What to Know Before Going to a School or University in Canada

Canadian universities are popular since they often have lower education fees than other parts of the world. They’re also considered to be high-quality, and many students like the idea of studying in a different country. Before you decide to apply, remember that the word college has a different meaning in Canada than in the United States. College refers to a school that offers vocational training, which is usually below a bachelor’s degree. You can get doctorate, master’s, and bachelor’s degrees at a Canadian university.

Picking an Institution

Look at university websites and compare ratings to learn about the schools you are interested in. Ensure that you meet the entrance requirements before applying. While they differ depending on the school, you will need to have proficient knowledge of English. If you do not live in Canada, you can also find the equivalent international qualifications to enter, like the high school requirements. The better the institution, the higher a level of academic achievement you will be expected to meet.

You’ll also want to consider the tuition rates at each school you’re considering. While they are often lower than ones in the U.S., you might still need to take out private student loans. When you’re applying for your study permit, you’ll need to show that you have enough money to pay for tuition and living expenses, and getting loans allow you to do this.

Accommodations

Many students choose to live in dorms either on or near campus. As with a U.S. school, living in a dorm is a great way to meet new people. There are often shared kitchens or bathrooms in dorms. Each dorm has good internet access. You can also get private accommodations, which aren’t connected with the institution. It’s best to check with the school’s website to get specific information. You can often get eight or 12-month leases for housing, depending on if you want to stay there year-round or only for the school year.

Getting a Study Permit

Once a Canadian university has accepted you, you can apply for a study permit. This is required if you’ll spend more than six months in the country. You’ll need your acceptance letter and proof of your identity, such as a passport. You’ll also need to show that you have enough money for tuition and living expenses. You also can’t have a criminal record, and you may need to have a simple medical exam. It might take several weeks to process your application, so start filling it out as early as you can to avoid unnecessary delays.

Getting Scholarships

You can get a scholarship for one of many reasons, including financial, academic, and athletic. You might get one for academic excellence or based on financial need. Check with the university to see what scholarships they offer. Many have dedicated pages on their websites where you can see if you are eligible for one. You can get scholarships from many sources, so don’t be afraid to apply for several. Many universities also consider international scholarships for scholarships.