The Beginners Guide to Studying in Canada
Table of Contents
- Why Study In Canada
- Research Opportunities and Academic Resources
- Top Universities In Canada
- Application Dates And Deadlines
- Application Fee
- Academic Eligibility
- Test Requirements
- SAT
- GRE
- TOEFL
- GMAT
- Important Documents
- Required Documents For The Permit
- Student Life In Canada
- Campus Life
- Accommodation
- Weather
- Healthcare
- Student Clubs
- Job Opportunities
- Why Study In Canada
- Research Opportunities and Academic Resources
- Top Universities In Canada
- Application Dates And Deadlines
- Application Fee
- Academic Eligibility
- Test Requirements
- SAT
- GRE
- TOEFL
- GMAT
- Important Documents
- Required Documents For The Permit
- Student Life In Canada
- Campus Life
- Accommodation
- Weather
- Healthcare
- Student Clubs
- Job Opportunities
Why Study In Canada
To begin with, let us understand why one should choose Canada for higher studies.
- Safe and Inclusive
Canada is known for its low crime rates and welcoming environment, making it an attractive destination for foreigners. Amid rising global crime rates, Canada has maintained safety through strict laws and responsible citizens. It’s ranked as one of the safest countries, and international students find it relatively easy to secure jobs. This supportive atmosphere fosters an inclusive culture, helping newcomers adapt more easily. - Multicultural Exposure
The bustling cities of Canada have been housing a multicultural community since their history started to be documented. The country, like the US, is a land of settlers whose different perspectives and varied cultural backgrounds can give you enough experience to take on the competitive levels at the global platform.
With so many international students in educational institutions, it can turn out to be an ever-growing circle of diversity. - Affordable
The annual expenditure of a student is relatively lower than in many countries. The tuition fee, which covers the majority of your expenditure, is 36,100 CAD per year.
Research Opportunities and Academic Resources
Canadian universities encourage creativity and personal interests, providing valuable research opportunities and essential resources in a supportive student environment.
Top Universities In Canada
Top universities in Canada are spread across the country from British Columbia to Quebec. Here is a list of universities that you can use to look up programs based on your field of interest.
- University of British Columbia
- University of Toronto
- University of Calgary
- McGill University
- University of Calgary
- University of Montreal
- University of Waterloo
- University of Ottawa
- McMaster University
- University of Alberta
- York University
Application Dates And Deadlines
Unlike Indian universities, Canadian universities call for applications over three times a year. Universities open the admissions portal for Fall, Winter, and Summer sessions.
Most of the Indian students prefer the fall intake, although the other two admission seasons do not rank any lower. If you do not have enough time to secure the necessary documents, then you can avoid a hasty process and apply for the session that best suits you.
Sometimes the program of your choice might begin only during the winter session, so it would be wise to check the university website to know when you can start applying.
Application Fee
The application fee for Canadian universities ranges from 50 to 250 CAD, depending on the course and the selected university.
When applying, make sure you have the necessary documents required for admission. You can receive your applications through the official university portal.
Academic Eligibility
To apply for an undergraduate course, you must have completed your 10+2 education and submitted your transcript. For graduate courses, it is necessary to provide an academic record from your college or university, demonstrating that you have completed 16 years of formal education. Additionally, you should have earned a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Test Requirements
Although some Canadian universities don’t require the SAT and GRE, it is recommended that you take the test because extra credit would make your profile look good.
SAT
After completing high school, specifically 12th grade, you can apply for the SAT exam if you plan to pursue post-secondary education in Canada or the U.S.. For undergraduate programs, you will need to submit your SAT scores. The test assesses your reading, writing, and math skills. It is administered multiple times throughout the year, and there is no negative marking. You can retake the test as many times as you wish.
Are you ready to start early and pursue your plans to study abroad? Take the SAT practice test.
GRE
For those interested in pursuing a Master’s degree abroad, the GRE serves as a valuable gateway by assessing verbal and mathematical skills. A strong GRE score can help compensate for a low GPA, providing another opportunity to achieve your dreams.
See where you stand in competition by taking the GRE practice test.
TOEFL
The TOEFL test is designed to evaluate your English language proficiency across several sections, which assess your reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. The IELTS test is also accepted, and you can apply without an IELTS score if you have taken the TOEFL. There are numerous test centers available, and the TOEFL is offered nearly 50 times a year.
Want to know where you stand in competition? Take the expert TOEFL practice test.
GMAT
If you are interested in pursuing a management degree, then universities in Canada expect you to submit GMAT scores. You might have to score above 650 to get into the cream layer of the business schools in the country.
Important Documents
Like the US, Canada issues a Student Permit, which is more or less a student visa.
International students must secure a Study Permit to study in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada and must have already enrolled before applying for the permit.
It is valid for the duration of your study and an additional 90 days. The fee for the permit is $150, and if your study extends beyond the given period, you can always apply for an extension.
The eligibility for the Study Permit demands that –
You are enrolled at a DLI.
You can prove you have enough money to pay for your education and stay.
You will obey the law, have no criminal record, and get a police certificate (if required).
You are in good health and get a medical exam (if required).
Prove to an officer that you will leave Canada when your study permit expires.
Required Documents For The Permit
- Passport
- Acceptance letter from a DLI
- Proof that you can financially support yourself
- Other documents, like a Letter of recommendation and a Statement of Purpose, are also a part of the application.
As an Indian student, you can attain the permit through the Student Direct Stream.
Student Life In Canada
Campus Life
Canadian universities offer orientation tours to help students familiarize themselves with the campus, courses, and faculty. These sessions are crucial for international students, providing a chance to socialize and connect with peers while also learning about local resources.
Accommodation
The on-campus accommodation is more expensive, ranging from 3000-7500 CAD annually. However, it saves time and money from commuting and other resources that are made available on the campus. The off-campus housing is comparatively cheaper, but it depends on the type of accommodation, location, and whether it is private or shared.
Students also have the option of the ‘Homestay’ experience, where they can stay with a host family that will provide accommodation and food.
Weather
Canada has diverse weather patterns, ranging from mild and rainy winters on the west coast to extremely cold and snowy winters in the interior and northern regions. Summers can be hot and humid in the southern parts, particularly in Ontario, while the interior and northern areas enjoy milder summer temperatures. Spring and fall typically provide more moderate weather.
Healthcare
International students studying in Canada typically do not qualify for free publicly funded healthcare (Medicare). So, they must obtain health insurance to cover their medical expenses. This insurance can be provided by their university or purchased privately. The specific requirements and options vary depending on the province and the student’s circumstances.
Some universities provide mandatory health care insurance for international students who take care of certain medical expenses that need immediate assistance.
Student Clubs
Student Clubs are a great way to pursue your other interests. It is also a great way of meeting like-minded people, which might be the first step you take when you start networking.
Job Opportunities
In Canada, job opportunities are easier to come across when compared to other countries.
When preparing for a job, it’s always beneficial to book an appointment with peer advisors, who can provide valuable insights on writing a resume and guide you through the dos and don’ts of interviews.
Additionally, universities often offer online tools that give students access to resources, including job listings. Engaging in volunteer work and internships during your studies is another excellent way to gain practical experience.
One of the many advantages of studying in Canada is the availability of career development programs, such as on-campus work options specifically designed for international students.
Furthermore, job opportunities can also be found through social media platforms and company websites. Once you secure a job, obtaining a work permit is a relatively straightforward process.
We hope that this blog was a helpful introduction to the first step you can take toward choosing Canada as your study abroad destination. Let us know in the comments how we have helped you and what your favourite study abroad destination is.
