Canada is becoming an increasingly popular destination for international students. But if you’re considering studying in Canada, there are a few things you’ll need to consider before packing your bags.
Here are seven steps to get you started on your journey to study in Canada:
1. Find a program and a school
2. Check admission requirements
3. Plan your budget
4. Apply for a study permit
5. Find out about work opportunities
6. Make transportation arrangements
7. Get ready to come to Canada
Before you start the process of applying to study in Canada, you must consider the following:
- What program or course are you interested in?
- What institution will you be applying to?
- Is your language proficiency good enough to study in Canada?
- Do you need to apply for a student visa or permit?
Once your application has been accepted, it’s time to put together a checklist of things that need to be done. This should include the following:
- Arrange for health insurance.
- Get a student visa or permit.
- Find a place to live.
Apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN).
Canada has a well-deserved reputation for friendliness, and its people are welcoming to international students. It is also extremely safe with low crime rates.
Your options for study in Canada are broad, from short-term English language courses to postgraduate degrees or a working holiday through the International Experience Canada programme.
Any Canadian visa application involves a few steps:
- Check your eligibility
- Research your options
- Get organised
- Apply and pay
If you are going to study in Canada, then before you leave your home country, you will need to get a study permit. A study permit is a document which allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLI) in Canada.
An institution becomes a DLI when it has been approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. Every school will have a Designated Learning Institution number starting with the letter O and followed by 8 digits – for example, O19289136. These numbers can be found on the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website.
You can apply for your study permit online or by paper. If you are applying online, then you will have to submit an electronic copy of the required documents along with your application form.
If you are applying on paper, then all supporting documents should be included with your application form. Make sure that all copies are clear and readable and that they show the complete document.
In order to apply for your study permit, you need:
- Your acceptance letter from a DLI (a copy of this letter will also be sent to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada)
- Proof that you have enough money for tuition fees and for living expenses for yourself and any family members who come with you to Canada
1. Know your study options
You may already know that you want to study in Canada, but have you considered where and what? There are hundreds of universities and colleges across the country, so it is important that you do some research to find out which ones offer the courses or programs that best suit your needs. The Canadian government’s website provides a list of all accredited educational institutions in Canada.
2. Research the application process
Once you’ve made a shortlist of possible schools, it’s time to find out how to apply. You will need to check each institution’s website for information on:
Admission requirements (minimum English language proficiency level, academic requirements)
How to apply (online or paper-based application)
Application deadlines
3. Prepare your application
Once you’ve decided on a course and institution, it is time to prepare your application. This usually involves filling in an application form and providing the necessary supporting documentation – such as previous academic transcripts, references and proof of English language proficiency – which can often be done online. At this point it is also a good idea to start preparing for any entrance exams that may be required by your chosen institution.
4. Apply for your visa/study permit
Studying abroad is a dream for many. However, it is not as simple as it seems. Some people take a long time to choose the right destination, university and course for themselves.
It’s only natural for aspirants to have apprehensions about studying abroad; the experience of living in a foreign land and being away from family and friends can be overwhelming.
For the past 20 years, more than 350,000 students from India have gone abroad to pursue their education. Canada has emerged as one of the most preferred destinations among students seeking quality education at an affordable price.
But before you make up your mind, here are some things you should know:
What are you looking for?
Canada is a huge country and each province has something different to offer. From the scenic beauty of British Columbia, to the urban lifestyle of Toronto, or the quiet charm of New Brunswick — there’s a province for everyone. You should visit these provinces before making a decision on where you want to study.