For IT students: Canada edges ahead — Toronto's tech sector, co-op work placements, and Express Entry CEC pathway. Australia also works well with STEM 485 visa extension. For nursing students: Australia is generally better — high demand exists in both countries but Australia's 485 visa gives 4 years to gain AHPRA registration experience, and AHPRA registration for Sri Lankan nurses is well-established. For both groups: consider cost of living (comparable), scholarship availability, and city-specific job markets for your career specialty.