Studying abroad offers students several opportunities, and choosing the right destination can significantly impact a student’s academic and personal growth. Canada and India are two popular options for international students, each offering unique advantages. According to recent reports, Canada approved a staggering 3,19,130 Indian student visas, showing its appeal as an educational hub. Meanwhile, with its evident history and culture, India approved 268,923 international student visas, showcasing its growing reputation as a study destination.
In this blog, we will explore the key factors that make Canada and India stand out for international students, helping you make an informed decision about your study abroad journey.
Living In Canada V/s India
Living in Canada V/s India presents a contrast in terms of lifestyle, culture, and opportunities. Canada offers a higher standard of living, advanced infrastructure and a diverse society. The country is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, from snowy mountains to serene lakes, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy for international students to adapt.
On the other hand, India offers a rich history, culture, and tradition. Life in India is lively and radiant, with bustling cities, colourful festivals, and a strong sense of community. The cost of living in India is generally lower than in Canada, and the country provides a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Both countries have advantages, and the choice between living in Canada or India ultimately depends on personal preferences and priorities.
Top Universities In Canada V/s India
Canada and India are home to numerous prestigious universities providing excellent education and academic growth opportunities. When choosing a university for your studies, considering its global ranking is crucial. Below, we present a list of top universities in each country, as ranked by the QS World University Rankings 2024:
| Top Universities in Canada | QS World University Rankings 2024 | Top Universities in India | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
| University of Toronto | 25 | IIT Bombay | 118 |
| McGill University | 29 | IIT Delhi | 150 |
| The University of British Columbia | 38 | Indian Institute of Science | 211 |
| University of Alberta | 96 | IIT Kharagpur | 222 |
| University of Waterloo | 115 | IIT Madras | 227 |
| Western University | 120 | IIT Kanpur | 263 |
| University of Montreal | 159 | University of Delhi | 328 |
| McMaster University | 176 | IIT Roorkee | 335 |
| University of Ottawa | 189 | IIT Guwahati | 344 |
| University of Calgary | 198 | Anna University | 383 |
Top Courses In Canada V/s India
Most universities in Canada and India offer various courses, from marketing to engineering. Students can also specialise in a specific field of their choice. Below is a list of some of the top courses pursued by students in both countries:
| Undergraduate Courses In Canada | Undergraduate Courses In India | Postgraduate Courses In Canada | Postgraduate Courses In India |
| Engineering and Computer Science | Bachelor of Technology (BTech) | Information Technology and Computer Science | Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
| Business Management | Bachelor of Science (BSc) | Business Management | Master of Technology (MTech) |
| Medicine and Health Sciences | Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) | Engineering | Master of Science (MSc) |
| Hospitality Management | Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) | Media and Journalism | Master of Arts (MA) |
| Psychology | Bachelor of Arts (BA) | Agriculture and Forestry | Master of Laws (LLM) |
Eligibility Criteria And Entry Requirements In Canada V/s India
India and Canada have distinct education systems, and consequently, their admission requirements differ. Below, we outline the general eligibility criteria and entry requirements that most universities accept for both countries:
Eligibility Criteria And Entry Requirements In Canada
Undergraduate Courses
- Completion of 10+2 schooling or its equivalent.
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, or marks ranging from 77-85% in the XII Grade.
- English proficiency – Achieve an IELTS score of 6.5, with no band less than 6.0, or an equivalent score in another recognised English proficiency test.
- Certain programmes may necessitate additional entrance exams such as the SAT, ACT, etc.
Postgraduate Courses
- Completion of a 4-year bachelor’s degree or its equivalent.
- Maintain a minimum B average or a GPA of 3.0 in the final two years of the bachelor’s programme.
- Attain an IELTS score of 6.5, with no band score below 6.0 or an equivalent result in another recognised English proficiency test.
Admission Requirements
- Completed application form
- Letters of recommendation
- Language proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE)
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Statement of purpose
- Passport copy
- Proof of financial ability to cover tuition and living costs
Eligibility Criteria And Entry Requirements In India
Undergraduate Courses
- Students must have completed 10+2 years of schooling or an equivalent qualification.
- Certain programmes, such as engineering, medicine, and architecture, may require additional entrance exams, such as JEE, NEET, etc.
- Admission to these undergraduate courses is generally merit-based, with universities issuing cut-off lists for various programmes.
- International students can apply directly to their chosen university or through schemes like DASA (Direct Admission of Students Abroad) for specific centrally-funded institutions.
Postgraduate Courses
- Postgraduate (master’s) programmes typically require a relevant bachelor’s degree.
- Many programmes also mandate standardised test scores, such as GRE, GMAT, IELTS, or TOEFL.
- Some universities may conduct their own entrance exams and interviews for admission.
- Relevant work experience can enhance candidacy, particularly for programmes like MBA.
Admission Requirements
- International students must submit a valid passport, a completed application form, academic transcripts, language proficiency test results, and proof of financial capability.
- Additionally, recommendation letters and a statement of purpose are typically requested.
Cost Of Studying In Canada Vs India
When considering studying abroad, the cost of education is a pivotal factor for students and their families to evaluate. Canada and India differ significantly regarding the financial investment required for higher education. Below, we compare the costs involved in studying in these two countries.
| Degree In Canada | Cost in CAD (approx.) | Cost in INR (approx.) | Degree In India | Popular Courses | Average Cost in INR |
| Undergraduate degree for international students | CAD 36,123 | From Rs. 22,21,444 | Undergraduate degree for international students | B.Tech LLB | Rs. 7.5 lakhs – Rs. 12 lakhs |
| Graduate degree for international students | CAD 21,111 | From Rs. 12,98,256 | Graduate degree for international students | MBAMBBS | Rs. 25 lakhs-Rs. 45 lakhs |
Cost Of Living In Canada V/s India
Canada and India offer distinct living expenses that significantly impact students’ budgets and lifestyles. Understanding these differences is essential for making informed decisions about where to pursue higher education. Below, we explore and compare the cost of living in Canada versus India, providing insights into accommodation, daily expenses, and overall student affordability.
Employment Opportunities In Canada V/s India
When choosing a study destination, employment opportunities post-graduation play a vital role in the decision-making process. Both Canada and India offer distinct job markets and career prospects for graduates. Canada is known for its robust economy, diverse industries, and favourable immigration policies that attract international students seeking to build their careers. In contrast, India’s rapidly growing economy and expanding job market offer opportunities in various sectors, making it an attractive option for both domestic and international graduates. Below, we have listed some top job roles and the approximate salary in both countries.
In Canada
- Business Intelligence Analyst – CAD 83,469
- DevOps Engineer – CAD 105,395
- Data Scientist – CAD 107,054
- IT Project Manager – CAD 108,810
- Cloud Architect – CAD 142,462
In India
- Artificial Intelligence – INR 1.40L (per month)
- Cloud Computing – INR 5.73L
- Software Developer – INR 9L
- Big Data Analyst – INR 8.24L
- Data Scientist – INR 14L
Top 5 Companies In India V/s Canada
In the evolving global economy, India and Canada stand out as significant players with different business landscapes. While India is experiencing rapid economic growth and a booming tech industry, Canada is renowned for its financial sector and resource-based industries. Landing a job in some of the top companies in either Canada or India not only offers a great salary but also immense learning and growth opportunities. Below, we have provided a list of the top five companies in Canada and India.
| Canada | India |
| Brookfield Asset Management | Tata Consultancy Services |
| Royal Bank of Canada | Infosys |
| Cenovus Energy | Reliance Industries |
| Alimentation Couche-Tard | ITC Limited |
| George Weston Limited | Adani Enterprises |
Healthcare In India V/s Canada
Healthcare is an important aspect of any nation, and people moving abroad are usually on the lookout for more information about the healthcare system of the country they plan to move to. Both India and Canada have developed extensive healthcare systems, each with its unique strengths and challenges.
Canada’s healthcare system is renowned for its high quality and accessibility. Known as Canadian Medicare, this decentralised, universal, publicly funded system is primarily administered by the country’s 13 provinces and territories, with federal support and regulation through the Canada Health Act. Residents enjoy access to medically necessary services without out-of-pocket costs, although additional services may require private insurance. Despite its strengths, the system faces challenges such as long wait times and shortages of healthcare professionals, which can pose significant inconveniences for many people.
In India, the healthcare system consists of a blend of traditional and modern approaches, providing a range of public and private hospitals, clinics, and healthcare professionals. Patients can often access specialists without long waiting times for appointments. However, the system is challenged by inadequate health infrastructure, overpopulation and limited insurance coverage, which affect the overall healthcare delivery.
Safety In India V/s Canada
Safety is a crucial aspect of quality of life, influencing individual well-being and societal stability. Both India and Canada have unique safety landscapes shaped by their cultural, economic, and social contexts.
Canada has a lower crime rate compared to India and is one of the safest countries in the world. Canada has climbed from sixth place in BHTP’s rankings to secure the top position as the safest destination for travel in the world this year, with effective law enforcement and a strong judicial system contributing to overall safety. In contrast, India faces challenges with higher crime rates, particularly in densely populated urban areas. Efforts are ongoing in India to improve policing and legal frameworks to enhance public safety. Below is a list of cities recognised as the safest in both Canada and India.
| Canada | India |
| Barrie, Ontario | Kolkata, West Bengal |
| Quebec City, Quebec | Chennai, Tamil Nadu |
| LaSalle, Ontario | Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu |
| Blainville, Quebec | Surat, Gujarat |
| Burlington, Ontario | Pune, Maharashtra |
FAQs
1. Is it better to live in Canada or India?
Despite the higher cost of living and colder winters compared to India, Canada ranks third in quality of life. Additionally, Canada is one of the safest countries globally, with a very low crime rate.
2. Does an Indian degree have value in Canada?
Yes, degrees from India are valid in Canada. Typically, Canadian universities require 16 years of education (10+2+4) for master’s programmes, unlike India’s 15 years (10+2+3). However, some Canadian universities accept 15 years of education on a case-by-case basis.
3. Which degree is famous in Canada?
Canada is a leading destination for Indian students pursuing higher education, especially in fields such as Computer Science, Business, Engineering, Health Sciences, and Information Technology (IT).
4. Is education better in Canada or India?
Canada’s education system, which includes kindergarten, public and private schools, and universities, offers superior quality compared to India’s.
5. Why study in Canada in 2024?
A quality education paves the way to a successful future and a thriving career. Studying in Canada can help you achieve your ambitions.
We hope you enjoyed this blog and found it valuable. To explore more articles like this, click on the links below.
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