Study in Canada
Go north! Choose study in Canada for an unforgettable experience that will last a lifetime.
More than 180,000 international students select Canada for a premier education, global career opportunities and an exciting cross-cultural experience. American students can choose from the highest quality of education that will match their own top colleges and universities. What's more, you can experience international study in a familiar environment and return home with a degree that will be recognized around the world.
Consider this, Canada is known for vibrant cities, beautiful spaces and welcoming multi-cultural communities. Providing exceptional standards of living, safety and healthcare, Canada's superior education system is also internationally recognized for a competency-based teaching approach that is both practical and pragmatic. The fact that Canada boasts one of the world's most competitive economies is at least in part because our students are prepared to contribute to our productive system immediately.
Choose Canada: |
Canadian universities and colleges are primarily publicly funded and highly accountable for quality assurance. Students coming to Canada have over 90 degree granting universities and 175 colleges to choose from. They offer exceptional quality in teaching, research and campus facilities. What's more, tuition is affordable. You can transfer FAFSA loans to some Canadian schools and may even begin your career while you study.
Canada's college and university system commences after high school. Both streams offer a tremendous range of choice. Semesters typically run from September-December; January-April and many offer summer May-August options. College programs usually take two-three years concentrating on hands-on skills taught by highly experienced faculty and a credential that is directly applicable to the workforce or transferable to a university. University programs begin with three-four years of undergraduate study in a diverse range of programs with the option for in depth research and progression to graduate-level masters or doctoral programs. Campuses vary from large urban centers with a comprehensive range of programs, small liberal arts universities and campuses that specialize in areas such as business, communications and media, professional studies, applied science and engineering or the fine and performing arts. You will have thousands of options!
Professional programs, such as medicine or law, usually require that you study at least two years at the undergraduate level before applying for admission. As these programs are extremely competitive, choose an undergraduate university based on your needs for the first few years. It's important to excel in your studies and in extracurricular activities before applying to a professional school.
Canadian universities and colleges generally teach in English, though some teach in French and a few also offer a bilingual option. Canada excels in language instruction given our bilingual environment and diverse language communities. Many students also combine a language or study abroad experience with their studies.
Research is a primary component of post-secondary training in Canada. In numerous fields, including telecommunications, medicine, agriculture, computer technology and environmental sciences, government and industry support research initiatives focused on knowledge advancement and application.
The Admission Process Across Canada
Admission to a Canadian university or college is usually considered upon successful graduation from high school. A U.S. high school diploma, the general certificate of education and the International Baccalaureate diploma are highly regarded, and transfer credit is usually considered for AP courses. There is no standard admission test like the SAT, as each university individually assesses applicant qualifications. However, a strong emphasis is always placed on academic standing.
Application deadlines vary between universities but traditionally range from January 15 to June. Applying earlier than the stated deadline is strongly recommended to ensure that all documents are received and to ensure that there is adequate time to apply for a study permit once an offer of admission is made. For specific admission requirements and applications, students should contact each university directly.
Budgeting for College or University
You'll find that Canadian tuition is an excellent value when compared to other countries in the world. A recommended annual budget for an international student can range from U.S. $15,000 to $25,000, which includes tuition, accommodation, books, supplies, health care and personal expenses.
Scholarships, Financial Aid and Working During or After Your Studies
Scholarships are generally based on academic merit and are often awarded automatically at the time of admission. Some universities or colleges may also offer scholarships specifically for international students and require a separate application outlining your extracurricular activities.
Athletic scholarships are not usually available through Canadian universities at the time of admission. All students should consider funding opportunities within their home country through government, charities, businesses or private scholarships and may also check the Canadian Bureau of International Education. American citizens can also use FAFSA loans at some Canadian universities.
Full-time international students are eligible to work on or off campus during the year and summer. There are also opportunities to continue your work experience in Canada upon graduation for up to three years. Balancing your academic achievement with direct learning in a career-related job will give you an excellent advantage while contributing to your financial budget.
Immigration Considerations
International students studying for more than six months must receive a study permit before arriving in Canada. In some cases, a temporary resident visa may also be required depending on your country of citizenship.
Students planning to study in the province of Quebec must also obtain a certificate of acceptance (CAQ) from the Quebec government before applying for the study permit.
With thousands of programs to choose from and the opportunity to make your dreams a reality, you will certainly find something that's just right for you with the best environment and budget to meet your needs. Imagine, the key to your future in Canada.
Editorial provided by Georgina Galloway, Trade Commissioner, Edu-Canada
Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada.
Resources:
Education overview, Program search, tuition calculator, visa requirements www.educationau-incanada.gc.ca
Visas, Study Permits and Work www.cic.gc.ca/study
Association of Canadian Universities and Colleges www.aucc.ca
Association of Canadian Community Colleges www.accc.ca
