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Want to study in Canada? With nearly half a million international students, Canada stands out as a top destination offering world-class education, affordable tuition fees, hassle-free visa applications.
It offers a superior standard of living, diverse learning environments, quality education, and career opportunities. Canada’s international student population has tripled over the past decade, as many of the prestigious institutions frequently securing top position in global rankings.
Want to study in Canada? With nearly half a million international students, Canada stands out as a top destination offering world-class education, affordable tuition fees, hassle-free visa applications. It offers a superior standard of living, diverse learning environments, quality education, and career opportunities. Canada’s international student population has tripled over the past decade, as many of the prestigious institutions frequently securing top position in global rankings.
In recent years, Indian student enrollment in Canada has remarkably increased by 260% with 800,000 students in 2022. Indians make up over 28% of the international student population in Canada. In 2023, approximately 753,000 students obtained a Canada student visa. According to the U.S. News & World Report 2022, Canada ranks 3rd globally for quality of life. Canada is also home to numerous top-ranked universities. Among the Times Higher Education rankings for 2023, 7 Canadian universities rank within the top 200 worldwide. Students from Asian countries like India, China, and Korea contribute notably to Canada’s international student community mainly for its welcoming, safe, and friendly environment.
CANADA University
Why Study in Canada?
Canada is a popular study-abroad destination among international students, offering quality education at affordable fees, recognized degrees, a great quality of life, and opportunities for work and immigration. With its excellent education system, hassle-free student visa process, and job prospects, many students prefer to study in Canada from all over the world, including India. Canada’s Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for 2022 reveal that the country hosted 551,405 international students from 184 nations. Notably, 226,450 students were from India. Situated in North America, Canada is the second largest country with top cities like Toronto and Vancouver that offer stunning landscapes, diverse culture, and top-notch education.
Education System
Canada is well-known for its affordable and highly regarded education system, attracting many international students. Nearly 400% of international students have chosen to study in Canada.The Education System in canada is categorized into three levels: Elementary, Secondary, and Post-secondary Education. Once students finish their elementary and secondary schooling at around 16-18 years, they can move on to Post-secondary Education. The government of each province in Canada manages the education system. Even though study levels might vary in different areas, Canada’s education is the cheapest and recognized worldwide. Check the below table to know the education system in Canada.
Qualification |
Duration |
|
Certificate |
1-year |
|
Diploma |
1 - 2 years |
|
Advanced Diploma |
2 to 3 years |
|
Bachelor’s Degree |
4 years |
|
Post-Graduate Diploma/Cert. |
2 - 3 years |
|
Master’s Degree |
1 - 2 years |
|
Doctorate or Ph.D. |
4 to 7 years |
|
Post-doctoral program |
No limit |
Popular Courses
Canada is renowned for its exceptional education system, offering a wide array of courses across undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate levels. Canadian universities also provide certificate and diploma courses. Undergraduate students can opt for Bachelor’s or Associate’s degrees, which generally take 3 to 4 years to complete. At the graduate level, Master’s and Doctoral programs are available for up to 2 to 6 years, while post-graduate diploma courses in Canada typically last 1 to 2 years. These courses prioritize experiential learning which helps students to grasp concepts in practical settings, get hands-on knowledge, and gain valuable academic experience in their chosen fields.
The popular courses to study in Canad
- Computer Science
- Business
- Engineering
- Health Sciences
- Physiotherapy
- Information Technology
- Animation and Gaming
- Hospitality Management
- International Business Management
- Master of Business Administration
- Architecture
- Culinary Management
- Media & Journalism
- Agriculture Science
Course |
Avg. Annual Tuition Fee (CAD $) |
Avg. Annual Tuition Fee (INR ₹) |
|
International Business Management |
CAD 15,000 - 25,000 |
INR 850,000 - 1,415,000 |
|
Master of Business Administration |
CAD 30,000 - 40,000 |
INR 1,700,000 - 2,260,000 |
|
IT & Computer Science |
CAD 20,000 - 40,000 |
INR 1,130,000 - 2,260,000 |
|
Engineering |
CAD 30,000 - 50,000 |
INR 1,700,000 - 2,830,000 |
|
Health, Biosciences & Pharmacy |
CAD 30,000 - 50,000 |
INR 1,700,000 - 2,830,000 |
|
Media & Journalism |
CAD 20,000 - 30,000 |
INR 1,130,000 - 1,695,000 |
Top Universities
Canada has prestigious universities that offer a range of degree programs with top-notch facilities, including modern libraries, spacious auditoriums, and advanced research centers, setting a standard for quality education. Universities in Canada offer on-campus accommodation which includes cozy dormitories, residential halls, and apartments, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for students.
Currently, 31 Canadian universities have ranked in the QS World University Ranking 2023 list. Notably, the top 11 among them have secured spots within the top 250 rankings. Let’s take a look at the top 10 Canadian universities for the academic year 2023, along with their current rankings in QS World University, Times Higher Education, and US News & World Report rankings.
The top universities to study in Canada are:
University Name |
University Known For |
QS World University Ranking 2023 (Globally) |
Times Higher Education Ranking 2023 (Globally) |
Tuition Fee per year (CAD) |
Tuition Fee per year (INR) |
|
University of Toronto |
Top research-intense university, innovation-driven |
21 |
18 |
40,000 |
24.51 lakhs |
|
McGill University |
Renowned for Engineering courses |
30 |
46 |
27,000 |
16.54 lakhs |
|
University of British Columbia |
Strong in teaching, research, consistent ranking |
34 |
40 |
34,000 |
20.83 lakhs |
|
University of Montreal |
Largest university complex, prominent research |
141 |
111 |
17,000 |
10.41 lakhs |
|
University of Alberta |
Top in Engineering, Humanities, Health Sciences, Business |
111 |
118 |
21,000 |
12.87 lakhs |
|
University of Waterloo |
Leading in Computer Science, Engineering, Science, Math |
112 |
201-250 |
40,000 |
24.51 lakhs |
|
Western University |
Excellence in education, research, healthcare |
114 |
201-250 |
23,000 |
14.09 lakhs |
|
University of Calgary |
Strong research, diverse university culture |
182 |
201-250 |
37,000 |
22.67 lakhs |
|
McMaster University |
Research-intense, notable for nuclear reactor |
189 |
80 |
45,000 |
27.57 lakhs |
|
University of Ottawa |
Thrives on Excellence, Relevance, and Impact |
203 |
137 |
30,000 |
18.38 lakhs |
Intakes
Canadian colleges and universities stand apart from Indian institutions with their three intakes, which are also known as semesters. Understanding the intakes in Canada is crucial for those aspiring to study abroad, as it defines the periods during which universities globally accept applications. Canadian universities offer three intakes namely Fall, Winter, and Summer. These intakes signify the period when students from around the world can apply to Canadian educational institutions.
- Fall Intake: Fall intake begins in September. It is the most popular choice among Indian students with a wide range of courses and scholarship availability. In this intake, Canadian universities receive the highest number of applications. Fall intake is also known as September intake and Autumn intake.
- Winter Intake: Winter intake is usually a secondary option that starts in January, suitable for those who missed the Fall deadline. While the course selection may be limited compared to the September intake, students can still expect similar prospects in terms of career opportunities, internships, and scholarships. Winter intake is also known as the January intake.
- Summer Intake: Summer intake, which commences around April and May, is the last option and is offered by only a few universities. It offers diploma and vocational programs. Summer intake is also known as the spring intake or May intake.
Student Visa
International students who want to study in Canada need a study permit. It is a necessary immigration document that validates their stay in Canada and accompanies a visitor visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Alongside the study permit, you need a visitor visa or eTA to enter legally. This permit is essential for Indian students which grants permission to study at Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Canada.
Please note that a study permit is not a visa. A student visa will authorize your entry to Canada. To apply for a Canadian Student Visa, it’s best to start the process 4 to 6 months before your classes begin and after you’ve received an Admission Offer from a Canadian Designated Learning Institute. You can apply online using the Government of Canada Key (GCKey) portal or at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) or directly at the entry port if you prefer. The fee for applying for a Canadian Student Visa is $150 CAD, and it also covers an $85 CAD biometrics fee and a $45 CAD service fee.
The study visa processing time will be around 4 to 8 weeks. If you’re in a hurry, the Student Direct Stream (SDS) option processes it in just 20 days. Indian students are eligible for the SDS category and can apply by submitting the necessary documents for their student visa.
1.Difference between SDS and non SDS visa
Students must know the difference between SDS and Non-SDS visa applications if they are aspiring to study in Canada. After introducing the SDS visa, students get quicker access to study in Canada. However, some students take more time as they don’t know the difference between SDS and Non-SDS visa applications. If you want to know everything about the SDS and non-SDS difference, processing, success rate, etc., you are at the right place!
SDS visa – The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is an expressway entry to study in Canada only for certain countries like India, China, Peru, etc. Once a student meets SDS IELTS requirements, they can apply for an SDS visa.
The application will be processed in 20 calendar days, provided they meet the other requirements. Once approved, the student can enroll in any designated learning institutions (DLIs) and start their journey.
Non-SDS visa – The Non-SDS is a general process where visa applications are accepted for study, work and immigration in Canada. It’s open to all countries. Candidates must fulfil the needs set for non-SDS visas. It is an alternative option for study in Canada, where students who did not meet the SDS visa requirements can apply here.
2.Study permit extension:
International students apply for a study permit extension within Canada to continue studying. This extension allows students to extend their current permit and stay beyond their original study permit expiration date. The expiry date is in the top right corner of your permit, which is usually the course duration plus 90 days. Since this expiry date tells you when you must stop studying and leave Canada, it allows students to either leave or extend their stay legally in Canada. The study permit (including extension) fee is $150, and the processing time is 71 days.
Prospective students must note that ‘study permit’ and ‘student visa’ are two different terms and cannot be used interchangeably. A Study Permit allows students to study at Designated Learning Institutions (DLI) in Canada. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issues the Study Permit along with a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA), but it does not issue a Student Visa. This blog is exclusively to help you how to apply for a study permit extension, including detailed information about when to apply, fees, processing time, etc.
3.Canada spouse visa
Canada is one of the best countries to live in since it has the best job opportunities, free healthcare, various immigration programs, etc. With its lenient immigration policies, it is easier to become a permanent resident in Canada. Those who settled in Canada permanently can use the spouse sponsorship program, if they want to bring their spouse. A variety of requirements must be fulfilled to get a spouse visa such as age, marital status, etc. In this blog, we will provide you with detailed information regarding the Canada spouse visa program.
Canada PR Visa holder and Canadian citizen can only sponsor their spouse. The spouse and sponsored partner must be an adult (at least 18 years old) and they need to prove their relationship is authentic to fulfil the criteria fixed by Citizenship and Immigration Canada.
4.Canada visa rejection
Canada Student Visa Rejection is a common concern and can be very frustrating for many international students who put their immense efforts to get it flawless. If you plan to study in Canada you require a study permit and a Canadian student visa which is initiated after securing admission to a Designated Learning Institute (DLI). There is a continuous rise in the number of international students holding visas, currently reaching around 6,40,000 as per IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and citizenship Canada). There may be various reasons behind Canada visa rejections.
Post the Pandemic, issues like ongoing application backlog, rise in Canadian universities popularity, increase in applications more than the colleges admission capacity, etc. led to the Canada visa Rejection even for the applicants with good academic record. The percentage of Canada student visa rejection is reported to be around 30% every year. Reasons for the rejection of Canadian student visas need to be addressed by international students to ensure progress in their study abroad dream.
5.Canada visa interview questions:
Canada is known for its high-quality education system. Individuals who wish to study abroad should get a Canada Student Visa. Immigrants should apply for a visa in their native country and submit their application form with the necessary documents. After the submission of documents and payment of the visa fee, a visa interview is conducted with the Canadian Embassy/ Consulate. Hence, Immigrants should be aware of Canada Visa Interview Questions to effectively answer them. We are here to guide you and let you know the frequently asked interview questions during the process.
The visa interview is the final stage of the application process. Based on your answers, your application will be either selected or rejected. Most of the Canada Visa Interview questions will be regarding the visa category and the type of visa program the applicants have applied for. Certain questions will be asked to verify your submitted documents.
Cost of Study
The cost of studying in Canada ranges from CAD 13,000 to CAD 35,000 in a year based on the type of degree and institution. Humanities, education, and arts programs tend to be more affordable, while medicine and engineering are pricier. On average, undergraduate studies cost around CAD 6,800 (Rs. 4,16,582/-) per year, and master’s programs range from CAD 21,100 annually, as per Statistics Canada (2022). Postgraduate studies have higher tuition fees, with MBA programs being the most expensive, approximately between CAD 30,000 and CAD 42,000. Compared to other developed countries, Canada offers more economical education programs and funding opportunities like scholarships, student loans, bursaries, and assistantships to international students.
Scholarships to Study
Scholarships are essentially monetary rewards granted to eligible students based on academic excellence, and they don’t require repayment. Meritorious students with strong academic and extracurricular records can apply for these scholarships. These scholarships, provided by both the Canadian government and external organizations, aim to ease the cost of education abroad. Need-based scholarships are also accessible.
Education Loan for Studying in Canada
The total expenses for studying in Canada are influenced by factors like the chosen program, university, course duration, and living costs. To assist students who struggle to afford to study and live in Canada, various banks and financial institutions extend education loans for Canada. Before applying for an educational loan, reviewing the eligibility criteria is important to ensure loan approval. Since different loan schemes cover different expenses, it’s advisable to consult the banks to understand the specific expenses and loan schemes that are applicable. Educational loans typically cover various expenses, including.
- Admission fees
- Tuition fees
- Transportation charges
- Books, stationery, and other study materials
- Laboratory fees
- Hostel fees including food
- Purchase of a laptop with the necessary configuration (If required for the course)
- Expenses for project work or study tours
Post-Study Work Opportunities
Canada offers a wide array of job opportunities catering to students at various educational levels, graduates, and professionals. Canada annually offers around 300,000 work permits to foreign students. International students have plenty of work-study options including on-campus and off-campus jobs, co-op positions, and internships. Students are eligible to work after graduation, requiring a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) which costs $255 CAD to apply for. A post-graduation work permit in Canada enables graduates to gain work experience after their studies and serves as a pathway to Permanent Residency (PR) through the Express Entry system. The PGWP is usually issued for the same duration as the study program, with a maximum of 3 years.
Job Prospects in Canada
In recent years, Canada has welcomed a large number of international students, offering them various work opportunities during and after their studies. Forbes and US News rankings highlight Canada as the best G20 country for business operations. The Economist Intelligence Unit predicts Canada will be the 3rd best G7 country for business from 2018 to 2022. According to Statistics Canada (2021), about 60% of international students employed during or after their studies became landed immigrants within 10 years of their first study permit.
FAQs
How much does it cost to study in Canada?
Tuition fees in Canadian Universities differ based on the program and institution you opt for. On average, international undergraduate students can expect to pay around $36,100 per year, while international graduate students may pay tuition costs of $21,100 per year (Statistics Canada, 2022).
Can I study in Canada free of cost?
Canadian universities do not provide tuition fee waivers, which means getting a free education in Canada is not possible. However, a few Canadian universities like the University of Toronto, and the University of Alberta offer fully funded scholarships for international students.
How much bank balance is required for a Canada student visa?
For obtaining a Canada student visa, a minimum bank balance of $10,000 CAD is necessary. If you want to study in Canada, you’ll be required to demonstrate that you possess a minimum of $25,000 CAD.
Who can sponsor me to study in Canada?
You can sponsor or get sponsorship from:
- spouse
- common-law partner
- conjugal partner
- son or daughter
- parent
- grandparent
- orphaned brother or sister
- orphaned nephew or niece
- orphaned grandchild
How Many Years Gap Is Accepted for Study in Canada?
Typically, a study gap of around 2 years is acceptable for pursuing education in Canada, although the study gap in Canada can differ based on the particular university and program requirements.
Are Canadian qualifications recognized worldwide?
Yes, degrees earned from Canadian institutions are recognized globally and renowned for their high-quality education.
How much is the average acceptance rate of universities in Canada?
The acceptance rates for leading Canadian universities are typically within the range of 40-60%. Some of the best institutions with relatively higher acceptance rates include the University of Brunswick (74%), Toronto Metropolitan University (55%), Lake head University (55%), University of Montreal (50%), and University of Guelph (50%).
How to prepare for a Canada visa interview?
Once you apply for the visa, the next step is to attend a visa interview. It can be a bit challenging, which might lead to a visa rejection. That’s why it’s essential to consider preparing the most commonly asked Canada visa interview questions which help you do well in your visa interview.