Higher education in Canada for international students
This content was developed with active participation of Juliet Thondhlana.
In the process of preparing the material, we referenced the following sources:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_universities_in_Canada
- https://www.educanada.ca/why-canada-pourquoi/reasons-raisons.aspx?lang=eng.
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Apply with documents
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from 15000.00 $CAD / yearApply with documents
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CanadaVancouver, British ColumbiaCurrently watching: 2from 17900.00 $ / 15 monthsApply with documents
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95% of graduates are employedCanadaVancouver, British ColumbiaCurrently watching: 1from 15000.00 $CAD / yearApply with documents
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ranked for business schools 1st in CanadaCanadaToronto, OntarioCurrently watching: 2from 45470.00 $CAD / 32 monthsApply with documents
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from 17090.00 $CAD / 1350 lessonsApply with documents
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from 15164.00 $CAD / yearApply with documents
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CanadaVancouver, British ColumbiaCurrently watching: 1from 21000.00 $CAD / 12 weeksApply with documents
Alternative destinations
Education information
Canada is a very-well developed, progressive, modern country with a strong industry and beautiful nature, as well as high-quality educational system and comfortable living conditions. Canadian schools and colleges provide quality, practical-oriented education, appreciate personal and professional growth, are interested in valuable specialists.
The foundation is the British educational system. Life in Canada is quiet and safe, living standards are very high - while the cost of education remains fairly affordable. Of the obvious advantages, one can also mention bilingual programs (English and French are recognized on the territory of the country), the highest quality education, internationally-listed diplomas, and the opportunity to work during studying. Moreover, after graduation, the student can earn the opportunity to stay in Canada and work on a permanent basis in the chosen field.
The authorities invest a huge amount of money in the educational system. It is one of the priority areas of national development. And this is very noticeable - first of all, in terms of the level of equipment of universities: practically everyone has modern, innovative, technically advanced equipment for research, laboratory and design work.
Foreign students often choose following areas to study in Canadian schools, colleges and universities:
- Information Technology
- Microelectronics
- Engineering
- Natural Sciences
- Business
Among the most prestigious and top-ranking universities are the institutions of Ontario and British Columbia. According to the statistics of the independent rating of the World University Rankings (2014-2015), among TOP-400 universities in the world there are 8 Canadian universities, 4 of them in the first 100:
- University of Toronto = 20th place
- University of British Columbia = 32nd place
- McGill University = 39th place
- McMaster University = 94th place.
Higher Education in Canada
Canada boasts an impressive higher education system with a majority of its institutions being state-owned. These universities and colleges are under the supervision of local authorities, ensuring consistent quality control over teaching standards, faculty qualifications, and curriculum content.
Master Programs in Canada for foreign students
Master's programs in Canada span 4-5 years for a single specialty. The close collaboration between universities and industries offers postgraduate students opportunities to enhance their knowledge, gain practical experience, and even branch out into new specializations.
With Canada's immigration policy being more lenient than the USA's, international students can remain in the country for 1-3 years post-graduation to work in their field. Upon gaining permanent residency, they can then pursue professional migration. Moreover, universities provide dedicated career guidance centers and departments to assist students in job placements. All Canadian degrees are globally recognized and hold international value.
Interestingly, students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full time during breaks. This provides an additional source of income, with earnings ranging from 9-15 CAD$ per hour. Notably, students from Manitoba might be eligible for a 60% tuition tax deduction.
Study Plan for Higher Education in Canada
In Canada, students have the flexibility to curate their study plans based on intensity, content, and focus, either gearing more towards theory or hands-on practice. The academic rigor ensures only the most dedicated students proceed, with nearly half of the initial enrollees dropping out by the end of the second year.
The academic year generally kicks off on the first Tuesday of September, running through to May-June, with some programs continuing throughout the summer. Courses are offered in English, French, or sometimes both.
What firstly should be considered when choosing a university?
It depends on the student - everyone determines the most important criteria for himself. I would advise you to take several rankings and compare them with each other, plus take into account the cost of the course, the location of the university and its scale, the percentage of graduates' employment. See where graduates continue their studies or where they go to work.
Requirements for Admission to Universities in Canada
Prospective students aiming for higher education institutions in Canada must have:
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Completed secondary education.
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Proficiency in English (usually TOEFL scores of 86-88 iBT or IELTS scores of 6.5-7) or French (DALF or a university's internal test).
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A filled-out application.
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A valid passport or ID, and if below 18 years of age, a guardian agency's services will be mandatory.
It's often recommended for international students to enroll in preparatory courses like the Foundation Programme to enhance language and academic skills. Completing this program might even allow students direct entry into the second year of a Bachelor's degree at some institutions, providing both time and financial savings.
Higher Education in Canada: Colleges vs. Universities
Canadian higher education can largely be categorized into colleges and universities.
Colleges: Colleges primarily offer Bachelor's and Master's degrees focusing on practical skills and internships. Statistics show that college graduates usually secure employment within 6-7 months post-graduation, making this option attractive for those seeking applied roles.
Universities: Universities provide Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD programs. They combine both theoretical and practical aspects of study, producing academic professionals who are in demand in the job market. If you're aspiring for roles in research, teaching, or consultancy, universities might be a better fit.
Pursuing Top-tier Education in Canada
Many renowned schools, colleges, and universities in Canada offer world-class education. If you're aiming for quality, Canada has a plethora of options to explore, all promising a comprehensive academic experience without burning a hole in your pocket.
Cost and fees for Higher Education in Canada
Fees Compared to the USA, Europe, and the UK, the cost of higher education in Canada is relatively more affordable. On average, students might spend around 20,000 CAD per academic year, excluding textbooks and materials. Living costs fluctuate based on the city, with places like Toronto being on the pricier side. Student housing options vary from on-campus residences, homestays, to shared apartments.
What is the structure of higher education in Canada?
How long does it take to get a bachelor's degree in Canada?
What are the requirements for university admission in Canada?
What are the costs and funding opportunities for higher education in Canada?
Can I work while studying in Canada?
What languages are used in studies in Canada?
What is the Canadian Certificate of Education and how is it recognized by the international community?
What cultural adjustment awaits international students in Canada?
What are the employment prospects for international students after graduation?
What is a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and how do I get one?
Top 35 best universities and colleges in Canada 2024
1 | University of Toronto |
2 | McGill University |
3 | University of British Columbia |
4 | University of Alberta |
5 | Simon Fraser University |
6 | Montreal University |
7 | University of Windsor |
8 | York University |
9 | University of Guelph |
10 | McMaster University |
11 | University of Manitoba |
12 | University of Waterloo |
13 | Royal Roads University |
14 | Vancouver Film School |
15 | Kwantlen Polytechnic University |
16 | University of Calgary |
17 | Dalhousie University |
18 | Fanshawe College |
19 | University of Ottawa |
20 | Laval University |
21 | Sheridan College |
22 | University of Regina |
23 | Brock University |
24 | Thompson Rivers University |
25 | Humber College |
26 | Vancouver Island University |
27 | Mohawk College |
28 | Centennial College Toronto |
29 | Niagara College |
30 | Capilano University |
31 | Seneca College |
32 | Algoma University |
33 | Saint Clair College |
34 | Douglas College |
35 | LaSalle College |
Learning programs-summary information
Name | Meaning | Equivalent | Min. age | Duration, years |
Next stage | Cost |
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GCSE | General certificate of secondary education | secondary education (non-accomplished) | 14 | 1–2 | A-Levels | 15,000 USD+ |
A-Levels | Advanced level | secondary education (accomplished) | 16 | 2 | University | 15,000 USD+ |
BTEC | Business and Technology Education Board | secondary special education | 14 | 2–3 | University/ work | 15,000 USD+ |
Oxbridge Preparation | Preparing for Oxford and Cambridge | secondary education (accomplished) | 17 | 1 | University | 15,000 USD+ |
International Baccalaureate | International baccalaureate | secondary education (accomplished) | 16 | 2 | University | 18,000 USD+ |
Foundation/ Pathway Year | Preparatory year | admission to the 1st year of university | 17 | 1 | University | 14,000 USD+ |
NCUK | The Northern consortium | 2 year university | 17,5 | 1 | 2 year University of NCUK | 13,000 USD+ |
Special Preparation (Medics/Math/Business) | Specialized training | - | 14 | optional | optional | 4,000 USD+ |
Academic English | Academic English | Language school | 8 + | 6–12 months | School or University | 8,000 USD+ |
Canada higher education -statistics
Name | Bachelor Degree |
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Deadline | January-February-May |
Duration | 3-4 years |
Expulsion statistics | 26% |
Language of tuition | English, French |
French proficiency | DALF C1, TEF B2 |
English proficiency | IELTS 6.5, TOEFL ibt 82 |
Job opportunity | 80% |
Percentage of students enrolled in the master's program | 57% |
Cost of living in Canada
Expenses - USD/Month. | Min. | Med. |
---|---|---|
Accommodation | 294 | 376 |
Food | 239 | 416 |
Transportation | 54 | 144 |
Communications and utilities | 81 | 89 |
Clothing | 19 | 71 |
Sports and leisure | 23 | 84 |
Total | 711 | 1,179 |
Accommodation in Canada | USD/Month. | |
Shared room outside of centre | 297 | |
Shared room in city centre | 380 | |
1 bedroom apartment outside of centre | 539 | |
1 bedroom apartment in city centre | 690 |