Study in Canada: A Guide for International Students

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According to U.S. News, Canada ranks #7 in study abroad rankings. Having a reputation of being one of the best student destinations, Canada has always lived up to its mark. The city permits students from across the globe to study and have the best student experience abroad.

The benefits of studying in Canada as an international student is receiving the highest quality of education, low cost of living, affordable tuition fee, and being home to some of the best universities in the world.

As per data from Erudera, there are a total of 807,705 international students enrolled in the universities of Canada. There’s been a 13.6% increase in student enrollment from 2018/19 to 2019/20, with 160,842 students enrolled in bachelor’s degrees and 133,776 in STEM subjects.

Why do international students come to study in Canada?

The country has both private and public universities. Canada has 96 public universities that are fully funded for international students. The scholarships are given by big universities and smaller universities, too. So with quality education, diverse culture, affordable living, natural beauty, and hospitable people, Canada is the perfect place to study and experience the best student life.

Where do most international students study in Canada?

As per Erudera, these are some of the most popular cities opted for by international students in Canada:

India ranks first among the others, with 319,000 students enrolled in higher studies.
China has a total enrollment of 100,010 students in the universities of Canada.
The Philippines has 32,425 students enrolled in the universities.
France ranks fourth with 27,110 students holding study permits in Canada.

It is followed by Nigeria at 21 645, Iran at 21 105, the Republic of Korea at 16 500, Vietnam (16 130), Mexico at 14 920, and the U.S. (14 465).

Below is a step-by-step guide to help you in your admission process in Canada:

Canada is a perfect study destination for students and let us help you plan and organize your study journey.

Find a program and university

Canadian universities are highly ranked among the others in the world. They offer world-class education, community inclusiveness, affordable fees, excellent teaching, a research center, and job prospects. Below are the top 10 universities that have been ranked as the 10 highest-ranked universities in Canada and Global by QS World University Rankings 2024:

Entry Requirements for international student in Canada

There are requirements you have to fulfill to be accepted into the universities in Canada as an international student. Here are the entry requirements listed below:

Proof of acceptance letter by DLI

The full form of DLI is Designated Learning Institute, and it’s a proof document to show a university has accepted you. It is a very important document that you will need while applying for a student permit in Canada. The process of the application will take 1- 2 months, which will be mailed to your registered email address.

Meet the English language requirement

You must prove your English skills through an IELTS score of 6 – 6.5 or even higher. Canada also accepts TOEFL exams, and it is a popular choice among students.

Letter of explanation

In this letter, you will have to explain your intended reasons for applying for the student permit. You have to mention that you are in the process of applying for a student permit.

Proof of Certificat d’acceptation du Quebec

If you plan to study in Quebec for more than 6 months, you will need to produce this certificate, which can be applied from the official website of the university.

Canada student permit

Students need to obtain a study permit to study in Canada. This is not a student visa; if your student permit gets approved, then you will be given a visa. You should start to apply 3-4 months before you start your study abroad. It will take 35 working days to be processed.

Student visa for international students in Canada

Studying in Canada is good for students in terms of cultural barriers and blending in and being part of the culture. With so many students studying in Canada from all over the world, you will not be out of place and find it easy to network and meet friends. The student visa for Canada is an easy process if you meet the requirements and submit the documents as per the immigration instructions.

Apply for a student visa

If you have applied to study in Canada as an international student, you must obtain a student visa to Canada. Meet all the requirements mentioned above and others additionally mentioned on the official website of immigration, you can start applying for the student visa. If your study permit gets approved, the student visa will be approved along with the permit. These are the basic documents you need to submit while applying for a student visa. Check the immigration website for more detailed information.

Valid passport
Financial proof
Medical insurance
Academic documents
Proof of funds

Once you submit all the required documents, you can pay the fee and await confirmation.

Student accommodation and cost of living in Canada

After completing the admission process of studying in Canada and receiving an offer letter, the next step is to get organized and start planning for your flying date. Once you’ve covered everything, do not forget about your accommodation. Start searching for accommodation a few months before you start your academic journey. It’s advisable to book early to get the best, safe, and secure student accommodation in Canada.
The cost of living in Canada is low compared to that of the UK and the US. The tuition fees are lower, transportation is cheap and well-connected, and student accommodation in Canada is also budget-friendly.