5 best cities in Canada for abroad studies

Studying abroad in Canada has emerged as the 'Willy Wonka Golden' ticket for students. The fantastic landscapes, affordable tuition fees, and diverse career opportunities are the major perks of studying in Canada. Canada is in third place globally behind the United States of America and Australia. Canada's excellent educational system and welcoming environment for international students have given it a well-deserved reputation. Students from all over the world come to the nation because of its dedication to providing top-notch education and its global atmosphere. Canada has cities that will meet any preference, whether you're looking for world-class universities, a vibrant student community, or a rich cultural experience. 

Despite the many perks, moving abroad to Canada can be a little daunting for young minds. And bearing the pressure of a new city's challenges is one of the things you want to avoid. In this blog, we'll introduce you to five of Canada's top cities for pursuing higher education. These cities each offer a special combination of academic achievement, support for students, and quality of life. So, here are the best cities to study in Canada. Here are some challenges you face when looking for accommodation in Canada. 

Best Cities to Study in Canada

These cities are home to famous universities that are constantly recognised for their achievements in education and research. They offer a wide range of subjects in addition to their amazing academic programmes, allowing students to follow their interests and ambitions. You can choose from excellent programmes that are designed to match your goals for learning in fields like business, engineering, the arts, and sciences.

1. Toronto 

QS Ranking: 15

Toronto is one of the most popular cities in North America and one of the best cities to study in Canada. The capital city of Canada is a one-stop destination for large flocks of students. The city of Toronto is one of its kind land where you experience diverse community vibes and a welcoming environment from residents. It is one of the best cities in Canada for students. The city has some of the best institutes for higher education, such as Ryerson University, University of Toronto, York University and University College. As per QS World Rankings 2020, Toronto ranked 15th best student city in the world. With lots of perks to explore, the city is a great place to set foot to boost your career forward, making it one of the best places for international students in Canada. Canada is part of  the top 10 easy countries to get a work visa.

Cost of Living in Toronto

The cost of living in Toronto might vary based on your lifestyle, where you live, and your spending habits. Your costs as a student will mostly be for accommodation, transport, meals, utilities, and entertainment. Here is a list of costs spent by a student in Toronto each month:

1. Tuition fees - 11,000 - 60,000 CAD approximately
2. Transport - 150 CAD approximately
3. Food - 350 CAD approximately
4. Utilities - 150 CAD approximately
5. Entertainment and miscellaneous - 300 CAD approximately

Student Housing in Toronto

To meet the demands of students, student housing in Toronto provides a variety of possibilities. On-campus housing costs vary depending on room style and meal plans, but they offer convenience and a sense of community. Shared apartments are a common off-campus option for students looking for more independence and affordability. The prices range from CA$195/week to CA$625/week. The city has a wide range of rental options. However, there might be competition. Students like places like downtown, North York, and Scarborough because of their accessibility to universities and services. Amber has a number of amazing student housing in Toronto with plenty of amenities. The top 3 student accommodations in Toronto are: 

1. Harrington Housing Sherbourne, Toronto
2. Harrington Housing Waterfront, Toronto
3. Harrington Housing Entertainment District, Toronto

2. Montreal 

QS Ranking: 14

Montreal is known for its student-friendly environment to enjoy a multilingual and multicultural experience in the city, making it one of the best cities for international students in Canada. Montreal has been ranked as one of the most lively cities in Canada and is also abbreviated as the "Cultural Capital of Canada". The city inhibits some notable universities covering McGill University, University of Montreal, and Concordia University. It boasts a well-established employment sector making it one of the best cities to study in Canada. 

The city is also famous for its bicycle and inexpensive public transportation, affordable student accommodation, and an open culture of students' full-time and part-time job opportunities. While learning about all the prospects of studying abroad is a must, choosing an established platform is also vital to secure your seat abroad. It is also one of the best places to study in Canada for international students.

Cost of Living in Montreal

In comparison to Toronto, Montreal is typically thought to have a lower cost of living. Your costs as a student will likely include housing, travel, meals, utilities, and entertainment. Here is a list of the various costs incurred by a student in Montreal each month:

1. Tuition fees - 11,000 - 55,000 CAD approximately
2. Transport - 100 CAD approximately
3. Food - 350 CAD approximately
4. Utilities - 150 CAD approximately
5. Entertainment and miscellaneous - 300 CAD approximately

Student Housing in Montreal

Many colleges and universities provide on-campus housing options that offer convenience and an exciting social atmosphere. Shared apartments and rental homes are off-campus choices offering students lower costs and freedom. Plateau-Mont-Royal, Mile End, and Côte-des-Neiges are popular areas for student housing in Montreal because of their closeness to universities and active cultural scenes. The prices range from CA$175/week to CA$390/week. The city's effective public transport system makes it easy to go places and travel around the city. Students in Montreal have a choice of a range of housing options. Amber has a number of amazing student housing in Montreal with plenty of amenities. The top 3 student accommodations in Montreal are: 

1. Harrington Housing McGill Ghetto, Montreal
2. Harrington Housing Sherbrooke, Montreal
3. Harrington Housing Drummond, Montreal

3. Vancouver  

QS Ranking: 20

Vancouver is tagged as "One of the most well-living places around the world" by the Economist and is also one of the best cities to study in Canada. The city is located in the British Columbia province and is known for its peaceful, calm, and aesthetically beautiful environment. The city is home to roughly 50% of minorities in that region and has many living perks, such as ease of transportation, happy culture, and pocket-friendly student housing in Canada, making it one of the best cities for international students in Canada. Vancouver also exhibits a plethora of famous universities and colleges, such as the University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, University of Canada West Vancouver Island University, and Columbia College. The city is also home to numerous tech organisations like Google, Amazon, Microsoft, etc., providing ample opportunities for students post-graduation. 

Cost of Living in Vancouver

It's important to keep in mind that these prices are only estimates and may change depending on personal tastes, the standard of living, and the location within Vancouver. Additionally, depending on the neighbourhood, rental costs and other costs can vary greatly. It is a good idea to carry out extensive cost research, pricing comparison, and budget creation. Here is a list of costs spent by a student in Vancouver each month:

1. Tuition fees -  11,000 – 60,000 CAD approximately
2. Transport - 130 CAD approximately
3. Food - 350 CAD approximately
4. Utilities - 150 CAD approximately
5. Entertainment and miscellaneous - 300 CAD approximately

Student Housing in Vancouver

Vancouver offers a variety of options for student housing to meet the many needs of students. On-campus housing gives comfort and a friendly environment, and there are different room options and food plans available. Students can find affordable housing choices off-campus in shared apartments, student housing and rental homes. The prices range from CA$ 375/week to CA$ 500/week. Kitsilano, Mount Pleasant, and Dunbar are popular areas for student housing since they are close to colleges and facilities. It's important to remember that housing in Vancouver may be challenging and pricey. Amber has a number of amazing student housing in Vancouver  with plenty of amenities. The top 3 student accommodations in Vancouver are: 

1. GEC Viva, Vancouver
2. APT Living, Vancouver
3. GEC King Edward, Vancouver

4. Ottawa

QS Ranking: 55

The capital of Canada, Ottawa, is a vibrant student city that provides a top-notch academic environment, a wide range of cultural events, and a good standard of living and is one of the best cities to study in Canada. Ottawa offers students a wide range of educational possibilities and courses thanks to its many notable institutions and colleges, including the University of Ottawa, Carleton University, and Algonquin College. It is one of the best cities for international students in Canada because of its lively and welcoming atmosphere. The multiculturalism of Ottawa is visible in its diverse population as well as the many annual cultural events and festivals that give students a chance to become immersed in other cultures and extend their minds. Canada is a part of the best countries to study abroad in 2023 as a student.

Being the capital city, Ottawa has special career prospects, particularly in the fields of politics, government, and international relations. Students can participate in valuable networking, internships, and research collaborations thanks to the presence of several governmental organisations, embassies, and international organisations. The lively job market in Ottawa offers opportunities for part-time employment that fit with students' academic interests and career goals making it the best place to study in Canada.

Cost of Living in Ottawa

The cost of living in Ottawa might vary depending on things like housing choices, the standard of living, and personal spending patterns. Your expenses as a student will mostly be for housing, travel, food, utilities, and entertainment. Here is a list of costs spent by a student in Ottawa each month:

1. Tuition fees - 11,000 - 60,000 CAD approximately
2. Transport - 150 CAD approximately
3. Food - 350 CAD approximately
4. Utilities - 150 CAD approximately
5. Entertainment and miscellaneous - 300 CAD approximately

Student Housing in Ottawa

Ottawa offers a range of options for student housing to accommodate the various demands of students. On-campus and Off-campus housing is offered that has flexibility and affordability, including co-living spaces, student accommodations, and rental homes. Sandy Hill, Centretown, and the Glebe are all popular areas for student housing because of their proximity to colleges and universities and amenities. Amber has a number of amazing student housing in Ottawa with plenty of amenities. The top 3 student accommodations in Ottawa are: 

1. Envie Little Italy 1, Ottawa
2. Envie Rideau, Ottawa
3. Envie Little Italy 2, Ottawa

5. Quebec

QS Ranking: 106

Québec city is a vibrant and fascinating student city that offers an outstanding learning environment, plenty of cultural experiences, and a high standard of living, making it one of the best places to study in Canada. Québec City, which is home to esteemed universities like Université Laval, offers students a wide selection of academic courses and research options. The city is the perfect choice for students looking for a unique and interesting experience because of its historic charm, thriving arts scene, and warm community.

The city's strong sense of belonging and safety contributes to its student-friendly atmosphere. Students can feel safe and welcome because Québec City often ranks among Canada's safest cities. Also, the city provides a range of resources and support services that have been tailored to meet the needs of students, creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere which also makes it one of the best cities for international students in Canada.

Cost of Living in Quebec

The cost of living in Quebec might vary based on your lifestyle, where you live, and your spending habits. Your costs as a student will mostly be for accommodation, transport, meals, utilities, and entertainment. Here is a list of costs spent by a student in Quebec  each month:

1. Tuition fees - 11,000 - 60,000 CAD approximately
2. Transport - 150 CAD approximately
3. Food - 350 CAD approximately
4. Utilities - 150 CAD approximately
5. Entertainment and miscellaneous - 300 CAD approximately

Student Housing in Quebec

The low cost of living in Québec City is a big plus for students. On-campus housing, off-campus flats, and shared housing are all available housing options that provide flexibility and affordable options. Students find it simple to explore various neighbourhoods and attractions because of the city's effective public transit system. Saint-Roch, Saint-Sacrement, and Montcalm have become popular areas for student housing because of their nearness to colleges and universities and facilities. 

Canada is a top choice for international students looking for a top-notch education and a cross-cultural experience. Students from around the world choose this country because of its commitment to academic success and welcoming, inclusive environment. Renowned colleges and universities are one of the main characteristics that define Canada as a study abroad destination. Also, Canada's cities show its commitment to inclusion and diversity. International students are welcomed into Canadian society because of its diversity, which makes it simple for them to fit in and feel at home. Students and their families are drawn to Canada because of its reputation for safety and high standards of living. The nation consistently gets high ratings for its safety, healthcare system, and general quality of life. You can also read our blog on the fully funded scholarships in Canada.