Are you searching for the perfect place to study? Alberta has everything you need as an international student! With top-ranked universities, promising career opportunities, post-graduate work permits (PGWP) eligibility, and beautiful landscapes, it’s become a top choice for students. Study in Alberta: Top 8 Reasons for International Students will show you why this province stands out.
But before we dive in, let’s look at what makes Alberta such a vibrant and exciting place to study.
About Alberta
Located in western Canada, Alberta is the country’s fourth-largest province, home to more than four million people, according to Canada’s Alberta. The province is a top choice for students seeking not only stunning landscapes but also lively cities and thrilling outdoor adventure.
Alberta has two major cities—Calgary and Edmonton—each offering something special. To start, Calgary, Alberta’s largest city, has become a business hub, offering a strong job market, high quality of life, and proximity to the Rocky Mountains. It frequently ranks among the top 10 most livable cities globally. Meanwhile, Edmonton, Alberta’s capital—also known as Canada’s Festival City—is a center for cultural diversity, innovation, and research. The city has one of the world’s largest malls and a vibrant art scene.
For students seeking smaller towns, Red Deer and Olds offer affordable living, a welcoming environment, and quality educational opportunities. Alberta perfectly combines an urban lifestyle with stunning scenery, making it an ideal place to live and study.
Now, let’s count down the top reasons why Alberta should be your next study destination!
8. Best of City Life & Outdoor Adventures
If you are a city person at heart but also love nature, Alberta is the perfect choice. The province offers the perfect blend of modern city life with breathtaking landscapes. Students can experience award-winning restaurants, renown music festivals, and high-end shopping. Meanwhile, they can explore ski resorts, hiking trails, and national parks within driving distance.
Here are some highlights that make Alberta a great destination:
Top Urban & Outdoor Attractions in Alberta:
- West Edmonton Mall – One of North America’s largest malls, featuring shops, an indoor water park, and an amusement park.
- Banff National Park & Lake Louise – Known for its beautiful mountain views, clear blue , and outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and wildlife spotting.
- Calgary Stampede – A ten-day festival celebrating Alberta’s rich western heritage, featuring one of the world’s largest rodeos, parades, concerts, and exhibitions.
- Royal Tyrrell Museum – Home to one of the world’s most extensive dinosaur fossil collections, offering a fascinating experience for all ages.
7. Lower Living Expenses
Alberta is more affordable than cities like Toronto and Vancouver, making it a budget-friendly destination for students. As a result, students spend less on housing, daily essentials, and transportation while enjoying the benefits of a cosmopolitan city. For example, in Calgary, the cost of living is approximately 11.1% lower than in Toronto, according to Minto Communities.
How Alberta Is More Affordable for Students:
- Lower Rent & Housing Costs – More affordable compared to other major provinces.
- Student Transit Discounts – Public transportation offered at a reduced cost.
- Budget-Friendly Essentials – Groceries and restaurant prices are more affordable.
6. Diverse Population & Festivals
In Calgary and Edmonton, over 40% of residents are born internationally, creating a multicultural environment where newcomers feel at home. Many universities offer cultural clubs, mentorship programs, and student support services, helping international students adjust and build connections within their communities.
To celebrate cultural diversity, Alberta hosts various cultural festivals throughout the year, allowing students to experience unique traditions, music, and cuisines. Here are some popular festivals:
Popular Festivals in Calgary:
- Calgary Folk Music Festival – A four-day annual event featuring over 70 artists from Canada and around the world, showcasing diverse musical styles.
- Carifest – A vibrant Caribbean festival with lively music, dance performances, parades and authentic Caribbean cuisine.
Popular Festivals in Edmonton:
- Edmonton Heritage Festival – Recognized as the world’s largest three-day multicultural event, featuring global cuisine, entertainment, and cultural exhibits that celebrate diversity and heritage.
- Edmonton Folk Music Festival – A renowned festival held in Gallagher Park, attracting local and international musicians for a weekend of live performances.
5. One of the Safest Places to Live in Canada
Safety is an important factor when choosing a place to live, and Alberta provides a secure environment. The province has one of the lowest crime rates in Canada, with a Crime Severity Index (CSI) below the national average. Universities in Alberta prioritize student safety, offering support services and emergency response systems to ensure a comfortable and protected learning environment.
Why Alberta is a Safe Place to Live:
- Low Violent Crime Rates – Alberta’s crime rate is significantly lower than many major global cities, ensuring a safer living experience.
- 24/7 Emergency Services – Cities provide efficient police, fire, and medical response services, keeping residents safe.
- Safe Public Transportation – Well-maintained bus and train networks with security measures ensure safe commuting.
4. Affordable Tuition & Scholarships
Alberta may not be the cheapest province in Canada; however, it is a budget-friendly option for international students. While tuition costs vary by program, studying here is more affordable than in Ontario or British Columbia. With lower tuition, affordable housing, and reasonable everyday expenses, students can focus on their education without the added financial stress.
Why Studying in Alberta is More Affordable:
- Lower tuition fees compared to universities in Toronto or Vancouver.
- Scholarships and bursaries (financial aid based on need) are available to help reduce costs.
- Affordable student housing and a lower cost of living.
3. PGWP & Faster Permanent Residency
Alberta offers post-graduation work permit (PGWP)-eligible programs, allowing international students to work in Canada after graduation. A PGWP permits students to gain Canadian work experience, which is essential for permanent residency (PR). Although this is available across Canada, Alberta’s strong economy creates numerous job openings, making it easier for international students to find work.
For a list of Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Alberta, Canada eligible for a PGWP, click here.
Additionally, Alberta provides quicker PR compared to other provinces. With a smaller population density and high labor demand, skilled graduates have a greater chance of being selected for PR programs in Alberta.
PR Pathways in Alberta:
- Alberta Opportunity Stream (AOS) – Available for graduates already working in Alberta with a valid job offer in an eligible occupation.
- Alberta Express Entry Stream – Available for international students who are skilled workers in high-demand jobs.
- Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) – Available for select candidates who can fill labor shortages or start businesses.
2. Emerging Industries & Strong Job Market
Alberta is one of the best places in Canada for job prospects, with a strong market in both traditional and growing industries. The province is continuously adapting and innovating, creating exciting career opportunities for new generations of professionals. Major cities like Calgary and Edmonton offer the most job openings, making these cities an ideal destination for students seeking career growth.
Emerging Industries in Alberta:
- Hydrogen Production Facility – Linde, a global leader in industrial gases and engineering, recently announced a $2 billion investment in a clean hydrogen production facility in Alberta. Set for completion in 2028, it will be Canada’s largest hydrogen facility.
- Cleantech and Renewable Energy – Alberta is investing heavily in renewable energy projects, including solar and wind power. This transition supports environmental sustainability but creates opportunities in the cleantech sector.
- Healthcare Innovation – The life sciences sector is growing significantly in Alberta, focusing on biotechnology and health research. This expansion advances medical technologies and healthcare solutions.
1. High-Quality Education
Alberta has some of Canada’s top-ranked schools, such as the University of Alberta and the University of Calgary. The province provides high-quality education in technology, healthcare, business, and environmental sciences. International students can choose from universities, colleges, or polytechnics (universities that focus on STEM fields), all designed to offer career-focused programs with real-world experience.
Many institutions partner with global companies, giving students access to co-op programs, internships, and research opportunities. These experiences help students gain practical skills and build professional networks before graduation, making it easier to begin a career in Canada.
Top Colleges in Alberta for International Students:
- SAIT (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology) – Focuses on technology, business, and skilled trades, offering programs that prepare students with the skills needed for in-demand careers.
- NAIT (Northern Alberta Institute of Technology) – Offers 120+ programs in applied research, technical training, and industry-focused education.
- Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) – Provides diplomas, degrees, and skilled trades programs with a strong focus on practical learning.
- Olds College – Known for its agriculture, agribusiness, and environmental science programs with state-of-the-art research facilities.
- Bow Valley College – A community college in Alberta with campuses in Airdrie, Banff, Cochrane, Okotoks, and Strathmore.
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