Study In Canada
Canada is one of the most popular study abroad destinations in the world. Every year the country welcomes nearly 5,00,000 students from across the globe. Canada is currently considered the #1 country in the world in terms of quality of life and social purpose. Academic excellence, agility, entrepreneurship, and business opportunities are a few more factors that attract international students to this country.
Important Facts About the Canada
- 28 Canadian universities appear in QS World University Rankings 2022.
- Canadian Universities promote a multi-cultural vibrant campus life, impressive infrastructure, and various clubs and events to broaden your horizon.
- Indian students can choose from than 200 scholarships to manage their study costs in Canada.
- Many scholarships cover 100% tuition and living costs.
- Canada is the sixth safest country in the world according to the Global Peace Index 2022.
- Students on study permit can work 20 hours a week.
- Canada has one of the lowest unemployment rates of 5.4%.
- Students can search better job prospects across the six provinces – Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, and Saskatchewan.
- Canada ranks 16th on the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2021 and 15th among the high-income group economies.
- Canada boasts of seamless healthcare facilities from infrastructure to medical equipment.
- It ranks 14 on the list of Best Healthcare Systems in the world 2022.
- Canada spends 5.4% GDP on education.
Education System in Canada
There are ten provinces and three territories in Canada. Each province follows a different education system. The study levels may vary across these provinces. The students can enroll for the following programs.
- Associate Degree: The students must study for two years to earn an associate degree.
- Certificates and Diploma: These programs are job oriented and vocational and may last for a year or two.
- Bachelor’s Degree: This is an undergraduate program where students have to study for four years to earn their degree. In provinces like Quebec, this duration is usually three years.
- Bachelor’s Honors Degree: The program duration is usually four years and students can specialize in the subject of their choice.
- Master’s Degree by Thesis and Non-thesis: The duration of a master’s degree by thesis may be a year or two, depending on the subject. It requires the students to submit a thesis to earn a degree. However, a Master’s Degree by Non-thesis is a taught program, where students can earn a degree by attending their course regularly.
- Graduate Diploma: This is a specialized job-oriented program, which is undertaken post bachelor’s degree. The program duration may be a year or two.
- Doctorate or PhD Programs: The students earn their degree on submission of a thesis, and it may take 4-7 years to earn it.
Grading System in Canada
The grading system in Canada differs across provinces. So, you need to check them before starting your course.
- Alberta: Here, the teachers generally convert letter grades into grade points. For instance, the grade A+ is converted to 4.3 grade points, A to 4.0, A- to 3.7, B+ to 3.3 and E/F are the last grades, which is converted to 0.
- British Columbia: Teachers usually convert the letter grades into percentages. For instance, grade A stands for 86%-100%, B for 73%-85%, C+ for 67%-72%, and F is the last grade that may depict 0-49%.
- Manitoba: The grading system depends on a student’s GPA. For instance, a 4.5 GPA is considered exceptional and the corresponding letter grade is A+. 4 GPA is excellent and the corresponding letter grade is A. A student can earn grade C for 2.5 GPA and it is considered satisfactory.
- Newfoundland and Labrador: Like British Columbia, the grades are converted into percentages here. For instance, letter grade A may stand for 80%-100%, B for 65%-79%, C for 55%-64%, and F stands last on this list.
- Nova Scotia: Here, the grades are converted into percentages. For instance, A+ stands for 90%-100%, and F stands for 0-49%.
- Ontario: The grades are converted into a percentage. For instance, A+ stands for 90%-100% and F for 0-30%.
- Quebec and New Brunswick: The grades are converted into grade points. Most universities use a 4.3 or 4.33 scale. For instance, a letter grade A+ would mean 4.33 grade point and E would mean failure.
- Saskatchewan: The province follows the easiest grading system. The percentages are converted to letter grades. For instance, the percentage 90%-100% would be converted to A+ and 0-49% to F.
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Types of Educational Institutes in Canada
Students can earn their degrees or diplomas by enrolling to the following:
- Universities: They offer a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs as well as diplomas, certificates, doctorates, and professional degrees.
- Career and Technical Colleges: They offer specialized diplomas and certificate courses.
- Community Colleges: These colleges offer diplomas, certificates, associate degrees, graduate diplomas, and undergraduate degrees.
- University Colleges: They host students who may be part of university transfer programs or wish to continue diplomas in specialized subjects.
Popular Universities in Canada
There are several popular universities in Canada that regularly feature in various world rankings. Below listed as some of the best colleges in Canada:
University Name | QS World Ranking 2023 |
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31 |
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34 |
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47 |
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110 |
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116 |
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152 |
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154 |
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172 |
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237 |
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242 |
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246 |
Popular Colleges in Canada
In addition to the universities, the following are some popular colleges for pursuing diploma, graduate diploma, and MBA in Canada.
PG Diploma | MBA |
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Popular Universities in Canada that Do Not Require IELTS/TOEFL
IELTS is one of the requirements to study in Canada. However, some universities in Canada may admit students without IELTS/TOEFL. Does that mean English language proficiency is not an important requirement to get admitted to these colleges or universities? No, language proficiency is still an essential requirement, but you can submit alternate test results. The following are a few popular universities in Canada accepting alternative English proficiency scores.
University | Alternate Exam Scores Accepted |
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Cambridge C1 Advanced, Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL), Duolingo English Test (DET), Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) |
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Cambridge C1 Advanced, Cambridge C2 Proficiency, Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL), Duolingo English Test (DET), Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic), Academic English Program for University and College Entrance (AEPUCE), English Language Program at The University of Winnipeg (ELP) |
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Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL), Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic), Can Test for Scholars and Trainees, Cambridge Assessment English |
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Cambridge C1 Advanced, Cambridge C2 Proficiency, Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic), Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL), Michigan EnglishLanguage Assessment Battery (MELAB), Duolingo Online English test |
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Canadian Academic English Language Test (CAEL, CAEL-CE), Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) |
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Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL), Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE) & Cambridge C2 Proficiency (CPE), Duolingo English Test (DET), Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) |
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Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) |
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Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL), Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE) & Cambridge C2 Proficiency (CPE), Duolingo English Test (DET), Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic), Michigan English Test (MET) |
Popular Cost-Effective Universities in Canada
Education in Canada is expensive, however, many leading Canadian universities offer affordable education. The following are a few prominent ones among them:
Universities Name | QS Top University Rankings |
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Public University |
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Public University |
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Public Research University |
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Private University |
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Public University |
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Public University |
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Public Research University |
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Public Research University |
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Public Research University |
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Admission Process to Study in Canada
Want to get admitted to a leading Canadian university? The following steps will simplify the process.
- Choose your program and list 6-8 colleges and universities.
- See the eligibility requirements and gather paperwork such as LOR, bank statements, SOP, updated resume, essays, and official transcripts of academic degrees.
- Attempt standardized tests such as GMAT, PTE, GRE, IELTS, and TOEFL, depending on the application requirements.
- Arrange for finances required to pursue studies, such as applying for loans and scholarships.
- Submit the duly filled application form on the website and pay the fee.
- Check the application results by the end of Spring. Many universities will send you visa.
Intakes to Study in Canada
The universities in Canada follow the following intakes:
Fall: This intake starts in September and is the most popular among international students. The students can apply to a wide range of courses across well-known universities and colleges. If you are eyeing this intake, let’s look at the timeline.
- April – August: Shortlist the colleges and courses.
- September – November: Take standardized exams like IELTS, ACT, TOEFL, GRE, and GMAT.
- December – January: Fill out the form and submit your scores and documents to the university.
- January – February: You will receive acceptance letters from the university.
- February -April: Make your finance arrangements by finalizing your loans, scholarships, etc.
- May – June: Apply for the student visa!
- August -September: Book your tickets and get ready for the departure to start your new semester in Canada.
Winter: It starts in January and usually, students who miss their Fall intake opt for this intake. If you are eyeing this intake, let’s look at the timeline.
- January to April: Shortlist the colleges and courses.
- July – August: Take standardized exams like IELTS, ACT, TOEFL, GRE, and GMAT.
- August – September: Fill out the form and submit your scores and documents to the university.
- September – October: You will receive acceptance letters from the university.
- October – November: Make your finance arrangements by finalizing your loans, scholarships, etc.
- October – November: Apply for the student visa!
- November – December: Book your tickets and get ready for the departure to start your new semester in Canada.
Summer: This intake usually begins in April and May, and is only available for limited programs. If you are eyeing this intake, let’s look at the timeline.
- January to April: Shortlist the colleges and courses.
- August – September: Take standardized exams like IELTS, ACT, TOEFL, GRE, and GMAT.
- October – December: Fill out the form and submit your scores and documents to the university.
- December – January: You will receive acceptance letters from the university.
- January – February: Make your finance arrangements by finalizing your loans, scholarships, etc.
- January – February: Apply for the student visa!
- March – April: Book your tickets and get ready for the departure to start your new semester in Canada.
Cost of Education in Canada
Here we have included the average annual cost of education in CAD ($). Actual values may differ across cities and universities in Canada.
Types of Expenses (Annual) | Expenses in CAD |
Tuition Fees | CAD$17,000 – $25,000 for graduate degrees; CAD$12,000 – $ 30,000 for undergraduate courses; CAD $24,150 – $66,210 for professional programs |
Accommodation | CAD$8,000 – $10,000 for on-campus accommodation; CAD $400 -$700 per month for off-campus accommodation |
Travel Costs | CAD$80 – CAD$110 per month using public transport systems |
Health Insurance | CAD$300 – CAD$800 depending on your area |
Food | CAD$300 – CAD$400 per month depending on your food preferences and habits |
Entertainment | CAD$750 monthly depending on your personal choices |
Canadian Study Permit
The Canadian Study Permit allows Indian nationals to study in designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. You will need a student visa to enter the country. You can apply for the study permit by paying a fee of CAD 150. The processing time can vary across the country. If you are an Indian, you can obtain your Canadian Study Permit faster through the Student Direct Stream by following the below link.
If Applicable, You May be Required to Submit



Eligibility Requirements and Admission Requirements to Study in Canada
Eligibility requirements and application requirements for undergraduate and graduate courses vary in Canada.
Undergraduate :
- 70% marks in 12th grade
- 12th grade mathematics
Diploma Programs:
- 60% marks in 12th grade
- IELTS Score: 6.5 for overall and 6 in each section
Master Degree Programs :
- 2-3 years work experience
- GMAT – 580 to 600 minimum
- Some institutes may require you to submit samples of published portfolio/work
Top Scholarships to Study in Canada
The following is a list of popular scholarships available for Indian students to study in Canada
Name of Scholarship | Description and Eligibility | Amount in CAD |
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program | Awarded to 37 deserving students who demonstrate academic excellence by the University of Toronto | Variable |
Education Future International Scholarship | Awarded by many universities to students who demonstrate academic excellence | CAD$3299 – $16,517 |
Ambedkar Overseas Vidyanidhi Scholarship | It is community-based scholarship, which is fully funded by the Social Welfare Department | CAD$16,517 |
Scotiabank International Partner Entrance Scholarships | This is a Partially-funded scholarship by Scotiabank, which is offered to all students of George Brown College of Applied Arts & Technology | CAD$6398 |
Global Citizen Scholarship | This fully funded scholarship by MPOWER Financing is offered to students studying in Bachelor’s disciplines | CAD$12,797 |
Masters Scholarships in Canada
Name of Scholarship | Description and Eligibility | Amount in CAD |
Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarship | Awarded by Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation to students who demonstrate excellent academic excellence. | CAD$32,974 |
International Peace Scholarship for Women | Awarded by P.E.O Sisterhood, female students across all Canadian universities can apply to this scholarship. | CAD$15,985 |
Shastri Research Student Fellowship | This scholarship is awarded to students enrolled in bachelors, masters, and M. Phil courses. | Amount is variable |
Best Student Cities in Canada
Canada is known for its metropolitan cities that welcome thousands of international students annually. These cities assure a well-planned lifestyle, including subsidized public transport systems, part-time work opportunities, healthcare facilities, and so on, which most students find appealing. The following are a few popular best student cities in Canada.
Name of the City | Best Student Cities QS Ranking 2022 | Cost of Living (CAD$) |
Montreal | 9 | CAD$ 2000 -2500 |
Toronto | 13 | CAD$ 2200 – 3000 |
Vancouver | 18 | CAD$ 2500 – 3500 |
Ottawa | 53 | CAD$ 2000 – 2500 |
Quebec City | 113 | CAD$ 1500 – 1800 |
Diploma vs Degree
Diploma vs degree has been a point of consideration for many students going to Canada for higher studies. The following differences will ease the confusion.
Core Area | Degree | Diploma |
Types | Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate/PhD | Regular Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Graduate Diploma |
Duration | Bachelor’s Degree: 3 to 4 Years | Regular Diploma (Undergraduate): 2 Years |
Master’s Degree: 1 to 2 Years | Advanced Diploma ( Undergraduate): 3 Years | |
Doctorate/PhD: 3 to 7 Years | Graduate Diploma (Graduate): 1 to 2 Years | |
Admission | Annually | Half Yearly |
Cost | Approximately CAD$30,000 for Master’s Degree Programs | Approximately CAD$20,000 for PG Diploma |
Awarded By | Universities | Colleges, universities, and private institutions |
Career Prospects | A structured degree program covers a wide range of topics and offers several career opportunities. | A diploma program may be subject specific, which allow students to enter into a highly specialized job sector. |
Popular Courses |
Undergraduate Degree Courses in Canada Business Studies and Finance Hotel Management Engineering Art and Design Health Construction Management Media Studies Computer Science Accounting Music Graduate Degree Courses in Canada Computer Science Civil Engineering Public Health Finance Human Resource Mechanical Engineering Pharmacy Electrical Engineering Psychology International Relations |
Undergraduate Diploma Courses Engineering Information Technology Business Management Pharmacy Technician Hospitality Management Graduate Diploma Courses Biological Sciences Engineering (Electronics and Mechanical) Health Sciences Networking & Information Technology Business, Tourism and Hospitality Management Pharmacy, Nursing, and Midwifery Early Childhood Studies |
Leading Institutions |
Undergraduate Courses The University of British Columbia University of Toronto McGill University Université Saint-Anne York University Graduate Courses Royal Roads University Thompson Rivers University York University Athabasca University University of Winnipeg University of British Columbia |
PG Diplomas Durham College Sheridan College George Brown College Algonquin College Seneca College Humber College Centennial College of Applied Arts & Technology |
Exams and Standardized Tests Required to Study in Canada
Students applying to Canadian universities are required to submit scores of language proficiency and standardized tests.
Language Proficiency Tests: English and French are two official languages of Canada. Most universities would require you to submit scores of these languages depending on the program.
As proof of English language proficiency, the students must submit scores of:
- IELTS: The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is conducted by British Council and assesses a candidate’s English reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. The scores of this test are accepted by more than 300 DLIs in Canada.
- TOEFL: The Test of English as a Foreign Language is conducted by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). It analyzes a candidate’s reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. An undergraduate candidate has to earn 79 or higher points and a graduate student earns 80 or higher points to secure admission.
- CAEL: This stands for the Canadian Academic English Language Assessment Test, which checks the student’s proficiency in four constituents – reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
As proof of French language proficiency, the students must submit scores of:
- Test de Français Adapté au Québec (TEFAQ): This test is relevant for students wishing to relocate to Quebec, which is a French-speaking region. There are four modular tests such as oral presentation, written expression, oral comprehension, and reading comprehension.
- Test d’Évaluation de Français (TEF): This test is essential for students who want to pursue French education at any Canadian university. The University of Montreal requires students to submit a score of 400 for admission.
Important Standardized Tests to Study in Canada
- Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT): The students seeking admission to undergraduate courses must submit the results of SAT. This is a paper and pencil test, which analyzes a student’s analytical thinking capabilities.
- Graduate Record Examinations (GRE): This test is conducted by the Education Testing Service (ETS) and assesses the student’s readiness to attend a graduate program in Canada.
- Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT): This test is conducted by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) and is required for seeking admission to MBA programs.
Post Study Work Visa in Canada
A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows international students graduating from Canadian colleges and universities to work for up to 3 years. The students who have completed a degree, certificate, or diploma lasting at least 8 months can apply for PGWP.
A student has up to 180 days to apply for a PGWP after graduation. During the application, the candidate must confirm the program’s name, duration, and completion status.
If the study permit expires before you apply for PGWP, you have two options – you can leave Canada and apply for PGWP or apply for a visitor record to extend your stay in the country.
You cannot apply for PGWP if:
- Your study permit expired 180 days before your application
- You have enrolled for self-improvement or general interest courses
- You have participated in the Global Affairs Canada’s Government of Canada Awards Program; however, you can apply for PGWP if you have received a study in Canada scholarship
- You have studied English or French as a second language
- You have completed the study at any Canadian university through e-learning, online courses, or correspondence
- You have completed a study program at any institution managed by non-Canadian management while living in Canada
Career Prospects for International Students in Canada
Cardiologist (CAD$91,000 – $585,000)
Psychiatrist (CAD $69,000 – $384,000)
Physician (CAD $61,000 – $361,000)
Chief Marketing Officer (CAD$78,000 – $290,000)
Software Engineer (CAD $55,000 – $112,000)
Pharmacist (CAD$80,000 – $116,000)
Corporate Controller (CAD $67,000 – $147,000)
Data Scientist (CAD$57,000 – $113,000)
Your income would depend on your knowledge, skills, and the type of the organization you work for.
Frequently Asked Questions on Studying in Canada
Studying in Canada can be a life-changing experiences for most Indian students. There are various things that students need to know to pursue their education. Here, we have included some common questions and their answers for students planning to leave for Canada for their higher studies.
Yes, 10+2+4 is required to study in Canada, especially if you wish to pursue a master’s degree. However, some universities may allow students to pursue a master’s degree and graduate diploma with 10+2+3. However, you need to check the university or college website to know more.
Yes, you can arrive in Canada anytime before the start of the course. However, you cannot take any part-time job until you begin your studies.
Yes, you can. If you have already received a study permit to study in Canada and later realize that you want to change your designated learning institution, you can do so. However, you need to submit a new study permit and the new letter of acceptance and follow the process repeatedly. This new application may require you to pay fresh fees, too.
Yes, you can pursue higher secondary education in Canada. Most Canadian universities accept students who have completed their high school diplomas from government-recognized study institutions in their country.
Most Canadian designated learning institutions (DLIs) require students to submit their IELTS scores to seek admission. A minimum score of 6 in each section and an aggregate score of 6.5 is a standard set by many leading universities in Canada. However, many Canadian DLIs may still accept your alternative English proficiency test scores, but you need to verify it.
Yes, you would require student insurance to study in Canada. You can purchase private insurance policies to cover your healthcare costs for the duration of your course.
No, you do not require a separate work visa; rather you can find on-campus and off-campus jobs while on a study permit. The only requirement is you must pursue a full-time course at any DLI.
8. I have a 3-year study gap after my high school education. Can I still apply for a degree program?
No, most Canadian universities accept a gap of 2 years for undergraduate studies. However, students can apply for postgraduate courses after a 5-year gap.
Yes, you can re-apply for a study permit. Get in touch with us and our experts will guide you through the same.
Yes, you need GRE to apply for master-level courses in Canada. Many programs require a high GRE score for admission.
Most Canadian universities admit students with a score of 60% and more.
Yes, you can take your spouse/dependent to Canada.
Yes, a spouse or dependent can work in Canada; however, they must possess an open work permit. This permit is usually awarded for the duration of your course. You can check the eligibility requirements on Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship website to know more.
Yes, you can seek a sponsor to study in Canada. This sponsor can be anyone from your spouse, conjugal partner, relatives, parents, or any Canadian citizen.
It would depend on the institution you plan to apply to. Generally, transfer credits are only allowed between institutions in India and Canada that have credit transfer agreements.