Study in Canada
With nearly 500,000 international students, students choose to study in Canada for high-quality education at an affordable tuition fee and degrees that are globally recognised. With an excellent quality of life, abundant post-study work, and immigration opportunities, planning to study abroad in Canada is very popular among international students. The Canadian system of education takes pride in being a world leader in research while being accessible, with degree programmes that allow students to choose their classes based on their interests. Canada has around 100 universities, 5 of which have consistently been ranked in the top 100 universities in the world offering globally recognized degrees to students.
Key Highlights Of Studying In Canada
Key Highlights |
Details |
Number of Universities |
98 universities |
10 Institutes of Technology |
Over 130 colleges and polytechnics |
Top 5 Universities (QS World University Rankings 2022) |
University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, McGill University, McMaster University, University of Alberta |
Cost of Studying (per year) |
CAD 15,000 to CAD 40,000, depending on the course and institution |
Cost of Living (per month) |
CAD 1,000 to CAD 2,000, depending on location and lifestyle |
Top Scholarships for international students |
Government of Canada International Scholarships, Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED), Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS), University of British Columbia Scholarships |
Part-time Work |
20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays |
Language Requirements |
A minimum of IELTS 6.0 or 6.5, or TOEFL 80 or 90, depending on the university & course; some courses may have higher requirements |
Education System in Canada
There are four stages in the Canadian education system. They are divided into -
- Preschool/ Early Childhood Education
- Primary/Elementary Education
- Secondary Education
- Post-Secondary/Tertiary Education (includes College and University programmes, and Vocational/Technical schooling)
Why Study in Canada
- Academic Excellence
The high quality of education is one of the most essential reasons that students choose to study in Canada. A degree from a Canadian university serves as a mark of trust and excellence for a student. 28 Canadian universities are ranked in the QS World University Rankings 2022 and 32 Canadian universities are ranked in the “THE World University Rankings 2022”.
- Affordability
When compared to universities in the United States and the United Kingdom, tuition prices to study in Canada are relatively low. And, in terms of return on investment (ROI), it is a very viable option for students. You can also apply for a variety of Canadian scholarships to help you save money on your education.
- Cultural Diversity
In Canada, you'll find very warm and welcoming people from a variety of ethnic communities, each with their own culture and way of life. Like no other country, Canada's multicultural environment promotes kindness and peaceful living. In fact, there are many international students studying, working, and living in Canada.
- Safe And Peaceful
Canada has consistently been ranked as one of the world's safest countries. The Global Peace Index ranked Canada as the 6th most peaceful country in the world in 2022. Canadian and international students have the same rights when it comes to their safety in Canada.
- Immigration Opportunities
The Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PWPP) in Canada allows students to stay and work in Canada for up to 3 years after graduation. The decision to study in Canada for international students also benefits them with professional work experience, and they can apply for permanent residency in the future.
Available Courses To Study
Master's in Canada (also known as 'grad' programmes or 'grad school') are typically in the form of a Master of Arts (MA) or a Master of Science (MSc). There are also specialised Master's degrees available, such as the Master of Fine Arts (MFA), Master of Engineering (MEng), and Master of Business Administration (MBA). The following are some of the most popular university courses in Canada pursued by international students.
Finances
Cost of Education in Canada
In comparison to many other countries, studying in Canada is very inexpensive. Tuition will most likely cost between CAD 20,000 and CAD 30,000 per year. This is only an average, and it will vary based on the university and programme in which you are enrolled.
Cost of Living in Canada
Depending on one’s lifestyle and tastes, the average cost of living in Canada for a student might range from $1,807 to $ 2,868 per month. Here is a breakdown of all the important aspects to consider when estimating the overall cost of living in Canada.
Particulars |
Cost (Monthly) |
Off-Campus Accommodation |
CA$ 550 |
On-Campus Accommodation |
CA$ 1,611 |
Transportation |
CA$ 100 |
Food Cost |
CA$ 720 |
Utility Cost |
CA$ 180 |
Entertainment |
CA$ 60 |
Groceries |
CA$ 64 |
Clothes |
CA$ 133 |
Total Cost of Living with Off-Campus Accommodation |
CA$ 1,807 |
Total Cost of Living with On-Campus Accommodation |
CA$ 2,868 |
Annual Cost of Living |
CA$ 21,684 |
Cost Of Studying In Canada
Interest rates as low as 8.9% *
Avg. on-campus living expense CAD24,264
250K+
Students Assisted
800Cr+
Loan Amount Disbursed
5000+
Loans Sanctioned
Admission Process
Admission Process To Study In Canada:
The admissions process may differ from what you're used to, so if you have any specific questions, contact the university to which you're applying. Here are some of the steps in the admissions process while planning to study in Canada.
- Selecting a Program - Begin by selecting the degree programme that is best for you. In Canada, almost every degree programme will be taught in English. A variety of degrees are available for all students.
- Preparing the Paperwork - A letter of motivation, a letter of recommendation, and a portfolio of previous work (if applicable) are among the basic paperwork that is commonly required by all universities. Universities will also require proof that you have completed your previous education.
- Examining Specific Admission Requirements - Specific documentation may be required depending on the university. Always consult the university website for specific admission requirements, and if you have any doubts to clear, contact the university office where you plan on studying in.
- Submitting Your Application - The majority of university applications in Canada are submitted through an online application system. Application documents are available on specific university websites and are frequently accompanied by an application fee.
- Admissions - Admission decisions are usually made by the end of the spring semester. If you attend a private university, you will normally be required to pay tuition for the first semester.
- Applying for a Visa - Initiate the visa application process immediately as you are accepted to a university in Canada. Do not delay because the process can take up to approximately 60 days, and necessitates the submission of several important documents.
- Arrive in Canada - Once you've been accepted to a university and obtained the necessary visa, it's time to start your overseas journey to study in Canada.
Admission Requirements To Study in Canada:
Each university's website will have information on the admission requirements for various programmes. Documents containing personal information and academic information must be included. The following general documents must be submitted:
- Passport scanned copy.
- If you are applying for a Bachelor’s course, you must provide academic transcripts from your previous institution, as well as your school-leaving certificate.
- If you're applying for a Master’s degree in Canada, you must have a bachelor's degree certificate.
- Any other relevant merit LOR certificates (if needed)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) for language proficiency test scores in Canada
- If necessary include a resume.
The university admission documents are similar to those required to apply for a Canadian student visa, but in addition to those listed, you will need to submit the Letter of Acceptance and your financial statements.
Admission Requirements to Study in Canada’s Universities
Canada is home to over 90 universities, each with its own admission requirements. However, the general application process and prerequisites are quite similar across the country. Here are the following requirements international students must meet before applying to universities in Canada -
Language Requirements:
Most Canadian universities offer courses in English, and therefore, international students must prove their proficiency in the language. The most commonly accepted English language proficiency tests are:
- IELTS: 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 90 with no section below 20
- CAEL: 70
- PTE: 65
Some universities may have higher language proficiency requirements, so it's important to check with the specific institution you are applying to.
Entry Requirements:
- Scanned copy of passport
- High school transcript or equivalent (for undergraduate courses)
- Proof of a Bachelor's degree or equivalent (for graduate courses)
- Any other certificates showing academic merit
- Statement of Purpose for Canadian Universities
- Financial statements
- Resume/CV
- Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
- Passport-size photographs
Some universities may require additional documents or information, so it's best to check with the specific institution for their exact requirements.
It's important to note that admission requirements may vary depending on the programme and level of study. For example, some graduate programmes may require GRE or GMAT scores. Additionally, some universities may have different admission requirements for international students compared to domestic students.
Economic Overview of Canada
Canada's international student community is a valuable contributor to the country's economy, generating a staggering $22 billion and supporting over 200,000 jobs. With projected economic growth expected to increase in 2023, the Canadian government's relaxed immigration policies will continue to attract highly skilled workers. The labour market in Canada remains strong, with a record-low unemployment rate of 5% in 2023. As technology advances and changes the nature of jobs, candidates are encouraged to equip themselves with new knowledge and specific competencies to stay competitive in the job market.
Intakes in Canada
Intake Name |
Month of Start |
Best For |
Fall |
September |
Most programmes |
Winter |
January |
Students who miss Fall intake |
Summer |
April/May |
Limited programmes/colleges |
Visa Process and Requirements
Before you apply for a Canadian visa, you should first decide which visa you want. The following are the various types of visas in Canada:
- Visitor
- Student
- Work
- Permanent Residence
- Business Immigrant
- Express Entry Program
The Canada visa process is largely determined by the type of visa you require. To apply for a visa to Canada, follow these simple steps:
- Find out if you are eligible for a visa to Canada.
- Make an online account.
- Finish compiling the document file.
- You must pay the fees.
- Wait for your Canadian visa to be processed.
- Submit your passport as well as the processing fees.