Study in Canada

Canada offers both universities and colleges. Colleges run practical diplomas and postgraduate certificates, often with paid co-op placements; universities offer bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees. Three intakes a year give you flexibility on when to start.

• College or university

  Choose a career-focused college programme or a university degree, depending on your grades, budget and goals.

• Co-op programmes

  Many programmes include paid work terms with employers, so you graduate with Canadian work experience.

• Three intakes a year

  September is the largest, and many institutions also take students in January and May.

• Work after you graduate

  Eligible graduates can apply for a post-graduation work permit of up to three years.

Also on our list

• Carleton University
• Concordia University
• Dalhousie University
• Lakehead University
• Memorial University of Newfoundland
• University of Manitoba
• University of Regina
• University of Windsor
• Conestoga College
• Humber Polytechnic
• Seneca Polytechnic

• Fall

  Classes start

  September

  Apply

  October to March

  The main intake, with the widest choice.

• Winter

  Classes start

  January

  Apply

  June to September

  A good choice of college programmes.

• Summer

  Classes start

  May

  Apply

  September to January

  Mostly college programmes.

College programmes

CAD 15,000 to 22,000 a year

University bachelor’s

CAD 25,000 to 45,000 a year

Master’s

CAD 18,000 to 40,000 a year

Proof of fundsLiving costs for a single student, on top of the first year’s tuition and travel.

CAD 22,895 a year

• English

  • IELTS Academic 6.0 to 6.5 overall for most programmes
  • PTE Academic and TOEFL iBT also accepted

• Academic

  • College and bachelor’s: HSC or equivalent, with results that meet the programme
  • Master’s: a relevant bachelor’s degree, usually with a good CGPA

• Study permit

  • A letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution
  • A provincial or territorial attestation letter, for most applicants
  • Proof of funds for tuition and living costs

1. 01

   Choose programmes

   Shortlist colleges and universities that fit your grades, budget and career plans.

2. 02

   Take an English test

   IELTS Academic, PTE Academic or TOEFL iBT.

3. 03

   Apply and receive an offer

   Submit your applications and accept the offer that fits best.

4. 04

   Pay the deposit

   Your institution then issues the letter of acceptance and, where required, the attestation letter.

5. 05

   Prepare proof of funds

   Bank statements, sponsor documents or a GIC showing tuition and living costs.

6. 06

   Apply for the study permit

   Online, followed by biometrics and, if requested, a medical exam.

• While you study

  Up to 24 hours a week off campus during term, and full time during scheduled breaks.

• After you graduate

  A post-graduation work permit of up to three years for eligible programmes. Some college programmes must be in eligible fields of study.