What are the differences, and benefits of studying in each country?
Though quality of education is often specific to individual academic institutions (and programs of study), there are notable comparisons that can be made higher education in Canada and the U.S.
In the 2023, QS (an internationally recognized higher education analytics agency) ranked the best student cities internationally. Canada held three of the top 20 spots (Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver), while the United States held two (Boston and New York City). This is a general indication of evenness in the quality of education between both countries—at least in the cities that make up their post-secondary educational hubs.
Tuition costs are a huge factor in choosing where to study abroad. In the U.S., the average cost of education is between $20,000 to $60,000 USD, depending on whether one attends a public or private institution, and what level of study one is pursuing.
Conversely, the average cost of post-secondary education in Canada is between $20,000 to $40,000 CAD—again dependent on institution and level of study. Note however, the difference in currency. Canada’s more favourable exchange rate with international currency (in addition to lower average tuition costs) makes it an attractive destination for international students—especially when compared to the U.S.
Work outcomes were largely the same for international students in both Canada and the U.S., with some noted difference between the two.
For example, a survey by World Education News + Review (WENR) found that 62% of 1,095 international alumni respondents had found full-time employment after graduation.
