Study in Canada

Canada Overview

Canada is the largest country in North America and consists of 10 provinces and 3 territories. Located in the northern part of the continent, the capital of Canada is Ottawa. It is the second-largest country in the world by territory and is a popular destination for vocational and diploma courses.

Education System

The school systems in Canada vary depending on the province or territory. Education is available in both English and French in most areas, provided there are enough students speaking the secondary language. High school typically extends to grades nine to 12, except in Québec, where it ends in grade eleven and is followed by a program called CEGEP, preparing students for university or a technical field.

Beyond high school, students can attend either vocational schools or universities. At a university, students first earn a Bachelor's degree and can continue their studies to receive a Master's or Doctorate degree. Vocational students earn certificates and diplomas that help improve their skills in various trades.

Popular Student Destinations

Universities like McGill University, The University of British Columbia, University of Alberta, and Simon Fraser University are popular choices for pursuing a full-time academic degree. Most of the best colleges are situated in cities like Toronto, British Columbia, and Montreal. The number of Canadian student visas issued to Indian students jumped to over 12,000 in 2010, from 3,152 in 2008.

Canada is preferred for vocational studies rather than degree courses as the former provides more employment opportunities. It is also a good choice for immigration due to its low population density and ample work opportunities.

The most popular higher study courses in Canada are postgraduate diplomas in Business Management, Media, Engineering, Computer Science, and Hospitality.

Safety in Canada

Canada is one of the safest countries, with one of the highest standards of living in the world. It is a free country where people are judged on their actions and character rather than their appearance or country of origin.

Weather

Weather in Canada varies widely depending on location, stretching from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean and covering five time zones.

• Montreal Weather - Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures between -6°C to -15°C. Summers range from 15°C to 25°C.
• Toronto Weather - Winters are milder but still cold and snowy, with temperatures between -10°C to 12°C. Summers range from 15°C to 25°C.
• Vancouver Weather - It is wet and mild throughout the year. Summers average 22°C, and winters range from 3°C to 7°C, with rare snow.

Lifestyle Tips

Canadians are open-minded and proud of their multicultural and diverse population. Here are a few tips:

• Be on time for both professional and social occasions
• Be respectful in conversation and behaviour
• Show respect to the opposite sex, as Canadians believe in gender equality
• Avoid jokes or comments that are insulting to race, religion, gender, disability, sexual orientation, or appearance
• Avoid personal questions about age, salary, marital status, relationships, and personal item costs until well-acquainted

Language Problems

Living in a society where English or occasionally French is used daily can be challenging initially:

• You may not understand the local accent right away. Regional accents vary greatly in Canada, so give yourself time to adjust.
• Canadians might not understand your accent right away. Speak slowly and ask others to speak slowly if needed.
• Canadians use a lot of slang in their speech, which might take time to understand.
• Humour is integral to Canadian English, seen as a sign of friendliness, not disrespect.
• Canadians use many abbreviations (e.g., TA for Teachers Assistant). Ask for explanations if you don’t understand something.

Participation

It is necessary to participate in all class activities. Participation in class discussions, group work, and other activities is important. Additionally, engaging outside the classroom provides opportunities to practice English skills in various settings.

Making Friends

Making friends is important for everyone in their first year of university. Saying "please" and "thank you" are important Canadian customs, and expressing gratitude and appreciation will improve your relationships.

Indians Living in Canada

Most Indians live in larger urban centres like Toronto and Vancouver, where more than 70% of Indians reside. Smaller communities are growing in Calgary, Edmonton, and Montreal. Indians in Vancouver are from different parts of India, with areas like Little India in Vancouver and Gerrard Street in Toronto being notable. In Vancouver, many Indians live in the suburb of Surrey or nearby Abbotsford, as well as other parts of the city.

Accommodation

Firstly, you need to decide whether you want to live in university-managed accommodation or with a private landlord. Choosing university-managed accommodation can also give you a catered or self-catered option. Catered accommodation offers the benefits of your meals being cooked for you and a degree of certainty with meal costs.

If you have an idea about what you prefer, the accommodation office at your university will be able to tell you what accommodation they have available, so that’s the place to start. If you are thinking of renting from a private landlord or if your chosen university can’t offer you anything in its own residential facility, the accommodation office should be able to provide you with a list of private properties and landlords in the area.

Wherever you choose to live, you should make sure that you know your contractual rights and responsibilities. In most cases, you will be asked to enter into a tenancy agreement, which you should read thoroughly before you sign it.

Orientation

Orientation week is mandatory for international students, so you want to be sure and arrive before it starts. This is the time where you will be introduced to the university and its services, as well as enroll in your classes. It is essential that you read your guidebook, which is provided by the college. The guide explains each part of the admission process.

Activities

Along with sports, colleges offer extra-curricular activities that provide students a wide range of experiences. Music, drama, science, and literary societies in colleges offer opportunities for outdoor education and other leisure activities. Visits to theatres and concerts, and to places relevant to the courses of study such as art galleries and museums, religious centres or historical sites, scientific companies and projects are all part of college life.

Requirements

These vary between study programs and levels. For each course, Indian students will need to meet a minimum English language requirement. Along with that a minimum academic record of 65% and above for humanities stream in class XII, and 70 - 80% and above for Science/Commerce stream in class XII will also be required. Foundations and Diploma programs are available for students who have secured below 60%. The student should have completed 18 years of age before joining a degree program.

It is important to note that these numbers are just for reference purpose, the actual numbers may differ from university to university.

Documents

The following documents also need to be submitted:

• Attested copies of mark sheets of Standard X, XII, and the Bachelor’s degree (if applicable)
• At least, two academic reference letters from professors who have taught you most recently
• If you have work experience then two letters of recommendation from the employer/manager who knows you well and can comment on your professional abilities
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Resume
• Photocopied score reports of GMAT / IELTS / TOEFL
• Portfolio (in case of Students applying for art and design courses & architecture programs)
• Others (certificates / achievements at the state and national level and extracurricular activities)
• Proof of funds
• Medical Tests
• Check which Documents are required for Diploma Courses in Canada

Timeline

Most Canadian colleges accept online applications. You will have to visit each college's website to apply. In most cases, you will have to make an account on the college website to provide your basic information, submit the scanned version of your documents, and pay application fees. You will be informed about the application process and stages through this account.

Please refer to the website of the colleges of your choice to know the process of applying as it may differ from institute to institute.

Application Fee

All colleges require that you pay an application fee while applying. The fee amount will differ depending upon the college and course being applied to, so check with individual colleges about their application fee.

The common steps to applying for admission are as follow:

1. Search for colleges and courses
2. Contact schools and visit websites for information
3. Narrow down your list of schools
4. Take the entrance exams like SAT, GMAT, GRE, TOEFL, IELTS
5. Write SOPs and ask for LORs
6. Apply to the colleges which fit your interests
7. Appear for video interviews of the colleges that shortlisted you
8. If accepted, apply for student visa

SOP

A Statement of Purpose (SOP) is your introduction to the college and admission officers. It is always written in first person and describes the reason for applying to a particular college. It needs to highlight why you are a perfect fit for the college and why the college should accept you. The style of writing could differ from formal to casual, but it is important to remember that it should reflect your personality as well.

LOR

A letter of recommendation (LOR) is a reference letter written by a third party describing the qualities, characteristics, and capabilities of the prospective student to recommend him to the college in terms of that individual’s ability to perform a particular task or function. The third party could be a professor, direct manager, etc.

Intake seasons

The session starts mainly in September and January but some institutions have intakes in May, July, and October as well. The Major intake season for the top courses in Canada is September, while the minor intake season is January, which is meant for a fairly small number of courses.

You should start your admission process around six months before the application deadline. Typically most universities have three deadlines, from October to January. It is up to the convenience of the students, which deadline to aim for. You should be done with your language and aptitude tests by three months before the deadline. The last three months should be dedicated to filling out the application form properly.

It is essential to ensure that the ‘complete application process’ along with appearing for interviews and visa application procedure should be complete by June or July for the September intake.

The main intake season for top colleges and courses is the fall season i.e. September. It depends on what course you are looking to pursue because many courses don’t have the January intakes.

If you are looking to get admission into vocational courses, then some courses may have admissions open in January and perhaps even May or July.

Language Tests

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), and Pearson Test of English (PTE) are all standardized language tests required for admission into colleges. While they have different formats, structures, and result bands, many colleges accept results from any of these tests.

Repetition of Exams

IELTS can be taken an unlimited number of times. TOEFL and PTE can also be retaken as many times as desired, but there must be at least a 12-day gap between tests.

You must wait to receive your scores before booking your next test.

Time to Apply

If you aim to start your studies in September, it's advisable to take these exams by November to apply before the first deadline. Preparation time for IELTS/TOEFL/PTE typically ranges from 2 to 4 months, depending on existing English language proficiency.

General Exams

There are several other standardized tests:

• GMAT: Measures abilities for MBA aspirants.
• GRE: Required for graduate school applications.
• LSAT: Integral for law school admissions.
• SAT: Assesses literacy and writing skills for undergraduate courses.

Each university specifies which exam results are applicable for specific courses.

Repetition

GMAT can be taken an unlimited number of times, with a maximum of five times per year and a 30-day gap between tests. Other tests may have similar policies.

Average Scores

On average, accepted GMAT scores are around 540, GRE scores are 151 for Verbal, 146 for Quantitative, and 3.5 for Writing, and LSAT scores are approximately 162. However, these numbers vary by university.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Canada varies based on location and social activities. Basic expenses include accommodation, groceries, utilities, phone bills, textbooks, airfare, and more. Additional expenses may include dining out, travel, car rental, cable TV, and school-related costs.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees in Canada range from CDN $10,000 to $30,000 per year for undergraduate courses and $15,000 to $55,000 per year for postgraduate courses. Actual expenses depend on the university, course, and city.

Living Expenses

On average, students spend approximately CDN $10,000–$12,000 per year. Expenses can be higher in metropolitan areas like Toronto or Vancouver, reaching up to CDN $15,000, compared to suburban areas where costs may be around CDN $8,000–$10,000 per year.

Health Insurance

Health insurance for international students is mandatory and should cover medical expenses, personal accidents, dental treatment, study interruptions, and passport loss. Insurance policies are usually cashless.

Scholarships

International students may be eligible for merit and need-based scholarships. Strong academics, standardized exam scores, and extracurricular achievements increase eligibility. Application deadlines and document presentation are crucial for scholarship consideration.

Loans

Education loans for international students have general eligibility criteria, including Indian nationality, strong academic records, and admission to approved courses. Loan amounts typically cover 80% of tuition fees, with repayment starting after course completion.

Repayment

Loan repayment starts after course completion. If employed within a year after completion, repayment starts one month after employment. Otherwise, repayment begins regardless of employment status. Repayment periods typically range from 5 to 10 years.

Student Visa Process

To apply for a student visa to Canada, start after receiving the college acceptance letter, ideally around June for the September intake. Required documents include proof of acceptance from the educational institution and proof of financial support.

Required Documents

Documents needed for a Canadian student visa include proof of acceptance, financial support, academic transcripts, test scores, and proof of intent to depart Canada after studies. Additional documents may be requested during the interview.

Application Steps

Application steps include checking processing times, determining the application method (online or in-person), paying the processing fee, and submitting the application and supporting documents. Biometrics are required, which can be done at a Visa Application Centre.

Medical Exam

Indian applicants for Canadian visas must undergo a medical exam conducted by a panel physician listed on the official Canada immigration website. The results are sent directly to CIC. The medical exam can be done before or after submitting the visa application.

Work Permit

To be eligible for a Post Study Work Permit in Canada, students must have completed a full-time course of more than 8 months duration at a public or private post-secondary institution. The work permit application must be submitted within three months of completing the education, and students must have a valid student visa.

Visa for Spouse

Spouses of full-time students can accompany them to Canada on a Dependent visa. Adequate funds must be shown for their support. Spouses can also work full-time if their stay is for a year or more.

Pre-Departure Checklist for Canada

• Book airline tickets
• Buy travel and health insurance
• Arrange accommodation in Canada
• Arrange transportation to/from the airport to home in Canada
• Arrange your banking – consider buying traveller’s cheques
• Check baggage and customs limitations
• Clear all paperwork with your home educational institution
• Get your documents in order and make photocopies to store in your baggage and keep at home, including:
• Passport
• Airline tickets
• Travel insurance certificate
• Letter of Acceptance by the educational institution
• Key addresses and phone numbers
• A bank statement showing proof of funds
• Prescriptions for any medication you are carrying
• Traveller’s cheques (if applicable)
• Medical and immunization records
• Academic history and university transcripts

Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP)

The PGWPP allows post-graduate students who have studied at a participating Canadian university/college to gain Canadian work experience. Work experience gained through the PGWPP will ultimately help students qualify for permanent residence in Canada through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

Duration: A post-graduation work permit can’t be valid for longer than the student’s course of study. For example if your post-graduate course was of two years’ duration, then the work permit granted to you will also be of two years. The study program must be a minimum of eight months in length.

Applying for Post-Graduation Work Permit

• You must apply for work permit within 90 days of receiving written confirmation from your university/college indicating that you have completed and passed your academic program.
• Get the application package, and fill the forms you need to fill.
• You must pay the Open Work Permit Holder fee and the Standard Work Permit fee in Canadian currency, either online or manually.
• The application kit will contain the mailing address where you need to send your application.

Placements

Indian students are used to the concept of campus placements and on-campus recruitment for getting jobs. There is no concept of placements Canada. Most Canadian universities have a cell called a Career Services Centre, which helps you get jobs and helps you prepare for interviews. The on-campus recruitment is always driven by student interest. Companies that recruit through the university do not offer a job directly. What they offer is an internship or co-op. Companies like to see your work for a few months before they hire you full time.

Co-Op Education Program

In a Cooperative program, period of study alternates with work. The Student Co-op program is a formally structured program where the intent is to recruit students, while still in school, to fill permanent positions upon graduation. Co-op programs are generally undertaken at colleges and universities. Indian students who wish to participate in a co-op or internship program must apply for a work permit as well as a study permit.

Eligibility criteria

• You must have a valid study visa
• Your intended employment must be related to your program of study in Canada
• Your employment must be part of your academic program, certified by a letter from a responsible academic official of the institution.