What do Chinese students think about Canadian education?

Canada continues to attract a significant number of Chinese students. The country’s reputation for high-quality education, diverse course offerings, and a history of hosting international students has made it a preferred destination.

The University of Toronto currently hosts over 17,000 Chinese students.

We’ve explored the factors that attract Chinese students to Canadian institutions, the challenges they may face, and the overall impressions they have about Canadian education.

How is the education in China different from that in Canada?

Education is highly valued in China, and parents will do whatever it takes to ensure that their children receive the best education possible. While the Chinese education system is heavily influenced by Confucianism, which emphasizes respect for authority, hard work, and discipline, the Canadian system focuses on developing critical thinking skills, creativity, and independence.

Teaching style

One of the main differences between school education in China and Canada is the teaching style. In China, the teaching style is more traditional. Students are expected to listen attentively to the teacher and take notes, and there is little room for questioning or debate. 

In Canada, students are encouraged to ask questions, think critically, and express their opinions.

Curriculum

The Chinese curriculum is standardized and students are required to study a wide range of subjects, including mathematics, science, literature, and arts. In Canada, the curriculum is more flexible, and students can choose their courses based on their interests and career aspirations.

Competitiveness

The school system in China is highly competitive, with students taking part in exams to advance to higher levels of education. In contrast, the Canadian school system is more inclusive, with an emphasis on providing equal opportunities for all students, regardless of their socio-economic background.

“The biggest difference between the education systems of Canada and China,” said a Richmond mother of three, “are the opportunities given to students who find it difficult to enter university.” 

She explains that “the education system in China is very stressful and intense because you wouldn’t see your kids for more than two-thirds of the day.”

As a parent who experienced the Chinese education system herself, she expressed her gratitude for her children’s education in Canada, where there is “more care and focus on the health of students.”

Homework

The school hours and workload differ significantly between the two countries. In China, students attend school for long hours, with homework and after-school tutoring. In Canada, school hours are shorter, and students have time to pursue extracurricular activities and hobbies.

Why do Chinese international students prefer to study in Canada?

From the quality of education to the welcoming and diverse environment, Canada offers a range of benefits to students from all over the world. Here are some of the reasons why Chinese international students are choosing Canada for their higher education:

Multicultural Society

Canada is a multicultural society, with people from all over the world living and working together. This diversity is reflected in Canadian universities, which offer a rich and varied learning environment. Chinese students who study in Canada learn from and interact with people from many different cultures and backgrounds.

Post-Graduate Work Permit

After completing their studies, international students in Canada are eligible for a post-graduate work permit, which allows them to stay and work in Canada for up to three years. This can be a valuable opportunity for Chinese students who are looking to gain work experience and potentially apply for permanent residency in Canada.

Which sources and channels are most often used by students to research study options abroad?

Research is a crucial aspect of selecting a university or college. Chinese students use a variety of sources and channels to explore their options.

Simplified Chinese Preferred for Social Media Platforms

WeChat, China’s social networking app – is a daily must-have for Chinese students to connect with friends and family, discover brands and products, and receive news. While the English version of the app is available for download, the content is nearly all in Simplified Chinese. So for institutions to meaningfully engage Chinese students on WeChat, having an official WeChat account and a robust content marketing strategy is essential.

A few universities have their own WeChat account, for example, Concordia University, for whom our team at LAT Multilingual helped set up the official WeChat account.

Google Preferred for Academic Research and Study

While Baidu is the top search engine in China, the platform is limited in its capacity to index non-Chinese web content. Hence, Google is preferred. However, product and brand discovery is still mainly performed on WeChat and Baidu.

University Websites 

Chinese students also use university websites to research study options abroad. University websites provide students with detailed information on courses, admission requirements, scholarships, and other relevant information.

Education Directories

Directories of educational institutions in Canada provide information and assistance to students who are interested in studying abroad. The directories offer detailed information on the best universities, courses, and scholarships available. 

LAT’s Chinese listing of Canada’s top colleges, universities, and private schools, Educationcanada.cn 加拿大名校通, is rapidly growing in popularity with Chinese students. Is your institution listed?

This directory offers prospective students access to information about a wide range of educational choices for students and parents who want to explore all options, not only the most recognized names. Want to share your institution’s information with Chinese students? Claim your FREE listing here.