Choosing a destination for studying abroad can be challenging, especially if immigration post-graduation is part of your long-term plan. Canada and Australia often top the list for international students due to their quality education systems, welcoming cultures, and pathways to permanent residency (PR). In 2024, both nations implemented significant changes to their immigration policies, influencing how international students approach their choices.

Here’s a comprehensive analysis to help you decide which country aligns with your academic and immigration aspirations.

Educational Opportunities and Global Recognition

Globally Ranked Institutions

Canada and Australia boast world-class universities. According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, Canada has four universities in the top 100, including:

• University of Toronto (25th)
• McGill University (29th)
• University of British Columbia (38th)
• University of Alberta (96th)

Australia, however, outshines Canada in this aspect, with nine universities in the top 100, such as:

• University of Melbourne (13th)
• University of Sydney (18th)
• University of Queensland (40th)

This makes Australia an appealing destination for students prioritizing globally recognized academic institutions.

Cost of Education and Living

Tuition Fees

Canada’s tuition fees range from CAD 29,000 to CAD 81,000 annually, while Australia’s fees span AUD 26,500 to AUD 113,000 (CAD 24,509 to CAD 104,511). Tuition fees in both countries vary significantly based on the program and university, but Australia’s upper limit is notably higher.

Living Expenses

Housing

Housing costs can vary widely by city. In 2024:

• Canada: Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment is CAD 2,500 in Toronto and CAD 2,829 in Vancouver.
• Australia: Median rent is AUD 2,200 (CAD 2,016) in Melbourne and AUD 2,880 (CAD 2,639) in Sydney.

Food and Transportation

• Groceries: Canada is generally more affordable, with monthly costs ranging from CAD 248 to CAD 330, compared to Australia’s AUD 430 (CAD 393).
• Public Transit: Canada offers cheaper transit fares, with tickets costing CAD 3.75 in Toronto compared to AUD 5.30 (CAD 4.83) in Melbourne.

Immigration Pathways

Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP vs. Temporary Graduate Visa)

Canada

• Duration: Up to three years, depending on the study program.
• Eligibility: Students must graduate from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and meet other criteria, such as maintaining full-time status during their program.

Australia

• Duration: Two to three years for most graduates.
• Eligibility: Graduates must have studied at a CRICOS-registered institution and meet health, character, and age requirements.

Permanent Residency (PR) Pathways

Canada

Canada offers more flexibility for PR through programs such as:

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Prioritizes candidates with Canadian work experience.
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Provinces nominate candidates based on regional labor needs.

Australia

Australia’s PR pathways are occupation-based:

• Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): Requires applicants to be on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
• Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491): Focuses on regional areas and skilled occupations.

Notably, Canada’s PR pathways have no age restrictions, while Australia imposes a cap of 45 years for most PR applicants.

Work Opportunities for International Students

During Studies

• Canada: Students can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during terms and unlimited hours on-campus.
• Australia: Students can work up to 48 hours every two weeks during terms, with no distinction between on-campus and off-campus work.

After Graduation

Both countries allow international graduates to gain work experience. However, Canada’s PGWP system offers broader eligibility compared to Australia’s Temporary Graduate Visa, which requires applicants to align with specific occupational criteria.

Ease of Getting a Study Permit

Cost and Processing Time

• Canada: Study permit costs CAD 150 and takes approximately three months to process.
• Australia: Study permit costs AUD 1,600 (CAD 1,465) and processes in about 61 days.

Financial Proof and Documentation

Canada requires proof of CAD 20,635 for living expenses, whereas Australia demands AUD 29,710 (CAD 27,328). Additionally, Australia mandates Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and adherence to the Genuine Student Requirement.

Key Announcements in 2024

International Student Intake Caps

• Canada: Targets 305,900 international students annually for 2025-2027 under its Immigration Levels Plan.
• Australia: Introduced a National Planning Level (NPL) to cap new international student commencements at 270,000 annually from January 2025.

These measures aim to ensure manageable class sizes and reduce competition in local job markets.

Which Country Should You Choose?

The choice between Canada and Australia largely depends on your priorities:

• Choose Canada if you value a streamlined PR pathway, affordable living costs, and strong support for skilled workers in a variety of occupations.
• Opt for Australia if you prioritize studying at highly ranked universities and are pursuing occupations listed on the Skilled Occupation List.

Both nations are excellent destinations for international students. By weighing the factors of education, cost, immigration, and work opportunities, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your career goals.