At the end of their senior year, high school students will typically begin looking into colleges that they want to apply to. They search in-state and sometimes out of state, but for those who are looking for different experiences and opportunities, studying abroad can be a great option. The thought of living in a different country for college can seem daunting to many, but there are many options out there which will put even the most anxious mind at rest.

Canada is one of the easiest countries to adjust to for people from America. In a majority of the Canadian provinces, English is the most-spoken language, so trying to communicate with people and navigating their systems of transportation won’t be an extra burden when you are trying to focus on studying.

Finding what specific area of  Canada you want to live in can take some time because it’s such a big country. Rather than allowing yourself to become overwhelmed, take into account what you want out of studying abroad. Different locations offer different opportunities and lifestyles. Ottawa, Ontario is a city full of beautiful architecture and attractions, and is also considered one of the cleanest places to live. Halifax, Nova Scotia has stunning beaches and parks, historical buildings, as well as a multitude of activities that appeal to those drawn to nature. However, some cities can be more costly to live in than others, which can narrow down your choices based upon your financial state. But the experience of living in another country is one of the best parts of studying abroad, so while you may not be able to afford living in more expensive cities, there are other more options. Which colleges you want to apply to also have a big impact on which locations you might consider living in. According to WorldWide College, the average yearly tuition for McMaster University, located in Hamilton, Ontario, is $22,000 a year.

If you decide that you want to study abroad, it’s best to start planning and saving up money as soon as possible. Living costs can be up $15,000 yearly for rent, transportation, basic needs, and leisure. Applying for scholarships is always helpful in terms of cost for going to any college, but there are also programs for international students in Canada that would be beneficial to look into, including a variety of internships.

There are a few things you have to do before you can start studying abroad in Canada. Before you can start college, you need to apply for a study permit. Canada states that a study permit is usually valid for the duration of your study program and up to an additional 90 days afterwards. You also need to acquire a new driver’s license if you plan on driving a car, because Canada has different laws and requirements for driving that might differ from where you live.\

Choosing Canada as your destination for study is a decision you won’t regret, and while it’s a big change to move to a different country, it is an experience that can’t be matched.