English is one of the most commonly spoken languages in the world. It is spoken by approximately 1.5 billion people, and is the official language of over 50 countries. This presents a world of opportunity for students who would like to study English. However, it also presents a world of choice. How do you choose which country to study in?
Here are some of the reasons why more and more students are deciding to learn English in Canada.
Experiencing Canada’s four seasons is a lot of fun
Not many countries around the world experience the four seasons seen in Canada. While it’s true that winters can get quite cold, it’s also true that summers can be very warm too. Temperatures can be as cold as -20°C in the winter, as warm as 30°C during the summer.
Each season brings its own joys. The first snowfall of the winter is a wonderful moment that many ESL students treasure. Winter sports such as tubing and skating are also activities that students can look forward to.
The spring is when maple sap is harvested and turned into maple syrup, which is why many Canadians and ESL students enjoy visiting a traditional sugar shack during this time of year. In the fall, many ESL students can marvel as the leaves of trees change colour. And in the summer, the warm temperatures make it easier to enjoy camping, visiting an amusement park, or spending a day at the beach. For students who want variety and a unique experience, studying in Canada is a terrific idea.
There is so much natural beauty to enjoy in Canada
Even though Canada is the second largest country in the world, it has a relatively small population of 37 million. It’s no surprise then that much of the country is unpopulated, and that many large woods and natural preserves exist for students to enjoy.
Canada also has many beautiful natural wonders, including the breathtaking Niagara Falls. Whether enjoying parks and bike paths in the city or travelling to a beautiful preservation nearby, there are many ways you can appreciate Canada’s natural beauty during your studies.
Canada is a very safe country
For many students who choose to study abroad, safety is a top concern. It’s important to feel safe when studying in another country, especially when you may have difficulty speaking the local language.
This is one of the reasons why many students are choosing to study English in Canada. Canada is one of the safest countries on the planet. According to a recent survey, Canada is the 8th safest country in the world—ahead of both the United States and the United Kingdom.
Canada is a welcoming and multicultural country
In addition to being very safe, Canada is also very welcoming and multicultural. In fact, multiculturalism has been an official policy in Canada for decades. Canadians also welcome diversity. As former Prime Minister Pierre Elliot Trudeau once said:
“Uniformity is neither desirable nor possible in a country the size of Canada… What could be more absurd than the concept of an “all-Canadian” boy or girl? A society which emphasizes uniformity is one which creates intolerance and hate. A society which eulogizes the average citizen is one which breeds mediocrity. What the world should be seeking, and what in Canada we must continue to cherish, are not concepts of uniformity but human values: compassion, love, and understanding.”
There are many high quality ESL programs in Canada
Of course, for many students one of the most important aspects of studying abroad is enrolling in an excellent ESL program. It’s important for students to get plenty of practice speaking English, and to learn from experienced and highly qualified instructors.
Fortunately, Canada is known for the high quality of its programs. For many ESL students, this, along with the many other benefits that come with studying in Canada, make our country an excellent choice.