Are you considering pursuing a higher education in a foreign country? If so, you’ve likely come across several options, each offering its own unique appeal. But even with a myriad of options, one destination stands out from the rest, and that is Canada’s westernmost province, British Columbia.
The province stands as the perfect destination that brilliantly merges outstanding educational institutions with a captivating natural landscape and a welcoming multicultural environment.
You might be looking for more reasons to convince you to study in British Columbia. Worry not, we have listed many of the compelling reasons why you should.
Why Choose British Columbia?
Famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, the province boasts stunning landscapes, including mountains, forests, lakes, and coastlines. These are all the things you can experience while studying in British Columbia.
The opportunity to study in such a picturesque environment is not only aesthetically pleasing but also conducive to a healthy and active lifestyle. Whether you’re into hiking, skiing, or simply enjoying the outdoors, the province has something for everyone.
It’s also important to note that Canada consistently ranks high on global quality of life indices, and British Columbia is no exception. The province offers a high standard of living to both immigrants and its native residents. Providing easy access to excellent healthcare, a safe environment, and a strong social safety net.
The quality of life is reflected in the happiness and well-being of its residents, making it an ideal place for international students to pursue their studies.
Vancouver, the largest city in British Columbia, is consistently ranked among the top cities globally for quality of life. In 2021, Vancouver was ranked 4th in North America and 10th worldwide.
In addition to that, one of the province’s most remarkable aspects is its cultural diversity. As of 2021, the province housed nearly 2.7 million immigrants, representing approximately 50% of the province’s total population.
Due to this, Vancouver is now known for its multiculturalism and has become a melting pot of cultures and languages – making it more appealing to tourists and immigrants.
The mixture of cultures and experiences creates a more inclusive and welcoming environment for international students. As an international student, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with people from all corners of the world.
This broadens your horizons and enriches your cultural experiences while you are on your educational journey.
On another note, even with the growing population, they have maintained safety and security. The province ensures that international students can focus on their studies without unnecessary concerns.
The province consistently maintains lower crime rates compared to the national average in Canada. As of 2021, its crime rate was approximately 25% lower than the national average. The low crime rates and policies create a more secure and inclusive environment for its residents – making the province an ideal place to reside in.
World-Class Educational System of British Columbia
All the descriptions and advantages mentioned about British Columbia are just the tip of the iceberg. There is still more that the province can offer to international students.
The province boasts a diverse range of educational institutions that cater to a wide array of academic interests and career goals. The province is home to some of Canada’s most prestigious universities and colleges.
Institutions such as the University of British Columbia (UBC), Simon Fraser University (SFU), and the University of Victoria consistently secure places among the country’s top educational institutions.
Here’s a list of the educational institutions in British Columbia:
University of British Columbia (UBC)
UBC consistently ranks among the top universities in Canada and is renowned for its research programs. The institution is an expert in fields like engineering, life sciences, and business. With two campuses in Vancouver and Kelowna, UBC offers a broad spectrum of undergraduate and graduate programs.
Moreover, the university received over $635 million in research funding, supporting groundbreaking projects in various fields.
Simon Fraser University (SFU)
SFU is known for its strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship. The university offers a variety of programs and is recognized for its business and technology-related disciplines.
If you are into business, this school can also be your best choice. SFU’s Beedie School of Business consistently ranks among the top business schools in Canada. Offering programs that prepare students for leadership roles in the corporate world.
University of Victoria
Situated on Vancouver Island, the University of Victoria is known for its excellence in environmental studies, marine biology, and humanities.
With its coastal location, the university offers exceptional opportunities for marine biology research and fieldwork. It’s a perfect educational institution for those who love studying the environment and nature.
University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC)
Known for its strong focus on issues relevant to northern BC, including natural resources, indigenous studies, and environmental sustainability.
The university’s research has had a significant impact on northern communities. It has addressed challenges such as resource management and community development. The university prides itself on small to medium class sizes and close faculty-student interactions, creating a personalized learning environment.
Thompson Rivers University (TRU)
TRU offers a diverse range of programs, including highly regarded business, law, and tourism programs.
TRU is known for its welcoming and supportive environment for international students, with over 3,000 international students from 100 countries in 2020.
Furthermore, most of the universities mentioned are ranked among the best educational institutions internationally. According to the QS World University Rankings, UBC ranked 45th globally in 2021, while SFU secured the 301-350 bracket. These rankings alone reflect the world-class education you can expect to receive in British Columbia.
The rest of the universities in the region also have their strengths in providing excellent education and training to their students.
A Hub for Research and Innovation
It’s also worth noting that British Columbia is continually investing in its educational system to maintain and enhance its global reputation.
The province focuses on research excellence, innovation, and preparing students for Canada’s workforce. The province’s educational institutions provide a world-class education in a stunning natural setting.
With the collective efforts of all the educational institutions of British Columbia, the province is at the forefront of innovation and research across various disciplines.
Its universities actively engage in cutting-edge research projects and collaborate with leading industries. Providing students with a dynamic and stimulating environment to explore their passions.
As of 2021, the province had allocated over CAD 16 million to support research projects. Fostering innovation and technological advancements that contribute to the province’s economic growth and global standing.
This, coupled with the province’s welcoming environment and initiatives to attract international students, makes studying in British Columbia an enticing prospect for those seeking academic excellence and personal growth.
Immigration Pathways for International Students
If you are aspiring to be an international student today, all these may have already convinced you to study abroad.
Fortunately, Canada is known for its welcoming immigration policies, making it an attractive destination for international students seeking a future abroad.
British Columbia, in particular, has several immigration pathways and programs designed to retain international talent.
In 2020, they launched their “BC Tech Pilot,” a fast-track immigration pathway for tech workers and graduates of tech-related programs. The purpose of this program is to attract and retain skilled talent in the technology sector, aligning with the province’s focus on innovation.
To make things easier for you, the province’s commitment to the well-being of international students is evident through its extensive support services. These services include assistance with visa applications, accommodation, orientation, and cultural integration.
The province allocated CAD 24 million in 2021, the funding was used to support international students through various programs.
Moreover, British Columbia conducts periodic draws under its Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). BC’s periodic draws have been inviting candidates who meet specific eligibility criteria to apply for permanent residency. Those who have studied and graduated in British Columbia can benefit from these draws.
These are actions taken by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and British Columbia to show its commitment to attracting and retaining international talent. This also demonstrates its dedication to fostering a global learning community.
Considering all this, British Columbia might just be the perfect destination to unlock your potential and embark on an unforgettable journey of education and discovery.
Are you thinking about your next academic adventure?
If you want to learn more about becoming an International Student in Canada, you can always schedule an online appointment with us. Fill out our easy online application form or contact us at +63 917 555 9027.
