As you prepare to become an international student, it’s no secret you’ll have lots of choices to make. You’ll decide where you’ll study and what you’re going to study, and figure out how to budget for your lifestyle. Whether you’re considering a future in the skilled trades, sciences, arts, or aren’t quite sure yet, Canadian colleges have a lot to offer. You can choose from a wide selection of programs, and learn in a flexible and welcoming environment—not to mention, stick to your budget, as tuition is often more affordable. Keep reading to learn why a Canadian college might be right for you!
Canadian Colleges Offer Many Choices
Did you know over 95% of Canadians live within 50 kilometres of a public college or institute? From coast to coast to coast (the Pacific to the Arctic to the Atlantic), nearly 700 colleges across Canada train tomorrow’s innovators and job creators. Whether you want to live in a close-knit community in Atlantic Canada, thrive in multicultural Vancouver, or study under the northern lights in Manitoba, colleges support students in large and small communities.
Canadian colleges are a great choice for international students because they offer many options. Some colleges offer over 400 programs, so whether you’d prefer to take a general course of studies or something specific, there’s likely a program that suits your needs. Meanwhile, other colleges are known for specific fields, and you’ll learn among similarly passionate students and instructors.
After graduation, provided your college studies meet the criteria for Canada’s post-graduation work permit program, you may be able to stay and work in Canada. International work experience can open new doors for you as a graduate, whether you choose to stay in Canada, return to your home country, or pursue a global career.
While Ontario and British Columbia have historically attracted the majority of international students in Canada, don’t miss out on the Prairies! Check out our lists of great colleges and polytechnics to consider in Alberta and Saskatchewan.
College Programs Are Flexible
Another great reason to choose a Canadian college is how flexible studying there can be. Some classes are offered both during the day and in the evening, which can help you balance other obligations, like family or part-time work. All colleges offer diploma and certificate qualifications, and some offer undergraduate degrees. Other colleges partner with specific universities to offer transfer programs, where you’ll study at the college for a set amount of time before shifting to the university. Alternatively, you may be able to use some of your college credits toward university-level studies.
Many diploma and certificate programs last one to two years, and are a great option if you’re looking to upskill or change your career within your current field. Like at Canadian universities, most degree programs are four years long. That said, some programs are accelerated, which means you can finish a four-year degree in two or three years, or a diploma in one or one-and-a-half instead of two. Meanwhile, degrees which build in apprenticeships, co-ops, or other in-depth work experience may be up to five years long.
Learn why programs which include co-ops or work experience can set you up for a bright future.
Programs Are More Affordable
Another great reason to choose a Canadian college is that their tuition rates are often more affordable for international students. Over the 2024/2025 academic year, the average tuition for international undergraduates in Canada was C$40,114. However, per the latest available stats, college tuition for international students ranged from C$7,000 for shorter programs to upwards of $22,000 for a full year, making it a more cost-conscious option.
Note: If you plan to study in the province of Quebec, your tuition costs may vary depending on your home country, what you’re studying, and which academic institution you’re at.
You’ll Thrive on a Welcoming Campus
At colleges across Canada, average class sizes range from 20 to 30 students. Due to their smaller size, they’re more likely to be interactive than lecture-style classes at universities. While this means you’ve got fewer places to hide if you didn’t do the reading, it also means you’ll probably get to know your classmates and instructors more. If you thrive on lively discussions or small group projects, a Canadian college could be a great fit for you.
Plus, many colleges have dedicated student services offices. The staff, which sometimes include fellow international students, can help you find resources for preparing for midterms, finding roommates, or just listening if you’re feeling homesick. As a student, many of these services are free (AKA included with your tuition). So don’t hesitate—ask away! If the student services team doesn’t provide what you’re looking for, they’ll probably know who does.
If you’re interested in studying in Canada but more intent on postgraduate or research-oriented study, here are some good reasons to choose a Canadian university.
These are just some of the great reasons to choose a Canadian college. We wish you the best of luck as you prepare to study abroad!
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