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Study in Canada
There are currently 807,750 international students across all study levels who have study permits in Canada. With such a huge number of international students choosing to study in Canada, it is evident that Canada has a lot to offer, not just in terms of academic growth but also for professional development. This article aims to answer all your questions about studying in Canada and will help you understand how to benefit from your time in Canada.
Why Study in Canada?
Canada ranks second worldwide in 2023 by US News & World Report on life quality, culture, and education.
Canada aims for 400,000 new residents annually from 2023-2025, aiding post-grad foreign students.
Canada's new SDS program offers expedited study permits to students from seven countries, including India.
Canada combines safety, natural beauty, vibrant cities, and quality public services.
Cost of Studying in Canada
Making an educated decision requires having a thorough understanding of the financial costs associated with studying abroad, and Canada is no different. To ensure a pleasant and rewarding experience, international students wishing to pursue their academic goals in Canada should be well aware of the tuition fees as well as the additional living expenses. The tuition fees in Canada greatly depend on the institution and course you choose. The table below will give you an idea of the approximate cost to study in Canada for various study levels.
Level of Education | Average Tuition Fees (CAD/Year) (approx.) |
Undergraduate (UG) | CAD 25,000 to CAD 30,000 |
Postgraduate (PG) | CAD 6,000 to CAD 70,000 |
PhD | CAD 8,000 to CAD 20,000 |
Cost of Living in Canada
Compared to other popular study-abroad countries, Canada has an affordable cost of living. For an international student, the overall cost—which includes tuition, housing, food, supplies, books, and transportation—could be between CAD 38,000 and CAD 39,000 per year. Take a look at the table below to understand the various expenses you will have to plan for in advance.
Expenses | Average Monthly Cost (CAD) (approx.) |
Accommodation (Rent) | $800 - $1,500 |
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Gas) | $150 - $250 |
Internet | $50 - $75 |
Mobile Phone | $40 - $80 |
Groceries | $300 - $500 |
Public Transportation | $90 - $130 |
Health Insurance | $70 - $150 |
Entertainment (Movies, Events, etc.) | $100 - $200 |
Admission Requirements for Studying in Canada
To ensure a smooth application and admission process, one must be well-prepared with all the necessary documents. Here's a detailed breakdown of the documentation requirements for students aiming to study in Canada:
- Transcripts: Official transcripts from previous educational institutions
- Passport: A valid passport with a study permit
- Letter of Acceptance: The official letter of acceptance from the Canadian institution
- Language Proficiency Scores: Scores of language proficiency tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE
- Statement of Purpose: A well-crafted essay outlining your academic and career aspirations
- Letters of Recommendation: Letters from teachers, professors, or employers endorsing your capabilities
- Resume/CV: A summary of your academic, professional, and extracurricular achievements
- Financial Proof: Documentation demonstrating your ability to cover tuition fees and living expenses
- Photographs: Passport-size photographs as per the institution's specifications
Language Requirements
Several standardised English language tests are accepted by Canadian institutions. Here are the most common ones, along with the typical score ranges:
English Language Test | Required Score |
You will need an overall band score of 6.0 to 7.0 | |
You will require an overall score of 80 to 100 | |
You need an overall score of 55-65 | |
CAE | Typically, a score of 180 or above is accepted by many institutions |
CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language Assessment) | You need an overall score of 60-70 |
Visa Requirements
For all international students, a student permit is a necessary immigration document. A study permit certifies your stay in Canada for academic objectives, whereas a student visa (sometimes called a guest visa or an ETA) authorises your admission into Canada. If you have a study permit, it is imperative that you continue to attend classes and make reasonable, timely progress in your studies.
To successfully apply for a Canadian student permit, you'll need the following:
- A letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- A valid passport or any other relevant travel document.
- Government-authorised identity proof.
- A financial statement to show the capability to support living costs and tuition fees in Canada.
- Relevant medical records.
- A letter explaining your intent to study in Canada and how you can contribute to its resources.
Intakes in Canada
In Canadian colleges and universities, there are typically three intakes throughout the year. Whether you're a first-time international student or planning to continue your education in Canada, understanding these intakes is key to aligning your academic goals with your schedule.
Intakes | Application Timeline |
Fall: September Intake | October – November |
Winter: January Intake | August – November |
Spring: May Intake | September – February |
Top Courses to Study in Canada
As a prospective international student, you will find Canada welcoming you with a plethora of courses that are not only popular but also finely tuned to meet the demands of the current global scenario. Here are a few popular programs that have drawn a lot of interest from international students looking to study in Canada:
- Engineering
- Healthcare and Medicine
- Business Administration
- IT and Computer Science
- Environmental Science
- Art and Design
Top Universities to Study in Canada
Canada has been a global leader in academia throughout the years, as seen by the prestige of its higher education institutions. Studying in Canada offers international students a globally recognised education as well as a distinctive cultural experience. Here, we look at some of Canada's most esteemed universities that have left their impact on the world of higher learning.
University Name | Known For | QS Ranking 2024 | THE Ranking 2023 |
University of Toronto | Comprehensive Research | 21 | 18 |
University of British Columbia | International Outreach | 34 | 40 |
University of Alberta | Innovations in Health | 111 | 118 |
McGill University | Business & Management | 30 | 46 |
University of Montreal | Arts & Humanities | NA | 111 |
Scholarships in Canada
Aspirations, desires, and financial limitations are all part of the path to higher education. Recognising this, Canada offers a wide variety of scholarships that are expressly selected for students from other countries. These scholarships ensure that students can concentrate completely on their academic and personal growth, making the most of their time in Canada by providing the necessary financial support. Here is a list of scholarships in Canada that international students can apply for.
Name of Scholarship | Description | Eligibility | Amount in CAD (approx.) |
Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship | For students from Commonwealth countries | Merit-based | $10,000 |
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships | For doctoral students | Academic Excellence | $50,000 per year |
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships | For international students who have demonstrated leadership and academic potential | Academic Excellence | Variable |
University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship | For international students with stellar accomplishments both in academics and extracurriculars | Merit-based | $15,000 |
Student Life in Canada
Canada is more than just a study destination; it's a playground for experiences, adventures, and memories waiting to be made. Stepping outside the lecture rooms, one discovers a nation buzzing with activities, each more thrilling than the last. Canada has activities for everyone, whether you're a nature lover, at heart, or a city person. The adventures fluctuate with the changing of the seasons. During winter, you can take up skiing, snowboarding, and even try out ice climbing. The culinary scene in Canada, which acts as a melting pot of its ethnic past, regional specialities, and centuries-old indigenous practices, is closely linked to the country's.
Post-Study Work Opportunities in Canada
Beyond the confines of the university campuses, Canada is dedicated to higher education and the all-around growth of its international students. It is a path that covers not just academic development but also opens doors for career advancement.
The Economist Intelligence Unit had forecasted a bright future for Canada, projecting its position as the 3rd best nation within the G7 for business activities spanning from 2018 to 2022. This prediction paints an optimistic picture for international students, emphasising that a plethora of job opportunities await them, both during their studies and in the subsequent years.
Some of the popular and high-paying jobs in Canada include dentist, surgeon, software developer, data scientist, and nurse. Take a look at the table below to get an overview of the approximate salary you can expect in different roles.
Field | Approximate Annual Salary (CAD) (approx.) |
Business Management | $70,000 - $120,000 |
Education and Training | $60,000 - $100,000 |
Healthcare | $80,000 - $150,000 |
IT & Computer Science | $75,000 - $130,000 |
Statistics and Data Science | $90,000 - $140,000 |
Why Choose AECC?
AECC offers free Canadian education advice, including scholarships, costs, and post-study rights.
AECC, winner of multiple awards, including PIEoneer's in 2019/2020, excels in services for Canada-bound students.
AECC has a high success rate for Canadian visas, guiding through applications and deadlines.
AECC partners with top Canadian institutions, providing varied courses and exclusive scholarships.
Latest Updates
- Students who completed less than 50% of their PGWP-eligible studies outside of Canada are now eligible for a PGWP through December 31, 2023.
- Canada has expanded its tax-free incentives for first-time home-buyers to include international students and foreign workers.
Frequently asked questions
International students typically need a valid study permit, acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), proof of sufficient funds, and may also need to undergo medical examinations or police checks.