Top Reasons Not to Study in Canada

With 642,000 international students in 2020, Canada is currently the world's third most popular destination for international students. There are several reasons why overseas students decide for their higher education in Canada. The quality of education and training supplied by Canadian universities is the most significant. Moreover, a degree from these universities is recognized worldwide. Students with extensive educational exposure and research opportunities are also provided in well-seasoned research faculties. Canada is also one of the friendliest and most hospitable countries in the world.

Although there may be a thousand reasons why Canada is better than one’s own country, there could still be some disadvantages in moving to a more advanced country. If we only examine the benefits of a country and the cause for migrating, we will also encounter its drawbacks once we get to the destination country, which may result in obstacles and conflicts. To help you out, we’ve listed some very common disadvantages of studying in Canada.

1. Expensive Tuition Fees and Cost of Living

You are expected to pay CAD 6,000-10,000 per semester in Canadian Universities. To be able to pay for this cost, you should have some money to spend before you even begin applying to these schools. Although you can work while you study, you still need some initial funds to start with because Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) will require you to show some proof that you have sufficient funds. As a student, you will be asked to present proof of $10,000 in living expenses in Canada for a period of 12 months. The spouse will require an additional $4,000, and each dependant will require an additional $3,000. Accommodation, food, medical insurance, transportation, books, and clothing are all included in this sum. This sum does not include tuition or other costs.

2. High Tax Rate

In many ways, Canada's tax system is unique, and it will likely differ from what you are used to in your home country. It is your responsibility as a Canadian resident to pay taxes on all worldwide income earned throughout the year and to file your tax return with the government. Employment income, investment income, commission income, and retirement income are all examples of sources of income. Both the federal government and the provincial/territorial governments will tax your earnings. The tax system in Canada is progressive or graduated, which means that the more money you earn, the more income taxes you will pay. The amount of money you pay in taxes is expressed as a percentage and increases in stages, or "brackets," as your income rises.

3. Extremely Cold Weather

Many Canadian immigrants come from tropical countries and most likely are used to experiencing two seasons per year. In Canada, there are four seasons - winter, spring, summer, and fall - but the intensity of these seasons vary across the country. In most regions, winter is bitterly cold, with the exception of the BC coast, where winters are mild and snowfall is little. In some areas, temperature can even drop to minus 30 C and it can be very intimidating for those who are not used to it.

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4. Different Culture and Lifestyle

Classroom interactions may be your first encounter with people from many various backgrounds and cultures as an international student in Canada, which is noted for its cultural variety. In their first few months in Canada, many overseas students endure some culture shock. Adapting to cultural differences may require time and effort, despite the fact that most Canadians are cordial and welcoming to newcomers. You may feel excluded if you do not feel confident in English and may have trouble communicating with others. Food may also be an issue because not all of what you commonly eat may be easily available.

5. Working While Studying

For most, this may be taken as an advantage because some countries do not offer work opportunities for students. However, balancing work and school at the same time is not easy and can be physically and mentally draining. Because of this, you may be forced to sacrifice your rest and recreation time to be able to juggle both. Apart from that, you still need to take care of your own chores and other responsibilities you may have at home or wherever you will live. If you’re coming with your spouse and child, you have to balance your time and energy in providing for them as well.

Studying in Canada, like any other country, has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. The drawbacks or disadvantages listed above are part of the adjustment period that an international student goes through when he or she moves to a new country. Prioritizing what is most important to you will assist you in making the best decision possible.

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