Complete Guidelines For Study in Canada
Canada is a top choice for international students for several reasons. It offers excellent education, a welcoming environment, and diverse communities. Moreover, Canada's immigration policies make it easier for graduates to build their careers there. The country also emphasizes research and innovation, providing excellent opportunities for students to learn and work in various fields. These factors together make Canada a popular and attractive destination for students worldwide.
Canada has welcomed over 807,700 international students from various countries by the end of 2022. India was the primary contributor at 40%, with China following at 12%. The Philippines accounted for 4%, while France, Iran, and Nigeria each comprised 3% of the total international students.
In terms of provinces, Ontario was the top choice, attracting around 51% of new international students in the past year. British Columbia followed closely with 20%, while Quebec and Alberta welcomed 12% and 5% of international students, respectively.
Why study in Canada?
So, why do international students like Canada? International students favour Canada for several reasons. Its reputation as a safe and stable country stands out prominently. The high-quality education system attracts international students, making it a more appealing study destination. International students also highly value the inclusive and tolerant nature of Canadian society, which embraces diverse backgrounds and holds immense importance.
Moreover, international students envision a promising future while studying in Canada. A lot of them, about 72.5%, intend to seek a post-graduate work permit (PGWP), which enables them to acquire valuable work experience. Additionally, 60% of these students aspire to secure permanent residency in Canada, highlighting the country's appeal beyond education as a place to build a prosperous future. Canada's welcoming atmosphere, exceptional education system, and wide-ranging opportunities further elevate its attractiveness among international students.
Canadian Study Permit
A Canadian study permit is an official authorization to study at an educational institution in Canada. Once accepted by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), you may apply for this permit to pursue your studies in Canada.
Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
DLI is a school authorized to enrol international students in Canada. Interestingly, every primary and secondary school in Canada are designated and can accept students from other countries.
However, it's essential to note that not all post-secondary institutions are DLIs. Therefore, before applying to study at a post-secondary school in Canada, verifying the institution's status as a DLI is crucial by checking the Canadian government's official list of DLIs.
How to apply for a Study Permit?
The process of applying for and obtaining a Canadian study permit involves several stages:
Eligibility Check:
Ensure you meet the requirements for a Canadian study permit, including having a Letter of Acceptance from a DLI, proof of financial support, and necessary supporting documents based on your citizenship and residence.
Application preparation:
After meeting the eligibility criteria, collect the required documents specific to your country. There are chances for a visa rejection if you fail to provide all necessary documents to the Immigration officer. It is advisable to have a qualified immigration representative review your application before submission.
Application submission:
You may submit your application in either of the two ways mentioned below:
- Electronic application: Create an account on the IRCC website and submit your application, attaching e-copies of documents.
- Paper-based application: Attach all the document copies and mail them to the Visa Application Centre (VAC) designated for your country.
Approval and Arrival:
You will receive a Port of Entry Introduction Letter if your study permit is approved. However, you will only obtain the Canadian study permit once you arrive at a Canadian Port of Entry (POE). Present the Port of Entry Introduction Letter to the immigration official upon your arrival in Canada to obtain your study permit.
Processing Time for Study Permits
The processing duration for Canadian study permits varies widely based on your country of residence. The shortest processing time can be 1-2 weeks, while some applicants may have to wait up to 16 weeks. Also, note that the volume of applications received influences these timescales. A key consideration to prevent processing delays is avoiding applying near the beginning of Canada's academic year.
Conditions for Study Permit
A Canadian study permit has specific rules you need to follow to enjoy your study experience. As a student, you must understand the particular terms and conditions:
- Enrollment at a designated learning institution (DLI) is mandatory.
- Being a part-time student is acceptable in most provinces, while studying in Quebec requires full-time enrollment.
- Authorized leaves from your program of study should not exceed 150 days.
- Understanding and complying with these terms is crucial to maximize your study experience in Canada. Adhering to your study permit conditions also increases your chances of obtaining a PGWP.
Study and Living expenses in Canada
Given its lower tuition fees, studying in Canada is affordable compared to countries like Australia, the U.S., and the U.K. In the 2018/2019 academic year, international undergraduate students paid an average annual tuition of CAD 27,159, notably lower than the average tuition of USD 45,950 at American universities during the same period.
Living costs for international students in Canada may vary based on factors such as location, lifestyle, and accommodation choices. On average, students should budget for expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, books and supplies, health insurance, and other personal costs. Fortunately, Canada offers a more affordable cost of living for international students than many other favoured countries.
Regarding average annual expenses, including tuition and cost of living, Canada stands at USD 29,947, showcasing a more affordable option than other popular study destinations. The U.K. follows closely at USD 35,045, while the U.S. and Australia require higher average annual expenses of USD 36,564 and USD 42,093, respectively. These figures indicate that international students face lower costs for quality education in Canada.
Student Housing in Canada
Student housing options in Canada vary widely, allowing students to choose based on their preferences. These choices range from university residences to apartment rentals, allowing students to select a living style that suits them best. Let us have a look into the housing costs of students in various provinces across Canada:
- Housing costs are higher in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver than in smaller cities and towns.
- The University of Toronto estimates monthly housing expenses ranging from CAD 1,080 to CAD 2,982 for students in downtown Toronto.
- In Montreal, the University of Montreal approximates a lower monthly student housing cost of CAD 550, making it an attractive study destination.
- Smaller cities like Saint John's and Newfoundland offer more affordable housing options.
Food and Transportation Costs
Expenses for food and transportation can vary based on the provinces or cities where you plan to study in Canada. Here is the breakdown of costs in three cities:
City | Local Transportation (per month in CAD)
| Lunch in Business District (CAD) | Suggested Monthly Grocery Budget (CAD) |
Toronto | 143 | 31.00 | 300.00 - 600.00 |
Montreal | 97 | 25.00 | 300.00 - 550.00 |
Saint John’s | 78.00 | 23.00 | 487.00 |
Health Insurance Requirements for International Students
Healthcare coverage is mandatory for all international students studying in Canada. While some provinces automatically provide access to Canada's public healthcare system, others do not extend this benefit to international students. In provinces without public coverage, international students must acquire private health insurance. Typically, schools in these provinces offer health insurance plans specifically designed for international students, often included in tuition and student fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries for International Students
Various scholarship opportunities are available for international students seeking to study in Canada. Many educational institutions in Canada offer scholarships, grants, and bursaries specifically tailored to support international students. Checking the college or university websites is an excellent option to find scholarships and bursary options for international students. Websites and their financial aid or scholarship sections will provide detailed information about eligibility criteria, application processes, and deadlines for these funding opportunities.
Various study levels in Canada
Knowing the various study levels in Canada is essential to choose the best program for you. In Canada, education after the twelfth grade is called post-secondary education and comes in multiple types.
Post-secondary schools comprise universities, colleges, technical institutes, polytechnics, art and design schools, and language schools in Canada. Each institution serves distinct educational objectives, offering diverse programs and career pathways.
Is IELTS mandatory?
Proficiency in English or French is essential to study at a Canadian school, but the language skill criteria for international students vary among post-secondary institutions in Canada. Researching your program's specific language requirements while preparing your application is crucial. Some schools may offer English courses after enrollment.
International students, such as those from English-speaking countries or those with prior English education, may not need to provide language proficiency proof like the IELTS. However, each school has language prerequisites, so checking the specific requirements is essential before applying.
Letter of Intent to Study in Canada
In Canada, a Letter of Intent is an essential document when you apply for your study permit. This letter should outline your intentions and educational objectives for studying in the country. You must acknowledge that you understand the terms and conditions of having a Canadian study permit.
The primary aim of the letter of intent is to assure the Canadian government that you will comply with the stipulations of your permit. You must include agreeing to depart the country upon the expiration of your permit as per the specified conditions.
Deadlines for Application
The application deadlines vary for each institution. It's crucial to submit your application well in advance of these deadlines.
Canadian schools receive numerous applications annually, and as the deadline approaches, they may become more selective. Highly regarded schools can be exceptionally competitive. Hence, submitting your application earlier enhances your chances. Regularly visit the college/ university websites for updates and ensure you meet the application deadline.
How to choose the right university?
When choosing a Canadian university, it's essential to consider your preferences and academic goals. Here are five renowned Canadian universities and a brief description of each:
- University of Toronto (UofT): Known for academic excellence and a vibrant campus life, UofT in downtown Toronto attracts 20,000 international students. It offers a diverse environment in one of the world's most multicultural cities.
- University of British Columbia (UBC): UBC is recognized as North America's global university and is in Vancouver, with a significant international student population (30%). It is ideal for those seeking city life with easy access to nature.
- With a significant international student population (30%). It is ideal for those seeking city life with easy access to nature.
- McGill University: With an international reputation for excellence, McGill, situated in Montreal (English-speaking), hosts over 12,000 international students. Montreal offers a low cost of living and a vibrant cultural scene.
- Université de Montreal (UdeM): A highly ranked university in Montreal, UdeM is an excellent choice for those inclined to study French. It hosts approximately 9,500 international students yearly.
- McMaster University: Ranked among the top 100 globally, McMaster is close to Toronto and is experiencing a tech-sector job boom. Many jobs in the growing tech sector make it attractive for students interested in potential work opportunities during or after their studies.
Choosing an ideal institute relies on your aspirations, academic pursuits, and the environment best suits your goals. Take the time to explore and assess various factors before making your final decision to ensure it aligns with your educational ambitions and preferences.
Changing Schools or Programs with a Canadian Study Permit
Under a Canadian study permit, you have the flexibility to switch schools or programs whenever necessary. However, it's essential to follow the correct procedure and abide by the conditions stated in your permit.
Work while you study!
Studying in Canada offers international students the advantage of being able to work and help manage tuition fees and living expenses. Throughout regular terms, students are permitted to work part-time, up to 20 hours per week, to balance their studies and jobs. During scheduled breaks, such as summer vacations, they can work full-time.
In most instances, students do not require an additional work permit to pursue employment while studying, whether on or off campus. The specifics regarding the allowance for off-campus work are outlined in the study permit.
If your program of study includes work experience, you can work more than 20 hours during the semester. You may confirm this after checking your letter of acceptance. With government approval, you may be allowed to work only on campus.
Accompany family while you study!
International students who are married or have children can bring their family along while pursuing studies in Canada. The visa officers thoroughly review study permit applications that include accompanying family members. Including family members in a study permit application could impact the visa officer's decision.
Certain benefits are provided if the application is approved to include family members. The student's spouse becomes eligible to work full-time in Canada, contributing to family support. Additionally, accompanying children receive the advantage of studying in Canada without tuition fees, enhancing the overall educational experience for the family unit.
Spouse eligibility for working in Canada
If your family accompanies you to Canada, your spouse will be eligible for an open work permit. This permit allows them to work full-time in the country while you pursue your studies.
Quebec is an Exceptional province for students.
Studying in Quebec provides the opportunity to pursue studies in either English, French or a combination of both languages. However, it's important to note that the student visa requirements for Quebec differ slightly from the rest of Canada.
Study requirements in Quebec
Obtaining a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) is essential to study in Quebec. This document, issued by the Ministry of Immigration, Francisation, and Integration (MIFI), signifies Quebec's acceptance of you as an international student. Notably, you require a CAQ before applying for a study permit if your intended program of study is in Quebec.
To qualify for a CAQ, you must:
- Gain admission to a designated learning institution in Quebec.
- Pay the fees for the CAQ application.
- Agree to adhere to the conditions outlined for issuing a CAQ for studies.
It's important to note that you may only need a CAQ or a study permit if your program lasts at least six months.
Upon obtaining a CAQ, the subsequent step involves applying for a study permit from the Canadian Government. Once you receive your study permit, you are all set to commence your studies in Canada.
PGWP in Canada
Canada offers pathways for international students to transition to permanent residency after completing their studies. PGWP has a significant role to play once you complete studies in Canada, including:
- PGWP enables international graduates to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies.
- After gaining one year of work experience, graduates may qualify to apply for PR
- Compliance with study permit conditions is necessary for PGWP eligibility.
- The PGWP duration typically aligns with the duration of the graduate's studies in Canada.
This program facilitates the transition from student life to potential permanent residency for international graduates in Canada.
The article offers general information and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Seek guidance from a professional advisor for specific assistance. While we aim for accuracy, we cannot guarantee complete precision. Author opinions may change with time. ImmiEd Global and its affiliates do not explicitly or implicitly endorse third-party advice, opinions, information, products, or services.
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