In the hunt for the right school, American students often overlook Canada for some of the best education alternatives in the market. Canadian universities cover the major bases: they�re strong academically, command international respect and are more affordable than most private and public colleges in the U.S.

More bang for your buck

Because most Canadian schools are publicly funded, they come much cheaper than their U.S. cousins. Even though you�ll be paying a higher fee as an international student, tuition will still be much lower than back home. Plus, don't forget that tuition is paid for in Canadian dollars. And because the exchange rate between the U.S. and Canadian dollars strongly favors Americans, that means that your cash will stretch a lot further, especially in the long run.

Where�s the beef?

Most U.S. citizens aren't eligible for financial aid and scholarships at Canadian schools. However, the favorable exchange rate defrays the cost of living expenses as well. This benefit alone can more than make up for the amount of assistance from other colleges. An Ivy Leaguer's tuition alone could cost twice as much as the total tab for attendance fees, books, housing, food, and travel at a top Canadian university. Plus, keep in mind, that you might still be eligible for many independent scholarships.

Northern Exposure

Contrary to popular misconceptions, the Great White North is neither a simple extension of the U.S. nor a series of frontier outposts scattered across frozen tundra. Several top-ranked schools, such as Vancouver's University of British Columbia and Montreal's McGill University, are located in bustling cosmopolitan areas. The largest cities each have a distinct collection of fine dining, nightlife, festivals, and other cultural opportunities. University of Toronto alone attracts students from over 130 countries.

Universities in smaller towns and cities shouldn't be overlooked either. They add small-town charm to an even lower cost of living than major cities. Canada also has lower crime rates and stricter firearm controls than the United States; it may be safer to attend school across the border than at home.

With ballooning prices and escalating competition in the U.S., it couldn't hurt to apply to Canadian schools. For more detailed information on specific schools, programs and rates, consult www.studyincanada.com and the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada.