Canada has become the destination of choice for many of the world’s immigrants because it is a country of incredible resources, vast geography, diverse peoples, abundant opportunities, accessible health and social services, and because of its proximity to the United States .It is an open, democratic and progressive society where newcomers are welcome to share in the country’s prosperity and community life.Tolerance and social harmony are hallmarks of Canadian society, offering people the freedom to maintain and celebrate their ethnic and cultural heritage, while participating fully in Canada’s economy. Moreover, Canadian education costs are relatively cheaper than US and other countries – by at least 30%. Coupled with its low cost of living, Canada is one of the best destinations for international students.Canada is a bilingual country with two official languages – English and French. Most of the French-speaking inhabitants live in Quebec. However, almost all non-Quebec based universities offer education instruction in English only.
Quality Education
Canadian universities maintain a high standard of academic excellence. They are at the forefront of information technology and many campuses have top of the line research facilities, ensuring students are equipped for the 21st century. A degree from a Canadian school is considered equivalent to an American degree. Canadian schools also offer some of the safest campuses anywhere
Institutions and programs
The degrees and diplomas from Canadian Institutions are among the most widely recognized in the world. The education system in Canada encompasses both publicly funded & private institutions, these include: Community colleges, Technical Institutions, Career Colleges, Universities and University colleges. Student have a diverse choice of 90 universities and more than 150 colleges ranging from small liberal arts schools to major research institutions including undergraduate, graduate and professional degree programs. Canadian universities are degree granting institutions (BA- PhD) and offer the same training as 4 year American colleges. Canadian colleges offer diploma and certificate programs similar to an American junior college. Colleges also include technology institutes and art programs.Indian students prefer these colleges, because they are directly eligible after 15 years of education for Post Graduate Diploma/Certificate programs, whereas if they enroll in the universities they would required 16 years formal education. These one year Certificate/Diplomas are designed to make connections between a theory based university degree.
Required tests
Canadian colleges and universities accept either TOEFL or IELTS scores as proof of English proficiency. Depending upon the institution, the score requirements are vary.
GRE is required for Master’s level admission, and some universities and programs may need a good score in the Subject Test too. However, for MBA admission, good score in GMAT is essential, in addition to academic performance, other tests’ scores and requirements as prescribed by the B schools individually.
Cost of Education
Studying in Canada is not free, but it is affordable. It is different by subject and by institution.
The average/approximate fees are as follows:
Diploma & Certificate Program – C$ 10,000 to $ 13,000
Bachelors Program – C$ 10,000 to $ 15,000
Masters Program – C$ 12,000 to $ 16,000
Work rules
Co-operative work programmes combine courses in many subjects with relevant work, giving students an invaluable head start with their careers. This assists international student in connecting to the Canadian job market. While pursuing their studies the students are allowed to work for the first 6 months on-campus and later on off-campus. The students are allowed to work 20 hrs per week during studies and 40 hrs per week during vacation period. Upon completion of study, international students are allowed to work full time in Canada in Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver for 1 years and 2 years in other parts of the country.
Applying for a visa
You may obtain study permit forms in your country of origin at the Canadian Embassy, High Commission or Canadian Education Centre. Applications and documentation must then be submitted to the nearest visa office. These are documents you have to submit:
Visa Application Form
Student Questionnaire
Official letter of acceptance from a Canadian University / College / Technical Institute.
Financial documents (bank statements, IT returns and other financial sources)