Applying to Canadian Universities

Why study in Canada?

There are many reasons why students choose to take their higher education to Canada each year. These include:

1. A high quality education
2. Lower tuition fees than the UK, US and Australia
3. Eligibility to work up to 20 hours a week during term time and up to 30 hours during the holidays
4. A safe, peaceful country to study in
5. Option to transfer to permenant residence on completition of studies.

For more information and advice, please see our Why Study In Canada? guide.

What is the Canadian higher education system like?

Undergraduate degrees in Canada can take either three or four years to complete, depending on the university.

Postgraduate degrees last between one and three years to complete, depending on the type of degree.

Different types of higher education providers in Canada include: universities (which carry out research and provide both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees), community colleges and technical, applied arts or applied science schools (which grant certificates, diplomas, associate’s degrees and bachelor’s degrees).

How do I choose a Canadian university?

When choosing which universities to apply to in Canada, think about:

• Reputation and academic excellence
• International student support
• Location
• Costs
• Funding options
• Student feedback
• Graduate employment record.

For more tips, please see our Choosing A Canadian University guide.

What are the entry requirements for Canadian universities?

Each university in Canada has its own application requirements, although generally you will be asked to meet the language proficiency requirements if English isn't your first language, and provide the following as part of your application:

• Graduation certificate/diploma
• A completed application form
• Resume
• A letter of intent
• Evidence that you can support yourself financially during your study programme in Canada
• Two letters of academic reference that attest the preparation for Master/PhD studies (including letters from employers)

Please be aware that any translated documents should be notarized by a certified translator, and that you will need to include the original versions of the documents as well.

What documents are needed to study in Canada?

These might vary between individual universities, but you will normally be asked to provide:

• Valid passport
• Proof of acceptance by a Designated Learning Institution
• Proof of funds
• Passport size photographs
• Immigration Medical Examination (IME)
• English Language Proficiency Exam Score (if English isn't your native language)
• Statement of purpose
• Credit card.

For more information, please see our guide on Canadian university visas.

What finance arrangements do I need to make to study in Canada?

In the 2018/2019 school year, the average annual tuition for an undergraduate international student in Canada is $36,100 CAD (2022 figures), compared to up to $55,000 USD for the same year spent at an American university.

This means you will need solid funding arrangements in place if you are going to study at a Canadian university. Possible options include:

• Funding sources from your home country
• Financial aid from international organisations
• International scholarships and awards from your chosen Canadian universities
• Help from family and/or relatives

For more information and advice on funding your degree in Canada, please see our funding guide.