Study in Canada: Admission Requirements + Costs

One of the best options for international students looking to study abroad is Canada. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in interest among international students, especially elite students, to migrate to Canada for educational purposes. Canadian universities are among the most prestigious and top-ranked institutions in the world, excelling annually in various fields of study and research globally.
Canadian universities are highly ranked internationally, and it is evident that the high academic backing of these universities impacts the cost of education in Canada. In this comprehensive article from Elm Vira Immigration Institute, we will examine various aspects of studying in Canada.

Study Immigration to Canada

Canada’s educational system, especially its higher education, is among the best in the world, using the highest academic standards for its universities. Renowned international professors, advanced scientific and educational equipment, scientific research, and remarkable research and educational successes are some of the factors that encourage international students to study in Canada.

Studying in Canada is one of the best ways to obtain a work permit and permanent residency in the country. Due to the high academic standards for admission to Canadian universities, obtaining a student visa is highly competitive and requires significant qualifications.

Steps and Documents Required for Studying Abroad in Canada

To study at Canadian universities, applicants must go through several steps, which we will outline below:

1. Document Authentication and Translation

Before taking any steps toward studying in Canada and obtaining admission, applicants must authenticate their academic documents. This process requires paying a fee to the university where they obtained their last degree. After obtaining the documents, they must be officially translated by certified translators.

1. Obtaining Admission

To continue studying in Canada, applicants need to gain admission from their chosen university. This requires thorough research about the university, the applicant’s qualifications, and consideration of the tuition fees in Canada. Once the university is chosen, applicants must submit the required documents for admission. It is essential to ensure that the documents match exactly what the university has requested, as any discrepancies could result in rejection. The required documents for admission to Canadian universities include:

• Completing the application form for admission
• A scanned copy of a valid passport
• Officially translated identification and identity documents
• Academic transcripts and certificates in PDF format
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• International language proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL)
• Research papers or proposals (for postgraduate programs)
• Proof of financial capability

1. Obtaining a Study Visa

One of the essential steps for studying abroad in Canada (or any other country) is obtaining a study visa. After receiving the university’s acceptance letter, applicants must apply for a study visa. In addition to identification documents, passports, and educational certificates (all of which must be officially translated), other documents required for a study visa include:

• Completing the study visa application form
• Official acceptance letter from the chosen university in Canada
• Medical health certificate
• Proof of a clean criminal record

Best Study Programs for Studying in Canada

When choosing a program for higher education in Canada, various factors must be considered. These factors include personal interests, job prospects, cost of education and living, and the likelihood of being accepted into a preferred university. These factors all play a role in the immigration process for studying in Canada.

Canada has one of the most successful and active economies in the world, with a very low unemployment rate. This makes it easier for graduates to find jobs related to their field of study. To make this transition easier, students should consider which academic programs offer the best job prospects. Some of the best programs to study in Canada, in terms of income potential and market demand, include:

• Medical Sciences programs, including Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Nursing
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Petroleum Engineering
• Computer Science and Computer Engineering
• Psychology
• Geology
• Engineering programs, including Electronics, Civil, Mining, and Engineering Management
• Finance and Business programs, including Accounting, Financial Management, and Bookkeeping

Language of Instruction in Canada

Most universities in Canada offer courses in English. However, in universities located in the French-speaking province of Quebec, French is the primary language of instruction. A language proficiency certificate is one of the essential documents required for admission to universities in Canada. Below are the language proficiency requirements for international students:

LanguageTestMinimum Score Required

English IELTS 6

TOEFL Bachelor’s: 80, Master’s and PhD: 90

PTE 50

CELPIP-General 24

CELPIP-Academic 24

French Test de connaissance de français Reading: 524-453, Speaking: 14-10

Test d’évaluation de français Reading: 263, Speaking: 393, Listening: 316

Benefits of Studying in Canada

In recent decades, the Canadian government has made significant improvements to its higher education system, opening up its universities to talented international students. Canada offers favorable conditions for education, employment, residence, and overall quality of life. The quality of education and university facilities in Canada is top-notch, which is why many students choose to immigrate to Canada for a secure future in both education and career. The benefits of studying in Canada include:

• High-quality education
• Various job opportunities
• High quality of life
• Permanent residency eligibility
• Availability of scholarships for students
• A scientific and academic learning environment
• Globally recognized degrees
• Job and life security

Scholarships for Studying in Canada

One of the crucial aspects that international students consider when planning to study abroad is the possibility of receiving scholarships. Many Canadian universities offer scholarships to eligible students. These scholarships vary and can cover a significant portion or even all of a student’s tuition fees. Students who are aiming to study in Canada can benefit from various scholarship opportunities by having an excellent academic resume and putting in effort. The most prominent scholarships available in Canada include:

• Government Scholarships: Funded by the Canadian federal government.
• Partial Scholarships: Cover small to large expenses, including tuition fees.
• Country-specific Scholarships: Specifically for students from developing countries.
• Merit-based Scholarships: Awarded to students with outstanding resumes or innovative entrepreneurial ideas.

Eligibility Criteria for Scholarships in Canada

Receiving a scholarship is one of the advantages of studying in Canada, as it can help cover part of the tuition fees. To be eligible for scholarships, students must meet certain conditions. The general eligibility criteria for obtaining a scholarship in Canada include:

• Maintaining an excellent academic record and grades.
• Participating in extracurricular activities, such as social activities or research publications.
• Demonstrating high language proficiency (this can increase the chances of receiving a scholarship).

Top Universities in Canada

Canada’s universities are highly regarded for their quality education, global scientific contributions, and the expertise of their professors. Every year, many top international students choose Canada for their higher education. Here’s a list of the top 10 universities in Canada, based on their global rankings:

UniversityGlobal Ranking

1. University of Toronto 25

2. McGill University 31

3. University of British Columbia 45

4. University of Montreal 118

5. University of Alberta 119

6. McMaster University 144

7. University of Waterloo 166

8. Western University 203

9. Queen’s University 246

10. University of Calgary 246

Top Canadian Universities

1. University of Toronto
2. Located in downtown Toronto, the University of Toronto was founded in 1827 and is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Canada. It has been the academic home to ten Nobel Prize winners, a Fields Medalist in Mathematics, and 94 Rhodes Scholars. The University of Toronto is the top university in Canada, with a system of education comparable to the leading institutions in the UK. The university offers programs at all levels, including undergraduate and graduate studies. A high GPA, a strong resume, and a compelling motivation letter are key to securing admission here. Some of the popular programs at the University of Toronto include:
   • Dentistry
   • Accounting and Finance
   • Mathematics
   • Civil Engineering
   • Law
   • Linguistics
   • Computer Science
   • Communications and Media

1. McGill University

One of the most prestigious universities in Canada is McGill University, established in 1821 in Montreal, Quebec. Many of the world’s brightest students choose McGill for their education in Canada. The university offers programs at all levels, including undergraduate and graduate studies.

Notable alumni include Nobel Prize-winning chemist Ernest Rutherford and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. McGill University has 11 faculties and offers more than 400 different academic programs. Some of the programs available at McGill University include:

• Bioengineering
• Dentistry
• Social Sciences
• Medicine
• Music
• Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
• Management
• Parasitology
• Animal Sciences
• Food Industry and Agricultural Chemistry

1. University of British Columbia

Another top-ranking university in Canada is the University of British Columbia (UBC), located in Vancouver. UBC is the third-best university in Canada and attracts numerous international students each year. The university boasts eight Nobel laureates among its alumni.

UBC has 19 faculties in total, with 12 located on the Vancouver campus and seven on the Kelowna campus. It offers programs at all levels, including undergraduate and graduate degrees. Some of the programs available at UBC include:

• Chemical Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Anthropology
• Visual Arts
• Physics Engineering
• Business and Management
• Accounting and Finance
• Dentistry
• Psychology, Education, and Counseling

Studying Medicine in Canada

Medicine is one of the most popular fields for both domestic and international students. Canadian medical schools are renowned for their advanced medical education and state-of-the-art facilities. Medical degrees from Canada are highly regarded globally, making it a popular choice for aspiring doctors. Studying medicine and dentistry in Canada offers excellent future career and academic opportunities.

The cost of education in Canada is lower than in the United States, with students being able to complete their studies at half the cost of private U.S. universities. Students who intend to return to Iran after completing their medical education must ensure that the university they attend is recognized by Iran’s Ministry of Health.

Some of the top medical and dental schools in Canada include:

• University of Toronto
• McGill University
• University of British Columbia
• McMaster University
• University of Alberta
• University of Montreal
• University of Ottawa
• University of Calgary
• Western University
• Queen’s University

MCAT Entrance Exam

The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is a standardized multiple-choice exam that prospective medical students must take before entering medical school in Canada. This test is designed to assess problem-solving abilities, knowledge of natural, social, and behavioral sciences, as well as critical thinking and reasoning skills. The MCAT is divided into four sections:

• Fundamental Principles of Physiological, Social, and Biological Behavior
• Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
• Fundamental Principles of Chemical and Physical Systems in Biological Systems
• Fundamental Principles of Biology and Biochemistry of Living Systems

Length of Medical Education in Canada

Medical education in Canada includes three stages: undergraduate, graduate, and residency programs. Below is an overview of the duration of each stage of medical education:

StageDuration

Pre-medical Bachelor’s 4 years

Master’s Degree 3-4 years

Specialization and Residency 2-6 years

Studying Dentistry in Canada

Dentistry is another branch of medical education that attracts many international students to Canada. The dental program in Canada lasts for six years, and like other medical programs, it is conducted in a well-equipped, academic environment. Upon completing dental education, students are licensed as dental surgeons or orthodontists.

The six-year dental program in Canada is divided into three 2-year periods. In the first and second phases, students learn theoretical aspects and dental fundamentals. In the final two years, students gain practical experience under the supervision of professors. Due to the sensitivities involved in medical fields, dental students are required to have excellent language proficiency.

Tuition Fees in Canada

One of the most important factors international students need to consider when planning to study in Canada is tuition fees. The cost of studying in Canada depends on several factors, including the program, the level of study, the university type, and the province where the university is located. International undergraduate students typically pay 429% more than Canadian students, and graduate tuition fees are 184% higher for international students.

Average Tuition Fees by Level of Study

• Undergraduate Programs: $30,000 – CAD 55,000 (Medical, Engineering, and Social Science programs tend to be the most expensive)
• Master’s Programs: $65,000 – CAD 107,500 (Business, Law, Engineering, and Computer Science programs have the highest fees)
• Doctoral Programs: $8,000 – CAD 20,000 per year

University Tuition Fees in Canada by Province

The cost of studying in Canada varies depending on the province in which the university is located, as tuition fees are determined by the provinces and territories. The highest tuition fees for universities in Canada are found in Ontario, with an average of CAD 45,245 for undergraduate programs and around CAD 27,149 for graduate programs. On the other hand, the lowest tuition fees are found in the universities of Labrador and Newfoundland, with undergraduate tuition fees at CAD 16,786 and graduate tuition fees at CAD 5,327.

Studying in Canada: College Tuition Fees

Some students who wish to study in Canada may choose to attend colleges, which offer shorter programs and therefore tend to have lower tuition fees. In Canadian colleges, proficiency in the language is more important, and factors like grade point average, transcripts, and age requirements matter less. There are both public and private colleges in Canada, and tuition fees depend on the type of college and the length of the program. Below are the average annual tuition fees for various public and private colleges in Canada:

Public College Tuition Fees in Canada

CollegeAverage Annual Tuition Fee

Fanshawe College CAD 17,250

Bow Valley College $5,000 – CAD 10,000

Seneca College CAD 11,970

Centennial College CAD 15,693

Private College Tuition Fees in Canada

CollegeTuition Fee

Camosun College $14,000 CAD

Humber College CAD 14,500

Niagara College CAD 10,800

Georgian College CAD 18,486

St. Lawrence College CAD 21,722

Student Dormitories in Canada

Another important aspect of studying abroad, including in Canada, is finding accommodation. Students must consider their living arrangements before arriving in Canada for studies. There are two types of accommodation for international students: on-campus dormitories and private off-campus housing. The first step in securing a dormitory is to visit the international student office or the university’s website. Accommodation costs depend on the type of dormitory, whether it’s on-campus, or if it’s private housing outside the campus.

On-campus dormitories are generally less expensive. They come with all the essential amenities suited for student life. Another accommodation option is living with Canadian families. Some Canadian families have agreements with universities to host international students. Below are the average costs for different types of student accommodation:

Type of accommodation cost

Student Dormitory $3,000 – $7,500 per year

Living with Host Families $400 – $800 per month

Renting a Suite $400 – $1,500 per month

Living Expenses for Students in Canada

Apart from tuition fees, prospective students should also consider the cost of living when planning to study in Canada. When applying for study permits and visas, applicants must demonstrate financial capability to cover their living and study expenses. The total cost of living depends on the student’s lifestyle, but here are the average monthly and yearly expenses:

ItemCost (CAD)

Health Insurance $70/month, $840/year

Textbooks and Supplies $600/year

Mobile Phone $360/year

Student Dormitory Rent $600/month, $7,200/year

Shared Housing Rent $700 – $1,000/month

Independent Housing Rent From $1,200/month

Utilities (Water, Gas, Electricity) $150/month

Internet $50 – $70/month

Transportation $480/year

Food $300/month, $3,600/year

Entertainment (Movies, Theatre) $80/month, $960/year

Student Jobs in Canada

One of the benefits of studying in Canada is the opportunity to work while studying. International students can work part-time during their studies by obtaining a student work permit. This allows students to cover part of their tuition or living expenses. Students must be familiar with and follow the regulations surrounding student work. They are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during their studies. There are two main types of student jobs:

• On-Campus Work
• Off-Campus Work

Additionally, there are different types of student work permits in Canada, including:

• Co-Op Permit
• Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGW Permit)

International students can also apply for a work visa after completing their studies, allowing them to work in Canada.

Conclusion

Studying in Canada is an excellent option for those seeking to pursue higher education abroad. Canada’s higher education system, known for its high quality, has earned its universities high rankings globally. To study in Canada, students need to carefully consider various aspects of their studies, such as choosing a university, understanding tuition and living costs, applying for admissions, and obtaining a study visa.

Tuition fees in Canada depend on the university, the program of study, and the province in which the university is located. Top universities and programs, such as medicine, typically have higher tuition fees. Elm Vira Immigration Institute, with a team of top lawyers, legal professionals, and experienced consultants, strives to provide the best study-abroad immigration options for prospective students. By completing a free consultation form, our experts will guide you in finding the best options for your academic journey.