10 reasons why you should study in Alberta?

Alberta – Canada’s education hub

Among Canada’s large influx of international students, Alberta alone has about 17,000 international students. It is one of the most major educational hubs in Canada.  This province is also home to some of Canada’s most prestigious universities. Regarding educational institutions, The University of Alberta is the region’s top-ranked university. It has the second-largest student population in Canada and unparalleled research importance. Check out the top 10 reasons you should study in Alberta.

Let’s begin!

Top 10 reasons to study in Alberta

Quality education

Alberta is home to world-renowned educational institutions, including the University of Alberta, the University of Calgary, and many other prestigious colleges and universities. The province’s education system is known for its high standards and quality of teaching. In Alberta, numerous colleges and universities emphasize a diverse range of academic streams and areas of study. For example, the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) offers Machine Theory and Web Design courses, but Athabasca University concentrates on remote learning education.

Diverse programs

Alberta boasts several renowned universities, colleges, and technical institutes, offering a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs in disciplines like arts, sciences, engineering, business, health, and more. Alberta’s universities and colleges provide a wide range of programs and courses to choose from, catering to various interests and professional goals, whether you are interested in engineering, the arts, sciences, business, or any other field. 

Research opportunities

Alberta is home to several renowned universities and research institutions that regularly offer research opportunities to students, academics, and professionals. Alberta’s universities are at the forefront of research and innovation. Students have access to cutting-edge research facilities and opportunities to work with leading researchers in their chosen fields. Some notable institutions include the University of Alberta, the University of Calgary, and the University of Lethbridge. These universities have multiple faculties and research centers spanning various disciplines, from science and engineering to humanities and social sciences.

Safe and welcoming environment

Canada is known for its friendly and inclusive culture, and Alberta is no exception. The province offers a safe and welcoming environment for international students, making adapting to a new country and culture easier. In terms of safety, Alberta is considered a safe place to live and visit. However, like any place, exercising standard precautions and being aware of your surroundings is essential, especially in urban areas. Alberta’s crime rates are generally lower than many other places worldwide, but it’s always wise to stay vigilant and take necessary safety measures.

Natural beauty and outdoor activities

Students can explore and participate in outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and animal spotting in a unique environment thanks to Alberta’s breathtaking landscapes, including the Rocky Mountains. Alberta’s natural splendor and outdoor activities make it the perfect vacation spot for those wishing to experience the Canadian wilderness, nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anybody else. Alberta has something to offer for every nature fan, whether you’re touring the national parks, traveling along gorgeous routes, or taking part in outdoor recreational activities.

Vibrant student life

Alberta’s student population is diverse, with students coming from different parts of Canada and the world. This multicultural atmosphere fosters understanding and enriches the overall educational experience. Alberta’s cities, such as Edmonton and Calgary, have vibrant student communities with numerous social and cultural activities. This ensures a well-rounded college experience beyond academics. Additionally, the city offers a lively social scene with numerous clubs, organizations, and events catering to students’ interests. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved and make new friends, whether it’s sports, arts, culture, or volunteering.

Employment opportunities

Alberta has a strong and diverse economy with opportunities in various industries, including oil and gas, technology, agriculture, and healthcare. Studying in Alberta could open doors to internships and job opportunities after graduation. Aspirants can pursue a career in oil and gas engineering, agriculture, forestry, manufacturing, tourism and finance, information technology, communication technology, and other fields. Alberta supplied more than half of Canada’s job growth in 2016, with 19000 new jobs!

Affordable tuition fees

Compared to other popular study destinations, tuition fees in Alberta can be relatively inexpensive, making it an attractive option for international students seeking a high-quality education without breaking the bank. International students typically pay higher tuition rates than Canadian citizens or permanent residents in Alberta, Canada. Depending on the university and program, the average annual tuition for overseas undergraduate students in Alberta in 2021 ranged from about CAD 17,000 to 30,000.

International scholarships

Many Canadian institutions, including those in Alberta, offer scholarships and financial aid opportunities specifically for international students, helping to ease the financial burden of studying abroad. If you are pursuing graduate studies in research-related fields, Alberta Innovates offers scholarships and funding opportunities for international students. Additionally, various NGOs and foundations provide scholarships to international students in Canada, including those studying in Alberta. Examples include the Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and the Trudeau Foundation Scholarships.

Post-Graduation work permit

Canada offers a Post-Graduation Work Permit, allowing international students to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies. This provides valuable work experience and the opportunity to apply for permanent residency in Canada if desired. To be eligible for the PGWP, you must have completed a full-time program of study at a designated learning institution in Canada that is at least eight months long. 

Top universities in Canada

• University of Toronto
• The University of British Columbia
• McGill University
• University of Waterloo
• University of Alberta
• McMaster University
• University of Montreal
• Western University
• University of Calgary
• University of Ottawa

Key takeaways

• Alberta is home to several prestigious universities and colleges known for their high-quality education and research programs.
• Alberta is a diverse and multicultural province, allowing international students to interact with people from various backgrounds.
• The province’s educational institutions are known for their inclusive and supportive learning environments.
• International students in Alberta are eligible to work on or off-campus while studying, helping them gain practical work experience and supplement their finances. 
• Alberta’s stunning natural landscapes offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.

We hope you found this blog informative and helpful in your pursuit of studying in Alberta. If you have any thoughts or comments, please share them below. For further information and assistance with your queries related to studying abroad, click here to contact us. We are happy to assist you!

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FAQs

Q1. Is Alberta a suitable place for overseas students to study?

Ans. For various reasons, Alberta has become one of the top choices for international students. This Canadian province has an exceptional history of higher education that dates back to the first half of 1881, and it currently serves as a hub for new talent and innovation from all over the world.

Q2. Where does Canada stand in terms of global education?

Ans. Canada is the fourth best country in the world for education, according to research from 2022 US News, and has consistently ranked in the top 5 nations since 2016!

Q3. What is Alberta well-known for?

Ans. Alberta is well-known for its oil sector. It has the third-largest crude oil reserves in Canada, most of which originate from the Athabasca Oil Sands.