Quality education, welcoming communities
Study in Canada
Recognised degrees, practical college programmes and a multicultural environment.
Overview
Why study in Canada?
Canada attracts students from around the world with high-quality education, a safe and welcoming environment, and multicultural cities such as Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal.
Students can choose between research universities and colleges offering career-focused diplomas and postgraduate certificates, so there are many routes depending on your goals and academic background.
Recognised education
Degrees and diplomas from Canadian institutions are respected worldwide.
Choice of pathways
Universities and colleges offer academic and applied options.
Work while studying
Eligible students may work part-time within limits set by IRCC.
Post-graduation options
Some graduates may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.
Multicultural society
A welcoming environment for international students.
Safe and peaceful
Consistently rated as one of the safest countries to live in.
Higher education
The education system in Canada
Education in Canada is managed by the provinces and territories. Universities offer bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees, while colleges and institutes offer diplomas, advanced diplomas and graduate certificates, often with co-op work placements.
Types of institutions
Study options include research universities, polytechnics, and community colleges. Every institution that hosts international students must be a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), and programme eligibility for post-graduation work permits differs, so we check this when shortlisting.
Universities students often explore
- University of Toronto
- University of British Columbia
- McGill University
- University of Waterloo
- McMaster University
- University of Alberta
Listed for information only. This does not imply a partnership or guaranteed admission.
Programmes
Popular courses in Canada
Subject areas international students frequently choose. Availability and requirements vary by institution.
- Computer Science
- Business
- Engineering
- Health Sciences
- Data Analytics
- Supply Chain Management
- Hospitality Management
Eligibility
General admission requirements
- Undergraduate: Class 12 or equivalent with subject prerequisites for the chosen programme.
- Postgraduate: a recognised bachelor's degree; some programmes require work experience.
- Statement of purpose and, for many programmes, letters of recommendation.
- English language test scores.
- Credential evaluation (for example, WES) for some programmes.
English language requirements
Canadian institutions accept tests such as IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT and PTE Academic, with minimum scores set by each institution. Study permit requirements are separate, so we check both.
Documents commonly requested
- Passport
- Class 10, 12 and bachelor's mark sheets
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Proof of funds
- English test score
- Letter of acceptance and attestation letter
- Medical exam results, if requested
Exact requirements depend on the institution, programme and visa route.
Budget
Tuition, living costs and funding
Tuition depends on the institution, programme and province. You must also show that you have enough money for tuition, living expenses and travel when applying for a study permit; IRCC publishes the current financial requirement.
Fees and financial requirements change regularly. Always confirm current figures on the official and institution websites listed on this page.
Scholarships and funding options
Institutional entrance scholarships
Many universities and colleges offer automatic or application-based awards to international students.
Graduate funding
Research-based master's and PhD students may receive funding through supervisors or departments.
Government and external awards
Some programmes, such as Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships for doctoral students, are open to international applicants.
Visa
Canadian study permit: overview
Most international students need a study permit to study in Canada for longer than six months.
Get your letter of acceptance
Receive an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution.
Provincial attestation
Obtain a provincial or territorial attestation letter if your programme requires one.
Prepare documents
Collect proof of financial support, identity documents and other required forms.
Apply online
Submit your application to IRCC and pay the fees.
Biometrics and medicals
Give biometrics and complete a medical exam if requested.
Visa decisions are made solely by the relevant government authorities and cannot be guaranteed. Rules, fees and processing times change, so always check the official sources below. Learn about our visa guidance.
Planning
Intakes and application timeline
September intake
The largest intake with the most programmes and scholarships.
January intake
A popular second intake with good course availability.
May intake
Offered by some colleges and universities for selected programmes.
We recommend starting 12 to 18 months before your intended intake. This leaves time for research, tests, applications, scholarships and your visa. Deadlines differ by institution, so we build a personal timeline for every student.
FAQ
Studying in Canada: common questions
Related destinations
You may also consider
Planning to study in Canada?
Talk to a counsellor about courses, universities and your next steps for Canada.