With more than 6,50,000 international students pursuing Bachelors, Masters, Diploma/ Certificates courses in Canada, the option of pursuing overseas education in Canada has now become prominent amongst the youth. Canada’s advanced education system, top-ranked institutions along safe and secure environment has made many pursue their dream of studying in Canada. Along with these critical reasons, the one that turns many heads toward Canada is its pocket-friendly tuition fee for programs. If you have been aspiring to study in Canada but are unsure where to begin, here is a comprehensive guide that will shed light on Canada’s major universities, admission process, and visa procedures for international students.
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Cost of Studying in Canada
The total cost of studying in Canada mainly consists of different factors such as the chosen course, the city of study, accommodation, etc.
Study program | Average annual fee (in CAD) | In NGN |
Undergraduate program | 13,000 to 20,000 | 4,160,000 – 6,400,000 |
Postgraduate master’s degree | 17,000 to 25,000 | 5,420,000 – 7,900,000 |
Doctoral degree | 7,000 to 15,000 | 2,200,000 – 4,700,000 |
MBA | 30,000 to 40,000 | 9,570,000 – 12,770,000 |
- On-Campus: Varies from one university to another
- Off-Campus: CAD 400 – CAD 3,000 per month [128000 NGN – 960000 NGN]
- Travel Costs: CAD 80 – CAD 110 per month[26000NGN – 36000 NGN]
Note: These are approximate costs and can vary based on the city you live in and the CAD to NGN conversion rates.
Check Out: Cost of Living in Canada
Requirements to Study in Canada
If you are planning to study in Canada from Nigeria, here are the key requirements you need to keep in mind:
- Transcripts or Marksheet of your previous degree or diploma
- GMAT or GRE Scores for MBA and Masters programs in Canada
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) & Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
- Acceptable English Proficiency Tests:
If you are applying for a French-taught program, you need to submit French Proficiency Tests Like TCF, TEF, DELF, and DALF.
- Proof that you have sufficient funds to study in Canada.
- An updated CV (if required)
- If you are applying for a Masters in Canada or PhD program, you might need to provide two letters of academic reference with previous letters of employment. And if you haven’t studied in Canada before, you will also need an ECA (Educational Credential Assessment).
Here are the top alternatives to studying in Canada without IELTS:
- Provide scores of other English Proficiency tests like TOEFL and PTE.
- You can study in Canada without IELTS if you have studied in an English medium school for at least 4 years and you’ll have to provide proof through your academic transcripts.
- English-speaking country citizens are also exempted from providing IELTS scores in Canada.
- Opt for the English language course offered by the university.
Top Courses in Canada
The opportunities to study in Canada are endless; students can pursue an array of courses in Canada so if you are planning to study in Canada then check out the trending courses in Canada for 2022:
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Popular Intakes
To study in Canada, universities offer three popular entry points or intakes for admissions. These are Fall, Winter, and Summer. The fall intake is the most popular in the country followed by Winter and Summer. Summer intake is the least popular intake because of the limited courses and students applying to universities.
Intakes | Applications Begin | Starting Month |
Fall | June | September |
Winter | November | January |
Summer | February | April- May |
Scholarships in Canada
Be it for undergraduate programs or scholarships in Canada for masters, those wanting to study in Canada will find plenty of opportunities to fund their education. Here is the complete list of scholarships in Canada:
- York University International Student Scholarships
- University of Waterloo Graduate Scholarships
- Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program at University of Toronto
- University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship
- Ontario Graduate Scholarship
- Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Scholarship
- Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan
- National Research Council of Canada Scholarship
- Ontario Trillium Scholarship
- Quebec Provincial Government Scholarship
- Partnership Grams by Social Science and Humanities Research Council for Canada
- University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship
- Hani Zeini Scholarships
- Ritchie- Jennings Memorial Scholarship
- Erasmus Scholarship
Study in Canada After Senior Secondary School
The top courses to study in Canada after Senior Secondary School for Nigerian students are:
- BBA
- BCom
- BA LLB
- BSc (Information Technology/Software Engineering)
- BSc in Nursing
- BTech
- Bachelor of Hotel Management
- Bachelor of Interior Design
- Diploma in Business Administration (HR)
- Diploma in Office Administration
Popular Courses to Study in Canada after SSS in Commerce
- BBA
- BCom (Marketing/Accounting/Finance)
- BA LLB
- Bachelor of Journalism
- Bachelor of Fashion Designing
- Bachelor of Hotel Management
- Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA)
- Cost Accounting
Popular Courses to Study in Canada after SSS Commerce without Maths
- Advanced Diploma in Business Administration – Marketing
- BBA
- Ontario College Diploma in Business Administration
- Diploma in Business – Entrepreneurship and Management
- Diploma in Hotel and Restaurant Management
- Animation Courses
Popular Courses to Study in Canada After SSS Non-Medical
- Diploma in Engineering Courses
- Computer Courses
- IT and Programming Courses
- Lab Technician
- BSc in Physics/Chemistry
Popular Courses to Study in Canada After SSS Medical
- Nursing
- MBBS/MD
- Dental Courses
- Psychology
- Pharmacology
- Physiology
Popular Courses to Study in Canada After SSS Arts
- Journalism
- Fashion Design
- Language and Linguistics
- Human Rights
- Music
- Political Science
- Filmmaking
- Philosophy
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When to Apply?
Before applying to any university in Canada, you should first check the course availability based on the intakes. Here are the key admission intakes in Canadian Universities:
Courses | Intake Period | Deadlines |
Undergraduate/ Postgraduate Courses [Universities] | Fall Intake – September; Winter Intake – January | December – March; September – November |
Colleges | January, May, September | August – September; January – February; February – April |
Top Colleges & Universities in Canada
While making your plans to study in Canada, it is important to research thoroughly the top academic institutions and their prospective offerings in your chosen field of interest. Take a look at the following table in which we have compiled the rankings of top universities in Canada:
Name of the University | QS World University Rankings 2022 | THE World University Rankings |
University of Toronto | 26 | 18 |
McGill University | 27 | 40 |
The University of British Columbia | 46 | 34 |
University of Montreal | 111 | 73 |
University of Alberta | 126 | 131 |
McMaster University | 140 | 69 |
University of Ottawa | 230 | 145 |
University of Calgary | 235 | 200 |
University of Waterloo | 149 | 201-250 |
Western University | 170 | 201-250 |
Dalhousie University | 272 | 251-300 |
University Laval | 414 | — |
Queen’s University | 240 | 251-300 |
Simon Fraser University | 298 | 251-300 |
University of Manitoba | 601-650 | 351-400 |
Top Universities to Study in Canada without IELTS
Students aspiring to study in Canada can easily opt for alternatives to English tests like TOEFL, Duolingo English Test, and PTE. Some Canadian universities allow students to submit proof like the English certificate for school or opt for an English language course as well. Students from English- speaking countries are exempted from submitting IELTS scores. Here is a list of popular universities to study without IELTS in Canada
- University of Winnipeg
- Brock University
- University of Saskatchewan
- Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador
- Cambrian University
- Okanagan College
- Concordia University
- Seneca College
- Carleton University
Affordable Universities in Canada
Many affordable universities in Canada offer education programs for international students. Here are the top universities in Canada with lower tuition fees.
- Brandon University
- University of Guelph
- Memorial University of Newfoundland
- Canadian Mennonite University
- University of St. Boniface
- McGill University
- Humber College
- University of Calgary
- University of Northern British Columbia
- Centennial College
Grading system in Canada
Grade | Percentage (%) |
A | 86-100 |
B | 73-85 |
C+ | 67-72 |
C | 60-66 |
C- | 50-59 |
F | 0-49 |
Canada Study Visa
To obtain a Canada Study visa for Indians, one needs to apply to the Citizen and Immigration (CIC) which is the main concerned authority for obtaining student permits for international students.
There are two ways to apply for a Student Permit in Canada or Canada Study Visa:
- Regular Study Permit Application Procedure
- Student Direct Stream
Documents Required
- Letter of Acceptance
- Valid Passport
- Transcripts/Marksheets
- School Leaving Certificate
- Evidence of GIC Purchase
- Scholarship/Funding Details [If Applicable]
- Proof of your English or French Proficiency Test
- Student Questionnaire
- Medical Test for Canada Student Visa
- Family Information Form
- IT Records of your parents [Last 2 years]
- Use Representative Form (IMM 5476)
Post-Graduation Work Permit in Canada
Students studying in Canada are eligible to stay back in the country and apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit. Students have a window of 180 days to apply for the permit after receiving their final marks and work in the country for up to 3 years on the permit. Documents required are an official letter from your school and an official transcript or copy to confirm that you have studied at the university. To work in the country, the candidates must have completed at least one year of education from DIL registered university.
How to Apply?
To begin with the admission process, one needs to follow a certain step-by-step procedure to ensure that you don’t miss anything while sending your application. The following pointers elaborate upon the major steps you should keep in mind while planning to study in Canada.
- Find a Suitable Course and University
Thoroughly research the available diploma and degree programs in your field of interest as well as the universities offering them. Canada is globally famous for its prospective courses in varied specializations, be it Science, Technology, Humanities or Commerce. - Get the Paperwork Ready
Applying to study in Canada can be a lengthy procedure and it’s important to start your application as early as possible. Some of the basic application essentials include transcripts and mark sheets for your academic records, language proficiency scores (IELTS Score for Canada), letters of motivation, letters of recommendation (LOR), and Statement of Purpose (SOP), amongst others. We have also given a rundown of the different documents you need in the next section. - Familiarize yourself with Admission Requirements
Once you have selected the right course, check its admission requirements given on the university’s official website. Some of the prominent things you need to ensure are academic-related specifications, criteria related to work experience, information about the intake, etc. - Fill the Application Form & Submit
Major universities in Canada conduct the application procedure through an online medium where the candidates need to fill their personal and academic details, submit the necessary documents as well as the required application fee. Make sure that you carefully add all your details and go through them once again before the final submission. - Gear Up for Visa Application
Once your candidature has been successfully accepted by the university, you can start preparing your visa application. It generally needs around 60 days as well as demands many documents, so it becomes important that you commence your visa application as early as you can.
The most popular courses in Canada are:
- Hotel Management Course in Canada
- PG Diploma in Canada
- PGDM in Canada
- MBA in Canada
- MBBS in Canada
- MSc Nursing in Canada
- Masters in Digital Marketing in Canada
What are On-campus and Off-campus Jobs for International Students in Canada?
Do you know international students can avail themselves of the chance to work either on-campus or off-campus while studying in Canada!
The Canadian government has allowed international students to work for 20 hours a week while pursuing their education in the country. Further, one can choose from on-campus or off-campus jobs, and if you are an international student, your study permit must indicate that you are allowed to work.
On-Campus Jobs in Canada
In this type of job, you’re allowed to work for your school, faculty member, your own business, and a student organisation without a work permit. But as a post-secondary international student, you’re only permitted to work if you have:
- A full-time post-secondary student at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- A valid study permit
- A Social Insurance Number
Off-Campus Jobs in Canada
In such a job, you’re allowed to work outside your school. So explore part-time opportunities like a tutor, waiter, or in any other temporary positions, but you’re allowed to work only when you have:
- A valid study permit that indicates you’re allowed to work off-campus,
- Enrolled at a DLI (Designated Learning Institute),
- Studying a 6-month program that leads to a degree, certificate, or diploma.
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
Student Life in Canada
Canada invests a huge amount of money in education and its facilities. This makes the country among the most caught-after study abroad destinations. Let’s briefly go through the dynamic student life in Canada.
- Canada is known to have a multicultural environment that gives students a global perspective and also helps them build a stronger network.
- The country is also known for welcoming the majority of the immigrants which contributes to the progressive nature of the people.
- Students can explore endless leisure activities in Canada. Being home to many world heritage sites and lively festivals, students can engage in various activities.
- Canada is also known to have the lowest crime rates in the world. Canadians experience fewer violent crimes, and fewer break-ins and police officers follow strict ethics which makes it safe for students.
Best Cities to Study in Canada
Canada is one of the most diverse, inclusive, and beautiful countries in the world. The country values essential services like education and healthcare which is why you can find a college in every city in Canada. Here is a list of the best cities in Canada, you should consider for the future!
- Toronto
- Montreal
- Vancouver
- Ottawa
- Quebec
- Edmonton
PR After Study in Canada
After earning a degree from a prominent Canadian university, obtaining permanent residency and immigration becomes simple. The government offers a variety of options to help international students become permanent residents. The Post-Graduate Job Permit (PGWP) is an alternative for fresh graduates who want to obtain work experience in the business.
International students can also apply for Permanent Residency in Canada through the following avenues:
- Students must have completed two years of study and one year of work experience following graduation to be eligible for this class.
- Students must have a working knowledge of the French language and have completed a CEGEP programme at a Quebec-based university.
- Students who participate in the Provincial Nomination Program can obtain PR more quickly.
Canada boasts a diverse cultural landscape, as well as a vibrant social scene. In terms of ethnic diversity, the country represents a wide range of ethnic groupings. These organisations present fresh insights into everything from gastronomic delights to thrilling leisure pursuits. There’s a chance you’ll run into folks from your home country or neighbourhood.
Canada is a technological powerhouse with a myriad of job prospects. The industrial realm is primarily concerned with technology and innovation. As a result, those with a penchant for creative thinking can pursue a career in this country.
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FAQs
Some of the in-demand courses in Canada that are based on the most in-demand jobs are Vocational or College Instructor, Licensed Practical Nurse, Business Management Consultant, Software Engineer/ Designer, Industrial Electrician, Aerospace Engineer etc.
With friendly immigration rules and regulations, finding a job after completing your studies in Canada is an easy task as compared to other countries. Those who graduate from one of the designated learning institutions are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit, i.e. PGWP. Here is our blog which lists down the jobs in Canada with Work Permit for you to consider.
To study in Canada, you have to give proof of funds. Currently, the minimum bank balance which you need to have is CAD 10,000 [NGN 3100000 approx]. Furthermore, to study in Quebec, you need to have a minimum of CAD 11,000 [NGN 3500000 approx]
In case you are applying for a student visa, you need to score a minimum aggregate of 6 and a minimum of 5.5 in each section of the IELTS paper, for all the undergraduate degrees offered to study in Canada. For postgraduate degrees, you need to score a minimum of 6 in all four sections and a minimum aggregate of 6.5.
A medical examination is necessary for those planning to join public service courses or job opportunities. A medical examination might be compulsory in case you are planning to pursue certain kinds of courses in which case the university will specify the same or plan to take up a job that requires a medical examination. In this scenario, the medical examination will be conducted before issuing a visa for Canada. Courses that last 6 months or less, do not require a medical examination of any kind.
The basic admission examinations such as the SAT, GRE, or GMAT are technical examinations and basic determinants for the course pathway to study in Canada. Language proficiency exams like IELTS and TOEFL are also necessary to help the university understand whether you can survive in a predominantly English-speaking country like Canada. However, individual course admission requirements may differ based on the college or university.
Canada being a welcoming and economical study destination for international students is certainly the current favourite study abroad option for many students around the globe. To ensure you get selected for one of the top universities to study in Canada, it’s highly imperative to have your application stand out. Call Leverage Edu today and take the first step towards successfully studying in Canada.