Studying in Canada: how to choose a university

In Canada, the second-largest country in the world, there are nearly 100 universities, offering 15,000 programmes. Virtually all Canadian universities are public and subject to rigorous quality assurance, so all offer a high quality of education.

As a result, finding the right university depends largely on individual student preferences. Perfection might be a lofty goal, but students have the privilege of selecting factors that align most closely with their aspirations.

1. Location, location, location

There are universities located in large Canadian cities, such as Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver, some in the country’s fastest-growing cities, such as London and Halifax, and even some institutions in semi-rural communities. Some considerations for potential students are:

• Climate: although Canada is known for its colder winters, there are parts of the country with long summers and the full range of seasons.
• Diversity: urban areas tend to be more culturally diverse, although Canada as a whole is a multicultural society.
• Cultural, recreational and social activities: Larger communities might offer a wider range of options, but some students prefer a quieter, more relaxed environment.
• Public transport: access to local, regional and international transportation varies across the country.
• Proximity to home, family and friends: given Canada’s vast size, travel times can vary significantly.

2. The learning experience

Ultimately, learning is what university is all about. While all Canadian universities offer strong academic programmes, they vary in many ways.

• Programme availability: students must ensure that the programme they want is available and that they meet the specific admission requirements. They may also want to take into account the availability of related graduate and professional programmes.
• Programme flexibility: at some universities a wider variety of courses can be included in any programme and there is more flexibility when changing majors or minors.
• Teaching: some universities rely on teaching assistants – usually graduate students – to do a significant amount of undergraduate teaching. Students should look for a university where professors teach the courses.
• Areas of expertise: universities might have a strong reputation for specific areas of study, such as computer science, engineering or business.
• Recommendations and rankings: advice from family and friends, current students and online reviews can be helpful, and university rankings can provide useful information.
• Average class sizes: class sizes can be anything between 20 and 1,400. Some students prefer smaller classes, with the opportunity to interact directly with the professor and other students; others adapt well to a larger environment.
• Learning style: courses can be taught primarily through lectures or in a more interactive, discussion-based format.
• Access to experiential learning: university programmes might offer paid internships, research opportunities, co-op terms and opportunities to volunteer in the community – all ways to apply learning to a real-world setting.

3. Campus life

Each university has its own vibe and culture, based on a number of factors.

• Student population: some universities are more culturally diverse than others.
• Campus surroundings: some campuses have lush, park-like settings and traditional buildings; others have a more urban, contemporary feel.
• Services: many campuses offer a wide range of services and facilities, including services to support international students.
• Housing: there are student residences and dining facilities on some campuses; at others, students generally find their own off-campus accommodation and food.
• Sports and student clubs: many universities offer a wide range of opportunities to pursue interests and make friends beyond the classroom, such as student-led government, sports teams, clubs or faith-based organisations.
• Access to surrounding city or town: some university towns are student-oriented and integrated in a broader community – very welcoming and easy to access.

4. Financial considerations

• Tuition costs: international student tuition varies depending on the university and the programme. Canada is a country that imposes strict regulations and cost structures on universities, so be sure to build out a budget based on what a year at university will cost, including tuition fees, visa costs and student fees.
• Living costs: the cost of accommodation, food and activities varies by city. There are great ways to navigate the cost of living as a student, using student discounts at grocery stores, museums and venues.
• Availability of scholarships: each university in Canada has a different scholarship model and criteria according to which scholarships are awarded. Do your research on automatic scholarships, application-based scholarships and financial-aid opportunities.
• Availability of work: a great way to fund your education is to work during your degree. Canada allows international students to work on or off campus.

5. Gaining insights from lived experience

As a partner with THE Counsellor, Huron University, located in London, Ontario, has a recruitment team with international experience and representation in several countries around the world. To discuss some of the considerations listed above, or to hear about the lived experience from an international student in Canada, please visit https://huronatwestern.ca/future-students/international/#admission-support.

About Huron University

Established in 1863, Huron is the founding institution of Western University and one of Canada’s oldest universities. Huron is located in London, Ontario, one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities, just two hours by train or car from Toronto.

Huron’s distinctive liberal arts, business and ethics-based programmes prepare students for leadership and professional success, while also developing their character. Class sizes are small and taught by tenured professors, and learning is collaborative, with a discussion-based approach. Huron is home to hundreds of international students, and is a national leader in offering merit-based scholarships.

Huron’s affiliation with Western University gives students all the benefits of a supportive, close-knit campus with ample residence space, plus all the amenities one would expect from a world-renowned institution. Being affiliated with one of Canada’s largest and most respected research universities means that students are visible and valued at Huron, while having full access to Western’s many clubs, courses and events. Huron students graduate with a Western degree.