Study in Canada
How competitive is admission to Canadian universities for international students?
Last Updated: 12 January 2026Admission competitiveness depends on the university and program. Top universities like University of British Columbia, University of Toronto, McGill University and programs like computer science, engineering, and business are highly competitive and look beyond grades at extracurriculars and academic consistency. All the other universities may have more flexible entry requirements but still maintain strong academic...
What are the post-study work and immigration options?
Last Updated: 9 January 2026Canada’s main post-study work option is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing graduates from eligible Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) to gain up to three years of Canadian work experience, serving as a pathway to Express Entry and Permanent Residency (PR) through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Eligibility for PGWP depends on the program...
How do I apply to undergraduate programs in Canada as an international student?
Last Updated: 9 January 2026Applications are usually made directly to universities or through provincial portals like OUAC (Ontario),Education Planner BC (British Columbia) or ApplyAlberta (Alberta). Requirements typically include high school transcripts, proof of English proficiency, a statement of purpose, and sometimes extracurricular records. Competitive programs may have earlier deadlines, so applying 8–12 months in advance is recommended.
How does the Canadian study permit (student visa) process work?
Last Updated: 9 January 2026After receiving a Letter of Acceptance (LOA), students apply for a study permit by proving tuition payment, financial capacity, and intent to return. Many students also need a biometrics appointment and medical exam. Processing times vary by country, so early application is crucial.
Are there any standardised tests that we have to give for Canadian Universities?
Last Updated: 7 January 2026Canadian universities generally do not require standardized tests like the SAT or ACT for undergraduate admissions, unlike US universities. They primarily evaluate applicants based on their high school transcripts and grades in relevant subjects. However, there are some exceptions and nuances depending on your curriculum. If you’re following an Indian curriculum (CBSE, ISC, or state...
What are some of the top scholarships in Canada for international undergraduate students?
Last Updated: 7 January 2026Two of the most prestigious options are the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship at the University of Toronto, which covers tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence for up to four years and is awarded for outstanding academic performance and leadership, and the UBC International Scholars Program at the University of British Columbia, which offers renewable...
What is PAL?
Last Updated: 7 January 2026Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) is a letter written and signed by a provincial or territorial government of Canada confirming that an international applicant has a space within the provincial or territorial allocation for study permit applications and must include the following information of the foreign national: full name, date of birth, and address (of home...
Are Canada qualifications recognised worldwide?
Last Updated: 7 January 2026Yes, degrees from Canadian institutions are accepted worldwide and known for their quality of education.
Which universities in Canada are suitable for studying Psychology and Economics?
Last Updated: 7 January 2026The University of Toronto is particularly strong in both fields, with its Psychology department being one of the best in North America and its Economics program highly regarded globally. UBC offers vibrant programs in both areas with opportunities for interdisciplinary study and research on behavioral economics. McGill has strong traditions in both Psychology and Economics...
Can I pursue law as an undergrad in Canada?
Last Updated: 7 January 2026It’s important to note that Canadian law is studied at the graduate level—you cannot do an undergraduate law degree like in some other countries. You must first complete a bachelor’s degree in any field, then apply to law school with your undergraduate grades and LSAT scores. If you’re an international student interested in practicing law...
What would be the best universities for law in Canada?
Last Updated: 7 January 2026The top law schools in Canada are the University of Toronto, McGill University, and Osgoode Hall Law School at York University, consistently ranked as the best for legal education and career outcomes. The University of British Columbia and Queen’s University also have excellent law programs with strong reputations.
Do Canadian universities offer financial aid?
Last Updated: 31 December 2025Canadian universities offer limited financial aid to international students compared to US universities. Most funding comes in the form of merit-based scholarships rather than need-based aid, and the amounts are typically smaller—ranging from a few thousand to occasionally full tuition coverage for exceptional students. Universities like UBC, Toronto, McGill, and Waterloo offer entrance scholarships that...
Do extracurriculars matter as much as they do in the US?
Last Updated: 31 December 2025Extracurriculars matter in Canadian university admissions, but not as heavily as in the US. Canadian universities are more academically focused and primarily evaluate applicants based on grades and test scores in relevant subjects. Top programs at universities like UBC, Toronto, McGill, and Waterloo do consider extracurriculars, leadership, and personal profiles through supplementary applications or essays,...
What happens if I fail a course or take a semester off?
Last Updated: 31 December 2025As an international student, you must maintain full-time enrollment (minimum course load) each semester to comply with study permit conditions. Failing courses or dropping below full-time can jeopardize your permit status and PGWP eligibility. If you need to take time off for medical or personal reasons, you must apply for a leave of absence through...
What is SDS and should I apply through it?
Last Updated: 31 December 2025Student Direct Stream (SDS) is a faster study permit processing route (around 20 days vs 3-6 months regular) available to students from India, China, Philippines, Vietnam, Pakistan, and several other countries. Requirements include admission to a DLI, IELTS 6.0 minimum in each band, GIC, proof of first-year tuition payment, and medical exam upfront. SDS significantly...
What is co-op and why is it important?
Last Updated: 31 December 2025Co-op (cooperative education) programs integrate paid work terms into your degree, alternating study semesters with full-time work placements in your field. Universities like Waterloo, Toronto, and UBC are famous for co-op. Benefits include earning while learning, gaining Canadian work experience, building professional networks, and often receiving job offers from co-op employers after graduation. Co-op programs...
Do I need to know French to study in Canada?
Last Updated: 31 December 2025No, unless you’re studying in Quebec or applying to French-language programs. Most Canadian universities operate in English, and cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary are primarily English-speaking. However, learning French is advantageous in Quebec (especially Montreal), and might open more job opportunities in government and bilingual roles. If you study in Quebec at an English...
Which province should I choose for my studies?
Last Updated: 31 December 2025Ontario (Toronto, Ottawa, Waterloo) has the most universities, strongest job market, and highest diversity, but faces expensive housing and high competition. British Columbia (Vancouver, Victoria) offers the mildest climate, beautiful nature, and growing tech sector, but Vancouver is extremely expensive. Quebec (Montreal) provides lowest tuition for all students, vibrant culture, and bilingual advantage, but requires...
What’s the difference between universities and colleges in Canada?
Last Updated: 31 December 2025Canadian universities focus on academic and research-based degrees (bachelor’s, master’s, PhD) with theoretical depth and take 3-4 years for undergrad. Colleges (like Seneca, Humber, Centennial) offer diploma and certificate programs that are shorter (1-3 years), practical, career-focused, and directly connected to industries through co-ops and internships. Both pathways are valuable; universities are better for research,...
What is a DLI and why does it matter?
Last Updated: 31 December 2025A Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is a school approved by the Canadian government to host international students. You can only apply for a study permit if your institution has a DLI number. All universities are DLIs, but not all colleges or language schools are. Always verify the DLI status on the official IRCC website before...