France vs Canada: Which One to Choose

Based on QS World University Ranking 2024, France and Canada have 35 and 31 top universities, respectively. Moreover, as of 2023, reports show that Canada offered 579,075 student permits, and France approved 4,000 applications to Indian students. 

This demonstrates that France and Canada have been among the top destinations for Indian students. If you are unable to decide on France vs Canada, this article will bring you clarity to decide your study abroad destination.

Top Universities: France vs Canada

When considering Canada and France, the list of top universities is the most important thing to check. Per QS World University Rankings (WUR) 2024: Top Global Universities, the tables below show the top seven in both countries:

Eligibility and Admission Requirements: France vs Canada

Eligibility criteria also play a crucial role in deciding on France vs Canada. Both countries have varied admission requirements for international students. Let’s look at them in detail below:

France

Admission and eligibility in French universities will depend on the course and university chosen. However, below are a few prerequisites to apply to a university in France:

• High school leaving certificates translated in French or English
• Copy of identity card
• Cover letter
• Resume or curriculum vitae
• Online university application form
• Bachelor’s degree certificate for pursuing Masters
• Professional references
• Research project, if any
• Work study contract, if applicable
• English proficiency test scorecard
• French proficiency proof, if needed
• Internship or professional experience supporting documents
• Entrance exam, if applicable, as per course

Canada

Every Canadian university will have varied requirements; however, below are some common admission criteria and requirements mandate for universities in Canada.

• Transcript of academic records
• Copy of identity card
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
• Resume or curriculum vitae
• Online university application form
• Four-year bachelor's degree 
• English proficiency test results
• More than three years of work experience
• GMAT or GRE scores

Tuition Fees: France vs Canada

One of the most crucial aspects becomes the cost of study for France vs Canada. Before you decide on your destination country, you can compare the costs of the same course in a French and Canadian university. It will assist you to make the right decision. 

Let’s look at some popular courses and their average tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Below are the average tuition fees at Canadian universities. The costs can be different based on the university and the specific course applied.

Living Costs: France vs Canada

Going to a foreign country for higher education requires more than just academic qualifications. As a student, you should also consider the living costs and the money you will need for your day-to-day expenditures when deciding France vs Canada. The below table represents the cost of staying in both countries.

Work Permit & PR: France vs Canada

Most students who complete their studies at an international university also wish to start their career in the same country. Therefore, knowing France's and Canada's work permits and PR requirements in advance is a good factor for comparison purposes.

France

All students on a study visa to France can work during their studies, regardless of the degree they have applied for. They can work 964 hours a year, equivalent to 60% of the working week. 

An international student, after completing bachelors can apply for a post-study work visa valid for one year from graduation. If they find a permanent job within that time frame, then they must apply for a work permit. 

However, after completing a master's, an international student can apply for a non-renewable temporary resident permit that will allow them to work for 964 hours a year until they find a full-time job.

Canada

After completing their studies, students can work and live permanently in Canada. They will require a work permit to work post-studies, and this work experience further helps them get a PR. Students can apply for a post-graduation work permit, which graduates of specific courses can apply for. They can apply for other work permits if they are ineligible for this permit.

Related Topics: 

• PR Visa for Canada
• How to Settle in France from India

Average Salaries: France vs Canada

Here is a quick comparison of some popular job profiles and their average salaries for France and Canada:

Source: Glassdoor

Conclusion

When deciding between France and Canada for higher education, the students should weigh the pros and cons of each country. Both Canada and France are attractive options for overseas students, with Canada emphasizing inclusivity and innovation while France offers a rich cultural experience with prestigious institutions. 

However, the key to the decision should be which country provides the course and curriculum that matches your requirements.

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