Canada or Australia Which is Better for Indian Students 2024

Written by

Mynaz Altaf

Fact check by

Divyansh Chaudhari

Updated on

Jan 31,2025

Canada or Australia Which is Better for Indian Students in 2024? - TerraTern

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The big one is Canada or Australia, which is better for Indian students. Well, the decision poses a dilemma for Indian students: to choose a country between Canada and Australia. This choice would affect their academic and career prospects for a lifetime. Both offer world-class educational systems, multicultural backgrounds, and extended opportunities after graduation. However, each country has its benefits with considerations that need thorough evaluation. Let's find out whether Canada or Australia which is better for Indian students.

Latest Facts and News:

  •  Canada has the highest Indian international student enrollment, with over 427,000 lately

  •  Australia has about 122,202 Indian students registered in various institutions

  •  Canadian immigration policy has experienced an overhaul lately, resulting in obtainable pathways that are friendlier in the wake of that.

  •  Australia sees an expansion of post-study work possibilities with extended visa periods on certain qualifications.

Canada or Australia: Education System Comparison

When answering the question Canada or Australia which is better for Indian students? Indian students are attending world-class academic institutions but would not be unaware of the various strengths and approaches to learning adopted by each. While both successfully met worldwide standards on various quality assurance frameworks, innovative teaching approaches, strong backing on research, and practical skills, the Canadian universities remain renowned for some research-intensive courses in a collaborative learning environment while Australian universities rank high for their practical approaches coupled with strong industry ties. Realization of these differences is very important for Indian students alike to align their goals with the right education system. Let's have a full view of whether Canada or Australia which is better for Indian students. 

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University Rankings and Quality

Both countries boast prestigious institutions recognized globally for their academic excellence. Here's a comparison of top universities:

Canadian Universities

Global Rank

Australian Universities

Global Rank

University of Toronto

21

University of Melbourne

34

McGill University

46

Australian National University

37

University of British Columbia

51

University of Sydney

45

University of Montreal

73

University of Queensland

47

University of Alberta

110

Monash University

54

While Canadian universities generally lay greater emphasis on research-based programs and practical learning, Australian universities are widely known for their innovative teaching methodologies and industry connections.

 

Most Sought-After Courses in Canada and Australia

When the question arises of whether Canada or Australia which is better for indian students we should also know about the big fives in both the countries:

The Big Five for Canada are:

  •  Engineering (especially Computer and Mechanical)

  •  Business Administration and Management

  •  Data Science and Analytics

  •  Health Sciences

  •  Environmental Studies

The Big Five for Australia are:

  •  Information Technology

  •  Business and Commerce

  •  Engineering

  •  Health

  •  Hospitality and Tourism: Depending on various factors

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Canada or Australia: Cost of Education and Living

While we are trying to understand whether Canada or Australia is better for Indian students, we should also try to understand how much studying abroad will set back Indian students and their families in financial terms that cannot be overemphasized. Similar to the world-class educational standards provided by both these countries, the fee structures will also differ vastly for students concerning tuition, living costs, and other related expenditures. Another factor in favor of Indian students is that they can work part-time while studying in both countries-allowing them to partially offset some of their expenses. While comparing the costs, one should also counter-check other costs like accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, and other expenses. Let's get down to each in figure terms to help you make the financing decision for your international education.

Canada or Australia: Tuition Fees Comparison

Let us also understand the comparison of fees in the case of whether Canada or Australia which is better for Indian students

Study Level

Canada

Australia

Undergraduate

15-25 lakhs

18-35 lakhs

Postgraduate

18-30 lakhs

20-40 lakhs

MBA

25-45 lakhs

30-50 lakhs

 

Living Expenses and Part-Time Work Opportunities

Monthly Living Expenses (in INR):

Expense Category

Canada

Australia

Accommodation

40,000-70,000

50,000-80,000

Food

15,000-25,000

20,000-30,000

Transportation

8,000-12,000

10,000-15,000

Utilities

10,000-15,000

12,000-18,000

 

Part-time Work Regulations:

  • Canada: Up to 20 hours of work per week for students at school and up to 40 hours per week during the holidays

  • Australia: During sessions, up to 48 hours per fortnight, unlimited during breaks

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Canada or Australia: Visa Processes and Post-Study Work Opportunities

In terms of choosing Canada or Australia, which is better for Indian students, visa processes and post-study work opportunities are crucial factors that are important in your decision to study abroad. Both Canada and Australia have properly established immigration systems that allow them to attract and retain international talent. Canada's recent policy changes, especially after the pandemic, have opened the doors wider for international students, while Australia, too, beefed up its post-study work rights to stay competitive. The fundamental difference is that Canada offers an easier and faster track to permanent residency, while Australia provides flexible work rights based on qualification levels and regional priorities. Let's discuss some specific requirements and opportunities each country has to offer.

Canada or Australia: Student Visa Requirements 

Let us see the comparison between the study visa requirements; this makes it easier for you to understand whether Canada or Australia which is better for Indian students:

Canada:

1. A letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution

2. Proof of funds (GIC or equivalent)

3. Medical examination

4. Biometrics

5. Processing time: 4-8 weeks

Australia:

1. Enrolment confirmation

2. A statement of genuine temporary entrant

3. Medical insurance

4. Financial proof

5. Processing time: 4-6 weeks Post-Study Work Permits

Country

Program Duration

Work Permit Duration

Canada

2-year program

Up to 3 years

Canada

3+ year program

Up to 3 years

Australia

2-year program

2 years

Australia

Master's by research

3 years

Australia

PhD

4 years

Canada or Australia: Cultural Adaptation and Lifestyle

Moving to another country requires more than acceptance into an academic institution and work-related decisions. The cultural environment and lifestyle you experience will eventually be crucial to your entire study abroad program. Indian students typically find both Canada and Australia rich and welcoming multicultural societies, each with its own individuality. However, the daily experience of life in these countries can differ quite a lot, from the weather influencing day-to-day activities to the foods you can eat and which cultural festivals you can celebrate. Knowing these aspects is important for making an informed decision and also assists you in adjusting to your new life as an international student. Let us look at the core lifestyle factors influencing your experience of studying abroad in both countries.

1. Climate and Geography

Let us compare the climate and geography to make your decision easier for Canada or Australia which is better for Indian students:

1. Canada:

  • Four distinct seasons
  • Winter temperature: --20 degrees to --30 degrees Celsius
  • Summer temperatures: 20--30 degrees Celsius
  • Diverse topography includes mountains, lakes, and forests

2. Australia:

  • Seasons opposite to those in India
  • Winter temperature: 3 degrees to 20 degrees Celsius
  • Summer temperature: 25 degrees to 40 degrees Celsius
  • Varying time zones from tropical to temperate 

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Indian Community and Cultural Integration

Indian Population in Major Cities:

Canadian Cities

Indian Population

Australian Cities

Indian Population

Toronto

500,000+

Melbourne

200,000+

Vancouver

300,000+

Sydney

180,000+

Montreal

120,000+

Brisbane

70,000+

Canada or Australia: Career Prospects and Job Market

While achieving education, more than anything else, is also about carving a successful global career for Indian students, Canada and Australia have steady job markets that welcome a lot of international talent, especially in industries like information technology and traditional sectors like manufacturing. Gearing students towards informed decisions regarding their study abroad destination starts with understanding the respective countries' career landscape. While both countries offer great employment opportunities, they differ in area of focus, structure of salary, and growth prospects. This article will discuss some specific characteristic features of each country's job market and enable you to align your career aspirations with the rightful study destination. Lets see Canada or Australia which is better for Indian students:

Industries in Demand in Canada

  •  Information Technology

  •  Healthcare

  •  Financial Services

  •  Manufacturing

  •  Natural Resources

Top Industries in Australia:

  •  Mining and Resources

  •  Healthcare

  •  Information Technology

  •  Education

  •  Construction 

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Canada or Australia Which is Better for Indian Students? Salary Expectations

Average Annual Starting Salaries (in INR):

Industry

Canada

Australia

IT

45-60 lakhs

50-65 lakhs

Engineering

40-55 lakhs

45-60 lakhs

Business

35-50 lakhs

40-55 lakhs

Healthcare

38-52 lakhs

42-58 lakhs

 

Conclusion

When we are answering the question Canada or Australia which is better for indian students we should know that Canada and Australia are extremely worthwhile and promising destinations for Indian students, but the final choice depends on individual preferences and priorities.

Choose Canada if you Prefer:

  •  A relatively inexpensive education system.

  •  More focus on research in academic programs.

  •  Better chances of obtaining permanent residency.

  •  Ability to adapt to a cooler climate.

Choose Australia if you Prefer:

  •  Warm sandy beaches and sunshine.

  •  Specific industries such as mining or marine sciences.

  •  The blend of diverse Pacific cultures.

  •  Faster processing of student visa applications.

This indicates that your final selection should match your academic goals, career objectives, budget constraints, and personal preferences. Both these countries will provide you with quality education and huge career opportunities for Indian students in 2024. 

To learn more about Canadian and Australian immigration, visit us at TerraTern and start your immigration journey now.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which country offers better healthcare benefits for international students?

Canada provides more comprehensive healthcare benefits for international students, often including provincial healthcare plans in certain provinces. In Australia, healthcare is covered under the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory but may involve additional costs and fewer services.

How do the weather conditions in Canada and Australia affect student life?

Canada has extreme winters, especially in northern regions, which can affect outdoor activities and require preparation for cold weather. Australia has a milder, warmer climate year-round, making it more conducive to outdoor activities and travel.

What are the language requirements for studying in Canada vs. Australia?

Both countries require English proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL. However, some parts of Canada may require French proficiency for certain programs, especially in Quebec. Australia primarily focuses on English language requirements.

How do the transportation systems compare in major Canadian and Australian cities?

Canada has well-connected public transit systems, including buses, trains, and metros, in cities like Toronto and Vancouver. Australia also offers efficient public transport in cities like Sydney and Melbourne, though distances between urban centers can make intercity travel more challenging.

Which country offers better networking opportunities for Indian students?

Australia provides excellent networking opportunities due to its strong focus on industry-integrated education and proximity to Asia-Pacific markets. Canada, however, is better for long-term career networking due to its immigrant-friendly policies and diverse professional communities.