Study in Canada
by admin
International students are flocking to Canada at record rates, thanks to the country's quality universities, lower cost, and excellent opportunities. In fact, enrollment was up 28 percent from 2006 - 2010, according to the government department of Citizenship and Immigration Canada. Three Canadian universities even made the top 50 World's Best Universities list from US News and World Report.
If you choose to study in Canada, you'll have several options to choose from ranging from universities, university colleges, community colleges, technical institutes, and career schools. Universities are where you can pursue undergraduate and advanced degree programs. University colleges offer college diploma and certificate programs (which can be completed in one to three years). Applied degrees are another option, which focus on job skills.
There are also 175 postsecondary member institutions of the Association of Canadian Community Colleges, which offer training and professional programs that last one to three years. Students can also choose to attend career colleges in Canada to learn via specialized short-term training programs in fields like design, computers, and more.
No matter which route a student chooses, one of the perks of a Canadian education is that they generally cost less than other popular overseas schools. Tuition rates in Canada are consistently lower than that of the United States, Australia, New Zealand, and the U.K. thanks to public funding.
Beyond the quality and affordable academics, Canada also offers an excellent quality of life. Consistently ranked as one of the safest, most desirable countries in which to live, Canada is known for its peaceful and politically stable climate. It is also very welcoming to all cultures and ethnicities. Here's an interesting fact: Canada was the first country to adopt multiculturalism as an official government policy.
Quality education, affordable education, exceptional experience - that's what students can expect when they choose to study in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exams will I need to take to get into schools in this country?
In Canada, there is no nationwide set of entrance exams; each school has its own admission requirements. At English-language universities, you may need to demonstrate language proficiency through a standardized test such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) Assessment, or International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
What is the application procedure to study in this country?
International students may apply directly to individual education institutions in Canada. Each school has its own admission requirements, but it’s a good idea to apply a year before you plan to start your studies. If you are accepted into a school in Quebec, you will also need to apply for a Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ), issued by the Government of Quebec.
What are the visa application requirements?
If you plan to study in Canada for more than six months, you need to obtain a study permit. Some students are eligible to apply for a study permit online; the rest must submit an application to their local Canadian visa office. Required documents include a valid passport, a letter of acceptance to a Canadian educational institution, and proof of financial support. In addition, if you are from one of these designated countries, you will also need a temporary resident visa (no additional application required).
Do I have to speak the country’s native language to study there?
English and French are the official languages of Canada, and each school has its own requirements regarding the level of language proficiency you must have in order to be accepted. At many schools in Canada – even bilingual institutions – you only need to be proficient in one of the two languages.
What are the housing options available?
Many schools in Canada offer on-campus housing; some even offer residences specifically for international students. Your school’s housing office or international student advisor can also provide assistance in finding off-campus housing, if needed.
What are the average tuition and living expenses?
The average cost for a foreign student for one year of undergraduate study (eight months) in Canada is C$11,903. And the cost of living in Canada is much lower than in many other developed countries. Altogether, you should budget between C$15,000 and C$30,000 per year to cover tuition and living expenses in Canada.
Can I work while I am studying?
Most full-time international students can work on campus without a work permit, including graduate and research work. International students at eligible postsecondary schools in Canada may also be able to get a work permit to work off campus up to 20 hours a week during the school year and full time during school breaks.
Can I stay in the country after I have finished studying?
If you want to work in Canada after you finish studying, you can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit online. The permit will allow you to work in Canada for up to three years after graduation. You can also apply for permanent Canadian residence under the Canadian Experience Class category of immigration.
Are scholarships available?
International student scholarships are available at many schools in Canada and are typically merit-based and highly competitive. Check with your home country to find scholarships for students studying abroad in Canada; you can also click here to search for scholarships based on country of residence.
