Go Study Canada

Imagine Studying in Canada

Looking for an unforgettable experience that will last a lifetime?

More than 200,000 international students selected Canada in 2010 for a premier education, access to global career opportunities and an exciting cross-cultural experience.

Choose from among Canada’s top-ranked colleges and universities for the highest quality education and return home with a globally recognized degree.

IMAGINE STUDYING IN CANADA – and visualize vibrant cities, beautiful spaces and welcoming multi-cultural communities.

Providing exceptional standards of living, safety and healthcare, Canada is also internationally recognized for a competency-based teaching approach that prepares students to be productive in the workplace immediately after graduation.

Canadian universities and colleges are primarily publicly-funded and highly accountable for quality assurance in teaching, research and campus facilities.

What’s more, tuition is affordable when you compare rates among the top destinations for study abroad.

Canada’s education system

Canada’s college and university system commences after high school.

You can also choose to complete some or all of your high school in Canada in either the public or private system.

Both offer global graduation standards to continue post-secondary studies, as well as exceptional student services.

Beyond high school, career choices are endless with thousands of post-secondary options to suit every interest!

How it works

Semesters typically run from September-December; January-April and some institutions offer May-August options.

Colleges

Programs are taught by highly experienced faculty and take two or three years to complete, offering vocational credentials applicable to the workforce or qualifications to transfer on to university.

Universities

Undergraduate studies run three-four years, providing options for in-depth research and progression to graduate-level masters or doctoral programs.

Professional programs

At least two years of undergraduate study is often required before applying to programs like medicine or law.

These programs are extremely competitive - choose an undergraduate program based on your needs for the first few years.

It’s important to excel in your studies before applying to a professional school.

Research Focus

Canada’s universities are engaged in innovative research in the fields of health, nanotechnology, biotechnology, high-performance computing, environmental technologies, nutraceuticals and renewable fuels, among other sectors.

R&D cross-funding between the private sector and universities is high by international standards.

New economic research is also highlighting the important role of universities as knowledge hubs connecting business, government and universities with commercial firms that help deliver on discovery.

If you’ve got ideas to change the world, we’ve got the programs to help you realize them!

Getting Started

The admission process across Canada

Typically, admission to a Canadian university or college is granted upon successful high school graduation.

A national certificate of high school completion, a U.S. high school diploma, the general certificate of education and the International Baccalaureate diploma are highly regarded, and transfer credit is usually considered for AP or IB courses.

There is no standard admission test like the SAT, as each university assesses applicant qualifications individually. However, a strong emphasis is placed on academic standing.

Language options

Canada excels in language instruction given our diverse language communities. English is the language of instruction at most Canadian universities, however some teach in French and also offer bilingual options.

Take advantage to perfect your language skills in a comfortable and friendly environment!

Application deadlines

They vary between institutions, but traditionally range from January to June.

Apply earlier than indicated to ensure all documents are received and that there is adequate time to get your study permit once your application is accepted.

For specific admission requirements and applications, contact each university directly. You will find common applications here for these provinces that offer it:

• Ontario: www.ouac.on.ca

• British Columbia: www.pas.bc.ca

• Alberta: www.alis.gov.ab.ca

Budgeting for your stay

Canadian tuition offers excellent value compared to other countries.

Depending on location and program choices, a recommended annual budget for an international student can range from CDN $17,700 to $27,700, which includes tuition, accommodation, books, supplies, health care and personal expenses.

Scholarships and financial aid

Scholarships are generally based on academic merit and are often awarded automatically at the time of admission.

Some scholarships are specifically for international students and require a separate application outlining your extracurricular activities.

Learn more: www.scholarships.gc.ca

Athletic scholarships are not usually available through Canadian universities at the time of admission.

You should consider funding opportunities within your home country through government, charities, businesses or private scholarships.

Work-Study options

As a full-time international student, you can work to gain valuable experience or help finance your stay while you study in Canada.

After graduation, you can apply to programs like the Canada Experience Class (CEC) which facilitates immigration for those who wish to stay and pursue a career in Canada.

Balancing your academic achievement with direct learning in a career-related job will give you an excellent advantage after you graduate.

Learn more: www.cic.gc.ca

Immigration considerations

International students studying for more than six months must receive a study permit before arriving in Canada.

In some cases, a temporary resident visa may also be required depending on your country of citizenship.

Details regarding applications and requirements can be obtained from the Canadian embassy, consulate or high commission (www.cic.gc.ca).

Students planning to study in the province of Quebec must also obtain a certificate of acceptance (CAQ) from the Quebec government before applying for the study permit.

Explore the Possibilities

Step up to make your contribution to the world and join the thousands of international students who choose Canada as a springboard to success!