February Intake in Canada 2025 Requirements, Application and More

Canada, known for its world-class education and variety of cultures, welcomes a large number of international students each year. While studying abroad can be costly, the February intake in Canada offers a timely opportunity to join programs without waiting for the September intake. Popular fields of study include Engineering, Computer Science, Business, Healthcare, and Environmental Studies.

Beyond academics, students benefit from cutting-edge research facilities, a safe and inclusive environment, and strong post-graduation opportunities. This guide to the February intake in Canada highlights requirements, the application process and important tips to help you plan your studies effectively.

Who Should Consider February Intake in Canada 2025: An Overview 

The February intake in Canada 2025 is designed for students who need flexibility, want to strengthen their profile, or seek a smoother transition into Canadian academic life. Unlike the primary Fall intake, this mid-year admission allows students to begin their studies without waiting an entire year, making it an attractive option for specific groups.

Target Group	Why February Intake 2025 is Ideal
Students with Late Admission Needs	Perfect for those who missed Fall (September) deadlines. They can begin studies in February and stay on track with their degree and career plans.
Those Needing Profile Enhancement	Students who have strengthened their academic profile, through retaking tests, gaining work experience, or refining SOPs and LORs, can submit a stronger application.
International Students Seeking a Smoother Transition	Arriving before the September cohort allows international students to adjust gradually to Canadian culture, academics, and campus life for a more comfortable transition.

List of Universities Offering February Intake 2025 in Canada

Canada’s February intake, also called the winter or spring intake, is an excellent opportunity for students who need extra time to prepare, improve their applications, or missed the main September intake. While fewer programs are available compared to the Fall intake, several universities and colleges offer February admissions for selected undergraduate, graduate, and specialized programs.

Top-Tier Universities with February Intake

Some of Canada’s most prestigious universities offer limited programs for the winter term, these include:

University Name	Program Level	Expected Fees	Important Notes
University of Ottawa	Graduate & Specialised Programs	20,000 – 35,000 CAD per year	Limited winter intake for selected courses.
University of Waterloo	Master’s & Professional Courses	18,000 – 32,000 CAD per year	Only certain programs are available in winter.
University of Alberta	Graduate Programs	17,000 – 30,000 CAD per year	February admission is offered for select programs.
McGill University	Graduate Studies	20,000 – 40,000 CAD per year	Limited winter intake options, mostly postgraduate.
University of British Columbia	Postgraduate Programs	22,000 – 45,000 CAD per year	Winter entry for specific programs only.

List of Other Universities Offering February Intake

Many universities and colleges focusing on undergraduate, diploma, and professional programs have more extensive winter admissions in Canada, these include:

University or Name of College	Program Level	Expected Fees	Important Notes
Brock University	Undergraduate & Diploma Programs	15,000 – 25,000 CAD per year	Wide range of winter admission options.
Carleton University	Undergraduate & Graduate Programs	16,000 – 28,000 CAD per year	Robust winter intake for selected courses.
Centennial College	Diploma & Professional Programs	14,000 – 22,000 CAD per year	Offers multiple programs in the winter term.
Dalhousie University	Undergraduate & Graduate Programs	17,000 – 30,000 CAD per year	February intake available for various programs.
Douglas College	Undergraduate & Diploma Programs	13,000 – 20,000 CAD per year	Strong winter admissions for select courses.
Fraser International College	Pathway & Diploma Programs	14,000 – 21,000 CAD per year	February intake to prepare for university entry.
Memorial University of Newfoundland	Undergraduate & Graduate Programs	12,000 – 25,000 CAD per year	Limited winter intake programs.
Mount Saint Vincent University	Undergraduate & Graduate Programs	14,000 – 26,000 CAD per year	Offers February admission in multiple disciplines.
Niagara College	Diploma & Professional Programs	13,000 – 22,000 CAD per year	Extensive winter intake options.
Northern College	Diploma & Certificate Programs	12,000 – 20,000 CAD per year	Robust winter admission for various programs.
Seneca College	Diploma & Professional Programs	14,000 – 24,000 CAD per year	Multiple courses available in winter term.
Sheridan College	Diploma & Professional Programs	14,000 – 23,000 CAD per year	February intake for selected programs.
Trent University	Undergraduate & Graduate Programs	15,000 – 27,000 CAD per year	Offers winter admission for certain courses.
Thompson Rivers University	Undergraduate & Graduate Programs	15,000 – 28,000 CAD per year	Robust winter intake for multiple programs.
Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU)	Undergraduate & Graduate Programs	16,000 – 29,000 CAD per year	February intake available for selected courses.
University of Guelph	Undergraduate & Graduate Programs	17,000 – 30,000 CAD per year	Offers winter admission in select programs.
University of Manitoba	Undergraduate & Graduate Programs	15,000 – 28,000 CAD per year	February intake available for limited programs.
University of Regina	Undergraduate & Graduate Programs	14,000 – 27,000 CAD per year	Offers select programs for winter entry.
Wilfrid Laurier University	Undergraduate & Graduate Programs	15,000 – 28,000 CAD per year	February intake for some courses.
York University	Undergraduate & Graduate Programs	16,000 – 30,000 CAD per year	Limited programs available in the winter term.

Explore: Canada Intakes: Your Ultimate Guide To Studying in Canada

Requirements for February Intake in Canada 2025 

The February 2025 intake in Canada requires international students to meet specific eligibility standards set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). These rules ensure that applicants are prepared academically, financially, and legally for a smooth transition into Canadian higher education.

• To ensure a successful application for the February 2025 intake, students must carefully review and meet the following eligibility requirements

• Canada has introduced a cap of 437,000 new study permits for 2025, which includes graduate students (Master’s and PhD). This represents a 10% reduction from the previous year, emphasising the importance of early applications.

• Most applicants must now secure a Provincial Attestation Letter from the province where they intend to study. This confirms that the student’s application aligns with the province’s allocated intake.

• Applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover living expenses. For a single student, this amount is CAN$22,895, excluding tuition and travel costs. This applies to all study permit applications submitted on or after September 1, 2025.

• As per the new criteria for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) students to meet language proficiency standards and enrol in programs aligned with Canada’s labor market needs. Note that spouses of certain students may no longer qualify for an open work permit.

Application Process  for February Intake in Canada 2025

Below is a structured overview of the application process for the February 2025 intake, designed to guide international students through each step with clarity.

Steps of Application for February Intake in Canada for 2025	Action	Details of Application Process
1	Program and University Selection	Research programs and universities offering February 2025 intake. Review program prerequisites, GPA, and entrance exams. Applications typically open August–November 2024. Early application is recommended due to limited seats.
2	Preparing Application Documents	Compile academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LORs), valid passport, and other institution-specific documents. Ensure accuracy and completeness.
3	Submitting University Applications	Apply online through the university portal. Pay application fees and upload all documents. Some institutions may require an initial deposit to secure admission and begin the study permit process.
4	Applying for Study Permit	Required documents include LOA, Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL), proof of funds (CAD$22,895 for living expenses), passport, biometrics, medical exam results, and financial support documents. Submit applications ideally between October–December 2024. Ensure all new 2025 rules are followed.

Tuition Fees and Scholarships

When planning for the February 2025 intake in Canada, students must carefully consider both tuition fees and available scholarship opportunities. Tuition costs vary by province, university, and program type, with professional courses often being more expensive than general programs. At the same time, scholarships offered by universities, the government, and provincial bodies can ease the financial burden and make studying in Canada more accessible. 

This section provides an overview of estimated tuition fees for international students and highlights key scholarships open for the February 2025 intake.

Tuition Fees for February 2025 Intake

Tuition fees for international students in Canada are considerably higher than those for domestic students. On average, undergraduate students pay about CAD 40,114 per year, while graduate programs average around CAD 23,233 per year. These figures serve as general estimates, and the exact amount depends on the province, institution, and program chosen.

• Ontario and British Columbia generally have the highest tuition rates, while provinces such as Newfoundland and Labrador or Manitoba often offer more affordable options.
• Professional degrees in fields like Medicine, Dentistry, Engineering, and MBA programs usually cost more than courses in the Humanities, Education, or Social Sciences.
• In addition to tuition, students must budget for living expenses. The new proof of funds requirement for 2025 is CAD 22,895 for a single applicant, excluding tuition and travel costs

Scholarships for February 2025 Intake in Canada

For students planning to begin their studies in Canada in February 2025, several scholarship opportunities are available to help manage the cost of tuition and living expenses. While the number of awards may be smaller compared to the September intake, both government-funded and university-specific scholarships can provide significant financial support.

Scholarship Name	Level of Study	Value	Duration	Key Eligibility
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)	Doctoral (PhD)	CAD 50,000 per year	Up to 3 years	Open to students with exceptional academic performance, research excellence, and proven leadership qualities. Available for February 2025 applicants meeting program criteria.
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)	Undergraduate	Covers tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence	4 years	Awarded to outstanding international students beginning undergraduate studies in February 2025 at the University of Toronto.
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)	Master’s & Doctoral	CAD 5,000 per session (up to CAD 15,000 per year)	1 year (renewable)	For graduate students studying in Ontario with strong academic records. Available to those enrolling for the February 2025 intake.
University-Specific Scholarships	Undergraduate & Graduate	Varies by institution	Varies	Many Canadian universities offer merit-based scholarships. Some automatically consider February 2025 applicants during the admission process.
Provincial Scholarships	Undergraduate & Graduate	Varies by province	Varies	Several provincial governments provide awards for students admitted to programs starting in February 2025.

Explore: Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada

Visa Process for February Intake Students

The visa process for the February 2025 intake has undergone important changes that international students must carefully follow. Obtaining a study permit is mandatory before beginning any academic program in Canada. Below is a step-by-step breakdown of the updated requirements:

Step 1: Obtain a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)

• A new requirement for most students, confirming that the application falls under the province’s international student cap.
• Issued after accepting the Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

• Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a DLI.
• Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL).
• Proof of Funds: Minimum CAD $22,895 for living expenses (excluding tuition and travel).
• Valid Passport covering the study duration.
• Academic transcripts, certificates, and language test scores (IELTS/TOEFL).
• Statement of Purpose (SOP).
• Immigration Medical Examination (IME) from an IRCC-approved physician.

Step 3: Online Application Submission

• Apply through the official IRCC portal.
• Upload all required documents and pay the application fee (CAD 150) plus biometrics fee (CAD 85).

Step 4: Biometrics and Interview

• Provide biometrics at a designated Visa Application Centre (VAC).
• Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview for verification.

Step 5: Approval and Port of Entry (POE)

• Approved applicants receive a POE Letter of Introduction.
• This must be presented along with documents to a CBSA officer upon arrival in Canada to obtain the physical study permit.

Accommodation and Living in Canada

Finding the right accommodation is one of the most important steps for students preparing to study in Canada. The choice of housing not only affects overall expenses but also influences the quality of student life. For the February 2025 intake, early planning is recommended as availability may be limited compared to the larger September intake.

Type of Accommodation	Description	Average Monthly Cost (CAD)	Benefit of the Accomodation
On-Campus Housing	University-provided residences, dorms, or apartments; often includes utilities and meal plans.	800 – 1,500	Convenient location, access to campus facilities, easier budgeting.
Shared Apartments/Houses	Renting with roommates to share rent and utilities.	500 – 1,300 (varies by city)	Cost-effective, social experience, shared responsibilities.
Homestays	Living with a Canadian family, usually includes a private room and meals.	800 – 1,200	Cultural immersion, supportive environment for new students.
Private Rentals (Studio/1-Bedroom)	Independent living in a rented apartment.	1,200 – 2,000+	Maximum privacy and independence.

Average Cost of Living (Monthly)

Here is the monthly Average Cost of Living in Canada for the February Intake:

Expense Category	Estimated Cost (CAD)	Important Notes to Consider
Rent	500 – 1,600 (shared) / 1,200 – 2,000+ (private)	Toronto & Vancouver are most expensive; smaller cities are cheaper.
Utilities	100 – 250	May be included in rent for on-campus housing.
Food (Groceries)	200 – 400	Cooking at home is more economical than eating out.
Transportation	80 – 150	Student discounts available in many cities.

Also Read: Best Residence Options for First-Year Students in Canada

Advantages of February Intake for 2025

The February intake provides international students with a flexible entry option into Canadian universities, especially for those who missed the September deadlines. It offers reduced competition, smaller class sizes, and more preparation time, making it easier to secure admission and settle in. Students also benefit from a smoother transition to campus life and the added advantage of graduating at a different time, which can improve career opportunities.

Tips for a Successful Application for February Intake in Canada 2025

Applying for the February 2025 intake in Canada requires careful planning and timely action. Students should pay close attention to deadlines and prepare their documents in advance to avoid last-minute challenges. The following tips can help ensure a smooth and successful application process:

• Begin researching universities, programs, and eligibility criteria at least 9–12 months before the intake.
• Prepare for and complete English or French proficiency tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE on time.
• Ensure your Letter of Acceptance (LOA), Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL), academic transcripts, and financial proof are complete and accurate.
• Explore available financial aid options early to reduce the burden of tuition and living costs.
• Maintain proof of funds that meet updated IRCC requirements for tuition and living expenses.
• Submit your study permit application soon after receiving the LOA and PAL, as processing times may vary.
• Secure housing options early, especially for the February intake, when availability may be limited.
• Regularly check official updates to comply with the latest visa and study permit regulations.

The February 2025 intake in Canada is an excellent opportunity for students who wish to begin their studies without waiting for the September session. With reduced competition, more preparation time, and flexible academic pathways, this intake provides a practical advantage for both domestic and international applicants. By planning ahead, meeting application deadlines, and securing necessary documents, students can make a smooth transition into their academic journey in Canada.

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