Canada has become an increasingly popular destination for international students seeking higher education. With highly regarded colleges, excellent education, and a friendly culture, it is understandable why Canada has become a popular choice for students from around the world. Everything you need to know about studying in Canada, from the application process to living and studying there, will be covered in this post.
Why Study in Canada?
There are many reasons why students choose Canada as their study destination. Here are just a few of the benefits of studying in Canada:
- Quality Education: Canada is home to some of the world’s best universities. Canadian universities offer high-quality education and are recognized globally for their research and academic programs.
- Diverse and Welcoming Culture:Canada is well-known for its welcoming culture. With a diverse population and a reputation for inclusiveness, international students can feel at home in Canada.
- Opportunity for Employment:Canada offers many opportunities for employment after graduation. International students can take advantage of Canada’s post-graduation work permit program, which allows them to gain work experience in Canada after completing their studies.
- Beautiful Scenery and Outdoor Activities:Canada is known for its stunning natural beauty, with mountains, lakes, and forests. International students can take advantage of Canada’s outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.
Canada’s Education System
Canada’s education system is divided into three levels: elementary, secondary, and post-secondary education. Post-secondary education includes college, university, and technical schools.
Canadian universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees. Universities are divided into faculties or schools, each specializing in different areas of study.
Popular Canadian Universities
Canada is home to many world-renowned universities, including:
| S.No. | Institution | QS Ranking 2023 (Globally) |
| 1 | University of Toronto | 34 |
| 2 | McGill University | 31 |
| 3 | University of British Columbia | 47 |
| 4 | University of Montreal | 116 |
| 5 | University of Alberta | 110 |
| 6 | McMaster University | 152 |
| 7 | University of Waterloo | 154 |
| 8 | Western University | 172 |
| 9 | University of Ottawa | 237 |
| 10 | University of Calgary | 242 |
| 11 | Seneca college | 1572 |
| 12 | Trent university | 501 |
| 13 | University of Manitoba | 651-700 |
| 14 | Niagara College | 1422 |
| 15 | Nipissing University | 1989 |
| 16 | Mount Allison university | 1467 |
Check where these Canadian universities rank on the Times Higher Education charts.
Top courses to study in Canada
Here are the popular courses that you can choose for studying in Canada:
- Computer science
- Business
- Engineering
- Health sciences
- Physiotherapy
- Information technology
- Animation and gaming
- Hospitality
Intakes in Canada
Unlike Bangladeshi universities, which only have one intake, Canadian colleges and universities have three. In some universities, intakes are also known as semesters. In Canada, there are three intake options:
- Fall: A popular intake among Bangladeshi students, The Fall intake starts in the month of September
- Winter: Starts in January; it’s best if you miss the September intake
- Summer: Available for limited programs and colleges, the Summer intake usually starts around April and May
Requirements for Study In Canada
Studying in Canada is a dream for many international students, but it requires meeting certain requirements. Here are the main requirements for studying in Canada:
- Acceptance Letter: You need to obtain an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada that is authorized by the government to host international students.
- Language Proficiency: International students need to prove their proficiency in English by taking tests such as IELTS, TOEFL,PTE,Duolingo etc.
- Academic Documents:International students need to have a valid high school diploma or equivalent.(All Academic transcripts and certificates)
- Proof of Funds: International students must provide proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and transportation costs for themselves and their dependents, if applicable.
- Study Permit: International students require a study permit to study in Canada, which is issued by the Canadian government. The study permit application requires biometric data and a background check.
- Medical Examination: International students may be required to undergo a medical examination to ensure they are in good health and free from any communicable diseases.
Meeting these requirements is essential for international students to study in Canada and achieve their academic goals.
English Proficiency Requirements
Diploma: IELTS-5.5 not less than 5.5/ Duolingo 105 / 50% Academic Course
Bachelor’s: IELTS-6.5 not less than 6/ Duolingo 120/ 50% Academic Course
Master’s: IELTS-6.5 not less than 6/ Duolingo 130 / 50% Academic Course
Application Process for International Students
International students must fulfill specific standards in order to apply to a Canadian university. These prerequisites differ by university but typically consist of:
- Completed application form
- Official transcripts
- English language proficiency test scores
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Application fee
International students may also be required to provide additional documentation, such as proof of finances and health insurance.
Cost of Studying in Canada
The cost of studying in Canada varies depending on the university and program. You will require around between CAD 13,000 and CAD 35,000 each year to cover this.
Courses in the humanities, education, and the arts are typically a little less expensive, whereas those in the sciences and engineering are probably to be more expensive. The tuition fee is normally greater and the fees vary based on the program if you want to pursue postgraduate education. MBA programs are frequently the most expensive, as is true in most other nations. These courses typically cost between 30,000 and 42,000 CDN.
| S.no. | Study program | Average annual fee |
| 1 | Undergraduate program | $13,000 to $20,000 |
| 2 | Postgraduate master’s degree | $17,000 to $25,000 |
| 3 | Doctoral degree | $7,000 to $15,000 |
| 4 | Masters of Business administration (MBA) | $30,000 to $40,000 |
You can apply to various Canadian scholarships as well to bring down your educational expenses.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
There are many scholarships and financial aid options available to Bangladeshi students studying in Canada. Some of the most popular scholarships include:
| Sl. No. | Name of the scholarship | Description |
| 1 | Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute | Offers various fellowships at different levels from graduate to post-doctorate and from research to training fellowships |
| 2 | Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan | This scheme identifies students with high intellect from Commonwealth countries applying to programs of advanced study and research at the Master’s and Ph.D. level |
| 3 | Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program | This scholarship is for graduate students in a wide variety of disciplines. |
| 4 | National Research Council of Canada (NRCC) | Research associateship is offered to master’s degree holders in engineering and Ph.D. holders in natural science or engineering disciplines |
| 5 | Quebec Provincial Government Scholarship | This scholarship is for students studying in Quebec. |
| 6 | Ontario Trillium Scholarship | First announced in November 2010 for doctoral students from around the world to study in Ontario |
| 7 | Partnership Grants by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada | This scholarship is for Ph.D. candidates. |
| 8 | Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships | This is offered by the Canadian government to international students to pursue postgraduate programs within natural science, social sciences, or healthcare research. |
| 9 | Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships | This scholarship is awarded by the Government of Canada to meritorious students who aspire to pursue a doctoral degree at a Canadian institution |
Cost of living in Canada
International students have several housing options while studying in Canada, including on-campus dormitories, off-campus apartments, and homestays. It’s important to research housing options and budget accordingly.
When planning your budget, do include the following expenses:
- Communication costs: Budget for phone and data bills for frequent calls to friends and family back home, look for low-cost plans and student discounts, expect an average monthly cost of CAD 20.
- Textbooks and supplies: Buying textbooks can be expensive, with engineering, law, medicine, and pharmacy books ranging from CAD 250 to CAD 350 or even higher, consider buying used books, digital versions, or enrolling in a library membership to save money.
- Personal expenses and incidentals: Everyday spending such as laundry, toiletries, clothing, dining out, etc. will depend on your lifestyle choices.
Working in Canada as an International Student
International students may be eligible to work in Canada during and after their studies. Canada’s post-graduation work permit program allows students to gain work experience in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies.
International students may also be eligible for other work permits, such as the International Experience Canada (IEC) program, which allows students to work in Canada for up to two years.
Few tips for international students studying in Canada:
- Research housing options and budget accordingly.
- Apply for scholarships and financial aid early.
- Obtain the necessary permits and visas.
- Take advantage of work and volunteer opportunities.
- Explore Canadian culture and natural beauty.
- Be careful and mindful of your surroundings.
Conclusion
For international students, studying in Canada may be a life-changing experience.. With top-ranked universities, high-quality education, and a welcoming culture, Canada is a great place to study and live. By following the tips and information provided in this article, international students can have a successful and fulfilling experience studying in Canada.
