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Canada vs India: Which is Better for Indian Students?
Edited By Prabhjyot Kaur | Updated on Oct 10, 2024 10:41 AM IST
Which is a better country between Canada vs India for studies and work? Students often get confused about whether to go for Canada, which is among the top 3 countries to study abroad or study in India only. Students must consider the advantages of Canada and India before answering 'Canada vs India which is better'. Also, this decision might differ according to personal choices, lifestyle, financial conditions, career aspirations and many other factors. The major difference between Canada and India is in terms of the educational system, popular courses, tuition fees, financial aid, and admission requirements. Canada has an edge over India due to its popularity among Indian students. Currently, Canada has imposed major immigration changes involving tightening of student visa rules for international students. Still, 94% of Indian applicants seeking study abroad favour Canada as their number one choice based on the Student Pulse Survey Spring 2025.
This Story also Contains
- Canada vs India Which is Better? Key Highlights
- Advantages of Living in Canada and India
- Canada vs India Intakes Requirements
- Canada vs India: Top Universities
- Popular Courses in Canada vs India for Indian Students
- Admission Requirements to Study in Canada vs India
- Popular Entrance Exams in India
- Canada vs India: Cost of Studying For Indian Students
- Cost of Living in Canada vs India
- Canada vs India: Job Opportunities For Indian Students
- Student Visa Requirements for Canada vs India
- Conclusion: Canada Vs India Which is Better For Indian Students?
So, which is better Canada or India for studies? There are three intakes in Canada: September, January and December for international students; however, India offers only one intake for students in September. It is a major reason for choosing Canada over India as it offers flexibility to students. Both countries, Canada and India hub some of the top universities in the world for higher education as per QS World University Ranking 2025. While several Canadian universities are among the top 100 universities in the world, IIT Bombay, with the rank of 118 is the best ranking for Indian universities in 2025. The recognition of Canadian educational system is slightly better than Indian educational system. Here, we have provided a brief detail about Canada vs India for international students. Comparing both countries India and Canada can help students to make informed decisions about the right country for you.
Canada vs India Which is Better? Key Highlights
Particulars | Study in Canada | Study in India |
Cost of Living | CAD 1,650 to 3,050/month | Rs 25,000 to 35,000 |
Top Universities |
|
|
Language of Instruction | English | English/Hindi |
Currency | CAD | Rs (INR) |
Average Tuition Fees | CAD 13,000 to 40,000 | Rs 50,000 to Rs 10,00,000 |
Popular Courses |
|
|
Course Duration |
|
|
Average Salaries | CAD 40,000 to 60,000 | Rs 5,00,000 to 9,00,000 |
Best student cities |
|
|
Also Read:
Advantages of Living in Canada and India
It is crucial to compare both countries on the basis of their benefits to determine India vs Canada which is better for Indian students. Generally, life in Canada vs India is quite different, where Canada offers standards of living, a multicultural environment, an excellent healthcare system, and a top-notch educational system. On the other hand, India is traditional and culturally enormous with a rich history and a few of the top educational universities renowned in the world for their excellent academics. Here are the basic differences between the benefits of living in India vs Canada for Indian students.
Benefits of Living in Canada For International Students
- Top-notch educational system with top universities such as McGill University, University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, and University of Alberta.
- Career opportunities in the global job industry with competitive salaries.
- Canada offers a government-funded and the best healthcare system with affordability.
- It is quite safe for international students
- International students are offered post-study work opportunities in Canada after graduation.
- The student body in the majority of Canadian universities comprises of different backgrounds. Hence, studying in Canada offers a multiculturalism society for students.
Benefits of Living in India For International Students
- Top universities including IITs, IIMs, NITs, IISc and FMS are renowned for their excellent academics. However, Indian students find it quite difficult to get admission into these institutes due to high cutoffs.
- affordable living
- India is known for its curry and flavours, where Indian cuisines are favoured in the world.
- The cost of studying in comparison to Canadian universities is quite low and affordable for Indian students
- Indian students might find studying here more comfortable and in a well known environment.
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Canada vs India Intakes Requirements
Students must be familiar with the intakes in Canada or the admission cycle in India to apply prior to the application deadlines with proper documentation and forms. Canada vs India for international students in terms of admission cycle varies as there is only one intake in India whereas Canada impressively offered three intakes for Indian students to secure admission to Canadian universities.
There are application deadlines to comply with to be a part of a particular intake. Here, we have mentioned the required details about the admission intake in Canada vs India for international students:
Admission Intakes in Canada for Indian students
Intakes | Admission duration | Application deadlines |
Fall | September to February | December - March |
Winter | January to May | September - November |
Spring | May to August | January - February |
Admission Intakes in India
Intakes | Admission duration | Application deadlines |
Fall | September to December | June to August End |
Canada vs India: Top Universities
One of the important things to consider for choosing between Canada vs India education systems is the university's rankings and its reputation among its peers. The education system in Canada and the education system in India are quite different from each other in terms of teaching methods, practical learning, marking schemes, facilities availability, and many more. Generally, the top universities in Canada have a better ranking in comparison to the top colleges in India. Several Canadian universities are ranked within the top 100 universities worldwide whereas the best rankings for Indian institutions is 118 for IIT Bombay for 2025.
Comparing the rankings of top universities in Canada and top universities in India offers Indian students a clear understanding of how institutions perform academically on an international level. It is crucial for Indian students to consider this factor while deciding between the universities in the countries: India Vs Canada which is better. To have a clear understanding, we have presented some of the best universities in India and the top 10 universities in Canada as per QS World University Rankings 2025.
Top 10 Universities in Canada
Some of the best universities in Canada for Indian students as per QS 2025, are mentioned below. Students can shortlist the universities from the list below as per their preferences and choices and apply accordingly.
University | QS World University Rankings 2025 |
University of Toronto | 21 |
30 | |
34 | |
111 | |
112 | |
114 | |
141 | |
182 | |
189 | |
203 |
Top Universities in India
Students can consider the below-mentioned best global universities in India to pursue higher education at different levels of study such as undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral.
University | QS World University Rankings 2025 |
118 | |
150 | |
Indian Institute of Science | 211 |
222 | |
Indian Institute of Technology Madras | 227 |
Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur | 263 |
328 | |
Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee | 335 |
344 | |
Anna University | 383 |
Popular Courses in Canada vs India for Indian Students
Deciding on the course of study to opt for higher studies in Canada or India is an important aspect. To make an informed decision, one must be aware of the popular courses in top universities in Canada or India that can yield higher salaries in the future. In the tables below, we have mentioned a few of the most demanding courses in Canada and some of the popular courses in India. Students can use the information while weighing the pros and cons between Canada vs India for Indian students.
Popular Courses in Canada
Here, we have given the top courses in Canada for international students along with their average cost of attendance/tuition fees per year.
Business Management: It costs around CAD 30,000 to 50,000
Health Sciences: This course tuition in Canada is CAD 50,000 to 1,60,000
Engineering: This STEM course in Canada costs approximately CAD 40,000 to 60,000.
MBA: It is the most popular and demanding course in Canada and tuition is between CAD 30,000 to 50,000. Many Indian students prefer MBA in Canada over other courses.
Information Technology: This field has diverse course options and costs around CAD 45,000 to CAD 65,000.
High Demanding Courses in India
A few of the top courses in India for students along with their average cost of attendance/tuition fees per year are mentioned below for reference.
Business Administration: The majority of students opt for this course in India and its tuition is approximately Rs 3,00,000 to 5,00,000.
Medicine: MBBS courses in India costs Rs 15,00,000 to 30,00,000
Data Science: This course tuition is between Rs 4,00,000 to 8,00,000
Law: This course is among the most expensive courses in India and costs around Rs 10,00,000 to 20,00,000 on average and can go above this.
Architecture: This course cost is within Rs 4,00,000 to 8,00,000 in India
Admission Requirements to Study in Canada vs India
Wherever one is planning their higher education, meeting the requirements of universities in Canada or India is important to be considered for the courses. Although the eligibility criterion varies as per the location, course, and university, a list of common requirements to study in Canada vs India is provided.
Eligibility for Top Universities in Canada
To secure admission to Canadian universities, international students are required to comply with the following requirements:
University requirements in Canada for international students:
Study Level | Entry Requirements |
Eligibility for Bachelors in Canada |
|
Masters in Canada requirements | |
MBA requirements in Canada |
|
Eligibility for Top Indian Universities
To be a part of prestigious and highly ranked Indian educational institutions, students are required to follow the following common entry requirements.
University requirements in India for prospects:
Study Level | Entry Requirements |
Eligibility for Bachelors in India | |
Masters in India requirements |
|
Popular Entrance Exams in India
There are n numbers of entrance exams for students seeking higher studies in India. Students can attempt the relevant entrance exams as per their course structures. Some of the popular entrance exams for specific courses in India are mentioned below:
Entrance exams in India for higher education:
Entrance Exam | Entry requirement for courses in India |
JEE main | B.E/B.Tech /B.Arch for NIT and IIT |
JEE ADVANCE | B.E/B.Tech in IIT |
NEET UG/PG | MBBS and BDS |
NCHMCT | B.Sc in Hospitality and Hotel Administration |
NDA and NA | Written Exam Conducted by UPSC 3 Years Training for Entry into ARMY/NAVY/AIRFORCE |
CAT | MBA/management courses in IIMs and other management institutes |
GATE | MTech programs |
CLAT, LSAT India, AILET | Law programs across Indian Law Schools |
AIIMS UG/PG | For medical courses at AIIMS |
CET | State-specific entrance exam |
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Canada vs India: Cost of Studying For Indian Students
The financial aspect is one of the most crucial ones in determining which is better Canada or India for Indian students. Students are generally inclined towards the more affordable place between Canada and India. In comparison to US and UK, Canada is quite affordable for Indian students as well. Here, we have provided an overview of cost of studying in Canada and India for reference.
Cost of Studying in Canada
The most important aspect to consider while deciding between Canada vs India for Indian students is comparing and analysing the average tuition fees for various courses. Hence, we have mentioned below the estimated cost of studying in Canada vs India for different degree options.
Particulars | Expenses (CAD) |
Bachelors | 13,000 to 20,000 |
Masters | 17,000 to 25,000 |
Doctoral | 7,000 to 15,000 |
MBA | 30,000 to 40,000 |
Cost of Studying in India
Depending on the location, course type, and study level, tuition fees in India also vary. It also varies whether the institute is privately owned or by the state/central government. Students can refer to the below-average tuition fees for different levels of study in India.
Cost of Studying in India
Particulars | Tuition Fees (per annum) |
Bachelors | Rs 1,00,000 to 5,00,000 |
Masters | Rs 2,00,000 to. 4,00,000 |
Doctoral | Rs 80,000 to 3,00,000 |
Diploma | Rs 20,000 to 60,000 |
Cost of Living in Canada vs India
For proper budgeting of finances, it is crucial to calculate the expected living costs between India and Canada for students. Hence, we have provided below Canada vs India living costs that include the average expenses of accommodation, utilities, transportation, and much more.
Living expenses in Canada vs India for international students:
Expenses list | Living costs in Canada (CAD) | Living costs in India (Rs) |
Accommodation | CAD 1,500 to 2,000 | Rs. 10,000 to 40,000 |
Food and Groceries | CAD 150 to 250 | Rs. 1,500 to 2,000 |
Transportation | CAD 100 to 150 | Rs. 500 to 2,000 |
Utilities and Internet | CAD 200 | Rs. 2,000 to 4,000 |
Personal Expenses | CAD 200 to 300 | Rs. 2,000 to 5,000 |
Check the further comparison of the cost of living in Canada vs India for Indian students from the following statistics:
- Rent in Canada is 525.6% higher than rent in India. This shows that Canada is costlier than India.
- Restaurants and food places in Canada costs 316.5% higher than India
- Groceries are priced at 182.4% more expensive than in India.
- The goods and services for consumers in Canada is 194% costlier than in India
Canada vs India: Job Opportunities For Indian Students
While making an informed decision regarding selecting higher education countries between India and Canada, one must be aware of the career opportunities after completing their respective courses. Here, we have listed the top job options for students seeking admission in Canada and India.
Highest Paying Job Opportunities in Canada
Some of the most demanding careers in Canada after graduating from Canadian-designated learning institutions are mentioned below:
Professions | Average Salary per Annum (CAD) |
Registered Nurse | 70,975 |
Electrical Engineer | 91,832 |
Veterinarian | 95,804 |
Accountant | 56,257 |
Web Developers | 72,627 |
Pharmacist | 89,314 |
Highest Paying Job Opportunities in India
Some of the best careers and their average salaries per year in India are mentioned below for reference
Professions | Average Salary per Annum (Rs per year) |
Software Developer | 8,00,000 to 15,00,000 |
Engineer | 6,00,000 to 18,00,000 |
Product Manager | 12,00,000 to 16,00,000 |
Digital Marketing Specialist | 5,00,000 to 10,00,000 |
Project Manager | 9,00,000 to 15,00,000 |
Student Visa Requirements for Canada vs India
A mandatory entry requirement for admission to Canadian universities is a Canadian student visa. On the other hand, there are no visa requirements for Indian students seeking higher education in India. So, students making study decisions between Canada vs India must keep in mind visa requirements. Here, we have mentioned the essential study in Canada requirements for Indian students below for reference.
Student Visa Requirements for Canada 2025
Particulars | Details |
Who it’s for | Prospective students of a Canadian University (DLIs) require a student visa. They must be able to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover their finances and genuine intent to enter Canada. |
The ideal time to apply | 3 months prior intended date of travel to Canada |
Validity | The entire duration of studies in Canada is in addition to 90 days. |
Visa fees | CAD 150 |
Processing time | Veries as per the location and the volume of Canadian student visa applications. Generally, it takes 4-6 weeks in India |
Is part-time work allowed | Yes, it is restricted to 20 hours per week |
Also Read:
Conclusion: Canada Vs India Which is Better For Indian Students?
The best country between Indian and Canada varies depending on the individual lifestyle and choices. Some factors to determining which is right for you include career opportunities, financial aspects, visa requirement, university's global standing, and many more. Here are the few insights:
- India is more affordable than Canada in terms of the cost of studying and living.
- Canada is better than India for offering top-notch educational system
- Canada offers higher standards of life than in India
- Career opportunities after graduating from Canadian universities are available in the global job market whereas the Indian degree might be renowned in the world as well.
- Salaries in Canada are higher than in India
- Canadian degree offers more benefits than an Indian degree
- Studying in India offers more comfort in a familiar environment in comparison to Canada.
However, the real decision between which is better Canada or India depends on YOU......
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why choose Canada over India for higher studies?
Indians often prefer Canada over India for higher studies due to aspects such as better quality of education, more career opportunities, better standards of life, new culture, and low crime rates.
2. Is India a better country than Canada?
Both countries are equally good but the decision is subjective to personal choices. India is renowned for its rich cultural history, affordable living costs, and rapidly growing economy. On the other hand, Canada is known for its high standard of living, top universities, low crime rates, and diversity.
3. Is Canada good for higher education?
Yes, Canada is an excellent choice for higher education. Some of the reasons influencing students to study in Canada include world renowned universities, a wide variety of courses, better employment opportunities, standards of living, and many more.
4. Which is more powerful, India or Canada?
Powerful in the context of global influence over the world, India has a reputation in South Asia and has its influence in international organisations such as UK and BRICS. For Canada, the country is known for its strong connections with US and other developed countries and diplomatic efforts.
5. Is Canada's education better than India's?
Yes, education in Canada is better in several aspects. Canadian Universities are world reputed for world class studies, modern teaching techniques, better research facilities, modern infrastructure, cultural diversity, and many more.
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May 30, 2025
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Questions related to
Have a question related to ?
After completing a BSc in Biochemistry, you can pursue various courses in Canada such as MSc in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, or Clinical Research. These programs offer advanced knowledge and open opportunities in research, healthcare, and industry.
Sujal Singh 27 April,2025
Hello,
Yes, you can pursue MD in Radiology in Canada after completing a B.Sc. in Radiology, but you need to complete a recognized medical degree (like MBBS) first. After that, you must pass the Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examination (MCCQE) and complete a residency in radiology. Alternatively, you can explore postgraduate diploma or master’s programs in medical imaging or radiology if you wish to specialize without an MD.
Hope this helps you,
Thank you
https://www.careers360.com/courses/md-radiology
Tanya Gupta 18 March,2025
hi ,
yes , you can pursue undergraduate degree in AI ML in Canada with 65% in 12th grade , bit your options may be limited since many top universities require a minimum of 75-70% , however with some colleges or universities with flexible admission requirements may accept you .
eligibility criteria for AI /ML in Canada
academic requirement - Most top universities require 70-80% in 12th PCM for direct admission.Some colleges/universities accept students with 60-70% in 12th PCM.
English proficiency test -
(if your schooling was in English, some institutions may waive this)
- IELTS: 6.0 – 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0)
- TOEFL: 80 – 90 (iBT)
- PTE: 50+
mathematics requirement
Since AI & ML are math-heavy, having good grades in Math (especially Calculus) will strengthen your application.
hope this helps
Kenma Kozume 03 March,2025
Hi Madhvi,
With 42% in 12th, admission to universities in Canada can be challenging, as most require at least 50-60%. However, you still have options:
-
Diploma Programs
– Some colleges like Seneca, Humber, or Centennial offer diploma courses with flexible entry requirements.
-
Foundation Programs
– You can take a pathway course in Canada to improve your academic profile before entering a degree program.
-
Private Colleges
– Some private institutions accept lower percentages, but research them well before applying.
- Improve Academics – Consider reappearing for 12th exams or taking additional certification courses to boost your profile.
Also, ensure you meet the IELTS/TOEFL score requirements for student visas.
I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries then feel free to share your questions with us we will be happy to assist you.
Thank you and wishing you all the best for your bright future.
kumardurgesh1802 16 February,2025
After completing a BBA in Finance, top programs in Canada include MBA (Finance), Master of Finance, Master in Financial Analytics, CFA certification, or PG diplomas in Financial Planning, Investment Banking, and Risk Management. Choose based on career goals, budget, and university reputation.
Ankit 30 January,2025
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