For international students seeking to study abroad, Canada is a popular option. Universities in Canada offer world-class education at affordable prices. Renowned for its friendliness, Canada is always welcoming to international students. You'll find high research and teaching standards, along with an exceptional study experience in a beautiful and diverse country.

Why Should You Study In Canada?

Canada has been ranked as one of the best places to live in the world by the United Nations, based on its high quality of life and educational standards. It is a developed country with a robust economy and stable government, making it an ideal place to live and study. In the QS rankings for 2022, 17 Canadian universities are listed. The University of Toronto, ranked 26th globally, is the highest-ranked institution. McGill University and the University of British Columbia are also among the top 50 universities worldwide. This highlights that Canada offers an excellent education and a unique cultural experience.

Each year, over 350,000 international students opt to study in Canada, enriching the diversity of its higher education institutions. Degrees are available at three standard levels: bachelor's, master's, and doctorate. The duration of your education will depend on the university you select.

Canada's Background

Canada is a vast and diverse country with a population of over 37 million people. It is the world's second-largest country by land area. Sharing a southern border with the United States and a northwestern border with Alaska, Canada boasts a varied environment with four distinct seasons. Most of Canada is covered in forests, with several cities interspersed. Tourist attractions include Niagara Falls, Banff National Park, and the Canadian Rockies. Anyone looking to make the most of their free time will find plenty to do!

Before European colonization, Canada had been inhabited for thousands of years. The country's independence was achieved gradually, beginning on July 1, 1867. Though Canada is self-governing with its own government, it remains part of the British monarchy, with Queen Elizabeth II as the head of state. Officially bilingual, Canada is home to a wide range of languages due to extensive immigration.

The Cost Of Education And Living In Canada

Canada's currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD/$).

While Canada is known for its low tuition costs, the expense of your education will vary depending on the location of your studies. An international student can expect to pay around $17,500 per year on average for an undergraduate degree. A postgraduate degree typically costs about $16,500 per year, with some programs reaching up to $50,000 per year. Additional expenses should also be considered. These include administration fees ($150-$500), health insurance (about $600), and application fees (if required, roughly $250).

To obtain a visa, you must have at least $10,000 in cash for living expenses. However, budgeting more is advisable for a comfortable living. Most universities in Canada recommend having at least $15,000 on hand. University housing is generally cheaper than private rentals, so choose an option that fits your budget. It's wise to have more money than you think you'll need. You may work part-time while studying, but there are restrictions. International students can work on or off-campus without a work permit if they have a study permit. You can work up to 20 hours per week during the school year, but don't rely on part-time work to fund your studies.

Scholarships To Study In Canada

As an international student, you won't be eligible for the same financial aid as Canadian students. However, other funding sources are available. Individual institutions offer a variety of scholarships and funding opportunities. To learn more about what you're eligible for and how to apply, contact your chosen institution. They can provide you with detailed information and support.

What Is The Process For Applying To Study In Canada?

In Canada, there is no unified procedure for international students to apply to universities. You must apply to each of your preferred colleges separately. Ensure that the institution(s) you apply to is registered as a designated learning institution, as only these schools can accept international students. Once you've confirmed that your chosen school accepts international students, you can start the application process. This process may vary depending on where you want to apply and your home country.

As part of your application, you'll likely need to verify that you have sufficient funds, can speak the tuition language to a required level, and have health insurance.

Student Visas In Canada

As an international student, you must apply for a study permit before arriving in Canada. This can be done online through the Government of Canada website or in person at a Canadian embassy or consulate in your home country. With a study permit, you can stay in Canada for the duration of your course plus an additional 90 days. You must either apply for an extension or plan to leave the country within these 90 days. If you cannot finish your studies by the permit's expiration date, you must apply to extend your student status. If you complete your studies early, the permit will expire 90 days after your program ends, which may differ from the initial expiration date. Additionally, depending on your situation, you may need to apply for a temporary residence visa or an electronic travel authorization along with the study permit. You can determine your requirements by answering questions on the official website or consulting the Canadian embassy in your country.