• Study in Canada

Public Transportation in Canada for International students

1127 Reads
3 min Read

By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Aug 29,2024 05:08 PM IST

International students can save a lot of money while studying in Canada by using public transportation.
The average cost of public transport in Canada is 105 CAD per month.
The best Canadian city for public transport is Montreal.
Buses are the most popular transportation in Canada.

Public Transport in Canada for International Students.webp

Travelling will be an everyday experience for an international student while studying in Canada. That is why it's essential to figure out the public transportation system in Canada earlier. Along with saving money students also want to ensure their safety while travelling in Canada. Moreover, public transportation in Canada varies from city to city. All these things demand a dedicated blog that can solve these queries. Here is one which will help you explore all aspects of public transport in Canada for international students.

Benefits of Public Transport in Canada

From cost-effectiveness to environmental sustainability, the advantages of using public transportation in Canada are endless. Let’s see some of the best benefits of using public transport in Canada:

Public Transportation as a Student in Canada.webp

Cost Effective	Public transportation is a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to owning a personal vehicle. Students can reduce transportation expenses by opting for buses, trains, or subways while contributing to a cleaner environment by reducing their carbon footprint. With Canada's increased cost of living, public transport is the best option to reduce financial burden.
Environment-Friendly	Public transportation is eco-friendlier than cars, as it reduces carbon emissions per passenger. Using buses, trains, or subways can help reduce carbon footprint.
Time-Saving	Students can make the most of their travel time by using public transportation to read, study or catch up on assignments.
Health Benefits	Walking to transit promotes physical activity, benefiting cardiovascular health. Reducing car use mitigates air pollution and sedentary lifestyles.
Quality of life	Public transit improves quality of life by providing reliable, convenient, and affordable transportation options, freeing time for leisure and family activities.
Community Cohesion	Public transportation brings people from diverse backgrounds together, fostering community and reducing social isolation, particularly for marginalised groups.

Public Transport System in Canada

Canada has a well-developed public transportation network in its major cities, providing affordable options for international students. Some of the most common public transportation in Canada are:

Public Transport	Description
Buses	Buses are the most widely available public transport in Canada and are available for both within cities and intercity travel. For students' convenience, buses have air conditioners and washrooms. It is one of the cheapest ways to travel in Canada. Greyhound and its partners run the largest network of buses in Canada, and students can book tickets by calling.
Subway and Light Rail Systems	Cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal have subway and light rail systems, which are efficient public transport in Canada. Besides being efficient, these also provide extensive coverage.
Trains	The next public transport option in Canada is trains, which are available at regional and national levels. Trains are one of the most convenient ways of transportation for longer routes. International students can avail of student discounts and passes while travelling on trains.
Ferries	Students who want to explore coastal areas and nearby islands can use ferry services. This public transport in Canada connects different islands.

Public Transportation (City-Wise) in Canada

Each city in Canada has its own public transport system. Learning about the same will help students to know about the mobility options available in a specific city. The table below provides brief information on the type of transport options students can find in some of the popular Canadian cities:

City	Transport Types
Calgary	CTrain (light rail transit), Buses, and Community Shuttle Services
Edmonton	LRT (Light Rail Transit), Buses, and a Bike-Sharing Program
Halifax	Ferries, Buses, and a Bike-Sharing Program
Montreal	Metro, Buses, Commuter Trains, and BIXI Bike-sharing
Ottawa	O-Train (Light Rail Transit), Buses, and a Bike-Sharing Program
Quebec City	RTC (Réseau De Transport De La Capitale) Buses and Bike-Sharing Program
Toronto	Subway, Streetcars, Buses, and GO Transit
Vancouver	Sky Train, Sea Bus, West Coast Express, Buses, and Ferries
Victoria	British Columbia (BC) Transit Buses, Ferries, and a Bike-Sharing Program
Winnipeg	Winnipeg Transit Buses and a Bike-Sharing Program

Apart from cities, popular provinces in Canada also have different transport systems in one way or another. Let’s find out how:

Alberta: In Western Canada, Alberta offers bus and light rail services in cities like Calgary and Edmonton. Cycling is a popular option in Alberta, especially during the summer months. Calgary has many universities which offer bike-sharing programs to international students.
British Columbia: Public transit options in British Columbia are available in major cities such as Vancouver, Victoria, and Kelowna. The province is also a major transport hub between Asia Pacific and North America. Cycling is one of the popular and eco-friendly options in British Columbia. Moreover, Vancouver has an extensive network of bike lanes and trails. Further, many universities offer bike-sharing programs where students can rent a bike for a low cost.
Manitoba: Manitoba provides many public transportation options for international students. Winnipeg, the capital city of Manitoba, is also the primary transportation hub, as it has Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport and a Winnipeg Bus Terminal that provide easy access to the city.
Ontario: Ontario, which consists of cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Hamilton, provides a variety of public transportation in Canada. It has the Toronto Transit Commission, which provides a reliable service throughout the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). International students can get discounted monthly passes to reduce transportation costs. The next option is GO Transit, which connects GTA to other regions of Ontario. It has various ticket options, like single-ride tickets, day passes, and monthly passes.
Quebec: Quebec, the largest province in Canada, provides many public transportation options. The Société de transport de Montréal (STM) is the primary public transit system in the province, operating buses and a metro system in Montreal. It is the second busiest metro system in Montreal, comprising 68 stations. Students can get their monthly pass at a discounted rate and use this public transportation in Canada.

Public Transport Discounts & Passes for Students in Canada

Canada offers various discounts and passes to international students to provide affordable public transport in Canada. Let’s see what are the different discounts and passes:

Student Transit Passes	Many cities in Canada offer discounts exclusively to international students. With these passes, students can travel unlimited for a specific period of time at a reduced price.
Student Presto Card	The Student Presto Card is a convenient and reloadable payment card for public transportation in some specific regions. International students can get this card at a discounted rate when using public transport in Canada.
International Student Identity Card (ISIC)	The ISIC is a globally recognised card that provides various discounts and benefits, such as discounted transportation fares. International students can obtain this card to take advantage of these discounts.

Public Transport Safety Tips for Students in Canada

Students planning to study in Canada after their 12th might face some challenges while travelling there. Everything will be new, and it's obvious to feel unsafe while taking public transport in Canada. To tackle this problem, here are some safety tips for international students while using public transportation in Canada:

Stay Informed	Travel during off-peak hours: It's best to avoid travelling during rush hours when public transportation in Canada is typically more crowded. Opting for off-peak times can help reduce congestion, making students' journeys more comfortable and safe.
Be aware of your surroundings	When waiting at bus stops, train stations, or transit terminals, it is important to remain attentive and alert. Students must avoid distractions like using their phones excessively or wearing headphones at high volume, as these can make them less aware of potential hazards.
Use well-lit stops	When students are waiting for public transportation, it's recommended that they choose stops or stations that are well-lit, especially if they're travelling during the evening or night. They should stand in visible areas and avoid secluded or poorly lit areas where safety risks may be higher.
Respect social distancing	When social distancing is recommended or required, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to keep a safe distance from other passengers. Students must be mindful of their surroundings and maintain a safe distance to protect themselves and those around them.

Cost of Public Transport in Canada

The cost of public transport in Canada will depend on the type of transport international students choose. Going with Numbeo, the average cost of public transport in Canada is 105 CAD per month. The cost of public transport will also vary depending on the city in which students live. In the following table, students can see the cost of public transport in different cities in Canada:

City	Single Fair (Adult)	Multiple Fair (Adult)
Calgary (Calgary Transit)	CAD 3.60	CAD 112.00
Edmonton (Edmonton Transit)	CAD 3.50	CAD 100.00
Toronto (TTC)	CAD 3.35	CAD 156.00
Montreal (STM)	CAD 3.75	CAD 97.00
Ottawa (OC Transpo)	CAD 3.85	CAD 128.75
Vancouver (TransLink)	(Depends on Zone) Starts at CAD 3.25	(1-Zone) CAD 104.90
Winnipeg (Winnipeg Transit)	CAD 3.15	CAD 107.80

Note: The above figures are just estimates and are subject to change.

Conclusion

International students who want to study in Canada have to sort out many things before starting their studies. One of the major concerns every student has is about public transportation in Canada. The questions that usually trouble them are what is the best public transport in Canada, what will be the cost, how to book tickets, and how to be safe while travelling. But now no more troubling, as this blog has revealed all the essential details about public transport in Canada. Still, if students have any doubts then study abroad consultants at Canam are ready to guide them.

FAQ

Is public transport free for international students in Canada?

Public transport in Canada is not free for international students; however, students can avail of discounts and monthly passes to lower costs.

What is the cheapest mode of transport in Canada?

One of the cheapest modes of transport in Canada is buses. Several bus companies offer this service in Canada, such as Greyhound, Flixbus, and Ebus.

How much is public transportation in Canada?

The average cost of public transportation in Canada is 105 CAD per month, but it may vary depending on the type of transport and the city.

Can students pay cash for buses in Canada?

Yes, students can pay by cash while using the bus.

Do students need ID to take a bus in Canada?

All students over 18 must travel with a government-issued photo I.D.

Which city in Canada has the best public transit?

Montreal, Canada’s second-largest city, has one of the best-developed public transportation systems.

What are the benefits of using public transportation in Canada?

The benefits of using public transportation in Canada are time-saving, cost-saving, and environment-friendly.

Get great articles direct to your inbox

The latest news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.

Popular Universities to Study Abroad

World class education waiting for you.

Abertay University

Scotland, UK • 73 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 15500-14000 / year

South Dakota State University

South Dakota, USA • 120 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 12600-13000 / year

Nottingham Trent University - City Campus

England, UK • 101 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 15000-16500 / year

Shorelight Group - Rutgers University - New Brunswick

New Jersey, USA • 112 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 33000-34000 / year

Sprott Shaw College - School of Trades Campus

British Columbia, Canada • 14 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 10000-38000 / year

Canadore College - Commerce Court Campus

Ontario, Canada • 35 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 14000-30000 / year

Centennial College - Progress Campus

Ontario, Canada • 117 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 13500-24000 / year

Red River College Polytechnic - The Roblin Centre

Manitoba, Canada • 11 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 13000-21500 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

University Visit - Univerity of Manitoba

Study in Canada

Chandigarh • 03:00PM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Bay Atlantic University

Study in USA • University Visit

kochi2 • 11:00AM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Bay Atlantic University

Study in USA • University Visit

Patiala • 12:00PM

In-Person Event

Top countries destinations

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland
Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland
Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales
Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria
Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia
Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland
La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria
LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland
Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland
Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland
Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay
Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland
Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland
Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland
New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland
The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

Kent state university Ohio
San Jose State University California
Wright State University Ohio
Clark University Massachusetts
Rowan University New Jersey
Arkansas State University Arkansas
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois
University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

Blogs and Articles

Curated content to keep you updated on the latest education trends, news and more.

Education System in Singapore

Singapore, also known as the "Lion City," has one of the most holistic and innovative education systems in the world. The Organization for Economic Co...

Updated on • Dec 12,2024 05:03 PM IST • Singapore

Medical Courses in UK

Medical courses in the UK are recognised globally for their academic challenge, updated facilities, and comprehensive practical experience. UK Univers...

Updated on • Dec 10,2024 05:36 PM IST • study in the UK

MBBS in Germany

Studying an MBBS in Germany offers a pathway to a world-class education in medicine, attracting thousands of aspiring doctors from around the globe ev...

Updated on • Dec 09,2024 05:49 PM IST • Study in Germany

Letter of Motivation for Germany

If you are planning to study abroad, you must know that the SOP is the most essential document for the application process. In Germany, the same SOP i...

Updated on • Dec 07,2024 05:11 PM IST • Germany

Part-Time Jobs in Germany for International Students

Studying abroad is an experience of a lifetime, incorporating distinct incidents and events. Students are advised to work part-time to make this adven...

Updated on • Dec 06,2024 04:38 PM IST • Study in Germany

Health Insurance in Germany for International Students

Do you know that Germany has one of the world's oldest national health insurance systems? That's right, and the health insurance system of Germany dat...

Updated on • Dec 06,2024 04:05 PM IST • Study in Germany

Scholarships in Germany for International Students

For international students looking to pursue their higher education abroad, Germany is known as one of the most affordable study destinations. Its cre...

Updated on • Dec 06,2024 03:59 PM IST • Study in Germany

Study Permit for Canada

Planning to study in Canada? But in order to heading off to the land of the maple leaf, it's important to understand how to apply for a Canadian study...

Updated on • Dec 05,2024 05:04 PM IST • Study in Canada

Student Life in UK

The United Kingdom is home to some of the most renowned universities that provide learning opportunities to students nationwide. The country is known ...

Updated on • Dec 04,2024 04:46 PM IST • study in the UK

Master of Information Systems (MIS) in USA

In today's fast-paced and digitally-driven world, organizations increasingly depend on information systems to streamline operations, enhance decision-...

Updated on • Dec 02,2024 05:28 PM IST • USA

Bachelor of Nursing Courses in Australia

Are you passionate about helping others and drawn to the dynamic world of healthcare? A Bachelor of Nursing in Australia could be the perfect la...

Updated on • Nov 30,2024 03:16 PM IST • Australia

Study Medicine in Germany

Are you an international student planning to study medicine in Germany? We want to tell you are going in the right direction, as Germany hosts world-c...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 05:34 PM IST • Study in Germany

Universities of Applied Sciences in Germany

Germany is gaining popularity for its top-notch universities of applied science, known as Fachhochschule. These esteemed institutes offer top-quality ...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 05:22 PM IST • Germany

Student Life in Germany

Germany is known for its affordable education and top-class universities in Europe, but what is it like to become a student at a German univ...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 04:18 PM IST • Study in Germany

Complete Undergraduate Admissions Guide to Study in Germany

Ever dreamt of studying in a land steeped in history and innovation? Germany, a powerhouse of education and engineering, beckons you with it...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 03:54 PM IST • Study in Germany

PTE Score Chart 2025: PTE Exam Scoring System & Calculation

Most international institutions demand proof of strong English skills, making language proficiency tests a necessity to pursue higher education. While...

Updated on • Nov 26,2024 01:55 PM IST • PTE

Masters in Project Management in USA

Students with ISTJ Personality may have a successful future in project management as their sole personality aligns with the needs of an exceptional pr...

Updated on • Nov 26,2024 01:15 PM IST • USA

IELTS Speaking Questions

The IELTS exam is a popular way for people who want to study overseas, but don't speak English as their first language or where it's not spoken often....

Updated on • Nov 25,2024 03:45 PM IST • IELTS

Accounting Courses in USA

The United States has always been a land of opportunities, especially in education. The allure of studying accounting in the US remains strong, thanks...

Updated on • Nov 25,2024 03:33 PM IST • USA

IELTS Writing Task

IELTS Writing Task One of the most crucial aspects to scoring well on an exam is writing. The IELTS assesses both Academic and General Training in ...

Updated on • Nov 21,2024 05:46 PM IST • IELTS

Public Transportation in Canada for International students

Table of Contents

Benefits of Public Transport in Canada

Public Transport System in Canada

Public Transportation (City-Wise) in Canada

Public Transport Discounts & Passes for Students in Canada

Public Transport Safety Tips for Students in Canada

Cost of Public Transport in Canada

Conclusion

FAQ

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland

Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland

Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales

Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria

Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia

Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland

La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria

LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

University Canada West British Columbia

University of Windsor Ontario

Dalhousie University Nova Scotia

Carleton University Ontario

Cape Breton University Nova Scotia

University of ottawa Ontario

University of saskatchewan Saskatchewan

University of regina Saskatchewan

University of guelph Ontario

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland

Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland

Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland

Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay

Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland

Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland

New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland

The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

University of Warwick England

De Montfort University England

University of West London England

University of Strathclyde Scotland

Aston University England

University of Bath England

University of Liverpool England

Durham University England

Newcastle University England

Kent state university Ohio

San Jose State University California

Wright State University Ohio

Clark University Massachusetts

Rowan University New Jersey

Arkansas State University Arkansas

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois

University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams