These Canadian cities are among the most student-friendly destinations in the world
Several Canadian cities once again made the list of the world’s top urban destinations for international students, according to a recent report.
Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) is a company that analyzes and provides insight into higher education around the world. The QS Best Student Cities 2024 report considers six main factors: university rankings, student diversity, desirability, youth employment, affordability, and students’ own opinions.
Once again, London, UK, has topped the list, but three Canadian cities made it in the top 20.
For international students considering higher education in the Great White North, these are the top locations to consider.
18. Vancouver
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Compared to the 2023 ranking, Vancouver jumped up a few spots from number 20 and is now in the 18th spot. It’s home to the University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University, both of which ranked 47 and 328, respectively. The city is favoured by students for its mild weather and good employment prospects. Students also have several options for activities outside academics: the city has excellent nightlife, but if the outdoors is more your thing, you can have your pick from hiking, skiing, or kayaking.
But living in this fantastic city comes at a cost. According to the 2022 report, the average tuition for international students is lower compared to Toronto at US$25,300 per year. However, living expenses are an average of US$923 per month, and a one-bedroom in the city centre will set you back US$1,630.
13. Montreal
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Montreal jumped up one spot to number 13, and it’s easy to see why.
“MontrĂ©al is celebrated by students for its arts and culture, as well as for its friendliness and diversity, which is likely not to come as a surprise,” reads a report by QS. “As a French-speaking city in a largely English-speaking nation that has experienced mass immigration from across the world, MontrĂ©al is known for its multicultural makeup and inclusive ethos.”
It’s also a pretty affordable city for students: in 2022, the average tuition for international students is US$14,400, living expenses at US$869 a month, and a one-bedroom in the heart of the city is US$1,023.
11. Toronto
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From its 15th spot in the 2023 survey, Toronto has risen swiftly to number 11.
International students love the city for its diversity, convenient transit system, excellent food options, and great work opportunities — in 2022, the city ranked 27th among cities with the best employment opportunities.
“All the attractions that make Canada an appealing place to study are on offer here in Toronto – a diverse community, vibrant cultural scene and nightlife, stunning natural surroundings, and, of course, world-leading universities,” reads the 2022 report.
Studying in Toronto does come at a cost. As of 2022, the average tuition is US$27,100, a one-bedroom costs US$1,584 to rent, and monthly expenses come out to around US$999 a month.
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