Canada has become a popular destination among international students who are looking for higher education. Studying in Canada offers not only a chance to acquire a quality education but also a gateway to immigrating and beginning a new life in a new country for many.
The Canadian government recognizes the significance of having a diverse student body and has prioritized creating an inclusive and welcoming learning environment for international students. Canada boasts numerous highly esteemed universities, colleges, technical schools, and institutions, providing international students with the opportunity to pursue a wide range of fields and receive a top-tier education.
As an international student seeking to study in Canada, we have prepared a comprehensive guide to assist you in completing your application process. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you apply for studying in Canada:
Application To Study In Canada
If you are an international student planning to study in Canada, you will need to obtain a study permit. Here is a 7-step guide to help you get started:
Step 1: Understanding the Requirements
The initial step for any student applying to study in Canada is to comprehend the educational prerequisites of the various Canadian institutions and the programs they provide.
In addition to understanding the educational requirements of Canadian institutions, it is important to familiarize yourself with the necessary documents and regulations for the study permit application process. These requirements can vary between institutions. One important requirement is that you must have admission from a recognized Designated Learning Institution (DLI) for the duration of your approved study period in order to qualify for a study permit.
Although academic requirements may differ among Canadian provinces, all universities and institutions require several standard documents from international students. These include an up-to-date passport, proof of proficiency in either English or French, and evidence that you can fund your education and living expenses in Canada.
To ensure ample time for the study permit application process, it is advisable to initiate your application at least a year in advance.
Step 2: Choosing A Course and Institution
Verifying an institution’s status as a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is essential prior to selecting it for your academic pursuits. A DLI is an educational organization that has been authorized by a provincial or territorial government to offer international students education.
Although all primary and secondary schools in Canada are recognized as designated learning institutions, this is not the case for all higher education institutions. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that your desired institution is listed if you intend to pursue post-secondary studies.
Occasionally, an institution may lose its DLI designation while students are enrolled, in which case international students may be permitted to continue their studies until their study permit expires. However, in other instances, students may need to apply to a new DLI.
After verifying that your institution is a DLI, you can proceed to select a major field of study. It is worth noting that the Canadian academic system is flexible, and students can change courses. Therefore, we recommend taking the necessary time to carefully consider your options before making a final decision.
Step 3: Take the Language Proficiency Test
Every international student must demonstrate proficiency in English or French to be eligible for admission to a Canadian institution. The IELTS exam is the standard English proficiency test, although some institutions may also accept scores from the Cambridge English: Advanced or TOEFL exams.
There are several options to demonstrate French proficiency, including DALF, DELF, or TCF exams. However, the most widely used exam is the TEF.
Upon selecting a language proficiency exam, it is important to pay the associated fee and schedule a test date well in advance. Prior to taking the test, it is crucial to refine your language abilities to ensure success.
Step 4: Begin Applying to Schools
After completing the language proficiency exam and gathering all necessary documents for your Canadian study application, you may commence the process of creating a list of preferred schools.
It is recommended that you reach out to your selected universities to request their application packages, which must be completed and submitted before the deadline. As a helpful suggestion, it is advisable to shortlist at least three schools, including your primary choice and backup options.
Typically, these schools will require an application fee ranging from $100 to $250.
It is important to accurately complete the application form and attach all relevant documents. Following this process, there will be a waiting period until you receive your acceptance letter. Once you receive an offer of admission from the university, you may proceed to the next step.
Step 5: Applying for A Study Permit
Upon receiving your acceptance letter, you may apply for a Canada Study Permit. To begin the application process, please visit the official Canadian government website. In order to complete your application, you will need to provide your acceptance letter, passport, and documentary evidence of sufficient funds to cover the cost of your education.
If your educational institution is situated in Quebec, you will also receive a “Certificat d’acceptation du Québec” (CAQ) along with your acceptance letter, which must be included in your study permit application.
The next step would be to receive an interview date.
Step 6: Preparation
Following your application and the interview, the immigration officer will decide on the status of your application to study in Canada. If accepted, you can begin planning to move to Canada.
Every study permit comes with a start date, which is the day you’ll be permitted to enter Canada. Anytime earlier, you would be denied entry.
Step 7: Apply online
If you’re applying for a study permit, you must apply online, whether you’re outside of Canada.
Step 8: Entering Canada
On entry, the immigration officer will verify your permit and other documents before allowing you to enter Canada. This is the final step in the study immigration process, and you can now begin your journey as a student in Canada.
What Happens After?
A great benefit of studying in Canada is that international graduates are often considered ideal permanent residents post-study.
As such, Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit allows students to begin working in the country after graduation. And the recent changes to its Express Entry selection system speed up the transition to permanent residency.
This guide would help you in your application to study in Canada as an international student.
Good Luck!