Study in Canada: Universities, Courses, Visa & Scholarships
Canada is globally recognized for its exceptional academic standards and renowned universities. As per the data from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), over 1,028,650 international students from 182 countries are currently studying in Canada. Every year, nearly 485,000 international students, including those from India, opt to pursue higher education in Canada.
With over 8,000 prestigious universities and 16,000 academic programs available, Canada offers a diverse range of opportunities for students. Additionally, the country provides various scholarships and affordable tuition fees. Canada boasts an impressive 85%–94% success rate for visa approval, one of the highest among popular international study destinations.
Canada student visas are typically issued for the duration of the course, and students can extend their stay to work for up to 3 years after completing their studies.
At Next EduPath, we provide expert guidance to aspiring students looking to study in Canada. We offer comprehensive services, including visa assistance, help with course selection, and university application guidance.
Why Study in Canada?
Canada remains a top destination for international students. Here are some reasons why studying in Canada is an excellent choice:
Top Destination for International Students: Every year, more than 485,000 international students choose Canada for their studies.
Globally Ranked Universities: Canada is home to 31 universities that rank among the best worldwide, according to QS rankings.
Scholarship Opportunities: Canada offers scholarships of up to CAD 21,000 annually for international students.
High Visa Approval Rate: With a visa success rate of 85%–94%, Canada is one of the safest and most reliable options for international students.
Post-Graduation Work Permit: The Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) program allows students to stay and work in Canada for 1-3 years after completing their studies.
The Canadian Education System
Canada’s education system is highly regarded globally, spending significantly on public post-secondary education, as reported by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The country offers world-class education across a variety of disciplines, making it an ideal destination for international students.
The following are the types of education programs offered in Canada, along with their details:
| Program | Duration | Age | Minimum Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate Program | 8 months – 1 year | 17+ | High school diploma, IELTS 6.0 or equivalent |
| Diploma Programs | 2 – 3 years | 17+ | High school diploma, IELTS 6.0 or equivalent |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 3 – 4 years | 18+ | School leaving certificate, IELTS 6.5 or equivalent |
| Post-Baccalaureate Diploma | 2 years | 21+ | Bachelor’s degree, Work experience, IELTS 6.5 or equivalent |
| Graduate Certificate/Diploma | 1 – 2 years | 21+ | Bachelor’s degree, 2-3 years of completed college education, IELTS 6.5 |
| Master’s Degree | 1 – 3 years | 21+ | Bachelor’s degree, Work experience, IELTS 6.5 |
| Doctorate (PhD) | 3 – 6 years | 21+ | Master’s degree |
Top Universities in Canada
Canada’s universities are known for their academic excellence, innovative programs, and high-quality education. Here is a list of the top 10 universities in Canada, along with their annual average fees and QS rankings:
| QS Ranking | University Name | Annual Average Fee (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| 25 | University of Toronto | $45,800 – $67,370 |
| 29 | McGill University | $29,052.90 |
| 38 | University of British Columbia | $32,267 |
| 96 | University of Alberta | $9,500 – $12,500 |
| 115 | University of Waterloo | $68,625 |
| 120 | Western University | $63,845 |
| 159 | University of Montreal | $14,420 – $22,348 |
| 176 | McMaster University | $43,000 |
| 189 | University of Ottawa | $21,800 |
| 193 | Queen’s University | $12,927 |
Intake in Canada
| Intake Type | Description | Application Deadlines |
|---|---|---|
| Fall Intake | Most popular and competitive due to course and scholarship availability. Students should start preparing a year in advance. | Applications open in September/October and close by December/January. |
| Winter Intake | An extension of the fall deadline with limited program offerings. | Deadlines between September and November. Term begins in January. |
| Summer Intake | Least common, primarily for short-term courses and diploma programs in fields like language, business, or engineering. | Application deadlines in January/February. Term runs between May and August. |
Intakes for Top Canadian Universities
| University Name | Available Intakes |
|---|---|
| University of Toronto | Fall (September), Winter (January), Summer (May) |
| McGill University | Fall (September), Winter (January) |
| University of British Columbia | Fall (September), Winter (January), Summer (May) |
| University of Alberta | Fall (September), Winter (January), Summer (May) |
| University of Waterloo | Fall (September), Winter (January), Spring (May) |
| Western University | Fall (September), Winter (January), Summer (May) |
| University of Montreal | Fall (September), Winter (January) |
| McMaster University | Fall (September), Winter (January) |
| University of Ottawa | Fall (September), Winter (January), Summer (May) |
| Queen’s University | Fall (September), Winter (January) |
Comparison of Canada Study Intakes
| Aspect | Fall Intake | Winter Intake | Summer Intake |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary or Secondary | Primary | Secondary | Limited |
| Program Availability | Most programs available | Limited | Selected programs only |
| Scholarships | More | Limited | Very few |
| Application Deadline | December – March | September – November | October – February |
Admission Requirements and Documents for Studying in Canada
| Admission Requirements to Study in Canada | Documents Required to Study in Canada |
|---|---|
| Academic Transcripts | Marksheet of previous qualifications (Academic Transcripts) |
| Standardized Test Scores (SAT, GRE, GMAT, LSAT) | English Language Proficiency Test Scores (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, CAEL, Duolingo) |
| English Language Proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, CAEL, Duolingo) | Statement of Purpose (SOP) |
| Statement of Purpose (SOP) | Letters of Recommendation |
| Essay | Resume or CV |
| Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) | GRE or GMAT Scores (If Applicable) |
| Letter of Recommendation | Valid Passport |
| Valid Passport | Letter of Acceptance from University |
| Proof of Finances (Guaranteed Investment Certificate, GIC) | Proof of Funds (GIC or Financial Documents) |
| Medical Report of Student | Medical Report of Student |
| Police Clearance Certificate | Police Clearance Certificate |
| Recent Photographs of Student |
Admission Assistance to Canadian Universities
For expert admission guidance, consult Next EduPath! Our experienced team helps students navigate the complex application process for Canadian universities.
Intake Seasons in Canada
Canada offers three primary intakes for international students:
| Intake | Description | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Fall (September) | The most popular intake, offering a wide range of programs and scholarships. Prepare a year in advance. | December – March |
| Winter (January) | Offers fewer programs but is ideal for students who missed the fall intake. | September – November |
| Summer (May) | Focused on short-term and diploma courses, especially in business, engineering, and languages. | October – February |
Intakes for Top Canadian Universities
| University Name | Available Intakes |
|---|---|
| University of Toronto | Fall, Winter, Summer |
| McGill University | Fall, Winter |
| University of British Columbia | Fall, Winter, Summer |
| University of Alberta | Fall, Winter, Summer |
| University of Waterloo | Fall, Winter, Spring |
Top Courses to Study in Canada
Choosing high-demand courses in Canada is crucial for elevating your career. Below is a list of popular courses, universities, and job prospects:
| Top Course | Universities Offering | Top Employers | Average Salary (Year) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Management | University of Toronto, McGill University, York University | RBC, Deloitte, Accenture | CAD 60,000 – 70,000 |
| Information Technology | University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, McGill | Amazon, Google, IBM | CAD 55,000 – 90,000 |
| Media and Journalism | Carleton University, University of British Columbia | Bell Media, CBC/Radio-Canada | CAD 50,000 – 60,000 |
| Engineering | University of Toronto, McGill, University of Waterloo | Bombardier, AECOM, Suncor Energy | CAD 50,000 – 150,000 |
| Health & Medicine | University of Toronto, McGill, McMaster University | Health Authorities, Private Clinics | CAD 50,000 – 300,000 |
Scholarships for Studying in Canada
Canada offers numerous scholarships for international students to help fund tuition and living expenses.
Government-Funded Scholarships:
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Amount Offered (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships | PhD students | CAD 50,000/year |
| Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships | Postdoctoral students | CAD 70,000/year |
University-Specific Scholarships:
| University | Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Amount Offered (CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Toronto | Lester B. Pearson Scholarship | Undergraduate students | Full tuition + living expenses |
| McGill University | Master’s & PhD Entrance Scholarships | Graduate students | Varies |
Education Loans for Studying in Canada
For students who do not receive scholarships, education loans are a great option. They cover tuition, travel, health insurance, and accommodation.
Top Nepali Banks Offering Education Loans:
| Category | Bank Name | Interest Rate | Tenure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Government Bank | Nepal Bank Ltd. | 6.39% – 9.39% | 5 Years |
| Private Banks | Laxmi Sunrise | 8.49% – 11.99% | 15 Years |
| Private Banks | Himalayan Bank | 9.50% – 9.50% | 7 Years |
| Private Banks | Siddhartha Bank | 10.75% – 10.75% | 10 Years |
Eligibility and Requirements for a Study Loan
- Admission Letter from a recognized university/institution in Canada.
- Loan Application Form.
- Passport-size photographs (recently clicked).
- Academic Documents (certificates and mark sheets).
- English Language Proficiency Scores.
- Resident and Income Proof of the student and the guarantor.
- Bank Statements (last year’s).
- Age Requirement: The applicant must be above 18 years of age.
- Course Requirement: The course of admission must be professional.
Canada Student Visa: Eligibility, Fees, and Steps to Apply
Types of Canada Student Visa:
- Study Permit: A general visa for international students to study in Canada at a recognized university.
- Student Direct Stream (SDS): A faster visa option, typically processed in 20 days, for students meeting certain requirements.
- Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ): Required for students wishing to study in Quebec, in addition to the Study Permit.
Canada Study Visa Requirements:
- Letter of Acceptance from a recognized institution (Designated Learning Institution – DLI).
- Proof of Funds: Sufficient financial resources (via Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)).
- No Criminal Record: Police verification certificate required.
- Health Insurance: Medical certificate proving good health.
- Intent to Leave Canada: Evidence of the student’s intent to return after completing studies.
Documents Required for Canada Student Visa:
- Valid Passport
- Proof of Acceptance by DLI.
- Proof of Funds (GIC or equivalent).
- Passport-size Photographs.
- Medical Examination Report.
- English Language Proficiency Scores.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP).
Canada Student Visa Fees:
- Visa Application Fee: CAD 150.
- Biometric Fee: CAD 85.
- Work Permit Fee (if applicable): CAD 155.
Canada Study Visa Process:
- Obtain an Acceptance Letter from a Canadian university.
- Apply Online for the Canada study visa at the CIC (Canadian Immigration and Citizenship) website.
- Prepare Documents: Gather the required documents for submission.
- Submit Application: Submit your application with all necessary documentation.
- Payment and Interview: Pay the application fee and attend an interview if required.
- Wait for Approval: Await the approval from Canadian authorities.
Canada Study Visa Processing Time:
- For Indian students, the processing time for a Canada study visa is approximately 4 weeks.
Post-Study Work Permit in Canada:
- Eligibility: Complete a full-time program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. The program must be at least 8 months long.
- Duration: Post-graduation work permits (PGWP) are issued for a period equivalent to the length of the study program.
- Application Fee: CAD 255.
- Application Timeline: Apply within 180 days of receiving the completion letter.
Costs of Studying in Canada:
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Test Fees (IELTS, GRE, etc.) | $280 – $371 |
| GIC for International Students | $20,635 |
| Tuition Fees (Top Universities) | $7,000 – $53,538 |
| Student Visa Fees | $150 |
| Living Costs | $37,526 |
| Travel Expenses | $1,810 |
| Total Estimated Cost (Tuition, Visa, Living) | $67,401 – $114,030 |
| Health Insurance | $300 – $800 |
| University Application Fees | $125 |
| Accommodation Costs | $5,000 – $10,000/year |
| Food and Dining | $300 – $400/month |
| Local Travel | $80 – $110/month |
| Entertainment | $750/month |
| Work Permit Fees (if applicable) | $155/month |
| Books and Supplies | $1,000 – $2,000 |
Top Cities to Study in Canada:
| City | Cost of Living (CAD) | Top Universities | QS Rank 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montreal | $9,700 – $12,700 | McGill University, Université de Montréal, HEC Montreal | 14 |
| Toronto | $31,000 | University of Toronto, Ryerson University, Humber College | 15 |
| Vancouver | $2,500 – $3,500 | University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University | 20 |
| Ottawa | $2,000 – $2,500 | University of Ottawa, Carleton University | 53 |
| Quebec | $1,500 – $1,800 | Laval University, Bishop’s University | 106 |
Top Part-time Jobs for International Students in Canada
International students in Canada have the opportunity to work part-time both on-campus and off-campus. The general work limit is 20 hours per week during regular study sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks. Most jobs do not require additional work permits. The minimum wage for part-time work varies between $11 – $12 per hour.
Here’s a list of popular part-time jobs available for international students, along with their expected hourly wages:
| Job Title | Expected Salary/Wages (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Customer Service Representative | $14 |
| Cook | $13 – $15 |
| Clerk | $13 |
| Sales Associate | $14 |
| Teacher | $20 – $22 |
| Web Designer | $20 |
| Dog Walker | $15 |
| Freelancer | $25 |
| Delivery Driver | $19 |
| Merchandiser | $13 |
| Translator | $21 |
| Writer | $25 |
| Bartender / Waiter | $11 |
Top Jobs for International Graduates in Canada
Canada offers excellent career opportunities for international graduates. The country has experienced strong economic growth, new immigration policies, and a focus on work-life balance, which makes it an attractive destination for graduates looking to advance their careers.
The average annual salary for international graduates in Canada is $55,744. Some of the most in-demand jobs and their approximate average salaries include:
| Job Title | Average Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Nurses | $95,500 |
| Physician and Dentist | $274,000 |
| Accountants | $56,000 |
| Engineers | $109,000 |
| Financial Analysts | $160,000 |
| Marketing Analysts | $60,000 |
| HR Manager | $178,000 |
| Project Managers | $140,000 |
| Information Security Analysts | $68,411 |
| Office Managers/Admin Assistants | $108,000 |
| Tourism and Hospitality | $131,000 |
| Primary Production Managers | $69,653 |
How Next EduPath Can Help You Study in Canada
Next EduPath is Nepal’s No. 1 Canada study visa consultant and offers a range of services to help Nepali students navigate the process of studying in Canada. These services include:
- Free Counseling: Professional counseling to help students choose the right course and university.
- Campus Ready Program: Guidance on selecting the best course for success.
- Course Recommendation: Unbiased advice to help students select the ideal career path.
- Coaching: Live IELTS classes to help students improve their language scores.
- Canada Student Visa Assistance: Expert help with all the steps required to obtain a Canada student visa.
