Australia and Canada are incredible countries for higher education, providing excellent career opportunities, a high quality of life, and exceptional public services. While deciding on which country to migrate to, it might be wise to compare the different vital aspects of education in each of the two countries, like their education systems, grading systems, cost of education, cost of living, social life, employment rates, job opportunities and future scope. To help students make this tough decision, we have compiled a comparative guide that lists all the differences between different opportunities for study in Australia and Canada.
Comparing The Education System
The Education System in Australia is quite impressive because Australian universities have earned a well-deserved reputation across the globe for encouraging cutting-edge research and innovative teaching practices, which also increases their appeal to international students. Australia has 39 universities, which include 37 publicly supported institutions and two private institutions. Both undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes are available on campus, including courses like certificates, postgraduate diplomas, and master’s and doctoral programmes.
Vocational education in Australia aims to educate students with the basic and applied knowledge and the work experience they need to succeed in their future profession. Several institutions also receive public funding to provide their students with vocational education and practical training. Along with these universities, many community colleges also grant students transfer credit for completing their courses. A significant difference is the pattern of postgraduate degrees. In Australia, PG degrees are divided mainly based on coursework, teaching or research as follows –
| Sr. No. | PG Degrees | The Average Duration Of The Course |
| 1. | Master’s Degree (Research) | Two years |
| 2. | Master’s Degree (Coursework) | 1 – 2 years |
| 3. | Master’s Degree (Extended) | 1 – 2 years |
| 4. | Research Doctorate (PhD) | Up to 4 years |
| 5. | Graduate Diploma | 6 to 14 months |
| 6. | Doctorate | Up to 4 years |
Similarly, Canadian universities strive to provide opportunities to students that will enhance their learning experience, careers, and lives. Besides the traditional ways of teaching and research, the university classes here are a combination of both lectures and tutorials. In Canada, the institutions can be strictly divided into four major types. The first is a university where students can apply for UG degrees, PG degrees, PG certificates, diplomas, doctorates and even professional degrees.
On the other hand, programmes offered by university colleges mainly include diplomas and university transfer programmes. The third type, community colleges, offer their students the opportunity to obtain a certificate, diploma, associate degree, or a UG or PG degree. Lastly, career and technical colleges offer certificates and diplomas specifically for technical education. As mentioned, PG degrees differ slightly in Australia and Canada. They are divided widely based on duration as follows –
| Sr. No. | PG Degrees | The Average Duration Of The Course |
| 1. | Postgraduate Diplomas | One year |
| 2. | Masters Programmes | Up to 2 years |
| 3. | Doctorate Courses | Up to 6 years |
By analysing the track records of their top universities, you can examine each country’s education system and compare the scope of study in Australia and Canada in depth.
Top 10 Universities In Australia –
- Australian National University
- University of Sydney
- University of Melbourne
- University of New South Wales
- University of Queensland
- Monash University
- University of Western Australia
- University of Adelaide
- University of Technology Sydney
- University of Wollongong
Top 10 Universities In Canada –
- University of Toronto
- McGill University
- University of British Columbia
- Université de Montréal
- University of Alberta
- McMaster University
- University of Waterloo
- Western University
- Queen’s University
- University of Calgary
Canada Vs Australia: Popular Courses For Indian Students
Indian students frequently opt for Engineering, Medicine, Law, IT, and MBA courses when studying in Canada or Australia. In Canada, popular programmes include a 2-4 year B.Sc. Nursing, a part-time M.A. in Media Studies, and a 1-2 year LLM. In Australia, common choices are the BMed + Medical Doctor (5-6 years), B.Eng Mechanical Engineering, and M.Sc. Data Science (1.5-2 years).
Popular Courses In Australia
| Sr No | Popular Courses | Duration | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| 1 | B.Eng Civil Engineering | 3 years | AUD 35,000 or ₹19,18,108 per year |
| 2 | B.E. Mechanical Engineering | 3 years | AUD 34,000 or ₹18,63,305 per year |
| 3 | MBA | 2 years | AUD 60,000 or ₹32,88,186 per year |
| 4 | LLM | 1 year | AUD 28,000 or ₹15,34,487 per year |
| 5 | BMed + MD (Medical Doctor) | 5-6 years | AUD 28,000 or ₹15,34,487 per year |
| 6 | MSc Computer Science | 2 years | AUD 35,000 or ₹19,18,108 per year |
| 7 | MSc Data Science | 1-2 years | AUD 45,000 or ₹24,66,139 per year |
| 8 | MA Applied Economics | 2 years | AUD 25,000 or ₹13,70,077 per year |
| 9 | MSc Information Technology | 2 years | AUD 30,000 or ₹16,44,093 per year |
| 10 | MA English Literature | 2 years | AUD 30,000 or ₹16,44,093 per year |
Popular Courses In Canada
| Sr No | Popular Courses | Duration | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| 1 | BSc Nursing and Medicine | 2-4 years | CAD 33,000 or ₹20,22,106 per annum |
| 2 | MSc Nursing | 2 years | CAD 44,000 or ₹26,96,142 per annum |
| 3 | M.Eng Aerospace and Engineering | 3 years | CAD 38,000 or ₹23,28,486 per annum |
| 4 | M.Eng Industrial Systems and Engineering | 2 years | CAD 45,000 or ₹27,57,417 per annum |
| 5 | BBA | 3 years | CAD 35,000 or ₹21,44,658 per annum |
| 6 | MBA | 1-2 years | CAD 38,000 or ₹23,28,486 per annum |
| 7 | MA Media Studies | 2 years | CAD 35,000 or ₹21,44,658 per annum |
| 8 | MSc Business Management | 1 year | CAD 30,000 or ₹18,38,278 per annum |
| 9 | M.Eng Information Technology | 2 years | CAD 44,000 or ₹26,96,142 per annum |
| 10 | MA Social Sciences | 2 years | CAD 33,000 or ₹20,22,106 per annum |
Visa Requirements
You should always begin your comparison of the scope of study in Australia vs Canada by analysing the visa requirements. To apply for a student visa in Australia, the first step is to set up an account on ImmiAccount, the online application system for DIBP. It must be noted that the information required for the visa application may vary depending on your nationality and the course you are pursuing. However, in general, the applicant will need the following –
- Proof of enrolment, which can be any type of Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment
- Health insurance, precisely details of Overseas Student Health Cover Policy
- Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement
- Evidence of English skills, scores of English proficiency tests
- A valid passport
- Visa application fee
- If the applicant is under 18, an additional document containing parental consent will also be required.
On the other hand, the Canadian Student Visa is commonly called a “study permit.” Since the requirements for a study permit change frequently, it’s essential to ensure that you receive the most recent information. The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website is the most reliable source to obtain this information. Generally, for applying for a Canadian student visa, some of the critical factors are as follows –
- All Indian students are required to undergo a medical test mandatorily.
- An application fee of CAD 150 is charged.
- Students are permitted to work 20 hours a week in addition to their studies. During vacations or study breaks, they are allowed 40 work hours per week.
- The applicants’ spouses are also permitted to work full-time if they have resided in the country for more than a year.
- The application for a post-graduation work permit must be completed within 90 days of finishing your degree.
- The Canadian Postgraduate Work Visa permits students to stay and look for employment for three years after completing their degree.
Study In Australia Vs Canada: Admission Requirements
The admission requirements for any country vary depending on the university or college, selected course, financial aspects, nationality, eligibility, level of study, and much more. However, there is a list of essential requirements for international students applying to any university in either Australia or Canada.
- Completing the application form for the university
- Resume
- Essential education degrees like 10+2 or undergraduate degree credentials
- Transcripts for previous degrees by the respective schools
- Personal essay or statement of purpose (may not be mandatory)
- Letters of recommendation
- GMAT and GRE scores
- Scores of English proficiency tests like TOEFL, IELTS
Cost Of Study In Australia Vs Canada
The following table compares the popular courses available at top universities in Australia and Canada and the average annual tuition fee for the respective courses.
| Programme Level | Average Annual Fee In Australia (AU$) | Average Annual Fee In Canada (CAD) |
| School | $ 7,800 to 30,000 | $ 15,000 to 30,000 |
| English Studies | $ 300/week (depending on the course length) | $ 340 to 425/week (depending on the course length) |
| Vocational Studies | $ 4000 to 22,000 | $ 7,000 to 22,000 |
| Undergraduate degrees | $ 15,000 to 33,000 | $ 13,000 to 20,000 |
| Postgraduate degrees | $ 20,000 to 37,000 | $ 17,000 to 25,000 |
| Doctoral degrees | $ 14,000 to 37,000 | $ 7,000 to 15,000 |
| MBA | $ 45,000 to 67,000 | $ 30,000 to 40,000 |
Cost Of Living
The cost of living is an important aspect to factor in while choosing which country to move to since, in the majority of cases, a third-party source funds the expenses of students. The table below compares the cost of living in Australia and Canada. Although these values are appropriate to give a good enough estimate while analysing the opportunities of study in Australia vs Canada, it is essential to note that this expenditure may vary from city to city depending on its popularity, the quality of education, popular universities and courses, and the standard of living.
| Item | Expenditure per month in Australia (AU$) | Expenditure per month in Canada (CAD) |
| Off-Campus Accommodation | AU＄800 | $ 550 |
| On-Campus Accommodation | AU＄1,754 | $ 1,611 |
| Transportation | AU＄150 | $ 100 |
| Food | AU＄780 | $ 720 |
| Utilities | AU＄205 | $ 180 |
| Groceries | AU＄68 | $ 64 |
| Clothes | AU＄153 | $ 133 |
| Entertainment | AU＄80 | $ 60 |
| Total Cost Of Living With Off-Campus Accommodation | AU＄2,236 | $ 1,807 |
| Total Cost Of Living With On-Campus Accommodation | AU＄3,190 | $ 2,868 |
| Annual Cost Of Living | AU＄26,832 | $ 21,684 |
Study In Australia Vs Canada: Job Opportunities
While many students choose to return to their native country for work after completing their degrees, others wish to continue residing abroad and find employment opportunities there. In Australia, a work permit of 18 months is offered, during which students can find work or internships in different fields and explore their areas of interest. Once you acquire employment, obtaining a permanent residency could be complicated as the officials conduct several background checks. This is done to prevent any chances of fraud or scams. As of 2024, the popular job opportunities for students studying in Australia are in marketing, management, hospitality, computer engineering, software engineering, design, architecture, and accounting. According to the data acquired in March 2024, Australia has an employment rate of 64.4 per cent.
On the contrary, Canada offers a post-education work permit of around three years, which is more beneficial for students due to the longer duration. Comparatively, getting a permanent residency in Canada is much easier since students can apply under the Canadian Experience Class. Education, healthcare, finance, programme analysis, computer systems, construction management, and design are some of the popular employment opportunities in Canada in 2024. Canada has an incredible employment rate of 84.9 per cent.
Climate And Weather Conditions In Canada Vs Australia
Several key differences emerge between the climate and weather conditions of Canada and Australia due to their geographical locations and climatic zones.
Climate Overview
Canada:
- Seasons: Canada experiences four seasons: winter, spring, summer, and autumn. Winter (December to February) can be extremely cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing in many regions. Summer (June to August) is generally warm, with temperatures varying significantly depending on the province.
- Temperature Variability: The climate can vary widely across the country. For example, coastal areas like British Columbia have milder winters than the harsh winters in central Canada, such as Manitoba or Saskatchewan, where temperatures can plummet to -30°C or lower.
- Precipitation: Canada sees substantial snowfall in winter, particularly in regions like Quebec and Ontario. Rainfall is common in spring and summer, with thunderstorms occurring frequently in the warmer months.
Australia:
- Seasons: Australia also has four seasons but they are opposite to those in Canada. Summer runs from December to February, while winter spans from June to August. The climate is generally warmer year-round.
- Temperature Range: Australia’s climate varies from tropical in the north to temperate in the south. Northern regions experience hot and humid summers, while southern areas like Melbourne can have cooler temperatures and more rainfall.
- Precipitation: Rainfall patterns differ significantly; for instance, Queensland experiences heavy tropical rains during summer, while southern regions may face droughts. Snow is rare except in certain mountainous areas.
Key Differences
- Temperature Extremes: Canada is known for its cold winters and significant snowfall, making it suitable for winter sports. In contrast, Australia has a generally warmer climate with hot summers and mild winters.
- Seasonal Activities: Canadians enjoy winter sports like skiing and ice skating during their long winters, while Australians engage in beach activities and outdoor sports year-round due to their milder winters.
- Adaptation to Climate: Canadians with insulated homes and winter clothing are well-prepared for cold weather. Conversely, Australians may find even mild temperatures chilly due to less frequent exposure to cold.
Canada offers a diverse climate with pronounced seasonal changes and cold winters suitable for winter sports, while Australia provides a warmer climate conducive to outdoor activities throughout the year. The choice between these two countries may depend on personal preferences regarding weather conditions and seasonal activities.
PR In Canada Vs Australia
When considering permanent residency (PR) in Canada versus Australia, both countries offer distinct pathways, requirements, and benefits for immigrants. Below is a detailed comparison of the PR processes in Canada and Australia based on the search results.
PR Pathways and Application Processes
Canada:
- Application System: Canada primarily uses the Express Entry System, which includes three main programmes: the Federal Skilled Worker Programme, the Federal Skilled Trades Programme, and the Canadian Experience Class. This system allows candidates to submit an online profile and be ranked based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).
- Eligibility Criteria: Candidates must meet specific criteria, including age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. A minimum score of 67 points is required to be eligible.
- Processing Time: PR application processing time is generally faster than in Australia, often taking around six months for Express Entry applications.
Australia:
- Application System: Australia uses a points-based system through the SkillSelect programme. Applicants submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and are invited to apply based on their points score.
- Eligibility Criteria: To qualify, applicants must score at least 65 points, which are awarded based on factors such as age, English language skills, work experience, and educational qualifications.
- Processing Time: The processing time can vary significantly depending on the visa type but is often longer and more complex than Canada’s system.
Cost of Permanent Residency
- Canada: The total cost for applying for PR in Canada ranges from approximately INR 1.5 to 2 lakhs, depending on various factors such as application fees and additional costs.
- Australia: In contrast, the cost for Australian PR can be higher, estimated between INR 3 to 4 lakhs, reflecting its more complicated immigration process.
Benefits of Permanent Residency
Canada:
- PR holders have the right to live and work anywhere in Canada.
- Access to universal healthcare and social services.
- Ability to apply for Canadian citizenship after residing in Canada for a specified period (typically three years).
Australia:
- Similar rights to live and work anywhere in Australia.
- Access to Medicare (public healthcare system).
- Eligibility to apply for Australian citizenship after living in Australia as a permanent resident for at least three years.
Key Differences
- Immigration Policies: Canada is known for its more straightforward and immigrant-friendly policies, while Australia’s immigration process is often more rigorous with stricter requirements.
- Processing Time: Canada generally offers faster processing times than Australia’s lengthy procedures.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Canada tends to be lower than in Australia, which may influence decisions regarding where to settle after obtaining PR.
Both Canada and Australia present attractive options for individuals seeking permanent residency, each with its unique advantages and challenges. Canada’s Express Entry system is often viewed as more efficient and welcoming, while Australia’s points-based system offers multiple pathways but may require more time and financial investment. Ultimately, potential immigrants should carefully assess their circumstances, preferences, and long-term goals when choosing between these two countries for permanent residency.
FAQs
Q1. Is it better to study in Australia or Canada?
Ans: Australia and Canada are two of the best countries for higher education abroad. However, if you wish to continue residing in the host country after completing your degree, Canada might be better since it has a higher employment rate and getting a PR is also easier.
Q2. Can I get a PR in Australia after studying?
Ans: It is possible to gain permanent residency in Australia after your studies, provided you have the required points, since the Australia PR visa is granted on a points-based system. Although it is obtainable, getting a PR is tougher in Australia when compared to other countries.
Q3. In which country is it easy to get a PR?
Ans: Canada is one of the countries on the globe where the process of obtaining a PR is comparatively easier.
Q4. Where can I earn more money – Canada or Australia?
Ans: Based on internationally comparable data, Australia currently enjoys a four percentage-point advantage over Canada in the average income, as measured by per-person gross domestic product, that is, GDP.
Thank you for reading our comparative guide to comparing study opportunities in Australia and Canada! Please let us know your queries in the comments section below. If you found this blog helpful, you might like reading some others on our website –
1 thought on “Top PGDM Courses In Canada: Universities, Specialisations & Eligibility”
I have done Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts from India and completed my graduation in the year 2022 .I am 22 years old. After graduation, I have done 1 year paid internship from USA .Now, I would like to take occupational experience and learn culinary skills and also do masters in Culinary arts.How can I find the college n best course / country where I can persue studying further