The prospect of studying abroad can be very exciting, and Canada is one of the top destinations for international students. The country also has a long history of welcoming international students and offers a wealth of opportunities to study subjects ranging from engineering to business and art. Moreover, there are a variety of options available to international students looking to gain experience and increase their chances of finding employment in Canada. Internships, co-ops, and apprenticeships provide a great opportunity to gain valuable work experience, learn the ropes of the Canadian job market, and build a network of contacts. So, if you're looking for a rewarding and enriching study abroad experience, Canada is an excellent choice.
One of the major advantages of the academic system in Canada is that it offers a wide array of courses and programs to choose from. Students can choose from various undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma courses in almost every field of study. This gives them the opportunity to explore their interests and pick the right course for them. Mostly, post-secondary education in Canada, including certificates, diplomas, and master's degrees, takes between one and two years to complete. Three to four years are required to get a Bachelor's degree, and just two years are needed to earn an associate degree. Typically, a doctoral degree program takes between four and seven years to complete.
The grading system in Canadian universities and colleges is designed to reflect the academic achievements of students in a fair and consistent manner. Grades are assigned based on the number of successful course units a student has completed, in relation to the total number of course units expected for that specific course. With the GPA (Grade Point Average, which is calculated by adding all the grades in all completed courses and dividing the total by the number of courses completed) being the standard indicator, the grading system in Canadian universities and colleges typically uses the letter grading scale, the percentage-based grading scale, or a combination of both scales. It is important to note that not all universities and colleges calculate GPA the same way. For example, some institutions use a 4.0 scale while others use a 9.0 one. Further, the percentage-based grading system, which is used in Saskatchewan, allows for easy comparison of academic performance and is a simpler method for standardized evaluation of a student’s academic performance.
The Canadian grading system assigns a certain number of hours, called semester hours or credit hours, to each course you opt for during a given semester. A student receives credit for successfully completing a course and making use of the allotted credit hours as per the predetermined credit hours of a university. A student’s final grade is typically comprised of a letter grade, which indicates the level of achievement attained within a course, and a numerical grade, which represents the total number of grade units earned. To calculate your final grade, add the numerical grade and the letter grade together, then convert this total to a percentage. The conversion table to determine your final grade is as follows:
The grading system in Canadian universities and colleges is designed to reflect the academic achievements of students in a fair and consistent manner. Grades are assigned based on the number of successful course units a student has completed, in relation to the total number of course units expected for that specific course. With the GPA (Grade Point Average, which is calculated by adding all the grades in all completed courses and dividing the total by the number of courses completed) being the standard indicator, the grading system in Canadian universities and colleges typically uses the letter grading scale, the percentage-based grading scale, or a combination of both scales. It is important to note that not all universities and colleges calculate GPA the same way. For example, some institutions use a 4.0 scale while others use a 9.0 one. Further, the percentage-based grading system, which is used in Saskatchewan, allows for easy comparison of academic performance and is a simpler method for standardized evaluation of a student’s academic performance.
The Canadian grading system assigns a certain number of hours, called semester hours or credit hours, to each course you opt for during a given semester. A student receives credit for successfully completing a course and making use of the allotted credit hours as per the predetermined credit hours of a university. A student’s final grade is typically comprised of a letter grade, which indicates the level of achievement attained within a course, and a numerical grade, which represents the total number of grade units earned. To calculate your final grade, add the numerical grade and the letter grade together, then convert this total to a percentage. The conversion table to determine your final grade is as follows:
One suggestion is to add other categories apart from top universities. Like low fees, short duration etc. (do some research that attracts traffic – relevant according to your TG which is premium + study abroad)
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Intakes in Canada
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Duration
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Pros and Cons
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Fall Intake (Primary Intake)
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September - December
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The most popular intake season is the Fall semester, which is the primary intake and typically runs from September to December. You will be able to choose from a large pool of full and partial scholarships. However, it is quite competitive to get admission and scholarship during this intake due to a large number of applications.
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Spring/Winter Intake (Secondary Intake)
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January - April
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The competition for admission and scholarship is low during this intake. Moreover, with fewer students in the classroom, you can receive more individualized attention from your professors, ensuring you get the most out of your studies.
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Cost of Studying in Canada
In Canada, the average annual cost for a bachelor's degree is between CAD 12,000, which is about INR 6,46,000, and CAD 30,000, equivalent to INR 16,15,000. While programs in the humanities, business, and management may cost anywhere from CAD 5,500 (INR 2,96,000) to CAD 6,500 (INR 3,50,000), engineering and medicine degrees cost approximately CAD 22,000, which is equivalent to INR 11,69,000 per year.
In addition to full-time degrees, Canada offers a variety of graduate diploma courses to students from all over the world. Graduate diploma courses in Canada offer an array of educational opportunities for those looking to further their studies. These programs are usually shorter than a degree, but still provide a valuable education that can help you gain the skills and knowledge needed for a particular career. Generally, a graduate diploma program in Canada will take anywhere from one to two years to complete.
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Bachelor’s Degree
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Master’s Degree
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Graduate Diploma
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A three to four-year entry-level qualification that covers a wide range of topics.
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A Master's degree is a higher-level qualification than a Bachelor's. It typically takes around two years to complete and focuses on specialized research and knowledge in a particular field.
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Graduate Diplomas are typically awarded by Colleges of Applied Arts and Technology and can be obtained in a variety of fields of study.
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A Bachelor’s degree will typically require 120 credit hours of study.
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Earning a Master’s degree often requires a minimum of 30 credits, and is expected to be completed within one to two years depending on the program of study.
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It's possible that similar programs at other Canadian universities are referred to as postgraduate diplomas at the graduate level or post-baccalaureate diplomas at the undergraduate level.
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Cost of Living in Canada
The cost of living in Canada varies in each city, with larger cities such as Toronto and Vancouver generally being more expensive than smaller cities. From tuition fees and rent to transportation and food, there are a variety of expenses that international students should account for when budgeting for their studies. Here we provide an overview of the cost of living in Canada for international students:
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Average tuition fee
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CAD 20,000 to CAD 30,000 per year*
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Accommodation
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CAD 400 to 600 per month*
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Public Transport
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CAD 40 - 100 per month*
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Grocery and Food Costs
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CAD 200 CAD - 300 per month*
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Internet
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CAD 30 – 50*
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Miscellaneous
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CAD 600 – 700*
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Province-wise breakdown for accommodation:
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Province
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Accommodation*
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Ontario
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CAD 800 to 1,500 CAD per month
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Quebec
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CAD 600 to 1,200 per month
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Nova Scotia
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CAD 700 to 1,200 per month
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New Brunswick
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CAD 700 to 1,200 per month
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Manitoba
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CAD 700 to 1,200 per month
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British Columbia
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CAD 900 to 1,500 per month
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Saskatchewan
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CAD 700 to 1,200 per month
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Alberta
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CAD 900 - 1,200
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*The figures mentioned above serve only as general indicators and can change
Tips to Reduce Living Costs in Canada
International students in Canada face an array of unique challenges due to their status, including the prospect of high living costs. From exploring alternative accommodation options to taking advantage of student discounts, here are 10 ways you can reduce your living costs as an international student in Canada:
Learning to take advantage of student discounts is one of the first steps to reducing your living costs as an international student. Most universities in Canada offer a range of discounts and special offers to their students, and some of these may be applicable to international students too. Universities often publish their student discount policies online, so make sure you take a look to see what’s available and what you can benefit from.
Many universities in Canada only offer on-campus or homestay accommodations, which can be expensive. You can explore a range of options such as Airbnb, renting a room from a local, or staying at a hostel. Alternatively, you can consider homestay programs, which allow you to live with a Canadian host family.
Taking advantage of public transport can help you save money and get to know your local area better. Make sure you factor in the cost of a transit pass into your budget and take advantage of the benefits of public transport.
Working part-time gives you a chance to earn some extra money to put toward your living expenses, such as groceries and bills.
By applying for the right scholarships as well, you can reduce your living costs and increase your financial support during your time in Canada.
And finally, learning to cook your own meals can help you save money!
Student Life in Canada
From the vast prairie lands of Saskatchewan to the lush forests of British Columbia, in addition to its friendly people and delicious cuisine, Canada offers a diverse range of environments to explore. Spending on public higher education in Canada is among the highest of any OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development) member country. Therefore, international students who are considering studying in Canada will find a rewarding student life awaiting them. From interesting cultural activities to exciting outdoor adventures, Canada is a great place for students to make new friends, and their universities have several resources available to help facilitate socialization. Most universities have social clubs or groups designed to bring people together based on their interests. These give students a chance to connect with other students and make friends.
In addition, social gatherings have increased since students started making Facebook and WhatsApp groups to stay connected during the pandemic and enjoy a cup of coffee (or a mug of beer) over Zoom meetings. Since the majority of Brampton's population is Sikh, local gurudwaras celebrate Gurupurab by offering langar and organising Kirtan. Some clubs in cities like Brampton, Waterloo, and Toronto celebrate Garba nights during Navaratri. While you may be accustomed to taking the day off on Diwali and attending a friend's card party without a second thought in India, you may find yourself working on the day of the festival in Canada. If you'd like to celebrate the occasion, you may offer your prayers at home or join a group (tickets for group celebrations may cost you around CAD 50). Those with a sweet tooth for Indian treats can find almost everything they want in the country's megastores, as the giant retail chains have an international food section.
Part-time Work Opportunities for International Students
Exploring the best part-time work opportunities for international students in Canada is a great way to gain experience, make extra money, and explore the culture. With good communication skills, the right attitude, and a commitment to hard work, international students can find part-time jobs that are both rewarding and beneficial to their studies and holistic learning.
Top Part-time Jobs in Canada
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Part-time work
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Estimated Salary (in CAD/hour)
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Sales associate/assistant
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14
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Teacher/Tutor
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16-22
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Clerk
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13
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Delivery driver
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19
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Writer
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25
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Server/Bartender
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13
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Dog walker
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15
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*The figures mentioned above serve only as general indicators and can change
Career Opportunities/Placements in Canada
Since Canada is a developed nation, it offers a wide range of varied and diverse career opportunities and placements for international students. It is known as one of the top countries to live and work in (both Forbes and US News have published rankings stating that Canada is the top G20 nation for starting a business). There are numerous fields available for students to choose from. These include engineering, finance, healthcare, information technology, hospitality, marketing, and many more.
International students benefit from the experience and resources of the Canadian government’s Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) program. The Canadian government also provides foreign students with a range of incentives to help them find suitable jobs. These include job search assistance, mentorship programs, and access to job fairs and other networking events.
As per Statistics Canada, 60% of overseas students who worked throughout their studies or after graduation became permanent residents after 10 years of receiving their initial study permit. Canadian employers are always looking for talented and skilled foreign students to fill their positions. Therefore, studying in Canada can be a great way to gain valuable experience and skills that can help propel one’s career. Many employers offer competitive salaries and other benefits to foreign students.
For those looking to extend their stay in Canada after completing their studies, the Canadian government offers a variety of pathways for overseas students to transition from study to work, allowing graduates to stay in Canada and gain valuable experience in the job market. Some jobs that are particularly attractive to overseas students studying in Canada include registered nurses, project managers, cardiologist, management or marketing consultant, software engineer, and data scientist. Top employers for international students in Canada are EY, Cisco, Google, and Intel, among others.
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Popular Jobs in Canada
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Average Annual Salary (approx.) in CAD*
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Software Engineers
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50,000
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Lawyer
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100,000
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Bank Manager
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75,000
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Marketing Manager
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65,000
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Human Resource Manager
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72,000
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Architect
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98,000
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Financial Analyst
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68,000
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Supply Chain Management
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81,000
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Surgeons
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191,000
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Psychiatrist
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99,100
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Nurses
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95,500
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Project Manager
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140,000
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IT Manager
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189,000
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Tourism and Hospitality
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131,000
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*The figures mentioned above serve only as general indicators and can change
Study Permit
A study permit is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows foreign nationals to study in Canada. In order to apply for a study permit, a student must first receive a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. A DLI is a school that has been approved by the Government of Canada to host international students (you can check the list of DLI’s here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/prepare/designated-learning-institutions-list.html). Once the student has received their letter of acceptance, they can apply for a study permit. The application fee for a study permit is $150, and the processing time may take up to nine weeks. Submission of biometrics such as fingerprints and photographs may be required.
You can acquire your study permit more quickly by applying via the Student Direct Stream (SDS). The processing time for your application may vary; it is generally processed within 20 days. To apply under the SDS, you'll need to show that you've already paid for your first year of college or university and have a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) worth at least CAN10,000. Another key requirement is to get a minimum score of 6.0 on each module of the IELTS examination (reading, writing, speaking, and listening).
In addition, if you wish to continue your studies in Canada, you must apply for a study permit extension at least 30 days before your current permission expires. Commonly, the procedure takes 164 days to complete.
Some of the documents required for a study permit are:
Post-Study Work Permit
After completing your studies at a DLI, you may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to stay in Canada and find temporary employment. The duration of your program determines how long your PGWP will be active.
Your PGWP will be valid for the same length as your study program if it is less than 8 months. However, if your program was at least eight months, but less than two years, then you will be granted a PGWP valid for up to the same length as your study program. Similarly, if your program was two years or longer, you may get a PGWP that is valid for three years. In addition, if you completed more than one program while in Canada and each of these programs is PGWP-eligible and at least 8 months in length, you may be able to combine the length of each program to get a longer PGWP. You are ineligible for a PGWP if you have previously obtained one after completing an earlier program of study.
Ensure that your passport is valid for the entirety of your eligibility period. If your passport expires before your PGWP, you will be issued a PGWP that is valid until your passport expires, and you will be told if you need to extend its validity to get its full validity.
Scholarships in Canada
The Canadian government also offers several scholarship programs to help foreign students gain the skills and experience needed to work and live in Canada. These programs are designed to help international students gain the necessary qualifications and experience to find secure employment.
Types of Scholarships in Canada
Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship: A merit-based scholarship of CAD 70,000, equivalent to around INR 42,54,364, offered to postgraduate applicants for environmental/social science, natural sciences and/or engineering, or health studies.
Vanier Graduate Scholarships: For Indian students who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need, this scholarship provides funding to study in Canada. Doctoral students in the natural sciences, social sciences, engineering, or health and humanities research at Canadian universities may apply for the fellowship valued at CAD 50,000, equivalent to INR 30,38,831, per year for three years.
Ontario Graduate Scholarships: Indian students applying for Master’s or doctoral studies, with at least 80% in each of the previous two full academic years, can leverage the yearly scholarships, funded at a rate of two-thirds by the federal government and one-third by the universities.
Non-governmental Scholarships: These scholarships are provided by private companies, organizations, and individuals, and can range from small awards to full tuition and living costs.
Trudeau Scholarships and Fellowships: This program awards up to twenty scholarships to exceptional foreign doctoral students who are either currently enrolled in or have been accepted to an MPhil program in the social sciences or the humanities, and are pursuing research in fields related to the foundation's four themes: Human Rights and Dignity; People and Their Natural Environment; Responsible Citizenship; and Canada and The World.
Anne Vallee Ecological Fund: Doctoral students in British Columbia or Quebec doing animal research are eligible for a funding of 1500 CAD from the Anne Vallee Ecological Fund.
Institutional Scholarships: Institutional scholarships are offered by the colleges and universities themselves, and often depend on the student's academic performance. Some universities offer scholarships to students with high grades, while others offer grants the same to those with financial need.
The University of Toronto, Lester B. Pearson International Student Scholarships: In collaboration with the Lester B. Pearson scholarship program, the University of Toronto recognizes outstanding international students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and exceptional creativity, with this fully funded scholarship covering tuition fee and living expenses.
York University International Student Scholarships: The York University International Student Scholarships are awarded to international students who demonstrate academic prowess, leadership, and commitment to York University. It is a fully funded scholarship, with a total value of 140,000.
In summary, Indian students in Canada can access a variety of scholarship opportunities depending on their academic merit, financial need, and commitment to community service. These scholarships can provide partial or full financial support for tuition, books, and other educational expenses.
Step-by-step Guide to Apply to Canada
To ensure a successful application, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the different requirements for admission. This step-by-step guide will provide you with all the information and resources you need to have a successful application. From understanding your academic credentials to obtaining a study permit, we will provide you with the tools to make your application process as smooth and successful as possible.
Understanding your Academic Credentials
One of the first steps towards applying for education in Canada is understanding the academic credentials you’ll need for admission. With a wide variety of universities and colleges to choose from, you’ll want to apply to an institution with the appropriate program and admissions requirements. First, you’ll need to determine if your academic credentials are from an institution that’s accredited by an appropriate body recognized by the Canadian government. Aside from this, you’ll need to ensure that the course of study you’ve completed is equivalent to a program in the Canadian education system.
Researching the Right University
Before you start applying to universities, make sure you’ve done your research and know which universities you want to apply to. It is important to know the type of university you want to apply to, as different universities offer different degrees and specializations. Once you know what universities you want to apply to, you can begin building your application. For most universities, there is a CAD 50 to 250 application processing charge that must be paid. The process will typically begin with creating an account on the university’s website, where you can complete the application and submit the required documents.
Necessary Document for Higher Education in Canada
The documents required are proof of English language proficiency, a valid passport, transcripts and mark sheets of previous academic qualifications, statement of purpose, resume or curriculum vitae, letter of recommendation, proof of finances, standardized test scores, English language proficiency scores, and other documents as requested by the university, such as a research proposal or a writing sample.
Exams Required to Study in Canada
To gain admission to a Canadian university, international students must demonstrate their language proficiency. The most common language tests accepted by Canadian universities are the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). The scores attained on these tests must meet the requirements of the Canadian university or college the student is applying to. For example, some universities may require a minimum score of 80 on the TOEFL or 6.0 on the IELTS.
In addition to language tests, students may also be required to take aptitude exams such as the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). These tests are used to measure a student’s knowledge and skills in various subject areas such as mathematics, science, and English. Some universities may require a minimum score on these tests in order to be eligible for admission.
Finding Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities
Many universities offer financial aid and scholarship opportunities for students from different countries. Make sure you check the university’s website to find out about the financial aid opportunities available. There may also be additional scholarship opportunities offered by organizations that you can apply for.
Submitting your Application
After submitting your application to study in Canada, you can expect to receive a response to your application within a few weeks to a couple of months. While you won’t receive notification from every institution, it’s important to be patient and wait until you receive an offer. Once you’re accepted to an educational institution in Canada, you’ll need to work towards securing all necessary documents to apply for a study permit.
Applying for a Student Visa
Once you’ve completed the application, it is important to submit your application for a study permit as soon as possible. This is because the Canadian government has a backlog of study permit applications, which might delay certain applications. If you want to study in Canada, you will need to prove that you have at least a certain amount of money in your bank. The fee for a Canadian student visa is around CAD 150, or nearly 9000 INR. Some visa requirements that may be part of the eligibility criteria for a Canada study permit include academic requirements, an offer letter from the institution, language proficiency, financial requirements, the Immigration Medical Examination (IME), passport-size photographs, a health insurance policy, valid travel documents, and so on. In addition to this, you must also have enough money to get to and from your home country, as well as enough money to support yourself during this time.
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FAQ’s
Universities in Canada are degree-granting institutions offering undergraduate and graduate programs in various disciplines. Colleges in Canada, on the other hand, are institutions that are typically focused on practical, career-oriented fields of study. Most colleges offer diploma or certificate programs rather than degrees, and many of these programs are designed to prepare students for entry into the workforce.
Universities in Canada are typically larger and more research-focused than colleges, and their programs tend to be more academically rigorous. Colleges in Canada typically offer a more hands-on approach to learning, focusing on practical skills. Another important difference between universities and colleges in Canada is the cost of tuition. Generally, university tuition tends to be more expensive than college tuition, as universities often have larger budgets and more resources. However, some universities in Canada offer scholarships and bursaries to help offset the cost of tuition.
When you apply for a student visa in Canada, you must provide certain documents that prove your identity, financial capability, and intention to study in Canada. These documents include a valid passport, two recent passport-sized photos, health insurance, a statement of purpose, and a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institute in Canada. You also need to provide proof of your English or French language proficiency, such as IELTS score report.
In addition to these documents, you must also provide proof of your financial ability to support yourself during your studies in Canada. Generally, you must show you have enough money to cover your tuition fees and living expenses for a year. You also have to provide bank statements and other documents proving your financial capacity.
Finally, you may also be required to provide additional documents to show your ties to your home country and your plans after your studies in Canada.
Health insurance is an essential requirement for studying in Canada. The Canadian government requires that all international students must have health insurance coverage for the entire duration of their stay in Canada
Around CAD 7300 (4,43,397.94 INR) to CAD 14000 (850352.21 INR) per year.
