UK vs Canada: Which is best for Indian Students in 2024?
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Are you confused about your immigration plan on choosing the best country for your career growth? Worry not! Explore valuable insights on choosing your best country for immigration between UK vs Canada when it comes for comparison for Indian students.
UK or Canada, Which is Better?
When it comes to choosing between the UK and Canada for your education, both countries offer excellent educational infrastructure for international students. It is important to consider your goals and ambitions before making a decision. Here are some more key points to consider.
- Size and Population: The UK is smaller in size with 37.7 million compared to Canada, resulting in a higher population density of 67 million. This can impact factors such as available space and community dynamics.
- Cultural Differences: While the UK and Canada share some similarities, there are subtle cultural differences in traditions and norms. Canada has experienced significant demographic changes due to accepting immigrants, including Indians, for jobs and education.
1. Canada Vs UK: Education and Grading Systems
The points below highlight the disparities in the education and grading systems between Canada and the UK, providing justification for their differences.
Canada Education and Grading System:
- Public and private universities in Canada can grant degrees such as Bachelor's, Doctorate, postgraduate diplomas, and certifications.
- In Canada, colleges award certificates and diplomas, while universities award degrees like Bachelor's, postgraduate, and doctorate degrees. This means that if you want to pursue a Bachelor's, postgraduate, or Doctorate degree, you should apply to universities instead of colleges.
- Technical institutions and community colleges offer training in applied fields of work.
- International students applying to Canadian universities are assessed based on their Grade Point Average (GPA) to determine their eligibility and academic ability.
UK Education and Grading System:
- In the UK, a college provides higher education, and after schooling, students can apply to UK colleges for 2-year degrees. Later, they can apply to UK universities to pursue their Bachelor's degrees, which typically take 3 years to complete.
- Autonomous institutions in the UK can be privately or publicly funded and operate independently. Universities can be run by government or private agencies.
- The UK grading system focuses on student academic performance and specific abilities/talents.
- UK universities use a "Letter Grade scale system" ranging from A to F. An 'A' represents exceptional knowledge, while 'F' denotes failure with a low score.
- Degree awarding institutions in the UK offer various degrees, including foundation, taught, and research degrees.
- Many institutions in the UK have formed groups such as "Mission groups or Institutional groups," "Russell Group," and "Cathedrals groups.”
Although the UK education system is well-established compared to Canada, many international students prefer the Canadian education system for its lower study and living costs, student-friendly environment, and quicker student visa approval.
2. Canada Vs UK: Teaching Style
Teaching Style in Canada:
- In Canada, the teaching style focuses on a student-centered approach, emphasizing active learning and student engagement.
- Teachers in Canada encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent learning among students.
- Collaborative learning and group discussions are often used to promote interaction and knowledge sharing.
- Practical applications and real-world examples are incorporated into the curriculum to enhance practical skills and understanding.
- Inclusive education is prioritized, providing support and accommodations for students with diverse learning needs.
Teaching Style in the UK:
- In the UK, the teaching style is traditionally more structured and lecturer-centered, with an emphasis on theoretical concepts and knowledge acquisition.
- There is a strong emphasis on independent study, self-discipline, and self-motivation.
- Class size tends to be larger, leading to more lectures and less individualized attention.
- Assessments in the UK education system often rely on examinations and written assignments to evaluate students' understanding and knowledge.
- Practical work is also incorporated, especially in subjects requiring hands-on training or laboratory experiments.
Also Read: A Complete Guide to Canada Visa Processing Time
3. Canada VS UK: Intake and Eligibility
The following table provides a concise overview of the disparities in intake and eligibility criteria for colleges and universities between Canada and the UK. It highlights the distinct timelines for intakes and the specific requirements that international students need to meet in each country.
Topic |
Canada |
UK |
---|---|---|
Intake |
Fall (September), Winter (January) |
Autumn (September/October), Winter (January/February), Spring (April/May) |
Eligibility |
Varies, completion of education or equivalent, program-specific requirements |
Varies, completion of secondary education or equivalent, program-specific requirements |
4. Canada vs UK: Visa Requirements & Process
The table mentioned below provides clear insights into the differences in visa requirements and processes between Canada and the UK.
Subject | Canada | UK |
---|---|---|
Post-Study Work Permit | Application within 90 days of course completion | UK offers UK Post-Study Work Visas for international students |
Visa Fee | Approximately 16,000 (INR) | Tier 4 Visa costs ~ 35,000 (INR) |
Work Hours | 20 hours per week during academic program | Up to 20 hours per week part-time, full-time on weekends/holidays |
Language Proficiency | IELTS or TOEFL required | - |
Personal Interview | Typically required | Typically Required |
Eligibility | Both full-time and part-time student programs eligible for visa | Only full-time student programs eligible for a Visa |
Duration of Visa | A Canadian study permit is valid for the duration of your study course in Canada, plus an additional 90 days. | Four years for a university degree, up to three years for diplomas |
Work Opportunities | Increase to 40 hours per week during holidays and summer sessions | Full-time/part-time work based on course requirements |
5. Canada vs UK: Admission Requirements
Canada:
- For UG courses, 12 years of schooling are required, and the SAT exam is necessary for admission.
- UG degree courses typically last four years, while diplomas are two to three years.
- PG courses have more relaxed admission criteria for vocational programs. GMAT is required for management degrees, and the GRE is needed for engineering degrees.
- Canadian colleges do not have cutoffs, but they provide average scores accepted for different courses.
- Language exams like TOEFL or IELTS are required regardless of the degree. While some colleges may not need language tests for Indian students, it's still advisable for visa purposes. Visa interviewers may consider spoken skills when granting a visa.
UK:
- For undergraduate (UG) courses, 13 years of pre-university education used to be required, but now CBSE Standard XII certificates are accepted for admission.
- Postgraduate (PG) courses usually require a three-year UG degree. Some management courses may ask for GMAT scores, but not all do. Science courses may not require the GRE exam.
- Work experience is sometimes necessary for management courses. TOEFL or IELTS scores may be waived by the university but are important for obtaining a visa.
6. Canada vs UK: Top Courses and Universities
Canada:
The table clearly indicates the popular courses and top colleges for Indian students in Canada.
Popular Courses |
World Ranking |
University |
---|---|---|
Medicine, Law, Engineering |
31 |
McGill University |
Business, Computer Science |
34 |
University of Toronto |
Business, Engineering |
47 |
University of British Columbia |
Engineering, Medicine |
110 |
University of Alberta |
Medicine, Computer Science |
116 |
University of Montreal |
Health Sciences, Business |
152 |
McMaster University |
Engineering, Computer Science |
154 |
University of Waterloo |
Medicine, Business |
172 |
Western University |
Law, Medicine |
237 |
University of Ottawa |
Engineering, Business |
242 |
University of Calgary |
UK:
The below-mentioned table clearly indicates the popular courses and top colleges for Indian students in Canada.
Popular Courses | World Rank | University |
---|---|---|
Computer Science | 2 | University of Cambridge |
Business Administration | 4 | University of Oxford |
Engineering | 6 | Imperial College London |
Health Sciences | 8 | University College London |
Hospitality and Tourism Management | 15 | The University of Edinburgh |
Arts and Humanities | 28 | The University of Manchester |
Environmental Science | 37 | King's College London |
Psychology | 56 | The London School of Economics and Political Science |
Biological Sciences | 61 | University of Bristol |
Media and Communication Studies | 64 | The University of Warwick |
Also Read: Top 10 Universities in the UK for Masters: Tuition Fees, QS Ranking, Eligibility, and More
7. Canada Vs UK: Post-Study Work
The table provided below offers a comprehensive comparison of the post-study work options available to Indian students in Canada and the UK. It presents a detailed breakdown of the regulations, eligibility criteria, and duration of work permits in each country.
By referring to this table, students can gain a clear understanding of the contrasting opportunities and make informed decisions regarding their future career paths.
Country | UK | Canada |
---|---|---|
Visa Type | Graduate Route visa | Canadian Post Graduation Work Visa |
Purpose | Allows graduates to stay for a minimum of two years to search for work | Allows students to work after completing studies |
Eligibility | Graduates from recognized UK universities | Graduates from any post-secondary institute |
Duration | Minimum two years | Depends on the duration of the student's course, maximum three years |
Work Options | Work in any field or industry | Work in any field or industry |
8. Canada Vs UK: Study While Learning
The table below serves as a comprehensive comparison between Canada and the UK, offering valuable insights into the education systems and the opportunities for studying while learning. It highlights the key differences, allowing individuals to make informed decisions based on their educational preferences and goals.
Canada | UK |
---|---|
Public and private universities offer degrees such as Bachelor's, postgraduate, and doctorate degrees. | UK universities offer undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. |
Colleges in Canada award certificates and diplomas. | UK colleges provide higher education after secondary schooling. |
Technical institutions and community colleges in Canada offer training in applied fields. | Practical work and laboratory experiments are incorporated into UK education. |
International students are evaluated based on their GPA when applying to Canadian universities. | UK universities focus on academic performance and specific abilities. |
Student visa approval in Canada is generally quicker compared to the UK. | The UK has a well-established education system compared to Canada. |
Canada offers a student-friendly environment and lower study and living costs. | Some international students may prefer the UK for its historical reputation and world-class institutions. |
9. Canada Vs UK: Permanent Residence
The table below offers a comprehensive comparison of the requirements and processes for obtaining permanent residence in Canada and the UK specifically for Indian students. It provides a clear overview of the contrasting factors between the two countries and assists in understanding the differences in the pathways to permanent residency for Indian students in Canada and the UK.
Category | UK | Canada |
---|---|---|
Pathway to Permanent Residency | Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) | Permanent Residency (PR) through Canadian Experience Class |
Status | Allows indefinite stay and work in the UK | Grants the opportunity to become a permanent resident in Canada |
Time Limitations | No restrictions or time limitations after obtaining ILR | Transition to permanent residency through Post-Graduation Work Permit program |
Process Complexity | Considered easier due to low population and demand for skilled employees | Relatively simpler process compared to other countries |
Work and Stay Freedom | Freedom to work and live without constraints in the UK | Transition into becoming a permanent resident in Canada |
10. Canada vs UK: Scholarships
Scholarships in Canada and the UK can be categorized into government scholarships, non-government scholarships, and institutional scholarships. These scholarships provide financial assistance to international students who want to study in Canada. Here is a summary of the different types of scholarships available
Canada Scholarships |
UK Scholarships |
---|---|
Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship |
Scotland's Saltire Scholarship |
Vanier Graduate Scholarships |
Chevening Scholarships |
Canada - ASEAN SEED |
UK University Scholarships |
Canada Memorial Scholarship |
Edinburgh Global Research Scholarship |
Anne Vallee Ecological Fund |
Kingston University London Scholarship |
Trudeau Scholarships and Fellowships |
Castle Smart Scholarship |
York University International Student Scholarship |
Royal Society Grants |
Also Read: Top 10 Scholarships for Indian Students in Canada
Also Read: Scholarship to Study in UK: All You Need to Know
Canada vs UK: Tuition and Lifestyle Expenses
The below table clearly states the difference in tuition and lifestyle expenses between Canada and UK.
Category |
Canada |
UK |
---|---|---|
Tuition fees |
Generally lower, making it more affordable for Indian students with an average of $8,00,000 to $15,00,000. |
Generally higher, making it a more expensive option for Indian students with an average of $8,00,000 to $ 24,00,000 |
Cost of living |
Relatively lower, especially in smaller cities, making it more manageable for students with an average of $15,00,000. |
Higher, especially in major cities like London, resulting in a higher overall expense with an average of $10,00,000 |
Healthcare |
International students may be eligible for provincial healthcare coverage in some Canadian provinces, reducing healthcare expenses |
International students pay for private health insurance, which can be a significant additional expense |
Accommodation |
Affordable housing options include on-campus residences or off-campus shared apartments |
More expensive, especially in major cities, with limited affordable options |
Food and groceries |
Cost varies but generally reasonable compared to the UK |
Higher cost of food and groceries compared to Canada |
Transportation |
Affordable public transportation options in most Canadian cities make it easier to move around |
Generally more expensive public transportation options, especially in cities like London |
Recreation and entertainment |
Numerous affordable recreational activities and entertainment options available, from parks to cultural events |
Many entertainment options available, but they can be costlier than Canada |
ÿմ: Your Best Immigrant Consultant
Both Canada and the UK offer unique opportunities for international students, providing them with an ideal pathway for career development. It is crucial to carefully consider the distinguished points mentioned above before making a decision regarding your study destination. Choose wisely to maximize your chances of a successful and fulfilling academic and professional journey.
Ready to embark on your academic adventure? Contact ÿմ, and let's kickstart your immigration process. We'll provide personalized assistance, answer your questions, and ensure a smooth transition to your esteemed destination.
Your dreams of studying in Canada or the UK are within reach. Get in touch with ÿմ, and let's make it happen together! Schedule a Free Consultation!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main advantage of studying in Canada?
Do I need a study permit for short-term courses in Canada?
How long can I stay in the UK after completing my studies?
Are scholarships available for Indian students in the UK?
Can I work part-time in the UK with a Tier 4 student visa?