Requirements for University Study in Canada

Canada has become a popular destination for international students with more than 642,000 international students enrolled in post-secondary institutions in 2019. Canadian universities offer degrees and diplomas that are recognized globally, and graduates enjoy high employment rates. However, before you can apply to a university in Canada, you must fulfill certain requirements.

Eligibility Requirements for University Study in Canada

To be eligible to study in a Canadian university, you must meet the following requirements:

• You must have completed secondary school (high school) in your home country with a passing grade (at least a C average).
• You must have fluency in English or French. If English or French is not your first language, you will be required to show evidence of proficiency in the language through tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, or CELPIP.
• You must obtain a study permit from the Canadian government.
• You must have enough finances to pay for your tuition, accommodation, and daily expenses in Canada.

The Application Process

Once you have met the eligibility requirements, you can start the application process. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Research universities and programs: You can choose up to five universities or colleges and research their programs, admission requirements, tuition fees, and financial aid options.
2. Choose a program: Select the program that best fits your academic interests and career aspirations.
3. Submit your application: Apply to your chosen universities or colleges either online or by mail. You will be required to provide your educational background, language proficiency, and personal details.
4. Pay application fees: Most universities charge a non-refundable application fee that varies depending on the school. The average fee is between CAD 50 and CAD 150.
5. Submit supporting documents: You will be asked to submit your academic transcripts, language test results, and letters of recommendation from former teachers or employers.
6. Wait for admission decision: Some Canadian universities offer rolling admissions, while others have specific application deadlines. You will receive a notification of your admission status within a few weeks or months.

The Cost of University Study in Canada

Studying in a Canadian university can be expensive, especially for international students. Here are the costs you should expect:

• Tuition fees: The average tuition fee for undergraduate international students is CAD 30,000 per year, while for graduate students, it is CAD 20,000 per year.
• Accommodation: The cost of accommodation varies depending on the city and type of accommodation. On-campus residence costs an average of CAD 7,500 per year, while off-campus accommodation costs between CAD 500 and CAD 1,500 per month.
• Food and transportation: You should expect to spend an average of CAD 300 per month on food, and CAD 50 per month on transportation.
• Health insurance: International students are required to have health insurance, which costs approximately CAD 600 per year.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I work while studying in Canada?

   Yes, international students are allowed to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during the academic year, and full-time during breaks.

2. Can I apply for scholarships?

   Yes, scholarships are available for international students in Canada. You can search for scholarships on the university’s website or external scholarship websites.

3. Do I need a separate study permit for each program or degree?

   No, you only need one study permit for the duration of your studies in Canada. However, if you transfer to a different program or university, you will need to inform the Canadian government.

4. Can I bring my family with me to Canada?

   Yes, you can bring your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children with you to Canada. They will also need to apply for a separate permit called the visitor visa.

5. What happens if I fail a course or program?

   If you fail a course or program, you may have the option to retake the course or transfer to a different program. However, if your academic performance is consistently poor, your study permit may be revoked, and you may be required to leave Canada.