🇨🇦 Canada vs 🇦🇺 Australia
The key differences at a glance. Figures change often, so check each country page for the official source and its review status.
| Applying | 🇨🇦 Canada | 🇦🇺 Australia |
|---|---|---|
| Visa | Study permit | Student visa (subclass 500) |
| Main intakes | January, May, September | February, July (some November) |
| Offer documentGuide | Letter of acceptance (DLI) + PAL/TAL (most students) | Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) |
| Intent assessmentGuide | Study plan / letter of explanation | Genuine Student questions |
| EnglishGuide | Set by your school | Visa minimum (IELTS 6.0 / PTE 47 / TOEFL 67) + school requirement |
| Where you apply | IRCC online account | ImmiAccount |
| Biometrics | Yes, at VFS Kathmandu | If requested |
| Money | 🇨🇦 Canada | 🇦🇺 Australia |
|---|---|---|
| Visa fee | CAD 150 + CAD 85 biometrics | AUD 2,500 |
| Living-cost proof (1 year, single)Guide | CAD 23,448 | AUD 29,710 |
| Health insurance | Provincial or school plan (varies) | OSHC, compulsory |
| Typical tuition (per year, rough) | College CAD 15–20k · University CAD 25–45k | VET AUD 10–20k · University AUD 30–50k |
| While studying | 🇨🇦 Canada | 🇦🇺 Australia |
|---|---|---|
| Work during study periodsGuide | 24 hours per week (off campus) | 48 hours per fortnight |
| Work during breaks | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Tax / work numberGuide | SIN | TFN |
| Spouse work rights | Only for master's (16+ months), PhD and some professional programs | Depends on course level |
| After graduating | 🇨🇦 Canada | 🇦🇺 Australia |
|---|---|---|
| Post-study work visaGuide | PGWP (up to 3 years) | Subclass 485 (length depends on qualification) |
| PR pathways | Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs | Points-tested skilled visas, state nomination |