UK vs Canada – Which is Better for Indian Students?

Both the United Kingdom (UK) and Canada provide an excellent educational infrastructure for students from across the globe. Even though they are both good choices for a foreign education, students should consider their goals and ambitions before applying to colleges in these countries. Many factors will determine your entire learning experience when applying for foreign universities. This article will briefly address every aspect that will provide you with a comparative study of the UK vs Canada. While studying abroad, certain factors must be considered to ensure a beneficial learning experience. 

The UK is much smaller than Canada, which means that the population per unit area is more in the UK. Even though the two countries have much in common, there are subtle differences in cultures and traditions. Over the last few years, Canada has accepted many Indians, providing permanent residency through jobs and education. This has brought about a major demographic change in the country. Both the UK and Canada are secular and have been extremely open to the inclusion of foreign cultures within their society.

A recent survey shows that Canada comes within the top 10 friendliest countries of the world. On the other hand, the UK is way more diverse in its culture and compact and lies probably within the top 50 list. Even though the main ideologies of the culture of both the countries seem to find their way to the same roots, there are some major differences when it comes to food, sports, wildlife, and other traditions. This factor is somewhat missing in the UK, which does not have a recognized indigenous population. 

The UK vs Canada – Quality of Education

Both Canadian and UK education systems create an atmosphere that provides a good future to its students. There are several differences between the education systems that have been tabulated below:

The major USPs of studying in the UK:

• Access to a multicultural contemporary society that operates globally within every industry.
• Students can capitalize on the networking aspect as they are in one of the hubs of global capitalism. 
• Students can be a part of some of the most prestigious universities that are recognized on a global level.
• Top-class education with the availability of the best infrastructure as well as faculty.

The major USPs of studying in Canada:

• The cost of living and education is way lesser than UK universities.
• Great infrastructure and teaching faculty at your disposal.
• Holistic educational mindset.
• Vast landscape and aesthetic beauty.
• Canada is an upcoming educational hub and can provide students with jobs after their education.

Grading Systems

UK

• The grading system for higher education in the United Kingdom is unique. It is a far better way to assess a student’s academic performance than the traditional grading system.
• Universities in the UK use a “Letter Grade Scale.” It ranges between A and F. The letter “A” stands for outstanding knowledge, and the letter “F” indicates failing with a low score.
• The grading system in the UK focuses more on students’ specific abilities and academic talents. It makes it easier for companies to understand a person’s genuine potential.

Canada

• When applying to Canadian universities, international students are assessed using the grade point average (GPA) criteria.
• The Canadian GPA system determines a student’s academic skill and eligibility. This approach was created to determine a student’s suitability for a certain course. Therefore, foreign students must be aware of their GPA before submitting an application to a Canadian university.

The Best Courses to Study in the United Kingdom vs Canada 

Scholarships to Study in the UK

Selecting the UK as a destination for higher studies can be the best option for international students to get worldwide recognition with quality education. However, studying in the United Kingdom is expensive, costing up to £40,000 a year, including tuition and living expenses. This is where scholarships in the UK come in handy to ease the financial burden on students.

Based on the source of funding, scholarships to study in the UK can be classified into three categories:

• Government-funded UK Scholarships
• UK University Scholarships
• Other Scholarships

Government-funded UK Scholarships

The government-funded scholarships are among the most sought-after UK scholarships for Indian students. These government scholarships should be the first choice if you seek master’s scholarships in the UK:

1. Scotland’s Saltire Scholarship: 

The Scottish Government, in collaboration with Scottish universities, offers master’s scholarships in the United Kingdom. citizens from India, Japan, Canada, the USA, China, and Pakistan are offered this scholarship.

2. Chevening Scholarships: 

For Indian students, this is one of the best master’s scholarships in the UK. The UK government offers these fully financed scholarships to outstanding students from Chevening-eligible countries around the world.

3. Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship: 

The scholarship is funded by the UK Department for International Development. Commonwealth provides scholarships and fellowships to students from Commonwealth countries. 

4. Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships: 

Long-term scholarships, grants for brief research and professional visits, visiting fellowships in specific disciplines, and doctorate study awards. It does not support two-year courses.

5. GREAT Scholarship: 

The UK government’s Great Britain Campaign and the British Council’s Study UK campaign mutually fund this scholarship.

UK University Scholarships

Below are some of the best university scholarships in the UK:

1. Edinburgh Global Research Scholarship: 

Only 30 scholarships are available to international students interested in pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of Edinburgh. This scholarship only covers a portion of your tuition costs.

2. Kingston University London Scholarship: 

The scholarship is open to all Kingston University international undergraduate and postgraduate students. This scholarship is worth £5000 and is available to students starting their first year of study in September or January.

3. Gates Cambridge Scholarship: 

Gates Cambridge Scholarship is for international students from any country who wish to pursue a full-time postgraduate degree in any subject offered by the University. It covers the full cost of studying and offers added flexible funding.

Other Scholarships

Independent bodies offer various other scholarships to undergraduate international students. These scholarships for US students studying in the UK are:

1. Castle Smart Scholarship: 

It is an undergraduate scholarship granted by Castle Smart Estate to overseas undergraduate students in the United Kingdom. It provides around £6,000 in tuition fees. Rather than an essay, this scholarship is accessed by video. To apply, a student must create a video that covers all of the needed points for their chosen course.

2. Royal Society Grants: 

The Royal Society, the oldest and most independent scientific academy, offers several scholarships. The society awards scholarships to encourage scientific brilliance. These are available for undergraduate and graduate students. The nature of the grant determines the eligibility and advantages of these scholarships.

Scholarships to Study in Canada

Scholarships in Canada can be categorized into:

• Government scholarships
• Non-Government scholarships
• Institutional scholarships

Government Scholarships

International scholarship programs sponsored by the Government of Canada make it possible for international students to study in Canada at an affordable cost. These scholarships also cover travel costs and other expenses in Canada. Here are some Canadian government scholarships:

1. Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship: 

This scholarship is for a two-year period, and Indian students must be accepted to their selected institution or college in Canada to be considered for it. The awardees will hold their fellowship and have their applications approved by the university’s concerned authority.

2. Vanier Graduate Scholarships: 

Scholars studying natural sciences, engineering research, health research, or social science and humanities research at Canadian institutions are eligible for three-year Vanier graduate scholarships.

3. IDRC Research Awards: 

One of the master’s scholarships in Canada is for Indian students who are admitted to a recognised university in Canada and wish to study for a master’s degree or post-doctoral degree.

4. Quebec Provincial Government Scholarship: 

It’s a merit-based award for masters and PhD students at Quebec universities. This fellowship for Indian students is given out annually to individuals pursuing master’s and doctoral programs.

5. Canada – ASEAN SEED: 

The Canada ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development program offers short-term exchange opportunities for students from ASEAN member states to study or conduct research in Canadian post-secondary institutions at the college, undergraduate, and graduate levels.

Non-Government Scholarships

Non-government organizations in Canada give scholarships to Indian students interested in pursuing a specific subject that covers tuition, travel, health insurance, accommodation, and monthly allowances. The non-government scholarships are as follows:

1. Canada Memorial Scholarship: 

One of the fully financed scholarships available to Indian students studying at Canadian universities. Students applying for courses lasting longer than one year may be required to provide declarations demonstrating they have additional financing available to complete the course.

2. Anne Vallee Ecological Fund: 

The Anne Vallee ecological fund award is available to students pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree in animal research at the University of Quebec or the University of British Columbia. The funds will be used to sponsor field research in animal ecology and the impact of human activities on the environment, such as agriculture, forestry, industry, and fishing.

3. Trudeau Scholarships and Fellowships:  

International doctoral students can apply for this scholarship and fellowship at specific Canadian institutions. Doctoral candidates conducting research in one or more of the Foundation’s Four Themes: Human Rights and Dignity, People and their Natural Environment, Responsible Citizenship, and Canada and the World are eligible to apply.

Institutional Scholarships

Several factors are included in qualifying for an institutional scholarship to study in Canada, and overseas students must make sure they are eligible and meet the deadlines before applying for any award. Institutional scholarships include the following:

1. York University International Student Scholarship: 

₹8,253,434 is the amount that is awarded but the students must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 7.80 to be eligible for this scholarship.

2. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships: 

₹8,25,343 is awarded in a master’s degree and ₹10,61,155 is awarded in a doctorate degree. Students must have a minimum admission GPA of 3.0 to be eligible for this scholarship.

3. University of British Columbia Scholarship: 

₹2,358,124 is awarded to students but it is eligible for new international students who are on a study permit, and not nominated for a need-and-merit-based International Scholars award.

4. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship: 

A total of 37 scholarships are available to students. It covers the cost of attendance and living in Canada, as well as other expenses such as books and incidental fees.

The Climate in the UK

The United Kingdom is better than most people think, and the summer months may be particularly pleasant. Summers are warm, while winters are cold with very little chance of seeing a beam of sunshine. In summers, the average temperature is around 18-20 degrees Celsius. 

Spring is the British people’s favourite season since the days are bright and the nights are slightly cool. Since winters are harsh in the northern and western regions, the weather in the UK has a significant impact on life in the UK for Indian students. The temperature lowers to 0 degrees celsius in the winter. Rain is unpredictable; it can fall at any time of the year. As a result, international students must pack clothing for all seasons.

The Climate in Canada

The weather is colder, and winters can be gruelling with -30 degrees celsius in specific locations. In summers, the weather is pleasant, under 30 degrees Celsius. On the prairies, summers can be hot and dry, humid in central Canada, and milder along the coasts. Across the country, spring is generally pleasant. Autumns are crisp and cool, and the vibrant orange and crimson leaves on the trees add a splash of colour.

Top Universities in the UK

Compared to Canadian universities, most UK universities are present in the World QS rankings 2022. Below are the top seven universities in the UK:

Top Universities in Canada

The UK vs Canada – Eligibility Criteria

The UK

The UK universities required 13 years of pre-university education for graduation programs, which has now been changed. A CBSE plus-two certificate will also suffice for graduation courses. For ISC students, the 13-year pre-university education still applies. 

For post-graduation in management, the GMAT is usually an eligibility criteria, but it completely depends on which university you are applying to. A few universities in the UK offer management degrees without the GMAT. If you are applying for art or science courses like MA or MS, students are usually required to take the GRE. This again is not mandatory for all universities; some universities do not require GRE results for admissions. Even though the IELTS or TOEFL exams are not compulsory for the course, they will be needed while applying for your VISA.  A minimum of 6.5 band score  is required in the IELTS exam whereas TOEFL score of 100 or above is required to get a VISA or an admission.

For a 3 years bachelor’s degree, a minimum of 75% aggregate, which is the equivalent of first-class, has to be scored. 

Canada

For admission into Canadian universities for UG courses, a minimum of 12 years of pre-university education is mandatory. The results of the SAT exam are required to complete the process. The UG courses are usually 4-year, and the diploma courses are generally 2 to 3 years. 

Students applying to Canadian universities from countries where the primary language for communication is not English must take the IELTS or TOEFL examination. These are English proficiency tests to assess the applicant’s ability to communicate in English. These exams are important for admissions into those colleges, but they must get a VISA.

Canadian colleges don’t work based on cutoffs but instead provide average scores required for admission into particular courses. 

Apart from all the criteria mentioned above, Canadian Universities also ask for a statement of purpose (SOP) and at least two letters of recommendation (LORs). 

For a master’s or PhD program, applicants might have to provide at least two letters of academic reference. This also includes letters of previous employment. Suppose you haven’t studied in Canada before this, you are also required to provide an ECA (Educational Credential Assessment) which will verify whether your degree is equivalent to the Canadian standards required.

Admission Requirements to Study- UK vs Canada

Eligibility criteria is the most important factor in determining whether Canada or the UK is best for a student. The students in both countries must adhere to stringent rules set forth by their respective universities and countries.

UK

• Students should complete their 10+2 from a recognized board or institution. 
• Candidates may be required to submit their GMAT or GRE results for specific courses. A few universities also hold their own entrance exams as well as interview rounds.
• IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL are the English language competence exams that UK universities accept. Most UK universities will accept an overall IELTS score of 6.5, including 6 in each band.
• Proof of funds
• Medical Insurance
• A Valid Passport
• A Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• A Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
• Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) letter

Canada

• Original copy of students’ previous qualifications.
• GRE or GMAT scores for MBA and master’s courses.
• Letter of Recommendation (LOR) and Statement of Purpose (SOP).
• Scores of English proficiency tests: C1 Advanced, IELTS, and TOEFL. If students are pursuing any course in the French language, they need scores on either one French proficiency tests: DALF, DELF, TCF,  and TEF.
• Legal evidence that students have enough funds sources to study and survive in Canada.
• A well-updated resume.
• Students planning to pursue a master’s or Ph.D. program must offer employment letters and two academic references. 

The UK vs Canada – Working While Studying

Both countries allow students to work during their academic programs. This is mainly for international students looking to earn extra. But certain regulations need to be followed to pursue these jobs. 

The UK

International students possessing a Tier 4 student VISA are permitted to work for about 20 hours a week and full time on holidays during their academic programs. The work usually involves a part-time job on the university campus, such as working in the cafeteria, working part-time for an employer affiliated with the university, such as helping with research or teaching. When it comes to corporate sector employers, the work permitted will depend on your selected course.

Canada

When it comes to Canadian universities, they usually require a Canadian Students Permit that permits you to pursue employment on campus. You are only permitted to work during the tenure of your academic program, not before or after. If you are required by your course to work as an intern or to be involved as a co-op, you will have to apply for a separate permit in that case. 

The UK vs Canada – Post-Study Work Opportunities

The UK

Before 2020 the UK had a very strict policy on post-study work opportunities for international students. International students could stay back in the UK for a maximum of 4 months to look for and acquire employment within the UK. A further cap was put on the number of students who would get this VISA to look for work after graduation. This rule was then changed in 2020, allowing graduate and above students to stay back in the UK for two years to seek preferential employment. Students who want to work after their studies must apply for a Skilled Worker VISA for highly skilled workers, and your yearly income must be more than ​​£20,500 (INR 20,44,014.52 approx). This VISA is valid for a maximum period of 5 years. 

Canada

Canada has always been open to students who want to stay back to look for employment after graduation or post-graduation courses. Indians and other international students can apply for a post-graduation work permit valid for 3 years and allowing the students to stay back in the country and seek employment within any field or industry. Eventually, a work permit can help students qualify for permanent residency. 

The UK vs Canada – Cost of Study

The UK

This country is considered to have one of the most expensive overseas education programs. The tuition for a master’s degree depends on the course and the university you select and usually ranges between ￡18,000 to ￡35,000. With the current exchange rate in place, the cost of such an education for an Indian student will range between INR 1,800,000 to INR 3,500,000. 

Canada

The tuition fees for Canadian universities are much lesser than the UK universities for two main reasons:

1. The cost of tuition is generally lesser in Canada.
2. The exchange rate is lesser in terms of the Canadian Dollar.

The tuition fee for a master’s program in Canada is usually around 16,000 CAD to 30,000 CAD, with most averaging around 22,000 CAD. After conversion into rupees, the tuition fees range from INR 922,000 to INR 1,728,000. 

The UK vs Canada – VISA Process

The UK

The UK universities provide a full-time student VISA called a Tier 4 student VISA. Apart from this VISA, the UK government has also started providing UK Post-Study Work VISAs for international students. The following are some rules and regulations that apply to the VISA application:

1. VISA will only be granted for full-time student programs.
2. A degree from a university means a 4-year VISA will be provided. 
3. In the case of diploma courses, VISA can be provided for a maximum of 3 years.
4. You may or may not be called for a personal interview
5. The Tier 4 VISA costs ￡348, after which another ￡348 will have to be paid for the dependent VISA (in case a family member is to accompany you). The international health charge of ￡705 will also be paid to acquire the student VISA.
6. Tier 4 VISA permits international students to take up part-time work of up to 20 hours a week and full-time on holidays. Full-time work placements depend on the course requirements.
7. International students may require IELTS or TOEFL to acquire a student VISA for the UK.

Canada

The following rules and regulations apply to a Canadian Student VISA:

1. Application for a post-study work permit will be submitted within 90 days of completing your course. 
2. A compulsory medical test is required for all Indian and international students.
3. The VISA cost is around 150 CAD. 
4. You can only work for 20 hours a week while pursuing the academic program.  It can go up to 40 hours a week on holidays and summer sessions. 
5. Spouses can also work full time if the VISA is for more than 1 year.
6. IELTS or TOEFL is mandatory while applying for a VISA in Canada. 
7. Personal interviews are usually part of the VISA process.

The UK vs Canada – Permanent Residence (PR) Opportunity

The UK

Getting Permanent Residence (PR) in the United Kingdom (UK) is also known as Indefinite Leave To Remain (ILR). With this, a person can reside and work in the UK permanently.  

There are different ways a person can apply for PR in the UK:

a) Lived in the UK for 5 years or more.

If you have lived in the UK for 5 years more, you can apply for permanent residence. 

b) Family member of a UK citizen or permanent resident.

If you’re the spouse, parent, or dependent relative to a UK citizen or permanent resident,        you might also be eligible for PR. 

c) Work visa.

You can apply for PR if you have had a Tier 2 (General) work visa for five years. Also, your employer will have to sponsor you.

d) Other ways to get PR

1. If you are a refugee or have humanitarian protection or Discretionary Leave
2. Returned to the UK have had previous remaining indefinite leave.
3. Served in the armed forces.

Canada

Getting a PR in Canada is relatively very easy. The vast nation is sparsely populated and has a shortage of skilled workers. Hence Canada is very encouraging towards their PR program, usually for international students already operating under the post-graduation work permit. People who have already attained their post-graduation from elsewhere can also apply for permanent residency externally. 

The UK vs Canada – Cost of Living

The UK vs Canada – Which is Better for Immigration

The UK has maintained strict policies to limit the immigration of foreigners, especially non-EU foreigners, into their country. Immigration will become even more difficult after the BREXIT decision. 

Immigration for foreigners is relatively easier in Canada due to its vast landscape and shortage of highly skilled professionals. It is easier for international students and other international working professionals to get a PR for Canada internally and externally. The Canadian government has been extremely open to foreigners settling in their country. 

The UK vs Canada – Economy

When it comes to comparing the two economies, it is safe to say that both economies are strong with the ability to provide employment, education, and healthcare for most of their population. The UK is the hub of capitalism and thus has been a thriving civilization for more than 1000 years. The Canadian economy has picked up more recently and can provide more space and opportunities due to its size and sparse population.

Pros and Cons of living in Canada vs the UK

The UK

Canada

We can conclude that both countries provide an exceptional education for Indian and International students. It is completely dependent on the student’s preference to choose between the UK and Canada for higher education. 

Popular Jobs in the UK vs Canada

What are the most in-demand jobs? We are frequently asked this question since the number of individuals moving abroad increases yearly. The jobs that are most in demand in Canada and the UK are mentioned below, making it simpler for people to pursue careers in those fields.

UK

Canada

Study abroad with upGrad Abroad

upGrad Abroad has started uniquely designed programs that enable students to save money on tuition fees and other expenses. Students enrolling in these programs will be studying a part of their program online and completing the course on-campus. 

Benefits of joining upGrad’s program:

• Quality education at lower prices
• Degree from international colleges/universities
• Time-saving
• 1/5th of cost
• End-to-end assistance for applications and visa