Top 5 Student-Friendly Cities in Canada

Canada is one of the most popular International Study Destinations in the world, recognised for its natural beauty and the exceptional quality of education it provides. Many students relocate to Canada to attend some of the country's top universities and receive an outstanding education.

Now, living abroad is difficult as it can be very challenging to adapt to a new environment. However, with the right information and knowledge, pursuing higher education in Canada can become a simple and uncomplicated process.

So, to help your cause, here is a detailed description on the top 5 cities to live in Canada as a student.

Top 5 student-friendly cities in Canada

1. Montreal

Montreal is a popular choice for students planning to pursue higher studies in Canada on account of its prestigious universities. The city is ranked 9th in the QS World Rankings. It is now regarded as the best Canadian city to live and work in due to the high quality of life and the fusion of diverse cultures that this city offers. Also, the cost of education in Montreal is quite affordable. Undergraduate programmes in Montreal typically cost between CAD 11,000 and CAD 60,000. However, keep in mind that the cost can change depending on the university you choose.

Factors that make Montreal one of the most suitable cities for students:

Montreal ranks as the 17th safest city worldwide.

There are a lot of work opportunities for students here; however, language can be a barrier for students who don't speak French.

Universities in Montreal

• McGill University
• University of Montreal
• Concordia University
• University of Quebec at Montreal
  

Convenience of Transportation

The city is home to excellent public transport systems that are both convenient and affordable.

• To explore the city, students can use affordable Bixi bikes.
• More than 50 metro stations and 200 bus routes are available.
• A single trip here is very affordable and costs 3.25 CAD.

2. Toronto

Toronto, the capital of Ontario, is regarded as one of the top cities in Canada. The city is home to many renowned Canadian institutions and universities and attracts a vast population of international students every year. With nearly 50% of the population living in minority communities, Toronto enjoys a diversified culture. Students claim that the cultural environment is quite diverse and friendly, as the residents can speak more than 160 languages. Also, universities in Toronto usually charge annual tuition fees ranging between CAD 12,000 and CAD 50,000.

Factors that make Toronto one of the most suitable cities for students:

• International students make up 17% of the student population in Toronto.
• It is a safe city with respectable job prospects.
• The historical monuments and cuisine festivals in this city are very popular.
  

Universities in Toronto

• University of Toronto
• York University
• Toronto Metropolitan University
• Seneca College
  

3. Vancouver

With its magnificent landscapes and tranquil lifestyle, Vancouver is the next city on the list of top student-friendly cities in Canada. It ranks 18th in the QS global ranking and has also been named as one of the cities in the world with the highest standard of living. Also, several global companies, including Amazon, Google, and Microsoft, are based in Vancouver. The two most common languages in Vancouver are English and French, which makes it easier for international students to interact with citizens and get work opportunities easily. The annual tuition fees in Vancouver may range between CAD 15,000 and CAD 26,000, depending on the course enrolled.

Factors that make Vancouver one of the most suitable cities for students:

• Vancouver is ranked as the 18th best city for students as per the QS ratings.
• It is a multicultural city with a sizable Irish and Scottish immigrant population. The locals are welcoming, and the city has breathtakingly stunning natural landscapes.
• Vancouver provides students with exciting career prospects and job opportunities.
  

Universities in Vancouver

• University of British Columbia
• Simon Fraser University
• Vancouver Island University
• University Canada West
  

4. Ottawa

Ottawa is home to a rich historical heritage like Parliament Hill, the Canadian War Museum, the Rideau Canal, Notre Dame Basilica, and the National Gallery of Canada. It has a diverse cultural population and is ranked 53rd globally according to the QS rankings. Additionally, Ottawa is highly regarded for its top-notch educational institutions and highly qualified faculty. The average annual tuition fees for universities in Ottawa can range from CAD 15,000 to CAD 30,000.

Factors that make Ottawa one of the most suitable cities for students:

1. Ottawa provides a low cost of living and is one of the friendliest places for students.
2. The city offers a vibrant lifestyle, with several festivals being celebrated annually.
3. There are numerous employment prospects for international students studying here.
   

Universities in Ottawa

• University of Ottawa
• Saint Paul University
• Carleton University
• Algonquin College

5. Quebec City

Quebec is one of the finest Canadian cities for international students who wish to study in Canada. Quebec has the lowest unemployment rates and is home to some of the best universities in the world, with high global rankings. Due to the city's extensive bus and ferry network, students can use affordable public transportation in this area. According to most international students, Quebec is an affordable city with a top-notch educational system where undergraduate courses range from CAD 13,000 to CAD 40,000.

Factors that make Quebec City one of the most suitable cities for students:

1. Quebec is the city where the majority of tourists speak French. Although there aren't many English speakers here, most universities use English as their primary language of instruction.
2. The unemployment rate is the lowest here compared to any other Canadian city.
3. The city has various transportation options, including buses, taxis, ferries, and two-wheelers.
4. Quebec has a reasonable cost of living and provides high-quality education at the lowest possible cost.
5. The universities are well-equipped with modern labs, sports fields, and multipurpose rooms.
   

Universities in Quebec

• University of Quebec
• Laval University
• TELUQ University
• Bart College
  

Parting thoughts

In several ways, higher education abroad provides students with life-changing experiences. It makes you aware of the distinctive cultures and provides you with several career opportunities. Canada has been a popular choice for studying abroad formost international students on account of the quality of education, way of life, and career opportunities it offers. Each Canadian city stands out from the rest owing to its distinctive qualities. For instance, Vancouver and Toronto are renowned for their stunning natural settings, while Montreal is popular for its Canadian educational institutions. Additionally, Quebec City and Ottawa are noted for their affordable living costs.

Having said that, every student is unique, and so are their goals and aspirations. So, to determine which city or country is most suitable for them, students who plan to travel to Canada for higher education must carefully assess their needs and objectives before making a choice. And if they need any assistance, they can always contact KC Overseas, as the experts here will guide them through the process.