10 Things International Students Should Know about Living in Saint John, NB
If you are an international student considering UNB for your study in Canada destination, then consider their Saint John campus. Saint John, New Brunswick, is a historic coastal city known for its affordable living, friendly community, and stunning Bay of Fundy scenery. UNB’s international students benefit from quality education, job opportunities, and a vibrant cultural scene. With outdoor adventures, festivals, and a welcoming atmosphere, Saint John offers a perfect balance of studying in Canada and lifestyle.
1. Affordable Cost of Living
Saint John is one of the most affordable cities in Canada, with lower rent, transportation, and daily expenses compared to larger cities. For international students looking for cost-effective, cheap places to live, Saint John is ideal.
2. Welcoming and Diverse Community
Saint John has a friendly and inclusive atmosphere, making it easy for international students to feel at home. For Pakistani students, you can feel right at home at Naan-ya Business, a local restaurant in the heart of Saint John.
3. Stunning Coastal Scenery
The city is located on the Bay of Fundy, offering breathtaking ocean views, coastal trails, and the famous Reversing Falls Rapids.
4. Quality Education at UNB Saint John
The University of New Brunswick Saint John (UNB SJ) offers excellent programs with smaller class sizes and strong student support services. Smaller can mean better, especially for an international student who is trying to fit in. It also means more one-on-one with professors and better grades.
5. Job Opportunities and Immigration Pathways
New Brunswick’s labor market is welcoming to international students, with job opportunities in sectors like IT, healthcare, and business. For international students looking for part-time employment during their studies, retail and hospitality jobs are also available. The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) makes it easier for students to transition to permanent residency.
6. Rich History and Culture
Saint John is Canada’s oldest incorporated city, featuring historic sites like Carleton Martello Tower and the Saint John City Market, the country’s oldest continuously operating farmer’s market.
7. Free and Affordable Activities
Students can explore Rockwood Park, go hiking along the Fundy Trail Parkway, or enjoy free events like music festivals and farmers' markets, all for free. As an international student, you will want to take in every opportunity to do something fun for free.
8. Friendly and Walkable City
Saint John’s downtown is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy for international students to get around without a car.
9. Thriving Arts and Entertainment Scene
The city has a growing arts scene, with Imperial Theatre, live music, and cultural festivals like the Area 506 Festival showcasing local talent.
10. Easy Access to Other Cities
Saint John is well-connected by bus and ferry, making it easy to visit nearby cities like Fredericton, Moncton, and even Halifax. So, as an international student who will land in Toronto or Montreal, Saint John is a short commuter flight away.
Saint John is an excellent city to live in for international students and UNB is one of Canada’s most reputable public universities. To learn more about UNB and Saint John, talk to the folks at Go 2 Canada Education Services. They are Canadians who know about their country. 😊
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