Why study in Canada? - National Bank

Studying abroad is an excellent way to explore new horizons and enhance your academic experience. Here are five good reasons to study in Canada, one of the most popular destinations for international students.
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Canada is a bilingual country with both English and French as its official languages. Although both languages are spoken in every province, French is predominant in Quebec while English is more common in the other provinces.
Thanks to this wealth of languages, you can develop valuable skills for the job market. You can choose to study in either language, or even work in both throughout your studies.
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is a Canadian federal government program that accelerates the process of applying for a post-secondary study permit if you meet certain criteria.
This program applies only to residents of countries on the Canadian government’s list. If you don’t live in one of the countries on the list, you can still use the Canadian government’s regular study permit application process to come study in Canada.
One of the criteria required to obtain a study permit with the Student Direct Stream program (SDS) is acquiring one or more Guaranteed Investment Certificate(s) (GICs) from an eligible financial institution. As of January 2024, the minimum amount required to invest in a GIC with the program was 20,635 CAD. However, this amount is subject to change as it adjusts to the cost of living in Canada. To find out the exact amount you’ll need to invest, visit the Government of Canada website.
Depending on your financial institution, additional fees may be added to this amount.
Good to know: A GIC is a type of investment that allows you to invest money for a fixed term and in which your initial capital is protected.
When you arrive in Canada, you’ll receive an initial disbursement. The remaining funds will be paid to you on a monthly or bi-monthly basis (over a period of 10 to 12 months) by your financial institution according to its terms.
Discover our GIC offer for international students
Visit the Government of Canada for more details on the SDS program criteria.
Some scholarships offered in Canada are available to international students to help cover tuition fees and other costs such as travel and accommodation. Here are a few examples:
For more information on the different types of student loans available in Canada, see our article.
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Canada’s high-quality education system encourages the development of interdisciplinary and transferable skills such as critical thinking, teamwork and communication. Students get access to some of the best learning tools in the world as part of an educational system that’s at the cutting edge of knowledge and technology.
Canada’s academic excellence is widely recognized, with a number of Canadian universities placing high in international rankings every year.
Post-secondary institutions offer a wide range of programs and fields of study, so every student can find the one they’re passionate about. Many resources are available, such as the Government of Canada website, to help you determine which educational institution is right for you.
Want to stay in Canada after your studies? There are work programs that enable students who’ve graduated from eligible Canadian post-secondary institutions to continue their experience while developing new skills.
With a post-graduation work permit (PGWP), you can stay in the country longer to gain work experience. This invaluable experience will add depth to your resumé.
Good to know: If you meet certain criteria, you might also be able to work while you study.
Canada offers an enviable quality of life, with its universal healthcare system, extensive social safety net, inclusive culture and a lower cost of living (housing, transportation, tuition) than many other Western countries. It’s also culturally diverse, with a stable and safe living environment that respects the rights of individuals and communities.
You can explore Canada’s vast and breathtaking landscapes, including the Rockies, Great Lakes, and Far North, while immersing yourself in its vibrant cultural scene at numerous events and festivals. If you’re a fan of the outdoors, you can practise a wide range of activities in winter (such as downhill and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, skating and field hockey) and summer (hiking, swimming, tennis, kayaking and more).
All in all, Canada offers some of the best universities in the world, a diverse cultural environment, the opportunity to gain work experience in your field of study and, who knows, maybe even a place to build a career. It’s safe to say that Canada has a lot going for it.
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This article is provided by National Bank, its subsidiaries and group entities for information purposes only, and creates no legal or contractual obligation for National Bank, its subsidiaries and group entities. The details of this service offering and the conditions herein are subject to change.
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Views expressed in this article are those of the person being interviewed. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of National Bank or its subsidiaries. For financial or business advice, please consult your National Bank advisor, financial planner or an industry professional (e.g., accountant, tax specialist or lawyer).

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