Why Canada Will Be the Best Destination for UG–PG Studies in 2026: 5 Key Reasons Indian Students Must Know

Canada continues to emerge as one of the most preferred study-abroad destinations for Indian students, especially those aspiring to pursue undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) degrees in English-speaking countries. World-class universities, strong post-study employment opportunities, globally recognized degrees, and a welcoming immigration ecosystem have made Canada a top choice for higher education.

In 2024 alone, nearly 4.27 lakh Indian students enrolled in Canadian universities—clear evidence of the country’s growing appeal. With 2026 approaching, Canada is set to remain a perfect destination for Indian students seeking quality education and long-term career growth. Here are five compelling reasons why studying in Canada in 2026 will be a smart decision:

1. Simple and Student-Friendly Admission Process

Compared to many other countries, Canada offers a relatively straightforward admission process. Students can apply directly to universities or use centralized platforms such as ApplyBoard and Common App. Some provinces also operate their own application portals.
Unlike other destinations where applications must be submitted a year in advance, many Canadian universities allow students to apply just a few months before the intake, making the process flexible and accessible.

2. Strong Post-Study Job Opportunities (PGWP)

One of Canada’s biggest advantages is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This allows international students to work in Canada after completing their degree.
The work experience gained through PGWP not only helps students recover their education costs but also plays a crucial role in securing Permanent Residency (PR) in the future. This makes Canada an ideal destination for students seeking long-term career stability.

3. Home to World-Class Universities

Canada boasts some of the world’s most prestigious institutions, including:

• University of Toronto
• McGill University
• University of British Columbia (UBC)
• University of Waterloo
• McMaster University
• University of Alberta
• Queen’s University

Degrees from these universities are globally recognized. Students benefit from advanced research facilities, cutting-edge laboratories, and strong industry and startup connections, significantly enhancing employability.

4. High-Quality Education at Affordable Costs

Compared to countries like the United States and Australia, Canada offers high-quality education at a more affordable cost.
For most master’s programs, tuition fees range between ₹13 lakh to ₹20 lakh. Additionally, students can access numerous scholarships provided by universities as well as the Canadian government, making higher education more financially feasible.

5. Improving India–Canada Relations

Another major positive factor is the improvement in diplomatic ties between India and Canada. In June 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Canada for the G7 Summit in Kananaskis and held discussions with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
The talks focused on energy security, technology, digital transformation, and higher education collaboration. Strengthening bilateral relations has made the environment for Indian students more supportive and study processes smoother than before.