Canada Admission for International Students- Study in Canada

I will tell you for free, that Canada is one of the best places to study in the world, and it doesn’t just promise you quality education, you will also have the opportunity to explore new cultures and a good standard of life. So if you have been contemplating traveling to Canada for study purposes, then this might be the sign you need.

In this guide, I will explicitly provide a clear guide that includes all the details you need to be able to successfully, choose a university, apply, and relocate to Canada as an international student hoping to study in Canada. Let’s get into detail.

Key Points

• Studying in Canada offers quality education, cultural experiences, and a high standard of living, making it an attractive destination for international students.
• Canadian universities are renowned for their academic excellence, with many ranked among the top globally and offering diverse programs and hands-on learning opportunities.
• The cost of studying in Canada is relatively lower compared to other English-speaking countries, making it an affordable option for international students.
• When choosing a university in Canada, consider factors like course offerings, city life, living costs, and university rankings.
• After graduation, international students can benefit from the Canadian Post-Graduation Work Permit, allowing them to gain work experience and potentially become permanent residents.

Why Study in Canada?

Aside from experiencing the educational system of Canada which has a lot to offer, you will also get to explore other sectors of the country including its culture, environment, lifestyle, and a lot of other factors. These are just the tip of the iceberg of what Canada can offer to you as an international student hoping to study there, want to find out more? Let’s look into it:

• The number one reason why you should choose to go with Canada over other countries is because of its widely reputable universities that have maintained a stable stance in worldwide ranking. 11 of its universities are among the world’s top 250 universities and the rest are experts in teaching, research, and academic excellence.
• These same great universities of Canada are also widely known for providing excellent academic programs with a strong focus on hands-on learning, practical experience, and research opportunities.  
• Speaking of the cost and funding that goes into studying, you won’t have to be extravagant to afford school fees in Canada. They provide the lowest tuition costs among other English-speaking nations. You won’t compare the cost options with other schools.
• These universities present in Canada offer diverse courses and academic disciplines including technology and engineering, natural sciences, business and economics, social sciences, and humanities.  I also recommend this country due to its unique programs, such as Indigenous studies, environmental science, and more. 
• Need more benefits, Canada also offers you as an international student opportunities to explore their multicultural society that promotes diverse cultures, traditions, and languages. You will get to explore a new culture different from what you have always done in your home country.
• Aside from culture, they are also blessed with a nice environment that enables you to enjoy city life and nightlife. These are mostly prominent in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. This doesn’t just give you the opportunity to come to Canada and study, but it also helps you explore popular places you have never been to.

How to Choose a University in Canada?

Since you have been convinced of how nicely studying in Canada can greatly improve your education and general lifestyle, then let’s quickly talk about how best to choose a university in Canada. For a start, you will need to understand that the universities in Canada offer a wide range of courses and you will have to select a course that sparks your interest. When you have gotten a course to go for, you can then source the best university, out of the over 200 public and private universities, that offer that course in Canada.

It might also interest you that in Canada there are both universities and colleges and they vary differently. While colleges traditionally offer Bachelor’s degrees in applied disciplines, polytechnics, and institutes, usually focus on shorter, more practical, technical, or occupational programs. So keep that in mind while making your selection.

If you are looking for the best student cities in Canada then you should consider cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, which are also three of the world’s most desirable cities to be a student in.

Lastly, when choosing a university to study at in Canada, you should also consider the cost of living and how much it will take you to be admitted into an institution. Take a look at the university ranking, career perspective, and the university’s admission criteria. Also, take into consideration the environment in which your school is located and if you are comfortable with the vibe it gives off.

Best Universities in Canada

S.No.	Institution	QS Ranking 2024 (Globally)	QS Ranking 2023 (Globally)
1	University of Toronto	34	26
2	McGill University	31	=27
3	University of British Columbia	47	46
4	University of Montreal	116	111
5	University of Alberta	110	126
6	McMaster University	152	140
7	University of Waterloo	154	=149
8	Western University	172	170

Having known all that it will take you to choose the best universities out there in Canada, let’s look at the top universities currently ranking in Canada to help you make the right choices:

#1. University of Toronto

Being ranked as one of the best universities in Canada, the University of Toronto has been widely recognized as the top research-intensive institution in the world and Canada’s top center for education, research, and knowledge development. 

#2. University of British Columbia (UBC)

UBC has over the years maintained its position as the most international university in North America. This title came about due to the University of British Columbia being constantly acclaimed as one of the top 20 public universities worldwide. So if you are on the lookout for a good ranking, you might want to check out UBC.

#3. McGill University 

If you know McGill University, you will understand that it has made a name for itself by being recognized as one of Canada’s top-tier colleges. Another significant observation about this university is its diverse international student community, research institutes and centers, and rich history. 

#4. McMaster University 

McMaster University in Canada is one with an applaudable nature being mostly referenced to its unique educational system. This public institution is located in the vibrant city of Hamilton, close to Lake Ontario, famous for its invention in learning and discovery. 

#5. University of Montreal 

This is another great option for you to pick from if you are a sulker for a good environment and modern buildings and it has also been known as one the most cosmopolitan universities in Canada.

How to Apply to University

Depending on the specs of the university you are interested in, this little explanation might slightly differ from the normal mode of application. But the general method for the application process usually starts with you picking out a course. Also, remember that you might be required to pay an acceptance fee ranging from  $50 to $150 CAD after you have probably met other requirements and documents needed. Some universities might even set up interviews depending on how their process works. So it’s best to be prepared.

Also, Canadian universities require English language proficiency tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic, but some may also require French proficiency. While at this, also put into consideration the application deadline which usually demands the application process to last for eight to twelve months. So always check for your university deadline before you apply.

Here is a FREE Language Proficiency Test Preparation Checklist:

Because this is my niche, I’d simply advise that as an international student, you should prepare yourself including your documents, and be ready for whatever step that will be required during your application.

Documents Needed to Apply for University

Again depending on each university, these documents might be essential while some won’t be needed, but in general terms, these are usually in demand when applying for a university as an international student. The most common ones are: 

• Portfolio and/or writing samples 
• A scan of your diploma (high school or Bachelor’s degree) 
• A transcript/record of your previous courses 
• A scan of your passport 
• Your CV 
• Testing scores 
• Evidence of scholarship or funding 
• Letters of recommendation (between 2-3) 

Cost to Study in Canada

The only cost I have mentioned in this guide was that of the application fee, now that’s a different ball game with this. This particular cost covers how much that is required to actually study in a university. For prompts, it is usually calculated according to one’s qualifications, institution, and particular course of study. In a general term, you will need between CAD 13,000 – and CAD 35,000 a year.

Just so you know, some courses in humanities, education, and arts are a little cheaper, other departments such as medicine and engineering are just naturally more expensive. Studying at a postgraduate level is even higher compared to others and the specific cost still depends on the program and university. And for these programs, I’m talking about CAD 30,000-42,000 per year. In all, cut your coat according to your size.

After Studies What Next?

When you complete your course in school and finally become a graduate, you have the luxury of either becoming a permanent resident and getting a job in Canada or just doing whatever else you please. But you should know that as soon as you leave school, you will automatically become an asset with the added knowledge of culture and proficiency in most languages. That is not all, you also become a student with Canadian qualifications and most times solid work experience.

There is also something known as the Canadian Post-Graduation Work Permit that allows international students like yourself to get jobs and chase their dreams while doing so.

So now that you are aware of all these details, what else is keeping you from chasing that dream and achieving those study and career goals you have set up for yourself? While you keep your head above the water, remember you can reach out to me through the comments to get more details on all that you need.