The popularity of studying in Canada among Indian students stems from several reasons.
With a substantial population of nearly half a million international students, Canada has gained a reputation for providing top-notch education at reasonable tuition fees, coupled with internationally recognized degrees. Additionally, the country’s exceptional quality of life, extensive post-study work prospects, and immigration opportunities make it a highly sought-after destination for Indian students pursuing their studies in Canada.
The criteria for obtaining a student visa for Canada
In order to pursue studies in Canada, students are required to obtain a study permit, which serves as a crucial immigration document for international students. While a student visa grants entry into Canada, the study permit validates their stay in the country.
It is important to note that holding a study permit comes with the responsibility of maintaining enrollment and making consistent progress towards the completion of the chosen course. Furthermore, alongside the study permit, students are also issued a visitor visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which enables entry into Canada. For the most up-to-date information and assistance from authorized migration experts, our team of specialists is readily available to support you.
The expenses associated with studying in Canada.
The cost of studying in Canada is influenced by factors such as the chosen qualification and institution. Typically, you can expect to allocate approximately CAD 13,000 to CAD 35,000 per year to cover tuition fees.
In general, humanities, education, and arts courses tend to be relatively more affordable, while disciplines like medicine and engineering are likely to have higher costs. For postgraduate studies, tuition fees tend to be higher, with variations depending on the specific program.
It is worth noting that MBA programs, as is often the case globally, tend to be among the most expensive, with average costs ranging from CAD 30,000 to CAD 42,000.
Please keep in mind that these figures are indicative and can vary depending on individual universities and programs.
| S.no. | Study program | Average annual fee |
| 1 | Undergraduate program | $13,000 to $20,000 |
| 2 | Postgraduate master’s degree | $17,000 to $25,000 |
| 3 | Doctoral degree | $7,000 to $15,000 |
| 4 | Masters of Business administration (MBA) | $30,000 to $40,000 |
The availability of scholarships for studying in Canada
Below are several sought-after government-funded scholarships that Indian students can access to pursue their studies in Canada:
| S. No. | Name of the scholarship | Description |
| 1 | Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute | A diverse range of fellowships is provided at various levels, encompassing graduate, post-doctorate, and research opportunities, as well as training fellowships. |
| 2 | Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan | This scheme identifies students with high intellect from Commonwealth countries applying to programs of advanced study and research at the Master’s and Ph.D. level |
| 3 | Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program | This scholarship is open to graduate students across a wide range of disciplines. |
| 4 | National Research Council of Canada (NRCC) | Research associateships are available to individuals who hold a master’s degree in engineering or a Ph.D. in natural science or engineering disciplines. |
| 5 | Quebec Provincial Government Scholarship | This scholarship is specifically designed for students pursuing their studies in Quebec. |
| 6 | Ontario Trillium Scholarship | Originally introduced in November 2010, this opportunity was initially established for doctoral students worldwide who aspire to study in Ontario. |
| 7 | Partnership Grants by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada | This scholarship is for Ph.D. candidates. |
| 8 | Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships | The Canadian government extends this opportunity to international students seeking to pursue postgraduate programs focused on natural science, social sciences, or healthcare research. |
| 9 | Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships | The Government of Canada grants this scholarship to outstanding students who aspire to pursue a doctoral degree at a Canadian institution. |
The available intakes for studying in Canada
In contrast to the single intake system followed by Indian universities, Canadian colleges and universities offer three intakes, which may also be referred to as semesters. These intakes include:
- Fall: The Fall intake, commencing in September, is highly favoured by Indian students.
- Winter: Starting in January, the Winter intake provides an alternative for those who miss the September intake.
- Summer: The Summer intake, available for select programs and colleges, typically begins in April or May.
Please note that the availability of programs may vary for the Summer intake.
Top courses to study in Canada
Here are the popular courses that you can choose for studying in Canada:
- Computer science
- Business
- Engineering
- Health sciences
- Physiotherapy
- Information technology
- Animation and gaming
- Hospitality
Exploring Top universities to study in Canada
| S. No. | Institution | QS Ranking 2023 (Globally) | QS Ranking 2022 (Globally) |
| 1 | University of Toronto | 34 | 26 |
| 2 | McGill University | 31 | =27 |
| 3 | University of British Columbia | 47 | 46 |
| 4 | University of Montreal | 116 | 111 |
| 5 | University of Alberta | 110 | 126 |
| 6 | McMaster University | 152 | 140 |
| 7 | University of Waterloo | 154 | =149 |
| 8 | Western University | 172 | 170 |
| 9 | University of Ottawa | 237 | 230 |
| 10 | University of Calgary | 242 | 235 |
Job Prospects in Canada
Strong Economy: Canada boasts a robust and stable economy, with various sectors experiencing growth and offering employment opportunities.
- Skilled Worker Demand: There is a consistent demand for skilled workers in various industries, such as healthcare, technology, engineering, finance, and skilled trades. These sectors often have job openings and actively seek qualified professionals.
- Immigration Programs: Canada has immigration programs specifically designed to attract skilled workers from around the world. These programs, such as the Express Entry system, prioritise individuals with relevant skills and qualifications, making it easier for them to find employment.
- Work-Life Balance: Canada values work-life balance, and many employers prioritise employee well-being, offering benefits, flexible work arrangements, and a healthy work environment.
- Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Canada provides support and resources for entrepreneurs and startups, fostering a culture of innovation and business growth.
The cost of living in Canada
The cost of living in Canada can vary significantly from your home country. It is essential to explore the Canadian lifestyle and understand the cost of living in the specific city or region where you plan to reside. Quebec, for instance, is known for being one of the more affordable Canadian cities, offering a lower cost of living compared to others.
When creating your budget, consider including the following expenses:
- Communication Costs: Allocate a portion of your budget for phone and data bills, as you will likely need to communicate with friends and family back home. Look for affordable calling plans and student discounts. On average, monthly communication costs can amount to around CAD 20.
- Textbooks and Supplies: Purchasing textbooks can be expensive, particularly for courses like engineering, law, medicine, or pharmacy. Costs can range from CAD 250 to CAD 350 or even higher. To manage this expense, consider options such as buying used books, opting for digital versions, or utilizing library resources through a membership.
- Personal Expenses and Incidentals: Everyday expenses like laundry, toiletries, clothing, and dining out should be included in your budget. The amount you allocate for personal expenses will depend on the lifestyle choices you make.
The academic examinations necessary for pursuing studies in Canada
Here’s a list of other tests you may have to take in order to seek admission in a Canadian institution:
- Graduate Management Aptitude Test (GMAT)
- Graduate Record Examinations (GRE)
- Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
- Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT)
- Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
Do qualifications from Canada hold global recognition?
Degrees earned from Canadian institutions are internationally recognized and renowned for their high-quality education.
Is it possible for students to work while studying in Canada?
Indian students are permitted to work part-time, up to 20 hours per week, during their academic sessions, and can work full-time during scheduled breaks or vacations. Additionally, depending on the duration of their program, students may be eligible for up to three years of post-completion work permit extension.
What is the expense associated with studying in Canada?
When considering studying in Canada, it’s important to factor in additional expenses such as accommodation, food, health coverage, and travel, in addition to tuition fees. Canada offers high-quality education at comparatively lower tuition rates than many other countries. To effectively plan your budget, it’s essential to calculate the estimated cost of studying in Canada, accounting for these expenses. Tuition fees vary depending on the chosen qualification and institution, ranging from approximately CAD 13,000 to CAD 35,000 per year. By considering all these factors, you can effectively prepare for the overall cost of studying in Canada.
How can one provide a valid explanation for a gap after completing the 12th grade when applying for studies in Canada?
When justifying a gap after completing the 12th grade when applying for studies in Canada, it is important to provide a clear and honest explanation. Here are some steps to help justify the gap:
- Reflect on the Reason: Think about the reason behind the gap, such as personal circumstances, health issues, family responsibilities, pursuing extracurricular activities, or taking time to explore career options. This will help you articulate your explanation effectively.
- Provide Supporting Documents: Gather any relevant supporting documents that can validate the reason for the gap. These could include medical certificates, recommendation letters, proof of engagement in community service or volunteering, or any other documentation that demonstrates your activities during the gap period.
What is SDS for Canada?
SDS stands for the Study Direct Stream, which is a streamlined visa processing program for international students applying to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. The SDS program is specifically designed for students from select countries, including India, China, Vietnam, and the Philippines, who wish to pursue post-secondary education at participating DLIs in Canada.
Under the SDS program, eligible students benefit from faster visa processing times and simplified documentation requirements. To qualify for the SDS program, students need to meet certain criteria, including providing proof of language proficiency, demonstrating the financial capacity to cover their tuition fees and living expenses, obtaining a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating financial institution, and submitting a medical examination report.
How to write a good SOP for Canada?
- Introduction: Start with a compelling opening paragraph that grabs the reader’s attention. Clearly state your motivation for pursuing higher education in Canada and briefly mention your educational background and career goals.
- Academic Background: Describe your academic journey, highlighting relevant coursework, research projects, or academic achievements that are aligned with your chosen field of study in Canada. Emphasise how these experiences have prepared you for further studies.
- Career Goals: Clearly articulate your short-term and long-term career goals and how pursuing education in Canada will contribute to achieving them. Explain why you believe studying in Canada is the right choice to gain the necessary knowledge, skills, and global perspective.
Which are the top university for MS in Canada?
Here are the top universities for MS in Canada:
1. McGill University
2. University of British Columbia
3. University of Alberta
4. Université de Montréal
5. McMaster University
6. University of Waterloo
7. Western University
8. University of Ottawa
9. University of Calgary
10. University of Toronto