Best Cities in Canada for Students

Canada has a dynamic and robust education system. It attracts both domestic and international students. Across the country, there are universities and colleges which have international recognition. Students aim to graduate from these institutions to improve their lives. But what are the best cities in Canada for students? – With the increasing cost of living, this may not be a simple answer. Many opportunities remain in Ontario and British Columbia. Students must balance the cost of living with the quality of education they receive. Alberta and Quebec remain more affordable places to pursue higher education, but keep reading to learn more! 

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Which province is best for students in Canada?

Canada has a strong and reputable education system. For years, domestic and international students have flocked to Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia. Nova Scotia and Alberta have also drawn their fair share of interested students. However, in recent years Alberta has been a standout option for many students. It has a world-class education system and a reasonable cost-living standard. Alberta has 17,000 international students, with a booming economy and many job prospects. 

Ontario, British Columbia, and Quebec still carry the largest appeal to students. These provinces have multiple world-renowned education institutions. Further, they have many employment opportunities for students. Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are all very appealing and diverse cities. However, even when you get outside these metropolitan areas, the provinces have a large appeal to students. 

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Which city in Canada gives PR easily?

Canada offers different pathways to obtain permanent residence status. However, living in a particular city may not be the best route to obtain permanent residence status. There are Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) in place to help secure needed skilled workers. This can extend to include the need for educational backgrounds. 

There is also a Temporary resident to permanent resident pathway, which is ideal for international students. This program also seeks to increase the number of healthcare workers gaining PR status. Moreover, the program has a large mandate to deliver PR status to eligible French-speaking individuals. 

Here is more information on pathways to Immigrate to Canada.

The Atlantic Immigration Program aims to provide a pathway for international graduates. This would allow international students to establish PR in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador.

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Which university has the happiest students in Canada?

Students across Canada are generally happy with their education and lifestyle. One school stands out as delivering the happiest experience for its students. The University of Quebec in Montreal (UQAM) is a French language university. Maclean’s has found it to be the school with the highest reported student happiness. Located in downtown Montreal, the school has a very diverse campus. Featuring many lively events and great student life, it also scores high in course instructors and advisors. 

Other noteworthy schools for happiness:

• University of Victoria – In British Columbia
• Brock University – in Ontario
• Wilfrid Laurier University – in Ontario
• University of Waterloo – in Ontario

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Which city in Canada is the warmest?

Victoria, British Columbia is the warmest city in Canada. The average winter low in Victoria is 7.6 degrees Celsius. While the city may get as cold as 2°C (36°F) in January, it can get as warm as 22°C (72°F) in July. This is one of the most moderate climates in Canada. The University of Victoria is located in the city. Students seeking a warmer winter climate may want to consider this school. 

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Best Cities in Canada for Students

We’ve touched on a few of the best cities in Canada for students, but let’s look at the top 8 in detail below.

1. Montreal

Montreal has several world-renowned universities. It is also a leader in science and technology. Both these facts place Montreal as one of the best student cities, not only in Canada, but in the world. It has a lively nightlife and entertainment industry that students are also drawn to. Montreal is generally considered an affordable city as well.

2. Toronto

Toronto also has multiple world-renowned universities. It has amazing science, business, and arts programs. Like Montreal, Toronto also has a dynamic city life which is appealing to many students. However, Toronto can be on the pricey side when it comes to cost of living!

3. Vancouver

Vancouver is another international hub, a city full of diversity. It draws many students to its multiple universities. Vancouver is especially known for its digital media, engineering and IT programs. 

4. Ottawa

Studying in Canada’s capital is an enriching experience for many students. Whether seeking opportunities in public policy and government, or science and technology. Ottawa is an educational center that offers exceptional experiences. 

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5. Quebec City

Quebec City is a very affordable city to live in. This appeals to many students. It is home to Laval University. In Quebec City, students can gain an authentic French-Canadian experience, thereby learning the country’s French roots. 

6. Calgary

Calgary has multiple universities and has a focus on energy, sustainability, and renewable energy sources. The center of energy innovation in Canada, Calgary is one of the best cities in Canada to study in. Although, it gets quite cold in the winter, so be prepared!

7. Edmonton

Edmonton has multiple universities and is an affordable city. It allows students the authentic Canadian experience at reduced costs. 

8. Waterloo

Waterloo is considered the tech hub of Canada. Blackberry has its headquarters in the city and there are ample opportunities in similar industries. The city’s multiple universities capitalize on tech manufacturing and innovation. Many students go on to fill roles in the field right in this city, making for a seamless transition.

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Which is the best place for students in Canada?

The best place for a student in Canada is ultimately the place that aligns with their goals. Certain provinces and cities have more opportunities both in employment and education for certain fields. If studying in Canada is a step toward permanent residency, consider government programs and provinces that need your skills. Climate, culture, and affordability are other factors you will want to consider. Ending up in a small Canadian town may not be for everyone. Then again ending up in Toronto or Vancouver may not be for everyone. Make sure you conserved your cost of living, area of education, social needs, and desired lifestyle. All these factors can greatly affect your choice of where to study in Canada.

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