Canada vs. Australia: The Ultimate Guide for International Students Seeking Immigration.

If you’re planning to study abroad and aim to immigrate after completing your studies, Canada and Australia are likely at the top of your list. Both nations boast exceptional education systems, diverse communities, and clear pathways to permanent residency (PR).

This guide explores the significant differences between Canada and Australia for international students while highlighting key factors like tuition costs, PR pathways, study permits, and work opportunities.

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction to Canada and Australia as Study Destinations

  2. Permanent Residency (PR) Pathways

    • Canada

    • Australia

  3. Work Opportunities During Studies

  4. Tuition Costs and Financial Requirements

  5. Study Permit Application Processes

    • Required Documents

    • Processing Time

  6. Globally Ranked Universities in Canada and Australia

  7. Conclusion: Which Country Should You Choose?

Introduction to Canada and Australia as Study Destinations 

Canada and Australia are two of the most popular study-abroad destinations, offering exceptional education systems, multicultural environments, and lucrative post-graduation immigration opportunities.
Both countries recently introduced changes to their immigration policies, aiming to attract skilled international students. However, the pathways and requirements differ significantly.

Permanent Residency (PR) Pathways 

Canada

Canada provides extensive PR pathways, including:

  • Express Entry Program (CEC): For international students with Canadian work experience.

  • Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP): Tailored to meet specific regional labor demands, including skilled and semi-skilled occupations.

Australia

In Australia, PR opportunities depend heavily on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL):

  • Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): Focused on occupations listed under SOL.

  • Skilled Work Regional Visa: Requires eligibility under regional skill requirements.

Work Opportunities During Studies Canada

  • Unlimited hours on-campus.

  • Off-campus work capped at 24 hours per week during classes.

  • Flexible work hours during breaks.

Australia

  • No distinction between on-campus and off-campus work.

  • Capped at 48 hours per fortnight during classes.

  • Unlimited hours during academic breaks.

Tuition Costs and Financial Requirements

Tuition Costs

  • Canada: $29,000–$81,000 CAD annually.

  • Australia: AUD $26,500–$113,000 (approximately CAD $24,509–$104,511).

Financial Proof for Study Permit

  • Canada: Must show financial support of at least $20,635 CAD annually.

  • Australia: Financial requirement of AUD $29,710 (approximately CAD $27,328).

Study Permit Application Processes 

Required Documents

Requirement

Canada

Australia

Proof of Acceptance

From a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).

From a CRICOS-registered institution.

Proof of Identity

Valid passport required.

Valid passport required.

Financial Support Documents

4 months of bank statements.

Bank statements.

Health Insurance

Provincial plans or private insurance.

Mandatory OSHC insurance.

Language Tests

IELTS score 6.0–6.5 (undergraduate).

IELTS score 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent).

Processing Times

  • Canada: Up to 3 months, depending on the applicant's country.

  • Australia: Typically 61 days as of 2024.

Globally Ranked Universities in Canada and Australia 

Both countries host top universities recognized in the QS World University Rankings 2025.

Canada

  • University of Toronto (25th).

  • McGill University (29th).

  • University of British Columbia (38th).

  • University of Alberta (96th).

Australia

  • University of Melbourne (13th).

  • University of Sydney (18th).

  • Monash University (37th).

  • University of Queensland (40th).

Conclusion: Which Country Should You Choose?                Your choice between Canada and Australia depends on your priorities.

  • Choose Canada if you value affordable study permits, inclusive PR pathways, and flexible work opportunities.

  • Choose Australia for globally ranked universities and relatively shorter study permit processing times.

Both nations offer world-class education and immigration options. For expert guidance on studying and immigrating to either country, contact Wave Visas, your trusted immigration consulting partner.

Visit- Corporate Office : 2nd Floor, Right Side, Building №5, Kehar Singh Estate Westend Marg, Lane №2, Saidulajab, Saket New Delhi 110030.

https://wavevisas.com/canada-immigration

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