Central Canada is a remarkable place. Made up of the huge provinces of Ontario and Quebec, the region is home to both the country’s capital, Ottawa, and its two most populated cities, Toronto and Montreal. Here you will find the heart of Canadian government, industry and culture, which makes it a fantastic place to live and learn. If you’re not sure where to start, look no further: our guide to studying in Central Canada will explain everything.
What is Central Canada like?
Location and demographics
Despite its name, Central Canada is mostly located towards the eastern side of the country. Quebec, for example, extends close to its eastern coastline. Nevertheless, the majority of the region is a long way inland. The western side of Ontario is very close to the middle of the country, making it an ideal location for travelling in all directions.
In addition to their status as parts of Central Canada, Ontario and Quebec are sometimes also grouped with other provinces as part of other Canadian regions. Therefore, you can learn more about both places alongside some other interesting locations in our ultimate student guide to Eastern Canada.
When it comes to the people who live in Central Canada, you can expect a warm welcome. The country as a whole has a reputation for friendliness, and this region is no exception. It also has a diverse population, particularly in major cities. Toronto, for instance, is recognised as one of the most multicultural places in the world.
If you can speak French, you will feel even more at home. Many people in Canada use the language, but especially in Quebec, where 85 per cent of the population of nine million people are French speakers.
Culture and history
The culture and history of Central Canada is as broad as the region itself. Of course, spending time in the area is the best way to understand its fascinating background and ways of life, but it is worth knowing a few things in advance.
People have lived in the areas that are now known as Ontario and Quebec for thousands of years, and the descendants of these settlers – known as First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples – remain there today. Their existence, however, was threatened by European colonisers, beginning in the 16th century. For several hundred years, the land, resources and culture of the people who had been there longest were taken by force. This long history of oppression has had a profound impact on Canada as it is today.
European invasion is, for instance, the reason why most Canadians now speak English or French (and in some cases, both). In Ontario, the former is the official language, while in Quebec, it is the latter. Although this might sound concerning if you are not familiar with French, you shouldn’t worry too much. While Quebec has a proudly French-influenced culture, most people there do speak English.
What cities are in Central Canada?
Central Canada is where you will find many of the country’s biggest and most significant cities. Here are some of the ones you will hear about the most:
- Toronto, Ontario. Canada’s most populated city, with a fast-growing tech industry.
- Montreal, Quebec. Canada’s second-most populated city, where the majority of people can speak English and French.
- Ottawa, Ontario. The capital of Canada, where almost half of all adults have a degree.
- Hamilton, Ontario. A city which is not far from Toronto, and has five beaches.
- Quebec City. A place with a heritage district that is protected by UNESCO.
- Kitchener, Ontario. A city which has a historic German influence and used to be called Berlin.
To find out more about some of these places, read our guide to the top cities in Canada for international students.
How much does it cost to live in Central Canada?
The cost of living in Central Canada will vary depending on which part of it you choose as your place of study. The most expensive areas are often in major hubs like Toronto, so you may have to think carefully about where you stay if you are looking for a university in a big city.
Generally, though, you should think about budgeting between CAD 1,600 and CAD 3,000 per month. Above all, it is a good idea to consider everything that you might need, find out what it will cost in your chosen area, and plan accordingly.
For a more detailed guide, read our advice on student living costs in Canada.
What services are there in Central Canada?
The services available to international students in Central Canada vary, and an important example of that is healthcare. The access that you will have to health treatment will depend on the rules of your chosen province. If you study in Quebec, you may be able to receive some forms of medical care for free. If you study in Ontario, however, you will usually have to pay for it. Therefore, if you are moving to Central Canada, you should ensure that you are aware of how your health will be looked after.
You may also be keen to save money while studying in Canada. If so, you should consider getting an ISIC. This is a student identity card that offers discounts on many kinds of purchases, and it is free at most Canadian universities. It may even help when you go home, as it can be used in countries all over the world.
What are the post-study options in Central Canada?
If you want to stay in Central Canada after you graduate, you will require the legal right to do so. In most cases, this will mean needing a work permit, and for students, that usually means a post-graduation work permit (PGWP). The length of time that a PGWP will allow you to stay in Canada varies depending on the length of time you study there, but once you have one, you will be free to live and work anywhere in the country. You can even apply to be allowed to bring over members of your family.
For more information on the system, take a look at our advice on how to apply for a post-graduation work permit in Canada.
If you do stay in Central Canada, you will have access to a huge range of top career opportunities. Large employers including Air Canada, L’Oréal and the Bank of Montreal all have headquarters in the region, and are always seeking talented graduates.
Does that sound good? Read about the top five graduate jobs in Canada.
What universities are in Central Canada?
As it is such an important region, it should be no surprise to learn that the universities of Central Canada include some of the best in the country. A few of the most well-known are:
- University of Toronto. Rated by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023 as the top university in Canada, and the 18th-best in the world.
- University of Montreal. With 10,000 international students, this university provides help and support from its International Students’ Office.
- McGill University. Also in Montreal, 19 per cent of students at this welcoming university are international students.
- University of Ottawa. To study here you must have achieved an English language score of IELTS 7, or have a similar understanding of French.
- McMaster University. Rated by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023 as the fourth-best university in Canada.
What are the main attractions in Central Canada?
Visitor attractions in Central Canada are as varied as you would expect for such a large and historic region, meaning that you will be sure to find interesting things to do wherever you go. A few of the most popular include:
- Royal Ontario Museum. Not far from the University of Toronto, this is the most-visited museum in Canada, with an incredible range of cultural and historical exhibits.
- Canada’s Wonderland. For some real excitement, make your way to this vast amusement park in Vaughan, just north of Toronto. It has 16 rollercoasters.
- Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. This is the largest and oldest art museum in Canada, with a range of permanent and temporary exhibits that represent both local and international culture throughout history.
What must you see in Central Canada?
From breathtaking natural beauty to awe-inspiring architecture, you will never run out of things to see in Central Canada. Some of the most notable include:
- CN Tower. For a long time, this incredible structure in downtown Toronto was the tallest tower in the world. At a height of 553m, it is still one of the most well-known sights in the city. If you want to visit, consider taking a trip up to its restaurant and lookout points, from where you can enjoy unique views that stretch for miles.
- Niagara Falls. These three world-famous waterfalls are in between Ontario and New York, and can be seen up close on one of the popular Niagara boat tours. It’s one of the most memorable things you can do if you’re studying in Central Canada – but be prepared to get wet.
- Old Quebec City. Some of the buildings in this part of Quebec are 400 years old, dating to a time when the city was at war. Today, you can still see the walls that protected it alongside a range of historic French architecture. A great way to take it all in is on one of the many walking tours that take place throughout the year. Listen to your expert guide and learn all about the history of this fascinating place.
- Mont-Tremblant National Park. The sights are spectacular in this protected natural region of southwest Quebec. You can go swimming and canoeing on rivers between mountains, or simply go for a hike. Make sure to take in all the wildlife if you do – you can expect to see moose, deer and foxes, among other animals.
If you now feel even more interested in studying at a university in Central Canada, have a look at our site search tool and find the best way to make it happen.
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