Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal 🇨🇦 Which city is best for international students

Packing your bags for Canada but can't decide between the 3 most popular destinations for international students? We've got you! Think of this as your friendly guide (with emojis and everything 😎) to choosing your new Canadian city. This is not only based on the vibes but on the real stuff—costs, culture, jobs, weather, and, of course, the best spots for Insta-worthy moments.

Toronto: The Melting Pot 🍲 (The Big City)

Lifestyle Vibes: Imagine living in a city where every day feels like a global tour. Toronto's multicultural streets are your ticket to the world, offering a bustling city life, diverse cuisines, and festivals that are as colorful as your Instagram feed.

Study & Work: With top-tier universities like the University of Toronto and a skyline filled with corporate giants, Toronto is the place if you're eyeing a career in finance, tech, or Drake’s music videos.

Pro Tip: Budget a bit more for living costs, but hey, networking opportunities here are worth their weight in Canadian maple syrup.

Vancouver: Where Nature Meets City Life 🌲🏙

Lifestyle Vibes: Perfect for the eco-friendly, outdoorsy student who also appreciates a good soy latte after a morning of mountain biking. Vancouver's chill lifestyle and stunning landscapes make every Snapchat story look like a travel vlog.

Study & Work: Aspiring Spielberg? Vancouver, also known as “Hollywood North”, is your dream classroom if you’d like to pursue a film-related career. Schools like the Vancouver Film School or LaSalle College cater to the creatives, while UBC offers a wide range of programs with ocean views on the side. Learn more about Vancouver’s film industry in our article, The Netflix Effect.

Pro Tip: The cost of living may have you doing a double-take at your bank account. However,  the opportunity to jumpstart a career in film, digital arts, or tech in this eco-friendly utopia? Priceless.

Montreal: The Cultural Capital 🎨

Lifestyle Vibes: For those who love their winters with a side of poutine and a dash of European charm, Montreal is calling your name. This bilingual city is a hotspot for music lovers, foodies, and anyone who thinks cycling through a snowstorm sounds like a fun adventure.

Study & Work: Home to renowned institutions like McGill and Concordia, Montreal is not just about bagels (although it could be since they’re sooo good) and jazz festivals. It’s a hub for AI research, aerospace, and anyone looking to perfect their French while pursuing higher education.

Pro Tip: Your wallet will breathe easier here, and your taste buds will thank you. Plus, navigating the job market with both English and French in your arsenal? Bienvenue, career opportunities!

How To Make Your Choice ✅

Choosing between Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal isn't just about picking a city; it's about finding a community that feels like home, a university that sparks your curiosity, and an environment that aligns with your career dreams, lifestyle, and weather preferences. 🌦️Here are some things to keep in mind: 

• Consider your field of study: From Toronto's bustling business scene to Vancouver's creative industries and Montreal's tech-savvy atmosphere, align your city with your career aspirations.

• Budget like a boss: Weigh the cost of living against the opportunities and experiences each city offers. Remember, there are scholarships and part-time gigs to help balance the scales.

• Embrace the culture: Whether it’s Toronto’s diversity, Vancouver’s eco-conscious vibe, or Montreal’s bilingual charm, dive into what makes each city unique.

• Connect with the community: Use platforms like Meetup or university clubs to start building your network even before you arrive. Remember, it’s the people that make the place.

Now, it’s important to remember you don’t have to make this decision alone! The Thrivve team would be more than happy to help you in your decision-making, we can orient you 100% for free about which city and school could be the best fit for you. 

No matter where you land, Canada’s welcoming spirit, world-class education, and breathtaking landscapes are ready to make your study abroad experience unforgettable. So, pack your bags (don’t forget the winter coat), and get ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime in the Great White North! 🍁