That's standard in the US too, except almost no one tests with a manual car. Why make the test harder on yourself? They don't test how well you understand your own vehicle, just that you can drive it safely on public roads while recognizing signs and performing good driver's etiquette. Might as well test with an automatic and have less things to focus on during the test.

Once you earn your license, then you can take the time to figure out how to drive a manual with the help of a friend/family member. That is, if you even care to learn. Most Americans don't drive stick, and many never learn how.

I drive manuals exclusively. It's a good way to ensure your car never gets stolen in the US. Most people can't drive them, so you're almost guaranteed to never lose your car.

Yep, the manual test is significantly harder, so everyone tests on automatic, but drives manual if that's what they want. At least in BC where I'm from.

Yep. I did both of my tests on manual vehicles, one a VW hatch and the other an old farm truck, simply because it’s what I had available. Under the UK/EU system I guess I would have an extra endorsement, but it makes absolutely no difference in Canada.