Prospective students considering a move abroad may assess the benefits of studying in Canada, instead of the USA. Although the United States is a popular destination, Canada is currently the number one country for international students.
In recent years, the United States’ standing as a leading country for international students has declined, while Canada has risen to the top. So, why are more students studying in Canada than the United States?
Top Reasons Of Studying In Canada Instead Of The USA
Access To Healthcare
When considering the main distinctions between Canada and the United States, Canada’s universal healthcare system may spring to mind.
Individual provinces administer Canadian healthcare, therefore the coverage available varies. Not all provinces provide coverage for temporary residents, such as overseas students. However, students in provinces without international students can usually enroll in their school’s health plan or use one of several low-cost private insurance companies.
In the United States, several colleges require overseas students to obtain health insurance. As a result, young students frequently have to pay exorbitant fees for private healthcare.
Difficulties Obtaining A Study Permit
The Department of Homeland Security has proposed requiring overseas students to reapply for their visas every year that they attend school in the United States. In contrast, the Canadian government encourages students to remain in the nation for as long as possible.
The visa application process in the United States is also time-consuming and intricate, requiring extensive inspection, questioning, and a lot of waiting. The Canadian visa application process is simpler and faster, making it easier for overseas students to get a study permit.
A Canadian study permit can be processed in as little as three weeks. On the other hand, obtaining an American study permit often takes significantly longer.
Cost Of Living
Not only is studying in the United States more expensive than studying in Canada, but it is also much more difficult to obtain financial aid as an international student in the US. Canadian universities are more likely to provide financial help or scholarships to international students, which is uncommon in the United States.
Furthermore, on average, Canadian university tuition rates are 27% less expensive than those at US universities. However, tuition rates aren’t the only thing to consider. The cost of living is also significantly lower in Canada. International students may choose to study in Canada since it is more economical.
Post-Graduation Employment
International students can work in Canada for up to three years after graduation with a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which helps them find work and opens the door to permanent residence and, eventually, citizenship. This is not the case in the United States, where you cannot work after graduation unless you have been sponsored.
The prevailing view among international students is that foreigners are not welcome in the United States, which will surely harm their employability in the domestic market.
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