Study Abroad in Canada: Visa, Requirements, Costs, and Scholarships

Benefits of studying in Canada

Studying in Canada offers numerous benefits for international students, making it a popular destination for higher education. Kindly find some of the key reasons why studying in Canada is important:

1. High-Quality Education

Canada is home to world-renowned universities and colleges known for their academic excellence. Institutions like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia rank highly in global rankings.

Degrees from Canadian institutions are recognized and respected globally, enhancing career prospects.

2. Affordable Tuition Fees

Compared to other popular study destinations like the United States, the United Kingdom, or Australia, Canada offers relatively affordable tuition fees.

There are also numerous scholarships and funding opportunities specifically for international students.

3. Post-Graduation Work Opportunities

Canada provides generous post-graduation work permits (PGWP), allowing students to work in the country for up to three years after completing their studies.

This facilitates gaining valuable work experience and potentially transitioning to permanent residency.

Many Canadian cities have thriving job markets in fields such as technology, healthcare, engineering, and finance.

4. Pathway to Permanent Residency

Studying in Canada can make it easier to become a permanent resident. Programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under the Express Entry system prioritize candidates with Canadian education and work experience.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) also offer opportunities for international graduates to settle in specific provinces.

5. Diverse and Inclusive Society

Canada is one of the most multicultural countries in the world, making it easier for international students to adapt and feel at home.

The country values diversity and inclusion, which is evident in its policies and attitudes toward immigrants and international students.

6. Safe and Peaceful Environment

Canada consistently ranks as one of the safest countries globally, with low crime rates and high standards of living.

International students and their families can feel secure while pursuing education.

7. Research and Innovation Opportunities

Canadian universities are leaders in research and innovation, offering students opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects in fields like artificial intelligence, renewable energy, medicine, and more.

The government and private sector often collaborate to fund research projects, giving students hands-on experience.

8. Quality of Life

Canada is known for its high standard of living, with access to excellent healthcare, infrastructure, and public services.

Cities like Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal are consistently ranked as some of the best places to live globally.

9. Work While Studying

International students in Canada can work part-time during their studies (up to 20 hours per week) and full-time during breaks, helping them cover living expenses and gain work experience.

10. Cultural and Natural Attractions

Canada’s vibrant cultural scene, combined with its breathtaking natural landscapes, provides students with a well-rounded experience.

Students can explore activities like skiing, hiking, visiting museums, and attending cultural festivals.

Studying in Canada is an investment in education and future opportunities, offering a combination of academic excellence, career pathways, and an enriched life experience.

Why Study in Canada?

World-Class Education: Canada is home to prestigious universities like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia.

Diverse Culture: A multicultural society welcoming people from all over the world.

Post-Study Work Opportunities: Generous post-graduation work permits (PGWP) that can lead to permanent residency.

Safe and Friendly: Canada is consistently ranked among the safest countries globally.

Study Visa: How to Apply

To study in Canada, you’ll need a study permit. See how to obtain one:

Eligibility Requirements:

• Acceptance into a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and return transportation.
• No criminal record and willingness to provide a police clearance certificate.
• Completion of a medical exam if required.
• Intent to leave Canada after completing your studies (unless applying for post-graduation work permits).

Application Process:

• Obtain Acceptance Letter:
• Secure admission to a Canadian DLI.
• Gather Required Documents:
• Valid passport.
• Letter of acceptance.
• Proof of financial support (e.g., bank statements, sponsorship letters).
• Passport-sized photos.
• Statement of purpose (optional but recommended).

Apply Online or Via Paper:

• Create an account on the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
• Pay the application fee (CAD 150 as of 2024).
• Attend Biometrics Appointment:
• Provide fingerprints and photo.

Wait for Approval:

Processing times vary but typically range from 4 to 12 weeks.

Post-Approval:

• Receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction.
• Present the POE letter and study permit at the Canadian border.

Permanent Residency pathway

Canada offers multiple pathways to obtain permanent residency (PR) for individuals with various skills, work experience, education, or connections to the country. Kindly find the main pathways:

1. Express Entry

The Express Entry system is the most popular route for skilled workers. It manages three federal immigration programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): For individuals with professional work experience and education.
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): For skilled trades workers (e.g., electricians, plumbers).
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC): For those with at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada.

Steps:

• Create an online profile and enter the Express Entry pool.
• Receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on factors like age, education, work experience, language skills, and adaptability.
• High-scoring candidates are invited to apply for PR through regular draws.

2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Canada’s provinces and territories have their own immigration programs tailored to their economic and labor needs. Each program has specific streams targeting skilled workers, students, business people, or semi-skilled workers.

Popular PNPs include:

• Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
• British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP)
• Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)
• Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)

You can apply:

• Directly to a province, or
• Through Express Entry (some provinces have enhanced streams aligned with Express Entry).

3. Family Sponsorship

Canadian citizens or PR holders can sponsor certain family members for PR, these include but are not limited to:

• Spouse or common-law partner
• Dependent children
• Parents and grandparents (via the Parent and Grandparent Program or the Super Visa route for long-term visits)

Sponsors must meet income and residency requirements.

4. Start-Up Visa Program

For entrepreneurs who have a business idea and support from a designated organization (venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator).

Requirements:

• Qualify for business ownership and management.
• Prove language skills.
• Have enough settlement funds.

5. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

• This program is designed for individuals seeking to settle in one of Canada’s Atlantic provinces: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, or Prince Edward Island.
• Open to skilled workers and international graduates.
• Requires a job offer from a designated employer in the region.

6. Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)

For skilled workers who wish to live and work in smaller, rural communities. Each participating community has specific eligibility requirements.

7. Quebec-Selected Immigration

• Quebec has its own immigration program. The Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) is the primary pathway for skilled workers.
• Apply directly to the province through their selection process.
• Once approved, apply for PR with the federal government.

8. Agri-Food Immigration Pilot

• Tailored For workers in specific agricultural and food-processing sectors.
• Covers industries like meat processing, greenhouse production, and animal raising.
• Requires a valid job offer in one of the eligible occupations.

9. Caregiver Program

Caregivers with Canadian work experience or a valid job offer can apply for PR under this program:

• Home Child Care Provider Pilot
• Home Support Worker Pilot

10. Study and Work Pathway

International students can transition to PR after completing their studies:

• Obtain a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to gain Canadian work experience.
• Apply through Express Entry or PNP once eligible.

General Requirements

• Language Proficiency: IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF (English or French).
• Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for foreign education.
• Proof of funds to support yourself and your family, unless exempt.

Admission Requirements

The admission criteria vary by institution and program, but here are the general requirements:

Undergraduate Programs:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Transcripts showing academic performance.
• English/French proficiency test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or TEF).
• Statement of purpose (optional).

Postgraduate Programs:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• Academic transcripts.
• Letters of recommendation.
• Resume or CV.
• English/French proficiency test scores.

Language Requirements:

• IELTS: Minimum band score of 6.5 (varies by institution).
• TOEFL: Minimum score of 80–100.

Costs of Studying in Canada

Tuition Fees:

• Undergraduate Programs: CAD 13,000–CAD 20,000 per year.
• Postgraduate Programs: CAD 15,000–CAD 25,000 per year.
• MBA Programs: CAD 30,000–CAD 50,000 per year.

Living Expenses:

• Accommodation: CAD 500–CAD 1,500 per month (depending on type and city).
• Food: CAD 300–CAD 500 per month.
• Transportation: CAD 100–CAD 150 per month.
• Miscellaneous: CAD 200–CAD 300 per month.

Health Insurance:

• CAD 600–CAD 900 per year (mandatory for international students).

Total Annual Cost:

• CAD 20,000–CAD 35,000, depending on the program and city.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Canada offers numerous scholarships to help international students manage costs. These are provided by the government, universities, and private organizations.

Government Scholarships:

• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: For doctoral students (CAD 50,000/year for three years).
• Canada-ASEAN Scholarships: For students from ASEAN member states.

University Scholarships:

• University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson Scholarship: Covers tuition, books, and living expenses.
• UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award: Merit-based and needs-based funding.
• McGill Entrance Scholarships: Vary in amount and eligibility.

Private/NGO Scholarships:

• Trudeau Foundation Scholarships: For doctoral students in social sciences and humanities.
• Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program: For students from Commonwealth countries.

Tips for Prospective Students

• Start Early: Begin your application process at least 12 months in advance.
• Research Universities: Choose programs and institutions that align with your career goals.
• Prepare Finances: Ensure you have sufficient funds to meet visa requirements.
• Apply for Scholarships: Most scholarships have deadlines 6–12 months before the start of the academic year.
• Improve Language Skills: Achieving a higher language test score increases your chances of admission.

After Graduation

International students can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing them to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies. This can also serve as a pathway to permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

Where to find scholarship in Canada

Finding scholarships in Canada for international students involves exploring opportunities provided by the Canadian government, universities, and external organizations. Here are some reliable sources and suggestions:

1. Government of Canada Scholarships

• Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED): Offers funding for students from ASEAN countries.
• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: For doctoral students showing leadership skills and high academic achievement.
• Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships: For international postdoctoral researchers.

Visit the Government of Canada Scholarships website to explore more options.

2. University Scholarships

Many Canadian universities offer scholarships to attract talented international students. Examples include:

• University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship: Covers tuition, books, and living expenses.
• University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program: Offers financial support based on need and merit.
• York University International Student Scholarship: Awards up to CAD 35,000 per year.
• Carleton University Entrance Awards: For high-achieving students entering undergraduate programs.

Check the websites of the universities you are interested in for their scholarship programs.

3. Provincial Scholarships

Some provinces have programs for international students. For instance:

• Ontario Trillium Scholarship: For international Ph.D. candidates studying in Ontario.
• British Columbia International Scholarships: Administered through BC universities.

4. External Organizations

• MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program: Provides scholarships to African students at participating Canadian universities.
• Commonwealth Scholarships: For students from Commonwealth countries.
• Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships: For doctoral students in social sciences and humanities.

5. Scholarship Search Engines

Use these platforms to find tailored opportunities:

• ScholarshipsCanada.com
• Yconic.com
• InternationalScholarships.com

6. Local Canadian Embassies and Consulates

They often have information on scholarships and funding opportunities available for students from your country.

Can a Nigerian apply for scholarship in Canada?

Canada offers diverse range of scholarship opportunities for both domestic and international students.

These scholarships cater to different academic levels and fields of study, reflecting Canada’s commitment to fostering educational excellence.

Conclusion

Studying in Canada is a rewarding experience, combining academic excellence with cultural diversity. With proper planning and preparation, you can make the most of this opportunity and pave the way for a successful future.