Canada is one of the world’s leading destinations for people who intend to live outside their home country. It is also a destination for international students to study, with over 800,000 students from countries worldwide. Research shows that international students are attracted to Canada for several reasons. Some of these include:
- High-quality education offered by Canadian schools
- Opportunities for international students to obtain work permits during and after their academic pursuit
- A hitch-free transition to obtaining Canadian permanent residency
- Opportunities for studying in English and/or French Languages
- A safe and secure environment that encourages and enhances cultural diversity
- Affordable and pocket-friendly environment
This article provides a complete guide for international students to pursue their academic aspiration of studying in Canada.
Below are the guidelines for International Students on how to study in Canada:
Select a Study Program and Understand the Requirements
To successfully apply to a Canadian learning or educational institution, it is crucial to understand the different requirements for universities and colleges and the courses or programs they offer. Candidates are expected to carefully analyze the rules and regulations applicable to the study permit application process. Only recognized learning institutions and the duration of approved study will be allowed. Some common requirements for all universities, colleges, and learning institutions include an updated passport and proficiency in either English or French languages, depending on the province. This will be accompanied by proof of passing the prescribed language tests with minimum grades and proof that you can finance your studies, as well as your cost of living in the country throughout your stay. Ideally, requirements vary among provinces, so this step must be performed carefully and systematically. In other words, planning your study permit should begin a year ahead of the year you wish to commence your studies.
Take the Language Proficiency Test
To gain entry into Canada, every international student must prove proficiency in English or French. The International English Language Test System (IELTS) is the preferred test for proficiency in English, with some institutions also accepting the Cambridge English: Advanced or the Test Of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) exam score. This standard test assesses the potential of non-native English speakers who plan to study in English-speaking universities or colleges to understand English. The Test d’évaluation de Français (TEF) exam is the most common option for international students who want to study in the French-speaking province of Canada. Choose the test, pay the fee, and book your dates in advance. You must brush up your language skills to ensure your application is not rejected.
Choose Your Preferred Institution and Course of Study
In choosing an institution of learning, you might want to look out for its status, such as if it is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Only Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) can admit foreign students. It will also require that you finalise a specific major course when applying to study in a designated learning institution in Canada. The good thing is that the Canadian academic setup is flexible towards switching courses. However, it is best to compare your options before time and choose a major course that you are interested in pursuing. Once you confirm your interest, the university will send an acceptance letter, which significantly aids the processes ahead.
Apply for a Study Permit
Now that a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) has agreed to admit you, it is time to apply for the Canada Study Permit. Your application must be accompanied by the acceptance letter received from the institution, your passport, and documents to prove that you have adequate finances to study in Canada. Sometimes, you may need a letter of explanation, a medical exam, and other relevant documents.
While a letter of explanation will help the visa officer understand your goals (explaining why you want to study in Canada and that you understand your responsibilities as an international student). A medical exam may be needed for the following reasons:
If you plan to stay in Canada for more than six (6) months
If you recently spent time in certain countries
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If you plan to work in a job where public health must be protected
Additionally, if you have applied to an institution in the province of Quebec, you will receive a “Certificat d’acceptation du Québec” (CAQ) along with the acceptance letter. If so, include this document in your study permit application.
Note: To avoid delays, you must book an appointment for your fingerprints and photo (biometric) as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Once the application has been processed and an interview, if required, has been conducted, the immigration officer will decide upon your study permit application. If accepted, it is now time to travel to Canada. Your permit will have a start date, which is the date from which the permit comes into force. Immigrants are not permitted to enter Canada before their travel date. Plan your travel accordingly.
