Canada vs Australia: Which is Better for International Students in 2026?

Canada vs Australia for international students has become one of the most discussed comparisons for the 2026 intake. Both countries are known for high academic standards, post-study work options, and diverse student communities. Yet, with new policy changes in 2025, many Indian students are now asking a more practical question: which country is better for studying in 2026?

In 2025, Canada introduced a study permit cap of 437,000, which has affected how many new international students can enrol. Australia, on the other hand, expanded its student intake to about 295,000 and updated its graduate visa system under the India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA). These shifts have made it important to understand what each country now offers in terms of education, work, and long-term opportunities.

If you are wondering of Canada or Australia which is better for Indian students, this guide will help you compare every key factor. It includes 2025–26 data on costs, university rankings, visa rules, part-time work, PR options, and lifestyle to help you make an informed decision for your 2026 intake.

Here’s a quick snapshot of how both countries compare for Indian students planning the 2026 intake.

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In 2026, both Canada and Australia feature prominently in global university rankings. Canada’s universities are known for research-driven education and strong academic outcomes, while Australia’s institutions rank high for employability and industry connections. These rankings reflect each country’s growing appeal among Indian students planning international studies.

Canada’s top universities rank among the best in the world for quality education and research. For those planning to study in Canada, institutions like the University of Toronto and McGill are preferred by Indian students for programs in Engineering, Computer Science, and Business. With moderate tuition fees and strong scholarship opportunities, Canada remains a practical and affordable destination for globally recognised education.

Here are the top universities in Canada you must consider:

Australia continues to be a global leader in higher education, with several universities ranking among the top 50 worldwide. For Indian students planning to study in Australia, the country offers a strong mix of academic excellence, modern facilities, and career-focused programs. 

Here are the top universities in Australia you must consider:

Whether you study in Canada or Australia, your qualification will be globally recognised and industry-relevant. Canadian universities such as the University of Toronto and McGill are renowned for research intensity and affordable public funding, while Australian institutions like UNSW and the University of Sydney rank among the top 30 worldwide for graduate employability.

For Indian students, both destinations provide strong pathways to post-study work and skilled migration, though Australia currently offers faster graduate visa processing and Canada remains slightly more cost-effective overall.

When comparing Canada vs Australia for international students, course choice often determines career outcomes. Both countries offer high-demand programs aligned with global job markets.

Canada continues to attract Indian students to programs that blend research and real-world experience. Here are the best courses in Canada for Indian students.

Canadian universities focus heavily on co-op placements and research experience, helping graduates find skilled employment quickly after completing their programs.

Australian universities are recognised for practice-based learning and strong industry links, making their graduates highly employable worldwide.

Australian programs stand out for their hands-on learning and internship opportunities, especially in engineering, healthcare, and business analytics.

When comparing Canada vs Australia for Indian students, understanding admission criteria is essential before applying. While both countries maintain high academic standards, they differ slightly in how they assess eligibility and English proficiency.

• Minimum 70–75% in Class 12 (CBSE/ISC).
• Specific subject prerequisites depending on program (e.g., Maths for Engineering, Biology for Nursing).
• Some colleges accept 65% for diploma programs.

• A 4-year bachelor’s degree with at least 65–70%.
• Work experience preferred for MBA or management programs.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP), academic references, and resume required.

• IELTS overall 6.5 (no band below 6.0).
• TOEFL iBT 88–100 or PTE 58–65.
• Some universities accept Duolingo 115–125 or MOI (Medium of Instruction) proof for conditional admission.

• Major intakes: Fall (September), Winter (January).
• Limited options: Summer (May).

• Minimum 65–75% in Class 12 (CBSE, ISC, or State boards).
• A portfolio or an interview may be needed for creative courses.

• A 3 or 4-year bachelor’s degree with 60–70%.
• Top universities may require the GMAT for MBA programs.
• SOP, Letters of Recommendation, and a resume are standard.

• IELTS overall 6.5 (no band below 6.0).
• TOEFL iBT 79–90 or PTE 58–65.
• Duolingo 110–120 accepted at select institutions.

• Main intakes: February and July.
• November intake available for select universities.

• Canada: In 2025, IRCC introduced a national study permit cap and tighter Designated Learning Institution (DLI) verification. Approval rates for Indian students averaged 60–65%, depending on financial and academic strength.
• Australia: Introduced a new “genuine student test” and higher financial proof requirements. Approval rates for Indian applicants improved to around 70%, reflecting more transparent processing.

Note: Australia’s approval rate is currently higher, but Canada’s education quality and post-study outcomes remain highly competitive. Indian students should choose based on academic profile, course preference, and long-term goals like PR eligibility.

The total cost of studying abroad depends mainly on tuition fees, accommodation, food, transport, and health insurance. While both countries offer excellent education, the expenses can vary depending on the city, course, and lifestyle.

To understand typical monthly expenses, read Cost of Living in Canada for Indians for a detailed breakdown of housing, food, and travel costs.

To understand typical monthly expenses, read Cost of Living in Australia for Indians for a detailed breakdown of housing, food, and travel costs.

While studying in Canada generally costs less overall, living in Australia can be slightly more comfortable because of its higher minimum wages and better part-time job opportunities. Students planning a long-term stay or PR might also find Canada’s lower healthcare costs an advantage.

For Indian students comparing Canada vs Australia for higher studies, scholarships can make a significant difference in affordability. Both governments and universities offer merit-based and need-based funding options to attract international talent.

Here are the top scholarships in Canada for Indian students:

Here are the top scholarships in Australia for Indian students:

Canada offers more government-funded options that cover both tuition and living costs, while Australia provides several high-value university-specific scholarships. For academically strong Indian students, both countries present excellent opportunities to reduce study expenses.

Both Canada and Australia offer strong post-study work opportunities across diverse industries. Canada’s job market is driven by technology, healthcare, and finance, while Australia has high demand in engineering, education, and health sciences. For Indian students, both countries provide clear pathways from graduate employment to permanent residency.

If you plan to study in Australia, it’s worth knowing how your degree can pay off after graduation. Australia offers strong career growth and competitive salaries across sectors. You can explore the most rewarding options in our detailed guide on the Top 15 Highest Paying Jobs in Australia 2026.

Both countries offer post-study work rights that allow students to gain valuable experience after graduation. Post-Graduation Work Permit in Canada can be valid for up to three years, while Australia’s post-study work visa ranges from two to four years, depending on the degree and location.

For many Indian students comparing Canada vs Australia for higher studies, the long-term goal often includes permanent residency (PR). Both countries have strong migration programs that reward international graduates, but the structure and timelines differ.

Canada offers one of the most student-friendly pathways to permanent residency, especially for those who gain local education and work experience.

• Route: Express Entry System (points-based)
• Post-study work: PGWP for up to 3 years after graduation
• Advantage: Extra points for Canadian education and skilled work experience
• Common PR pathways: Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) such as OINP, BC PNP
• In-demand fields: IT, Engineering, Healthcare, Business Management

Australia provides multiple skilled migration routes that allow international graduates to settle permanently after gaining local experience.

• Route: Skilled Migration Program (occupation-based)
• Post-study work: Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) for 2–4 years, depending on qualification and region
• Common PR pathways: Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent), Subclass 190 (State Nominated)
• In-demand fields: Engineering, Nursing, Education, Construction, Accounting

Canada offers a faster, point-based PR system where education and work experience matter most. Australia focuses on skilled occupations and regional demand, making the process more selective but achievable with the right field of study and work experience.

When deciding between Canada vs Australia for Indian students, climate and lifestyle play a big role in comfort and adaptability. Both countries offer safe, multicultural environments, but their weather patterns and lifestyle experiences are quite different.

• Climate: Cold winters (–10°C or lower in Toronto and Montreal) and mild summers (20–25°C).
• Lifestyle: Community-focused with strong student safety and cultural diversity.
• Suitability: Ideal for students comfortable with colder regions and a structured, academic lifestyle.

• Climate: Warm and sunny most of the year; summers 25–35°C, winters mild at 10–15°C.
• Lifestyle: Relaxed, outdoor-oriented culture with beaches, sports, and social engagement.
• Suitability: Easier adaptation for Indian students due to familiar climate and active lifestyle.

• Australia scores higher for weather and recreation.
• Canada ranks better in safety, affordability, and community inclusivity.

If you prefer cooler weather and affordability, Canada may be better. For a warmer climate and outdoor living, Australia offers greater comfort.

Choosing between Canada vs Australia for Indian students often comes down to personal priorities like budget, PR, and lifestyle. The table below highlights the main advantages and drawbacks of studying in each country.

Studying in Canada vs Australia offers two strong but distinct experiences. Canada appeals to those seeking affordability and PR stability, while Australia suits students prioritising employability, lifestyle, and faster academic routes.

Deciding between Canada and Australia depends on your goals, budget, and long-term plans. If you want a research-driven education system with affordable tuition and clear PR pathways, studying in Canada may be the right fit. If you prefer strong industry exposure, higher employability rates, and diverse campus life, studying in Australia might suit you better.

Both countries offer world-class universities, global recognition, and post-study work opportunities that make them top choices for Indian students.

To find the best-fit course, compare universities, and get end-to-end guidance for your application, connect with Leapscholar today.