Choosing where to study is a big decision. It's not just about the university or the program. Costs play a considerable role in deciding where to go. Australia and Canada are top destinations for international students, each offering unique opportunities and challenges. To make the right choice, you need to know how these countries compare in terms of expenses, work options, and the overall return on your investment. Let's break it down.
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees are one of the most significant expenses for students. Here's how they compare:
Program | Australia (AUD) | Canada (CAD) |
Undergraduate | AUD 20,000 - 45,000 | CAD 10,000 - 30,000 (AUD 11,000 - 33,000) |
Graduate (Master's) | AUD 22,000 - 50,000 | CAD 15,000 - 65,000 (AUD 16,400 - 71,300) |
Graduate (Doctoral) | AUD 22,000 - 42,000 | CAD 7,000 - 17,000 (AUD 7,600 - 18,600) |
Diploma/Certificate | AUD 4,000 - 22,000 | CAD 10,000 - 15,000 (AUD 11,000 - 16,500) |
Tuition fees are usually lower in Canada.
Cost of Living
Living costs include housing, food, and transportation. Here’s a monthly breakdown:
Expense | Australia (AUD) | Canada (CAD) |
On-Campus Accommodation | AUD 1,754 | CAD 1,611 (AUD 1,321) |
Off-Campus Accommodation | AUD 800 | CAD 550 (AUD 626) |
Grocery and Food | AUD 850 | CAD 800 (AUD 891) |
Transportation | AUD 150 | CAD 100 (AUD 113) |
Entertainment | AUD 80 | CAD 60 (AUD 68) |
Utilities | AUD 200 | CAD 180 (AUD 204) |
Clothing | AUD 150 | CAD 130 (AUD 150) |
Monthly Living Cost with On-Campus Housing:
Australia: AUD 3,184
Canada: CAD 2,881 (AUD 3,138)
Monthly Living Cost with Off-Campus Housing:
Australia: AUD 2,230
Canada: CAD 1,820 (AUD 1,982)
Living costs are usually lower in Canada.
Part-Time Work and Salaries
Students can work part-time to cover expenses:
Canada: Work 24 hours per week during school and full-time during breaks. Earn CAD 15-$20 per hour.
Australia: Work up to 48 hours every two weeks. Earn AUD 21-$25 per hour.
Wages are higher in Australia, but Canada allows more work hours during the school term.
Visa Rules
Visa policies are essential for work and staying after studies:
Canada:
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) lets you work for up to three years after graduation.
There are clear steps to get permanent residency (PR).
Australia:
The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) lets you work for 2-4 years after graduation.
Regional areas have extra incentives for PR.
Return on Investment (ROI)
ROI depends on costs and future earnings:
Canada: Lower costs and good salaries make it a cost-effective choice.
Australia: Higher costs, but salaries in healthcare and engineering can balance it out.
Other Factors
Climate:
Canada has cold winters and mild summers.
Australia is warmer, with sunny weather in many areas.
Lifestyle:
Both countries are multicultural. Australia is known for its outdoor activities. Canada is known for being inclusive and friendly.
Conclusion
When choosing between Australia and Canada, looking at more than just the numbers is essential. Canada usually costs less for tuition and living. It also offers clear pathways to work and stay long-term. Conversely, Australia has higher wages and a warm, sunny climate that appeals to many students. Think about your budget, career plans, and what kind of experience you want. Both countries offer great opportunities, but the right choice depends on what matters most to you. Take your time to weigh your options and choose the best place for your goals.
We know and understand that the application process can be overwhelming, so we are here for you. The study abroad experts at Hello Study Global are there for you every step of the way. From preparing for entrance exams to college applications, we will guide you to success.
Feel free to reach out to us at Hello Study Global.
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