary Worker). Visit the UK government website for more details.
Working in Canada
The Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PWPP) allows you to gain work experience in Canada after graduation. This work visa enables you to work in any profession and change employers freely for up to three years.
Cost of Studying: UK vs. Canada
The cost of studying varies by field and university. Here’s an estimated breakdown of annual tuition fees:
UK
- Undergraduate Program: £13,000 to £32,000
- Postgraduate Master’s Degree: £13,000 to £32,000
- Doctorate: £15,000 to £24,000
- MBA: £13,000 to £32,000
Canada
- Undergraduate Program: CAD 15,000 to CAD 50,000
- Postgraduate Master’s Degree: CAD 20,000 to CAD 30,000
- Doctorate: CAD 12,000 to CAD 20,000
- MBA: CAD 24,000 to CAD 40,000
Cost of Living: UK vs. Canada
The cost of living depends on your lifestyle and the city you choose to study in. Here’s a comparison:
UK (Monthly Costs in GBP)
- Hostels and Guest Houses: £300 – £600
- Shared Rental: £610 to £1,255
- On-Campus Accommodation: £664 to £850
- Host Family Accommodation: £600 to £800
- Private Apartment: £600 to £1,000
- Internet/Telephone: £12 to £30
- Food: £100 to £300
- Electricity/Gas: £80
- Transport: £44
Canada (Monthly Costs in CAD)
- Hostels and Guest Houses: CAD 300 – CAD 600
- Shared Rental: CAD 250 to CAD 700
- On-Campus Accommodation: CAD 500 to CAD 1,500
- Host Family Accommodation: CAD 400 to CAD 800
- Private Apartment: CAD 400 to CAD 1,500
- Internet/Telephone: CAD 50 to CAD 76
- Food: CAD 1,200 to CAD 1,500
- Electricity/Gas: CAD 200
- Transport: CAD 100 to CAD 150
Best Cities for International Students: UK vs. Canada
According to the QS Best Student Cities Ranking, three of the ten most student-friendly cities in the world are in the UK and Canada. Here are some of the best cities for international students in each country:
If you’ve read this far, consider this your sign to take the first step toward your journey abroad. Contact a certified advisor who can help you choose the best study destination and course, and guide you through your application process for free.