Frequently Asked Questions About Studying in Canada
Here, you can find answers to the most common questions about studying at Canadian educational institutions.
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Since 2011, we have specialized in student immigration to Canada, as well as immigration for professionals. We also offer a range of other immigration services. Feel free to email us at contact@marcuseducate.com to inquire about the services you need, and we will let you know if they fall within the scope of our expertise at Marcus Canada.
Yes, you can come with your spouse or your entire family for a one-on-one consultation with our licensed immigration consultant. If your questions are related to university admission, we recommend that school-aged children attend the consultation with their parents.
We do not hide prices, therefore the cost of our services for admission to a Canadian university, as well as various immigration programs, are indicated on our website in the sections “Study Services” and “Immigration Services”.
A licensed immigration consultant assesses your chances, so the consultation is subject to a fee. The cost of a 30-minute consultation is C$250 (CAD). If a contract is signed within six weeks after the consultation, the consultation fee will be applied as an advance payment.
We guarantee the high-quality and timely delivery of all services specified in the contract. However, no one can guarantee a positive decision on a visa, Study Permit, or Work Permit for Canada. These decisions are made not by the immigration agency or consultant, but by a visa officer responsible for protecting Canada's interests.
No one can 100% guarantee the approval of your Canadian visa. While obtaining a Canadian visa can be challenging, it is definitely possible with the proper preparation and submission of all required documents. We guide you through the visa application process, ensuring you meet all requirements and increase your chances of success.
Unfortunately, our company does not offer services related to refugee applications. We specialize in immigration for students, professionals, and other categories of immigrants, as well as provide education consulting. If you are looking for support with study permits, work visas, or permanent residency through education or employment, we are here to assist you.
A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) is required if you plan to stay in Canada for up to 6 months. The main purposes for obtaining this visa include:
- Tourism
- Visiting family or friends
- Business trips
- Studying in a language school for up to 6 months
A TRV allows you to temporarily enter Canada for these specific activities, and it’s essential to ensure you meet all the requirements to increase your chances of approval.
If you plan to stay in Canada for less than 6 months, such as for language courses, you will need to obtain a standard tourist visa. However, if your stay is intended to be longer than 6 months, for example, for a longer educational program, you must apply for a student visa along with a study permit. Additionally, student visa holders are eligible for work permits during their studies. The process for obtaining a student visa differs significantly from a standard tourist visa. For instance, students are required to undergo a medical examination and must be enrolled in accredited institutions.
A Study Permit is required if you plan to study at an accredited educational institution in Canada for more than 6 months. This permit allows you to legally stay in Canada and pursue your studies, and it forms the basis for obtaining your student visa. With a Study Permit, you can enroll in Canadian schools, universities, or colleges and work part-time during your studies (under certain conditions).
Yes, it is possible to apply for a Study Permit while in Canada on a tourist visa, but only under specific conditions and prerequisites. In some cases, Canada allows individuals to change their status from a visitor to a study permit holder, such as if you are already enrolled in an academic program and have completed any required prerequisite courses, like an English language course (ESL) if it was needed for your admission.
To apply for a Study Permit from within Canada, you must:
- Get Accepted into a Designated Learning Institution (DLI): You can apply online or in person to a college or university, as long as the institution allows applications while you're in Canada.
- Complete Necessary Prerequisites in Canada: If proof of your English language proficiency was required for admission, you can take ESL courses that are accredited by a college or university before applying for your Study Permit.
- Apply for a Study Permit from Within Canada: Once you meet all conditions and receive your Letter of Acceptance, you can apply for a Study Permit through IRCC while in Canada, instead of applying at an embassy abroad.
It’s important to note that the Study Permit is typically issued from outside Canada, but if you fulfill the program requirements and complete the prerequisite steps, you may apply from within Canada. Each case is reviewed individually, so it’s recommended to consult with a licensed immigration expert for advice tailored to your situation.
To work legally in Canada, you must obtain a Work Permit. One of the most common options for students is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This permit allows graduates from Canadian institutions to gain professional work experience in Canada after completing their studies.
Duration of PGWP:
- If the program lasted less than 8 months, you are not eligible for a PGWP.
- For programs between 8 months and 2 years, the PGWP is issued for the same duration as the program.
- If the program lasted 2 years or more, the PGWP can be issued for up to 3 years.
Requirements for Educational Institution:
You must graduate from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Ensure that the institution and your program meet the PGWP eligibility requirements.
Full-Time Study Requirement:
You must maintain full-time student status throughout your program. Exceptions can be made in your final semester or if you have an approved academic leave.
New Language Proficiency Requirement (Effective November 1, 2024):
From November 1, 2024, there will be new language proficiency requirements for obtaining a PGWP. You will need to provide language test results that demonstrate a certain level of proficiency in English or French. For detailed information and to check your eligibility, it is recommended to consult official sources such as Canada.ca (LINK) or speak with a licensed immigration consultant.
Yes, as a college student in Canada, you are allowed to work both on-campus and off-campus. To work legally, you must have a valid Study Permit and be enrolled in a full-time program (such as a certificate, diploma, or bachelor’s program) that lasts more than 6 months.
Work Restrictions for International Students:
- During the academic semester: You can work up to 24 hours per week both on-campus and off-campus.
- During official breaks (holidays): You can work full-time (up to 40 hours per week), although some programs may have different break schedules.
Additionally, you will need to obtain a Social Insurance Number (SIN), which you can get upon arrival in Canada. This number is necessary for tax reporting and working legally in Canada.
A Visitor Record is issued in specific circumstances when a person is allowed to stay in Canada for a certain period of time. This document is not a visa, but it serves as an official record of your status in Canada during that time.
- With a Visitor Record, you are not allowed to study in Canada, unless you apply for a separate study permit.
- The duration of stay is determined by the conditions specified in the Visitor Record, and you must leave Canada before the validity period expires.
If you're in Canada and need to extend your stay or change your status (such as to a student or worker), the Visitor Record could be part of the process.
Yes, if your chosen program includes a Co-op internship (work placement), obtaining a Co-op Work Permit is mandatory. This permit allows you to legally work in Canada as part of your academic program, gaining hands-on experience in your field of study. Without a Co-op Work Permit, you are not allowed to participate in the co-op portion of your program. It is important to apply for the permit before starting your work placement, as it is required by Canadian immigration authorities.
The Restoration Process allows you to restore your status in Canada if your permit or visa has expired. If you did not extend or renew your status on time, you have a 90-day window to apply for restoration.
During this period, you can apply to restore your visitor status, study permit, or work permit. However, you must meet the eligibility requirements, and it’s important to note that you cannot apply for restoration if you have overstayed for more than 90 days. It’s advisable to take action as soon as possible to avoid complications in your immigration status.
The reasons for visa refusal are unique to each case, but the most common reasons include:
- Insufficient Financial Support – If you cannot prove that you have enough funds to cover your stay in Canada, including tuition fees, living expenses, and return travel.
- Incomplete Document Package – Missing or incomplete documentation, such as financial statements, travel plans, or educational records.
- Insufficient Motivation to Stay in Canada – Lack of clear intention to return to your home country after your visit or studies in Canada.
- Weak Ties to Home Country – Insufficient proof of strong connections to your home country (such as a job, family, or property) that would encourage you to return.
- Unexplained Purpose of Travel – Failure to clearly explain the purpose of your visit to Canada, whether it is for study, tourism, or business.
Canada is one of the most popular destinations for international students who plan to eventually obtain Canadian citizenship after their studies. Currently, a popular route for this process is the Canadian Experience Class program.
Here's how the process works:
- Study and Graduate: Upon graduating from a recognized Canadian college or university, students are eligible for a Work Permit (from 1 to 3 years, depending on the length of the program).
- Work in Canada: After obtaining the Work Permit, you can work in Canada. If your job is listed under the National Occupational Classification (NOC), you can apply for Permanent Residency (PR) after one year of full-time work experience.
- Obtain PR (Permanent Residency): After 2 years of living as a Permanent Resident (PR) in Canada, you can apply for Canadian citizenship.
This pathway allows international students to transition from study to work and eventually to Canadian citizenship, making Canada an attractive choice for those pursuing both education and long-term residency.
The exact cost of your studies in Canada depends on the program you choose and its duration. Currently, on average expect the following spendings:
- College Programs: Tuition fees range from 17,000 CAD to 21,000 CAD per year.
- University Programs: Tuition fees range from 22,000 CAD to 40,000 CAD per year.
The cost of education depends on the level of the program. For example, a 3-year diploma program may be cheaper than a bachelor's degree. For instance:
- Bachelor of Business Administration at Lawrence College (Ontario) costs 20,825 CAD per year.
- The Business Administration Diploma (3 years) at the same college costs 18,201.65 CAD per year.
The tuition also varies depending on the type of institution and the program:
- Bachelor's Program in Engineering – Mechatronics at Humber College (Ontario) costs 19,615 CAD per year.
- Engineering Program at the University of Manitoba costs 23,200 CAD per year.
For accurate and up-to-date information on tuition fees, international students should refer to the official websites of the colleges and universities.
Yes, it is possible to receive a scholarship while studying in Canada. Many colleges and universities in Canada offer various scholarships that provide financial assistance to international students.
- In colleges, scholarships are often awarded as one-time awards for academic excellence, sports achievements, or active participation in extracurricular activities.
- In universities, scholarships are more commonly available for master's and doctoral programs, as undergraduate scholarships are relatively rare.
Since there is often high competition for scholarships, applicants need to demonstrate exceptional academic performance. Scholarships typically range from 1,000 to 5,000 CAD, especially when tuition costs start from around 18,000 CAD per year. It's important to note that full scholarships are generally not available at the college or undergraduate level, but can be more common for graduate and PhD programs, particularly for students who are able to impress universities with their achievements and abilities. Being a straight-A student alone might not be enough to secure a significant scholarship.
Yes, you can apply to a Canadian university or college with a high school diploma (such as the one after 11th grade). However, if you are applying to a program with high competition, having a Canadian high school diploma (which includes completing 12th grade in Canada) can increase your chances of being admitted. Some programs in Canada may have specific requirements for local education systems, and completing high school in Canada is often preferred for more competitive courses. But many institutions accept international students with their high school diplomas from other countries as long as the credentials meet the required standards.
A student planning to study long-term at a Canadian college or university should arrange housing in advance. There are three main options for accommodation: residence (dormitory), homestay, or renting an apartment/roomindependently.
- Residence (Dormitory): This is a common option for many students, especially for those who want to stay close to campus. Dormitory costs typically range around 10,000 CAD per year (without meals).
- Homestay: Living with a local family offers a chance to practice English or French and immerse yourself in Canadian culture. The average cost is 1,300-1,600 CAD per month, which usually includes meals.
- Renting an Apartment/Room: Renting independently is a popular choice for more independence, though it can be expensive. The average rent for an apartment is 1,900-2,800 CAD per month, depending on the area. Renting a room with a roommate can be more budget-friendly.
For students under the legal age (18 in Ontario or 19 in British Columbia), the guardian makes the housing decision, and in most cases, the student will live in a homestay or with an appointed guardian, with rules like a curfew (e.g., being home by 10 p.m.).
- Job Bank - The official Canadian government job portal.
- Job Vark - A Canadian job search site focused on local opportunities.
- The Job Shoppe - A job search platform with a variety of opportunities.
- JobServe - A global job board with listings in Canada.
- Career Beacon - A Canadian job search website with tools for job seekers.
- Indeed Canada - A popular global job search engine with Canadian job listings.
- WOWJobs - A job search site specifically for Canada.
- Workopolis - One of Canada's leading job boards.
- Monster Canada - A well-known global job site with Canadian listings.
Yes, after completing a program at a Canadian college, you have an excellent opportunity to work in Canada for up to 3 years. If your program lasted 2 years or more, you are eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows you to gain professional experience. Toronto is one of Canada's most dynamic and rapidly growing job markets, offering opportunities to gain experience at some of the most prestigious companies in the country, enhancing your resume and career prospects. For detailed information, you can visit the official CIC website to learn more about the Post-Graduation Work Permitand the requirements for working in Canada after graduation.
There are no uniform admission requirements for all institutions in Canada. Requirements vary depending on the province where the chosen university or college is located. Additionally, each university or college in Canada has the authority to set its own admission criteria, such as required documents or the level of education needed for prospective students.
However, on average, the following requirements apply:
- High School Diploma (or equivalent)
- Age: Typically, students should be at least 17-18 years old
- Language Proficiency: A sufficient level of language skills is required, and most institutions ask for scores from international language tests (such as IELTS or TOEFL).
For more detailed information on admission requirements, you can read further on this topic here.
To prove your proficiency in the English language for college or university admission in Canada, you must take internationally recognized tests. The most commonly accepted tests are:
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) for institutions where the primary language of instruction is English (e.g., in Ontario).
- DALF (Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française) for institutions in Quebec where the primary language of instruction is French.
Minimum Test Scores for Admission:
- Bachelor's Program (4 years):
- TOEFL:
- Paper-based test: 560
- Computer-based test: 220
- Internet-based test: 84 or higher
- IELTS: Minimum score of 0
- TOEFL:
- Post-Graduate Programs (after completing a Bachelor's degree):
- TOEFL:
- Paper-based test: 580
- Computer-based test: 237
- Internet-based test: 88 or higher
- IELTS: Minimum score of 5
- TOEFL:
It’s important to note that the above requirements are minimum. Prestigious institutions like the University of Torontoor the University of British Columbia typically set higher score requirements (you can check the exact scores on the institution’s official website).
For programs with high competition, such as Bachelor of Nursing, the required scores may be higher:
- TOEFL:
- Paper-based test: 600
- Computer-based test: 250
- Internet-based test: 100 or higher
Yes, students from countries in the CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) can apply to study at Canadian universities and colleges right after completing high school in their home country. However, if the student is not yet of legal age (18 years old in Ontario), a custodian is required according to Canadian law. A custodian can be a relative, provided they are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. If you do not have relatives in Canada, you can use Custodianship Services. This service requires the parents of the international student to pay for the custodianship until the student turns 18 years old. This is an important requirement for students under the age of majority, and the custodian is responsible for ensuring the student’s well-being and legal requirements are met during their stay in Canada.
Yes, the grades in your high school transcript are important, especially when applying for competitive programs. A high academic performance in subject-specific areas will significantly improve your chances of being accepted into specialized programs.
For example:
- If you are applying for a program related to aviation, petrochemical engineering, or medicine, strong grades (e.g., 4s or 5s) in related subjects like physics, chemistry, or biology from your previous education (such as high school or university in CIS countries) will be an advantage.
- For a program like Business Management, a high grade in mathematics (such as a 5) will be highly beneficial.
Each institution may have different specific criteria, and it’s important to check the exact requirements for the program you’re interested in on the official university or college website.
In general, there are no entrance exams for admission to universities and colleges in Canada. Admission decisions are primarily based on your previous academic records, such as the grades you received in your previous studies. However, for some competitive programs, good grades may not be enough. You may also need to:
- Attend an interview
- Submit additional materials, such as a portfolio (especially for creative programs)
- Provide letters of recommendation
- Take additional tests if required by the program
In short, the more prestigious the program, the higher the admission requirements and the more competitive the selection process.
Yes, most colleges and universities in Canada allow students to pay tuition fees in installments, typically semester by semester. However, an additional fee of around 50-150 CAD may be charged for this option. For example, Humber College offers students the opportunity to pay for the two semesters separately—first for the fall semester and then for the spring semester, with a small fee of just 40 CAD for this service. It's recommended to pay at least half of the required amount in advance, preferably before applying for your study visa to the Canadian embassy. This helps demonstrate your commitment to studying in Canada and strengthens your visa application.
No, age and citizenship do not directly affect admission to a Canadian college. However, the visa application processcan be more challenging for students over 30 years old. It may be difficult to convince a visa officer of the genuine purpose of study at this age, which could increase the likelihood of a visa refusal. The probability of refusal is higher for older applicants, but it ultimately depends on the specific program the student intends to pursue in Canada and the individual circumstances. As for citizenship, it does not have a significant impact on the admission process. However, it is essential to gather the correct documentation when applying for a visa. It is also highly recommended to pay tuition in advance, at least for the first semester, as this can help strengthen your visa application. In the event of a visa refusal, all Canadian educational institutions offer refunds, except for a non-refundable administrative or registration fee.
If you receive a rejection from college, it’s not the end of the world. The first step is to carefully review the requirements for the program you applied to and ensure that you meet all the necessary criteria. If you meet the requirements and submitted all the required documents, there’s a good chance you will be accepted in the future. However, if the rejection comes from the Canadian embassy (visa refusal), this is a more serious issue. In this case, you need to understand the reason for the visa rejection and address it before reapplying. While this is the theory, the reality is often more complicated. The Canadian embassy has a tendency to view multiple visa applications skeptically, meaning the chances of approval may decrease after the first rejection. Despite this, if you’re determined to study in Canada, it’s important to try again. Make sure to carefully gather all the required documents for your visa application and submit a strong, complete application.
Yes, you can apply to a Canadian college or university while already in Canada. You can do this online or via email, depending on the requirements of the institution you are applying to.
However, it’s important to understand that admission to a university and obtaining a study permit are two separate processes:
- Admission to the Institution: You can apply from within Canada, even if you are there as a visitor. Most institutions accept online applications, which is a relatively straightforward process.
- Obtaining a Study Permit: If you want to change your status from a visitor to a study permit holder within Canada, this falls under a status change program. There are specific requirements, such as fulfilling prerequisites (e.g., language courses), having a Letter of Acceptance from the institution, and meeting other conditions, which are detailed in the official guidelines.
It’s highly recommended to check the latest rules on the official IRCC website or consult with a licensed immigration specialist to properly plan the process.
Yes, it is possible. Students have two options to prepare for admission to a Canadian educational institution:
- Language Courses at Colleges: Many colleges in Canada offer language programs. Upon completion of these courses, students can transition into their chosen academic programs. This option is integrated into the college system, offering a seamless path to further studies.
- Language Schools: A more budget-friendly option is to attend one of the many language schools across Canada. These schools focus on improving students’ English (or French, depending on the region), and after completing the courses, students can apply to a Canadian college or university.
Both options help students improve their language skills and meet the language requirements for university or college admission.
Applying for a master's program in Canada is quite different from the process in CIS countries. Canadian universities have stricter requirements, and automatic admission after completing a bachelor's degree is not practiced.
Here are the main differences and requirements:
- Purpose of a Master's Program:
In Canada, the master's program is focused on in-depth study of a subject, development of research skills, and preparation for either a professional or academic career. - Variety of Programs:
Canadian universities offer a wide range of post-bachelor education programs, including master's degrees, diploma, and certificate courses. - Admission Requirements:
Each university sets its own criteria, which may include:- Having research work or academic publications.
- Required professional experience or internships.
- Letters of recommendation from professors or employers.
- Regional Differences:
Universities in larger provinces, such as Ontario, tend to have higher requirements and more competition for spots. Meanwhile, institutions in more remote provinces may have lower requirements and less competition. - Application Deadlines:
It’s recommended to start the application process at least six months before the program starts, as it takes time to review applications and prepare documentation. - Language Proficiency Requirements:
A high level of English proficiency is required, typically proven through international tests like TOEFL or IELTS. High test scores are mandatory, and low scores could negatively affect your chances of admission.
Applying to a master's program in Canada requires careful planning, timely preparation of documents, and meeting all established requirements.
No, a 9th-grade diploma is not sufficient for admission to a Canadian college. Canadian colleges are considered post-secondary institutions and typically offer degree or diploma programs. They require applicants to have completed full secondary education (high school). To be eligible for college admission in Canada, you need to have completed at least 11 or 12 years of schooling, depending on the country’s education system.
There is no significant difference in terms of the effectiveness of learning English in Canada, but there are some factors to consider when choosing between a language school and college-based language courses.
- Language School:
- Typically offers a more flexible curriculum, which allows for a more tailored learning experience.
- Classes are often more frequent, making it easier to find a suitable schedule.
- Lower tuition fees compared to college-based programs, making it a more affordable option.
- If you plan to apply to a Canadian college or university afterward, it’s beneficial to choose a language school with a partnership with the institution you plan to attend. This can help ensure a smoother transition into your academic studies.
- College Language Courses:
- These courses are usually offered as part of a college program and may have more academic structure.
- Higher fees compared to language schools, as they are integrated into a formal college or university program.
- These courses may be beneficial if you want to immerse yourself in the academic environment of the college or university.
In summary, language schools are often more affordable and flexible, but if you plan to continue your education in a Canadian institution, selecting a school that has partnerships with your future college or university can be a great advantage.
No, the prestige of a university in your home country does not directly affect your ability to continue your studies in Canada. What matters more are the grades in your diploma, especially in the subjects relevant to the program you wish to pursue (for example, chemistry for a program in petroleum engineering), rather than the reputation of the university itself. The key factor is that the university or college you graduated from is accredited and recognized by the relevant educational authorities in your country. What Canadian institutions look for is whether your previous education meets their academic requirements and qualifications, not the prestige of the institution where you studied.
Yes, international students can pursue distance education in Canada. For example, Centennial College offers a variety of programs that can be completed remotely, including bachelor’s degrees. However, it’s important to note that distance education is generally more common among Canadian residents, and some international students may find it more challenging to pursue this option.
If you can obtain a bachelor's degree through distance learning, you should theoretically be eligible to pursue an on-campus master's degree (postgraduate program) in Canada. However, it’s important to remember that having a bachelor's degree is not the only requirement for graduate programs. Universities often have additional criteria, such as work experience or research qualifications.
The best approach would be to complete your bachelor's degree in your home country and then apply for a master’s degree at one of the many universities in Canada.
It depends on the program and the level of competition for admission. If the program is highly competitive, there is a chance that C grades may affect your chances of acceptance. However, the final decision is made by the college or university and depends on the institution and the program you are applying to.
A key factor is which subjects you received these C grades in. If the low grades are in non-core subjects (those not directly related to the program), they may not impact your chances significantly. However, if the C grades are in core subjects such as mathematics, biology, physics, chemistry, or other relevant subjects, it's advisable to try and improve those grades before applying. Higher grades in these subjects can increase your chances of being accepted to study in Canada.
If you are referring to the Canadian Experience Class (a federal immigration program), which requires a minimum of 1 year of work experience in Canada after completing your studies, then co-op work during your studies does not count towards the required work experience for immigration.
Co-op work experience is considered part of your academic program and is typically not eligible for the work experience requirement for Canadian Experience Class. The work experience required for immigration purposes must be completed after graduation and is generally full-time, paid work that is related to your field of study.
If your parents are eligible to accompany you to Canada, they may apply for a visitor visa (or a temporary resident visa) to come with you while you study. There is no specific waiting period after you get your study visa for your parents to apply for a visitor visa, so you can technically apply for their visa as soon as you receive your own.
However, whether or not your parents are granted a visitor visa depends entirely on the visa officer’s decision. The officer will assess their application based on several factors, such as their ties to their home country, the purpose of the visit, and their ability to financially support themselves during their stay in Canada. No one can guarantee that the visa will be approved.
It is advisable for your parents to provide all necessary documents and evidence to strengthen their visa application, including proof of financial support, intent to return home, and family ties in their home country.
It depends on the language of instruction. If the program is taught in French, then you will need to have a good command of the French language. However, if the program is offered in English, knowledge of French is not required. Canada has both English-speaking and French-speaking institutions, so it’s important to check the language requirements for the specific program or university you’re applying to.
While studying at a language school in Canada, and immediately after completing the program, you are not allowed to work legally in the country. To work legally, you need to obtain a Work Permit. Students can obtain a work permit upon completion of an accredited academic program, typically from a public Canadian institution. The program must be at least 8 months in duration.
- If the program lasts less than 2 years, the work permit you receive after graduation will be valid for a duration equal to the length of your study program (e.g., 1 or 2 years).
- If the program lasts more than 2 years, you will be eligible for a work permit valid for up to 3 years.
This work permit allows you to gain professional experience in Canada after your studies, which can also support future immigration applications.
You are eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) if you graduate from an accredited, typically public, Canadian educational institution. However, if your program was completed through online learning, even if it was at an accredited college or university, you will not be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit after completing your studies. In general, to qualify for a PGWP, the program must be at least 8 months in length and completed through in-person study in Canada. The work permit allows graduates to gain professional experience in Canada and can be an important step toward permanent residency.
Some of the top colleges in Toronto include:
- George Brown College
- Humber College
- Centennial College
- Sheridan College
- Lawrence College
- Niagara College
- Others: There are several other well-regarded institutions as well.
The best college for you will depend on your personal preferences. When making a choice, the key factors to consider are:
- Location: For instance, George Brown College is located in the heart of downtown Toronto, surrounded by towering skyscrapers of major companies. On the other hand, Centennial College is located on the outskirts of the city, offering a quieter environment.
- Cost: Tuition fees can vary between colleges, so it’s important to compare program fees. Some colleges may offer programs at a more affordable price than others.
To choose the college that suits you best, it’s essential to visit the official websites of the institutions to find detailed information about their programs, location, tuition fees, and more.
There are no restrictions on the number of applications you can submit to Canadian educational institutions. You are free to apply to multiple colleges and universities in Canada at the same time. However, it’s important to note that application fees are typically required for each institution you apply to. These fees usually range from 50 to 100 CAD. It’s recommended to begin the application process during your final year of high school, but not before, as you must have a high school diploma to be eligible for admission to a college or university in Canada.
The answer is simple: the earlier, the better. However, the optimal time to submit your application is about 6 months before the start of the program, or a little earlier. It’s important to note that most institutions stop accepting applications after a certain deadline. You can find the exact application deadlines on the official website of the college or university. In general, as long as the program is still open for admission, applications are being accepted. Additionally, it's a good idea to prepare for language tests in advance, especially if they are required by the institution. Many colleges or universities will not accept you without having completed the necessary language test beforehand. You can also take language preparation courses at a language school, and after passing the exam, you will be eligible for admission to a partner institution. We recommend that you apply for your study visa and study permit only after receiving an official Letter of Acceptance from the college or university.
As an international student, obtaining a loan for studying in Canada can be quite challenging. Student loans are generally only available to Canadian citizens or permanent residents. However, in rare cases, an international student might be able to obtain a loan if they meet specific criteria, such as being a citizen or permanent resident of Canada or having paid property in Canada. If you're unable to get a loan through Canadian financial institutions, you may need to explore other options, such as private loans from your home country or scholarships to support your education.
Yes, international students can pursue distance education in Canada. For example, Centennial College offers a variety of programs that can be completed remotely, including bachelor’s degrees. However, it’s important to note that distance education is generally more common among Canadian residents, and some international students may find it more challenging to pursue this option.
If you can obtain a bachelor's degree through distance learning, you should theoretically be eligible to pursue an on-campus master's degree (postgraduate program) in Canada. However, it’s important to remember that having a bachelor's degree is not the only requirement for graduate programs. Universities often have additional criteria, such as work experience or research qualifications. The best approach would be to complete your bachelor's degree in your home country and then apply for a master’s degree at one of the many universities in Canada.
As of 2024, the possibility of bringing your spouse with you when applying to a Canadian college has been impacted by new immigration rules.
According to the updated regulations:
- Work permits for spouses are now available only to graduate students (those in master's programs) where the program lasts at least 16 months.
- Students enrolled in undergraduate programs or diploma programs are no longer automatically eligible to bring their spouse on a work permit.
The decision to grant a visa for a spouse depends on the type of program the student is enrolled in, as well as other eligibility criteria. If you wish to bring your husband with you, you will need to prove that your study program meets the requirements for allowing your spouse’s work visa. You will also need to demonstrate that you can financially support your family while in Canada. The Canadian immigration service retains the right to make the final decision on the issuance of visas for both you and your family members. To understand the specifics of your situation, it’s best to consult with a licensed immigration specialist.
If your goal is immigration to Canada, there are several immigration programs offered by the Canadian government. One such program is the Canadian Experience Class. To be eligible for this program, you typically need to either work in Canada for 2 years or complete a college or university program that lasts at least 16 months (2 academic years), followed by 1 year of work experience in Canada. However, when it comes to language courses, the answer is no. Studying in a language school does not count towards the eligibility requirements for the Canadian Experience Class immigration program. Language courses are designed to improve your language skills but do not directly contribute to your work experience or educational qualifications for immigration purposes.
If you want to pursue immigration after studying in Canada, it’s more beneficial to complete a full-time academic program at an accredited Canadian college or university.
Whether your child can study in Canada depends on their age and the level of education they will pursue:
- Primary and Secondary School (K-12):
Children of international students can generally study in Canada on a Visitor Visa. This allows them to attend school as long as they are of primary or secondary school age. - High School:
For children who are planning to attend high school in Canada, a Study Permit will be required. This permit allows minors to study full-time in a Canadian educational institution.
In some cases, it may be possible for a child to attend a public school on a free or partially paid basis, but these cases are evaluated on an individual basis by the relevant school authorities. If you are planning to bring your child with you, it’s important to check with the specific school district or educational institution regarding their admission process and requirements.
Living expenses are one of the biggest costs for international students in Canada. The costs vary depending on the type of accommodation and the region. Let’s look at the main accommodation options and their costs:
Homestay (Living with a Host Family)
Homestay remains a popular choice for international students, especially in the first few months of adaptation. In this option, students live with a host family, which provides support in adapting to Canadian culture and language practice.
- Living conditions: A private room, sometimes with a private bathroom. Meals may be included (2 or 3 meals per day).
- Cost:
- $1500–$1800 CAD per month if booked through specialized agencies.
- $1400–$1600 CAD per month if found independently via local databases (without additional services).
Dormitory (Residence)
On-campus dormitories at colleges and universities in Canada offer comfortable living conditions for students. Living on campus saves time on commuting.
- Living conditions: Rooms may be single or shared. Meals are usually not included, but a meal plan may be available at campus cafeterias.
- Food: The minimum cost for a full meal at the campus cafeteria is around $30 CAD per day.
- Cost:
- $10,000–$14,000 CAD per year, depending on the province and room type.
- Additional costs may include household items (e.g., bedding, pillows, towels) if not provided by the residence.
It’s important to apply early for dormitory placement via the institution’s website, as spots are limited.
Renting an Apartment
This is the most expensive option, usually suitable for students who have already adapted to life in Canada.
- Cost of renting:
- One-bedroom apartment in Toronto: $1900–$2600 CAD per month.
- In other regions: $1200–$1800 CAD per month.
- Renting a shared apartment with roommates can significantly reduce expenses.
Costs vary based on location, proximity to the school, and amenities.
Average Student Budget for 2024/2025
Considering basic expenses (accommodation, transportation, food, and personal needs), the average student budget is:
- Economical level: $22,000–$23,000 CAD per year.
- Average level: $25,000–$28,000 CAD per year.
- Comfortable level: $30,000 CAD and above.
The final cost of living in Canada depends on your choice of accommodation, region, student habits, and other factors. It is recommended to plan your budget in advance and take into account additional expenses such as transportation, household items, and health insurance.
Important: Apply for dormitory accommodation early, and if renting an apartment, always clarify all contract details.
Are you interested in not just studying in Canada, but immigrating as a student?
If so, we recommend that you book a paid one-on-one consultation with Canadian licensed immigration consultant Marina Garvey RCIC # R514071.
30 minutes - 250 CAD (~200 USD)
If you sign a contract for our services within 6 weeks of your consultation, the consultation fee will be credited as an advance payment.
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Marcus Canada is not a virtual agency , we have an office in Toronto
We work officially in Canada, so you can come to our office by appointment.