Why Is Canada Becoming A Dream Destination For Pakistani Students

Going abroad for studies has long been a tradition around the globe. However, this trend has risen in Pakistan for the last few years. More than 50,000 Pakistani students go abroad to pursue higher studies every year. The popular destinations among Pakistani students for pursuing education are the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, China, and Europe.

Some Prominent Reasons for This Inclination:

The prominent reasons Pakistani students prefer foreign countries for their education are mainly:

• Lack of world-recognized education facilities in Pakistan
• Unemployment
• Lack of recognition of talent
• Need more adequate well-suited facilities for students.

Sadly, not a single university in Pakistan has made its way into the world’s top 100 or even the top 500 universities. Moreover, there are no productive part-time jobs for students. Even after getting degrees, it is a tough battle to land jobs at reputed places due to a lack of merit-based selections. Rupee devaluation also has a significant role in this case. Youth in Pakistan find it fascinating to go abroad where they can study at world-recognized universities while earning money simultaneously. They also manage to send some money home. Exposure is also one of the significant reasons that inclines Pakistani students to step outside their homeland.

As stated earlier, Canada is among some other nations that are sought-after destinations for Pakistani students. More interestingly, it has now attracted more and more individuals from Pakistan. Wondering why? Let us delve into it below:

Canada as a Country:

Canada is not just another random country globally but the world’s second-largest country after Russia. Thus, it is easier to guess the diversity, cultural variety, and history it can offer its pursuers, along with geographical diversification.

The more you dig deeper, the more this country surprises you with its charm. With the most significant number of lakes to the most extensive coastline in the world, from polar bear-shaped license plates to the most considerable number of doughnut shops in the world, no wonder this country is one of the top tourist destinations of the world as well as among the countries with the highest rates of immigrant’s intake.

A Positive Image of Canada And Trudeau’s Effect:

Canada has always had a positive image. One of the wealthiest countries in the world, Canada is now becoming an absolute favorite destination among expats and students.

Blame it on the beauty of this scenic country or the reforms brought about by the recently elected Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, such as simplifying the immigration procedures, combating climate change, promoting feminism with a gender-balanced cabinet, paying respect to all the religions, and what not? Canada is becoming an absolute favorite place among the masses around the globe.

Less Populated:

Despite being the second largest country in the world, Canada only inhabits a few people. It is one of the reasons for its prosperous economy (the 11th largest in the world) and better health and education facilities. Remember, Canada is one of the most educated countries in the world, with an impressive 99% literacy rate.

Canada- A Popular Choice:

Canada has been a popular choice for students all over the world. According to a statistical study in 2016, a whopping 353,000 students chose Canada for higher education. Talking about Pakistani students, in 2010, around 2000 Pakistani students went to Canada to pursue higher education, and this number has only increased in the last few years.

Some Other Considerable Perks:

Apart from magnificent Niagara Falls, some of the other considerable perks which Canada offers are:

• World-Class Education: Canadian education standards are by no means less than those of America, Australia, or Britain. Canadian universities have made their way into the list of the top 50 universities in the world.

Moreover, they offer a wide range of degree programs in various fields. Thus catering to the majority of the students.

• Cost-Friendliness: When choosing a university, the first thing that becomes a barrier is cost and fees. Canada had lower numbers than tuition fees in the UK, USA, and Australia. Thus making it a favorite among students.
• Living Standards: Studying abroad is not just about the university but also about housing. Canada offers affordable house rents for students compared to the rest of the world, with a yearly expense of up to 15,000 dollars.
• Work Opportunities: while you live abroad, you must earn something to bear the expenses. Canada is also favorable in this department as it allows the students to work alongside their studies. Students can work up to 20 hours per week except for summer/winter breaks, where they can work up to 30 hours per week. One complimentary favor this country offers is that students don’t always need a work permit.
• Security: In 2024, Canada was ranked the 11th most peaceful country in the world, which leaves no doubt behind why it is a favorite choice. As for young students, living in a foreign country alone is challenging if it does not provide you with ample security measures.

With crime rates as low as in Canada, who wouldn’t choose it for living or studying?

• Immigration Chances: Canada is one country that lets students stay after completing their education and encourages them to pursue their careers there.

One example of this is the Post-graduation work permit, with the help of which students can get work experience in Canada and fund their education if they plan to study further. Also, Canada offers immigration options to students. In 2024, a survey concluded that 51% of students decided to try their luck at a permanent residency in Canada.

• Cultural Celebration: Canada is one of the countries where all cultures and religions are equally celebrated and respected, unlike other countries where being a Muslim is often considered a crime. Justin Trudeau’s cabinet sends his Eid Mubarak messages for Muslims, and his encouraging speeches for Muslims of Canada are proof that racism is non-existent in this country.

The Bottom Line:

All these commendatory facilities and perks make Canada an absolute favorite among Pakistani students. Learning at a Canadian university is prestigious and a win-win situation for Pakistani students. Upon returning to Pakistan, they work at recognized workplaces, which may otherwise be difficult to find. However, if they don’t return to Pakistan, Canada’s post-graduation work permit and immigration opportunities are there to have their back.

For more information about the perks of studying in Canada, please visit the AEO office or give us a call and talk to our experts.