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Study In Canada

Canada, renowned for its high quality of life, tops the list as the best country to live in, providing abundant opportunities for international students. Whether you fancy the vibrancy of city life or the serenity of a rural campus, Canada offers a diverse range of options. Its reputation for warmth and hospitality is globally acknowledged.

Boasting an impressive educational legacy, Canada features 11 universities in the top 250 globally, with Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver ranking among the top 50 student cities. These rankings consider factors like affordability, diversity, and employer perceptions of graduates. Canada stands out with lower student fees and a more economical cost of living compared to many other countries, making it a compelling choice for international students.

Why study in Canada?

Canada stands out as a highly coveted destination for students worldwide, thanks to its outstanding living standards and top-notch education system. Globally acclaimed for its emphasis on interdisciplinary studies and transferable skills, Canadian education equips graduates to be innovative, adaptable, and well-informed.

Situated north of the United States, Canada boasts a diverse and lively culture spanning from the Atlantic to the Pacific and Arctic oceans. Its distinct four seasons bring forth sunny summers and chilly winters, showcasing breathtaking natural wonders like Niagara Falls, Moraine Lake in Alberta, the Canadian Rockies, and the Northern Lights in Yukon.

Renowned for its passion for sports, Canada offers a variety of popular activities such as ice hockey, fishing, climbing, trekking, and swimming. The nation’s rich cultural heritage is evident in its language, with French spoken in several provinces and national dishes like poutine bearing a French influence.

Moreover, Canada’s dynamic job market and the prospect for graduates to work with some of the world’s leading companies make it an ideal launching pad for students entering their careers. With numerous compelling reasons to pursue education in Canada, it’s no wonder the country continues to attract students from all corners of the globe.

The benefits of studying in Canada

In the realm of quality education, Canadian universities shine in global rankings, with 26 featured in the QS World University Rankings and 27 in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. The Canadian government actively encourages academic research across various fields, including technology, medicine, agriculture, telecommunications, and environmental science.

Emphasizing career skills development, Canadian campuses are well-equipped, offering interdisciplinary curriculums that empower international students to cultivate transferable skills such as management and critical thinking. This diverse skill set gives students a competitive edge in the job market.

Known for its welcoming atmosphere, Canada stands out as a nation that champions equality and respect for all. The government’s implementation of a national multicultural policy underscores its commitment to preserving the traditions and customs of individuals from diverse cultures. As an international student, you can immerse yourself in the warmth of Canadian society and seamlessly integrate with friendly neighbors.

Intakes in Canada

Similar to numerous other nations, the primary intake for education in Canada occurs in September. However, international students also have the option to enroll in intakes in January and participate in summer courses starting in May.

IntakeAdmissions
JanuaryJune-September
SeptemberFebruary-May
MayJanuary-February

Top Canadian universities

University of Regina:

Regina, standing as a premier Canadian university, attracts a yearly enrollment of over 16,000 students, including around 3,000 international students hailing from approximately 100 countries. The University of Regina holds a distinguished position as one of the top 50 universities globally that is less than 50 years old and ranks among Canada’s top 15 comprehensive universities. Providing a diverse academic portfolio, the university presents over 120 undergraduate programs and more than 80 graduate programs.

Trent University :

For 12 consecutive years, Trent University has secured the top spot as Ontario’s leading undergraduate university in Maclean’s University Rankings. Additionally, it has earned the distinction of being ranked first in Ontario and second in Canada for overall reputation, while also claiming the second spot nationwide for the title of the most innovative university.

Conestoga College:

Conestoga boasts an enrollment of approximately 26,000 students, offering a diverse selection of over 230 courses. A significant 42% of the student body comprises international students from 80 different countries. Recognized among the top 100 colleges in Canada, Conestoga has also garnered praise for the excellence of its facilities, particularly securing the top position among colleges in Ontario for its state-of-the-art labs.

Thompson Rivers University:

Presently, there are over 25,000 students enrolled across its campuses in Kamloops and Williams Lake, as well as through distance, online, and Open Learning platforms. This student body comprises over 3,500 international students hailing from more than 100 countries. The institution provides a diverse array of offerings, with over 140 on-campus programs and an additional 60-plus Open Learning programs, encompassing co-op work terms, undergraduate research, and field schools.

Study options

Studying abroad in Canada provides diverse options in terms of levels and durations. A conventional undergraduate bachelor’s degree typically spans four years, although programs in Quebec often last for three years. Alternatively, one can pursue an associate degree, covering the initial two years of a bachelor’s program.

Another choice is a certificate or diploma program, lasting approximately 1-2 years and emphasizing vocational and technical courses. Moving beyond undergraduate studies, Canadian universities offer postgraduate diplomas or master’s degrees, typically ranging from 1 to 2 years, while a doctorate or PhD program can extend up to 7 years.

Exams to study in Canada

Diverse college and degree programs in Canada have specific entry requirements, often involving examinations like TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, GMAT, MCAT, and SAT. Attaining a Canadian student visa mandates language proficiency, while educational institutions demand a combination of academic proficiency and language skills.

Given Canada’s bilingual status with English and French as official languages, some provinces may exclusively use one language. For instance, students aiming to enroll in universities in Quebec, Ontario, and New Brunswick must exhibit fluency in French, validated through tests like TEF or TEFAQ. Students may be required to undergo exams assessing their proficiency in either English or French, and sometimes both.

Additional assessments like the SAT, GRE, GMAT, and various subject-specific tests may also be necessary. It is crucial for international students planning to study in Canada to identify the specific tests required for their chosen programs to ensure a successful application.

Student resources

1. Student Visa

Study permits, issued by the Canadian Government, enable foreign nationals to pursue education at designated learning institutions. Upon approval of a study permit, individuals receive either a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization, a crucial requirement for leaving and re-entering Canada. It is essential to apply for a new permit at least two months before the planned departure if the existing one has expired.

  • Student visa requirements for Canada

In order to obtain a Canada student visa, you must furnish the following: an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution; evidence of ample funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation; proof of language proficiency; potential requirement for a medical examination; potential necessity to present a police certificate affirming a clean criminal record; and possession of a valid passport with a considerable period until expiration.

  • Application Process

Choose a university or college, ensuring it is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), and initiate the admission application process. Once you receive an acceptance letter, proceed to apply for a study visa, making sure to compile all the necessary documents mentioned earlier. The application for a study visa can be completed online through the Canadian government’s website or by submitting a paper application to the nearest visa application center. A fee is associated with the study visa application and must be paid upon submission. Biometric information, including fingerprints and a photo, may be required as part of the application. The processing of your study visa application may take several weeks or months, and you can conveniently monitor its status online.

Admission Requirements to study in Canada:

  • Language proficiency proof (IELTS, TOEFL, TEF, TCF, etc.)
  • Completed application form and fee
  • Translated and evaluated transcripts/credentials
  • High school diploma, post-secondary diploma, or degree
  • Letter of intent/personal statement
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Standardised test scores (if required)
  • CV (for postgraduate programmes or work experience requirements)
  • Portfolio/audition (for arts/performance programmes)
  • Proof of financial support
  • Canadian study permit
  • Medical examination (if required)
  • Biometrics (if required)

2. Student life

  • Canada provides a lively and inclusive international student experience, offering abundant opportunities to participate in sports, the arts, and travel. As a student in Canada, you have the chance to delve into distinctive activities like ice hockey and explore the country’s stunning natural scenery through its well-established transportation systems
  • Canada caters to diverse preferences with a blend of major cities like Toronto and Vancouver and smaller locales such as Prince Edward Island. Moreover, if your visa permits, you have the opportunity to work concurrently with your studies in prestigious companies like Apple, HSBC, and Pfizer.
  • Engaging in studies in Canada brings you closer to experiencing the wonders of the entire country, establishing it as a prime destination for students in search of a vibrant and enriching educational journey.
 
 
 

Scholarships

Numerous Canadian universities extend merit scholarships and financial aid initiatives to support students. It is advisable to check the university of your preference for available financial assistance options when submitting your application.

For international students, there are diverse government scholarships to explore. The Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship is open to all international students pursuing postgraduate programs in Natural Science, Social Science, or Healthcare. The Canadian Commonwealth Fellowship Plan selects exceptionally deserving students from Commonwealth nations, providing support for their master’s and PhD pursuits in Canada.

The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships Program offers a noteworthy scholarship of C$50,000 CAD per year for three years to outstanding PhD candidates, accessible to both domestic and international students specializing in Health Sciences, Natural Sciences, Engineering, Social Sciences, or Humanities at a Canadian university.

Private scholarships, such as The Trudeau Scholarship and Fellowships, are also available to international students pursuing doctoral programs at select Canadian universities.

FAQs

1. Is Canada cheap to study?

Canada presents a comparatively affordable choice for international students when contrasted with other widely chosen study destinations. Nevertheless, the overall cost of education in Canada varies based on factors like the institution, program of study, location, and personal expenditures.

Generally, undergraduate international students can anticipate annual tuition fees ranging from $15,000 to $30,000, while graduate programs may cost between $10,000 and $35,000. Additionally, living expenses encompassing accommodation, food, and transportation can amount to an additional $15,000 to $20,000 per year.

2. What is the requirements to study in Canada?

To study in Canada as an international student, you will generally need to meet the following requirements:

  • Acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada
  • Sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation
  • A valid passport or travel document
  • Proof of language proficiency in either English or French
  • A study permit, which is a document issued by the Canadian government that allows international students to study in Canada
  • Medical examination (if required)
  • Police certificate (if required)

3. How much do students earn in Canada?

International students have the flexibility to work up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, whether it’s on or off-campus. The typical hourly wage for part-time positions falls in the range of CAD 10 to CAD 20 per hour.

For those seeking valuable work experience in their field of study, co-op or internship programs present opportunities with the potential for a higher income. Salaries for co-op or internship roles can vary, spanning from CAD 20,000 to CAD 60,000 annually, contingent on the industry and the individual’s level of expertise.

4. Can I work in Canada while studying?

International students are typically allowed to engage in employment in Canada while pursuing their studies. Within regular academic sessions, they have the flexibility to work, either on or off-campus, for a maximum of 20 hours per week. During scheduled breaks, like summer holidays or winter breaks, they are permitted to work full-time.

Working in Canada serves as a means for students to alleviate the financial burden associated with living and studying in the country. Beyond part-time positions, co-op or internship programs offer avenues for students to acquire practical work experience in their chosen field of study, often accompanied by a higher remuneration.

5. What is the age limit for student visa in Canada?

In Canada, there is no designated age limit for obtaining a student visa. Eligibility for a study permit is contingent upon acceptance by a designated learning institution in Canada and the ability to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to sustain one’s studies in the country. It’s worth noting that certain scholarship or funding opportunities may impose age restrictions, but these criteria vary depending on the specific program or organization.

6. Which course is best for international students in Canada?

Canada offers a diverse range of high-quality programs and fields of study that are suitable for international students. Some of the popular courses for international students in Canada include:

  • Engineering
  • Computer Science and Information Technology
  • Business and Management
  • Health Sciences
  • Natural Sciences
  • Arts and Humanities
  • Social Sciences

7. Can I get a work permit after one year study in Canada?

If you have graduated from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada after completing a program that is at least 8 months long, you may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). With a PGWP, you can work in Canada for up to 3 years after graduation. However, you must meet certain criteria, such as maintaining full-time student status and having a valid study permit when applying for the PGWP.

8. Can I get PR after 2 years of study in Canada?

Attaining a degree or diploma in Canada doesn’t guarantee automatic permanent residency (PR). However, international students who have successfully completed a minimum of two years of study at a designated learning institution (DLI) have the option to apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP). This permit allows students to acquire Canadian work experience, which could contribute to their eligibility for permanent residency under different immigration programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

9. Is it easy to get a job in Canada for international students?

Securing a job in Canada as an international student can be a difficult task, but it is not impossible. The job market and job availability depend on various factors such as location, industry, and level of experience. Students who lack work experience, language skills, or a Canadian network may face additional challenges when searching for employment opportunities. Many Canadian educational institutions also have career services and resources available to assist students with their job search.

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