You are currently viewing UK vs Canada for Study – Which Country Is Better For Pakistani Students?

UK vs Canada for Study – Which Country Is Better For Pakistani Students?

UK vs Canada for Study – Which Country Is Better For Pakistani Students?

Choosing between the UK and Canada for studying depends on several factors, such as the individual’s goals, preferences, and circumstances. Here are some key points to consider:

  1. Quality of Education: Both countries have excellent universities and colleges, with world-renowned programs in various fields. However, the UK has more universities ranked among the top 100 in the world than Canada.
  2. Cost of Education: Studying in Canada is generally less expensive than the UK, particularly for international students. Canada also offers more scholarships and funding opportunities for international students.
  3. Work Opportunities: International students in Canada can work off-campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks. In the UK, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during term-time and full-time during vacations.
  4. Post-Graduation Work: Canada offers more lenient post-graduation work opportunities than the UK, allowing international students to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies. The UK offers up to two years of post-graduation work opportunities.
  5. Language: While both countries are English-speaking, the accents and dialects can differ. Canadian English is closer to American English, while UK English has more variations.
  6. Culture and Lifestyle: Canada is known for its friendly and welcoming culture, while the UK has a rich history and diverse cultural offerings.

Overall, both the UK and Canada offer excellent opportunities for Pakistani students. However, considering the factors mentioned above, Canada may be a better option for students who are looking for more affordable education, better work opportunities, and a welcoming culture.

UK vs Canada Eligibility Criteria for Admissions

The eligibility criteria for admissions in the UK and Canada can vary depending on the institution and the program of study. However, here are some general eligibility criteria that students should consider:

UK:

  1. Academic Qualifications: Students must have completed their secondary education and obtained a high school diploma or equivalent qualification.
  2. English Language Proficiency: International students must demonstrate their English language proficiency by taking an approved English language test, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge English.
  3. Entrance Exams: Some programs may require additional entrance exams, such as the SAT, ACT, or BMAT.
  4. Personal Statement: Many universities require a personal statement that explains the student’s academic achievements, goals, and reasons for applying to the program.

Canada:

  1. Academic Qualifications: Students must have completed their secondary education and obtained a high school diploma or equivalent qualification.
  2. English Language Proficiency: International students must demonstrate their English language proficiency by taking an approved English language test, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge English.
  3. Entrance Exams: Some programs may require additional entrance exams, such as the SAT, ACT, or GMAT.
  4. Financial Resources: Students may need to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to cover their tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs associated with studying in Canada.
  5. Study Permit: International students must obtain a study permit to study in Canada, which requires meeting certain eligibility criteria, such as having a letter of acceptance from a recognized Canadian institution.

In summary, both the UK and Canada have similar eligibility criteria for admissions, including academic qualifications, English language proficiency, entrance exams, and personal statements. However, Canada also requires students to demonstrate financial resources and obtain a study permit.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees in the UK and Canada vary depending on the institution, program, and level of study. Here are some general guidelines for tuition fees:

UK:

  1. Undergraduate Programs: The average tuition fees for international students range from £10,000 to £26,000 per year, depending on the program and institution.
  2. Postgraduate Programs: The average tuition fees for international students range from £12,000 to £28,000 per year, depending on the program and institution.
  3. Medical Programs: The tuition fees for medical programs are generally higher than other programs and can range from £25,000 to £50,000 per year.

Canada:

  1. Undergraduate Programs: The average tuition fees for international students range from CAD 20,000 to CAD 35,000 per year, depending on the program and institution.
  2. Postgraduate Programs: The average tuition fees for international students range from CAD 16,000 to CAD 30,000 per year, depending on the program and institution.
  3. Medical Programs: The tuition fees for medical programs are generally higher than other programs and can range from CAD 25,000 to CAD 60,000 per year.

It is important to note that these are just general guidelines, and tuition fees can vary widely depending on the program and institution. Additionally, some universities in both countries offer scholarships and bursaries to help offset the cost of tuition fees for international students. It is recommended that students research the specific institutions and programs they are interested in to determine the exact tuition fees and available financial aid options.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in the UK and Canada varies depending on the location, lifestyle, and accommodation choices of the student. Here are some general guidelines for the cost of living:

UK:

  1. Accommodation: The average cost of student accommodation is around £130-£180 per week in major cities like London and around £80-£120 per week in smaller cities and towns.
  2. Food: The average cost of groceries per week is around £30-£50. Dining out can cost anywhere from £8-£20 per meal.
  3. Transportation: The cost of transportation varies depending on the city and mode of transportation. A monthly bus pass can cost around £40-£70, while a single tube ticket in London costs around £2-£4.
  4. Other Expenses: Other expenses can include utilities (around £15-£25 per week), phone and internet bills (around £10-£20 per week), and entertainment (around £30-£50 per week).

Canada:

  1. Accommodation: The average cost of student accommodation is around CAD 500- CAD 800 per month in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver and around CAD 400- CAD 600 per month in smaller cities and towns.
  2. Food: The average cost of groceries per week is around CAD 60- CAD 100. Dining out can cost anywhere from CAD 10- CAD 20 per meal.
  3. Transportation: The cost of transportation varies depending on the city and mode of transportation. A monthly bus pass can cost around CAD 80- CAD 120, while a single subway ticket in Toronto costs around CAD 3.
  4. Other Expenses: Other expenses can include utilities (around CAD 30- CAD 50 per week), phone and internet bills (around CAD 10- CAD 20 per week), and entertainment (around CAD 30- CAD 50 per week).

It is important to note that these are just general guidelines, and the cost of living can vary depending on the location and lifestyle choices of the student. It is recommended that students research the specific location they are interested in and create a budget plan to manage their expenses accordingly.

Post-Study Work Permit

Both the UK and Canada offer post-study work permit options for international students after they complete their studies. Here are the details:

UK:

The UK offers the Graduate Route visa, which allows eligible international students to stay in the UK for up to 2 years after completing their studies. Students must have completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree program at a recognized UK institution and must have a valid Tier 4 or Student visa at the time of application. The Graduate Route visa allows students to work in any job or be self-employed, and there is no minimum salary requirement. Students can apply for this visa within 2 years of completing their studies.

Canada:

Canada offers the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows eligible international students to work in Canada for up to 3 years after completing their studies. Students must have completed a degree, diploma, or certificate program at a recognized Canadian institution, and the program must be at least 8 months long. Students must also have a valid study permit at the time of application. The PGWP allows students to work in any job in Canada, and there is no minimum salary requirement. Students must apply for the PGWP within 180 days of completing their studies.

In summary, both the UK and Canada offer post-study work permit options for international students. The UK offers the Graduate Route visa for up to 2 years, while Canada offers the Post-Graduation Work Permit for up to 3 years. Students should carefully review the eligibility requirements and application process for each option before deciding which country to study in.

Permanent Residence Opportunity

Both the UK and Canada offer opportunities for international students to apply for permanent residency after completing their studies. Here are the details:

UK:

The UK offers the Tier 2 (General) visa, which is a work visa that allows employers to sponsor international students who have graduated from a UK institution and have a job offer in a skilled occupation. To be eligible, students must have a bachelor’s, master’s, or Ph.D. degree from a recognized UK institution and have a valid job offer from a UK employer. The job offer must also meet the minimum salary requirement, which is currently £25,600 per year. The Tier 2 visa is initially granted for up to 5 years and can be extended for an additional 5 years. After 5 years, students may be eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR), which is permanent residency.

Canada:

Canada offers various pathways for international students to apply for permanent residency, including the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program and the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP). The CEC program allows international students who have completed their studies in Canada and have work experience in a skilled occupation to apply for permanent residency. The FSWP is a points-based program that assesses candidates based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability. International students who have graduated from a Canadian institution and have work experience in a skilled occupation may be eligible to apply under this program. In addition, some provinces in Canada have their own immigration programs that target international students who want to settle in that province.

In summary, both the UK and Canada offer opportunities for international students to apply for permanent residency after completing their studies. The UK offers the Tier 2 (General) visa, which is a work visa that can lead to permanent residency after 5 years, while Canada offers various pathways, including the CEC and FSWP programs, for international students to apply for permanent residency. Students should carefully review the eligibility requirements and application process for each option before deciding which country to study in.

Medical Care

Both the UK and Canada have publicly-funded healthcare systems that provide medical care to residents and citizens, including international students. Here are the details:

UK:

The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) provides free or low-cost medical care to residents and citizens of the UK, including international students. To access healthcare services, international students must register with a local GP (general practitioner) and receive an NHS number. Students may be required to pay for some services, such as dental care and prescriptions, but the costs are generally lower than private healthcare.

Canada:

Canada’s publicly-funded healthcare system is called Medicare, and it provides free or low-cost medical care to citizens and permanent residents of Canada. International students who hold a valid study permit and are enrolled in a study program that is at least 6 months long are eligible for provincial healthcare coverage in the province where they are studying. However, some provinces may require students to wait for a certain period before they are eligible for coverage. Students may be required to pay for some services, such as prescription drugs and dental care, but the costs are generally lower than private healthcare.

In summary, both the UK and Canada have publicly-funded healthcare systems that provide medical care to residents and citizens, including international students. International students should familiarize themselves with the healthcare system in the country they are studying in and ensure they have the necessary coverage before they need medical care.

Top Universities

Here are some of the top universities in the UK and Canada:

UK:

  1. University of Oxford
  2. University of Cambridge
  3. Imperial College London
  4. University of Edinburgh
  5. University of Manchester
  6. University College London (UCL)
  7. King’s College London
  8. University of Bristol
  9. University of Warwick
  10. University of Glasgow

Canada:

  1. University of Toronto
  2. University of British Columbia
  3. McGill University
  4. University of Alberta
  5. University of Montreal
  6. McMaster University
  7. University of Waterloo
  8. University of Calgary
  9. Western University
  10. Queen’s University

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and there are many other excellent universities in both countries. Students should carefully research and consider their options before choosing a university to attend.

Scholarships

Both the UK and Canada offer various scholarships and funding opportunities for international students. Here are some options:

UK:

  1. Chevening Scholarships: Funded by the UK government, these scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs for one year of study at a UK university.
  2. Commonwealth Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to students from Commonwealth countries and cover tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses for a postgraduate degree in the UK.
  3. Gates Cambridge Scholarships: Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, these scholarships cover the full cost of tuition, living expenses, and travel for a postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge.
  4. Rhodes Scholarships: These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel for two years of study at the University of Oxford.
  5. British Council Scholarships: These scholarships are available for students from various countries and cover tuition fees and living expenses for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in the UK.

Canada:

  1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: These scholarships provide funding for doctoral students in Canada in the fields of social sciences, humanities, natural sciences, engineering, and health.
  2. Canada Graduate Scholarships: These scholarships provide funding for Canadian and international students for masters and doctoral degrees in Canada.
  3. Trudeau Foundation Scholarships: These scholarships provide funding for doctoral students in Canada in the fields of social sciences and humanities.
  4. Ontario Graduate Scholarships: These scholarships provide funding for masters and doctoral students in Ontario.
  5. Quebec Merit Scholarship Program: This program provides funding for international students who want to study in Quebec.

There are also many other scholarships and funding opportunities available at individual universities, so students should research their options and apply early.

Grading Systems

Both the UK and Canada have different grading systems. Here are the details:

UK:

The UK grading system typically uses letters, percentages, or grades to evaluate student performance. Each university may have its own grading system, but here is a general breakdown:

  • A: 70% and above (outstanding)
  • B: 60-69% (very good)
  • C: 50-59% (good)
  • D: 40-49% (pass)
  • E: below 40% (fail)

Canada:

The Canadian grading system typically uses letters or percentages to evaluate student performance. Each university may have its own grading system, but here is a general breakdown:

  • A+: 90-100%
  • A: 85-89%
  • A-: 80-84%
  • B+: 77-79%
  • B: 73-76%
  • B-: 70-72%
  • C+: 67-69%
  • C: 63-66%
  • C-: 60-62%
  • D+: 57-59%
  • D: 53-56%
  • D-: 50-52%
  • F: below 50% (fail)

It’s important to note that grading systems can vary between universities, and some universities may use a different grading system altogether. Additionally, grading scales may be adjusted depending on the level of the course or the subject being studied.

Most Sought-after Fields

In both the UK and Canada, there are many sought-after fields of study. Here are some of the most popular fields for international students:

UK:

  1. Business and management
  2. Engineering
  3. Computer science and IT
  4. Law
  5. Medicine and Healthcare
  6. Arts and humanities
  7. Social sciences
  8. Natural sciences

Canada:

  1. Business and management
  2. Engineering
  3. Computer science and IT
  4. Natural sciences
  5. Health Sciences
  6. Social sciences and humanities
  7. Education
  8. Fine arts

However, it’s important to note that these fields are just some of the popular ones, and there are many other fields of study available in both countries. Students should choose a field that they are passionate about and that aligns with their career goals.

Working while studying

Both the UK and Canada allow international students to work part-time while studying. Here are the details:

UK:

International students in the UK can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. The minimum wage in the UK is currently £8.91 per hour for workers aged 23 and over. However, it’s important to note that the income from part-time work is not usually sufficient to cover the full cost of living and studying in the UK.

Canada:

International students in Canada can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as the summer or winter holidays. The minimum wage in Canada varies by province and territory, but it ranges from around CAD 12-15 per hour. Part-time work can help international students cover some of their living expenses, but it’s important to balance work and study commitments to ensure academic success.

It’s also important to note that there may be restrictions on the types of jobs that international students can do, such as jobs in the adult entertainment industry or jobs that require a specific security clearance. It’s also important for students to obtain the appropriate work permits before starting any part-time work.

Post-study Work Opportunity

Both the UK and Canada offer post-study work opportunities for international students, which can be an attractive option for those who wish to stay and work after completing their studies. Here are the details:

UK:

International students who have completed a degree at a UK university can apply for a post-study work visa called the Graduate Route. This visa allows graduates to work in the UK for up to 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates), without the need for a job offer or sponsorship from an employer. The Graduate Route visa is open for applications from July 2021.

Canada:

International students in Canada can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing their studies. The PGWP allows graduates to work in Canada for up to 3 years, depending on the length of their study program. To be eligible for the PGWP, students must have completed a full-time program at a designated learning institution in Canada and have a valid study permit when they apply. Additionally, students who have completed their studies in a designated field of study may be eligible for an additional one-year work permit extension under the Canadian Experience Class program.

Both the UK and Canada have a range of visa options for international graduates who wish to stay and work after their studies. However, it’s important to note that visa requirements and eligibility criteria can change, so it’s important to check the most up-to-date information on the relevant government websites.

Cost of Study

The cost of studying in the UK and Canada can vary depending on the program of study, the institution, and the location. Here are some approximate costs:

UK:

Undergraduate programs in the UK typically cost between £10,000 and £30,000 per year, with some programs in subjects such as medicine and dentistry costing more. Postgraduate programs in the UK can cost between £10,000 and £25,000 per year, although MBA programs can be more expensive.

Canada:

Undergraduate programs in Canada typically cost between CAD 20,000 and CAD 35,000 per year, with some programs such as medicine and dentistry costing more. Postgraduate programs in Canada can cost between CAD 15,000 and CAD 30,000 per year, with MBA programs costing more.

It’s important to note that these costs are approximate and can vary depending on the institution, program, and location. International students should also factor in additional costs such as accommodation, living expenses, and healthcare when considering the total cost of studying in the UK or Canada. Additionally, scholarships and financial aid may be available to help offset some of the costs of studying.

Visa Process

The visa process for international students in the UK and Canada can vary depending on the student’s country of origin and the program of study. Here are some general steps for the visa process:

UK:

  1. Apply for a place at a UK institution and receive an offer letter
  2. Pay a deposit to the institution and receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number
  3. Apply for a Tier 4 student visa online, providing the CAS number and other required documents such as proof of finances and English language proficiency
  4. Attend a visa application center to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo)
  5. Wait for a decision on the visa application, which usually takes up to 3 weeks

Canada:

  1. Apply for a place at a Canadian institution and receive a letter of acceptance
  2. Obtain a study permit application package from the Canadian government website or a Canadian visa application center in your home country
  3. Submit the study permit application online or in person, providing the required documents such as proof of finances, a letter of acceptance, and a valid passport
  4. Attend a biometric appointment if required
  5. Wait for a decision on the study permit application, which can take several weeks or even months depending on the student’s country of origin and other factors

It’s important for international students to carefully read and follow the visa application instructions and requirements, as well as to ensure that they have all required documents and meet all eligibility criteria.

Common challenges faced by Pakistani immigrants in the UK

Pakistani immigrants in the UK may face a range of challenges related to settling into a new country and culture, finding employment, and accessing social services. Here are some common challenges that Pakistani immigrants in the UK may face:

  1. Language barrier: For those who do not speak English fluently, language can be a major barrier to accessing employment, education, and other services.
  2. Employment: Pakistani immigrants may face challenges in finding employment that matches their skills and qualifications. They may also face discrimination in the workplace.
  3. Cultural adjustment: Pakistani immigrants may experience culture shock as they adjust to the differences in language, values, and customs in the UK.
  4. Social isolation: Pakistani immigrants may experience social isolation and loneliness as they build new social networks and adjust to a new community.
  5. Discrimination: Pakistani immigrants may face discrimination or racism due to their ethnicity, religion, or cultural background.
  6. Access to healthcare: Pakistani immigrants may face challenges in accessing healthcare services, especially if they do not have health insurance.
  7. Housing: Pakistani immigrants may face challenges in finding affordable and suitable housing, especially in urban areas where the cost of living can be high.

It’s important to note that these challenges are not unique to Pakistani immigrants and may be experienced by immigrants from other countries as well. The UK government and various organizations offer support and resources to help newcomers settle into the UK and overcome these challenges.

Common challenges faced by Pakistani immigrants in Canada

Pakistani immigrants in Canada may face a range of challenges related to settling into a new country and culture, finding employment, and accessing social services. Here are some common challenges that Pakistani immigrants in Canada may face:

  1. Language barrier: For those who do not speak English or French fluently, language can be a major barrier to accessing employment, education, and other services.
  2. Employment: Pakistani immigrants may face challenges in finding employment that matches their skills and qualifications. They may also face discrimination in the workplace.
  3. Cultural adjustment: Pakistani immigrants may experience culture shock as they adjust to the differences in language, values, and customs in Canada.
  4. Social isolation: Pakistani immigrants may experience social isolation and loneliness as they build new social networks and adjust to a new community.
  5. Discrimination: Pakistani immigrants may face discrimination or racism due to their ethnicity, religion, or cultural background.
  6. Access to healthcare: Pakistani immigrants may face challenges in accessing healthcare services, especially if they do not have health insurance.
  7. Housing: Pakistani immigrants may face challenges in finding affordable and suitable housing, especially in urban areas where the cost of living can be high.

It’s important to note that these challenges are not unique to Pakistani immigrants and may be experienced by immigrants from other countries as well. The Canadian government and various organizations offer support and resources to help newcomers settle into Canada and overcome these challenges.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the UK and Canada offer excellent opportunities for Pakistani students who want to study abroad. Both countries have world-renowned universities, and Pakistani students can benefit from a range of scholarships and funding opportunities. While the cost of living and tuition fees may vary between the two countries, both offer options for working while studying and post-study work opportunities. However, Pakistani immigrants in both countries may face challenges related to language, employment, cultural adjustment, social isolation, discrimination, access to healthcare, and housing. It’s important to research and consider these factors before making a decision to study or immigrate to either country.