Between France and Canada, where is it more affordable to study?
Studying in France is an enriching experience, though not only from a human and professional standpoint. Indeed, for non-European students, deciding to pursue a semester or a full university cycle in France can also prove to be financially beneficial.
Cost of studies : a true gap between these two countries?
Average budget in Canada vs. average budget in France
The price to enrol in a Canadian university can vary from $5,000 to $50,000. In order to be able to study in Canada, the Canadian government must ensure that you have sufficient funds available. This is actually compulsory to secure a student visa in Canada. Overall, the cost for training and courses can vary widely. For example, an undergraduate year at Seneca College costs about $11,000 whereas you would have to spend up to $50,000 to study at the University of Toronto.
In France, fees at private institutions average €15,000 per year. For example at Excelia, yearly prices vary from €8,000 for a Bachelor to €15,000 for a Master.
Is life in France as expensive as in Canada?
Accommodation
In Canada, the cost of a year at university can include classes as well as on-campus accommodation. If you would rather rent a room or a studio, rents will vary depending on the city and the neighbourhood: $400 to $800 for a studio in Montreal and up to $1,500 for a studio in Toronto’s city centre. In France, a student housing system is also available under certain conditions. The rates are advantageous and lower than those offered for off-campus rentals. However, renting a room or a studio in France essentially adds up to the same prices as the ones seen in Canada. For international students, a house-share would be the best compromise: you get to meet new people all the while saving money!
The price of an average “student shopping basket”
If the prices displayed in a Canadian supermarket seem similar to those found in France, it is generally because they do not include taxes. For example, you would need to spend €2,50 for a kilogram of rice in Canada vs. €1,60 in France. As for restaurants, they are more pricey! Even if you still have the option to grab a poutine or eat a sandwich on the go…You are better off preparing your own meals. Whether in France or in Canada, grocery shopping is the best alternative…although an average shopping basket in Canada may be slightly more expensive than its French counterpart.
Additional costs
Studying in a new country means having the possibility to discover it in all its aspects. Therefore, these “extra” costs are an integral part of a student’s budget. On this respect, budgets will differ depending on cities and each student’s personality. While some are adamant about visiting everything, others are more homebodies. Be that as it may, whether in France or in Canada, this aspect is important to promote socialisation, which is vital for any overseas student spending a year in a new country!
Deciding to study in France has many benefits, the cost of living is also worth pointing out.
In the end, studying in Canada for a year is quite an investment. Even if this investment is lower than what it would be in Australia, the UK or even the US, it still remains much higher than what it would cost to study abroad for a year at a French Business school. The cards are in your hands and the ultimate decision is yours !
