Study in Canada: a guide for international students
Canada offers high-quality universities and career-focused colleges in welcoming, multicultural cities. EduQuantica helps you choose a course at a designated institution, apply with complete documents and prepare a strong study permit application.
Why study in Canada?
Canadian qualifications are respected worldwide, and colleges offer practical diplomas alongside university degrees. Many programmes include co-op placements that give you work experience while you study.
Partner universities in Canada
Our Canadian partners include University Canada West, the University of Niagara Falls Canada and Coquitlam College, plus colleges in Toronto. See the full list below.
Entry requirements
Colleges and universities look at your school results or previous degree, and most ask for an English test such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE or Duolingo. Your institution must be a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) for you to get a study permit.
Intakes
The main intake is September, with January intakes at many institutions and May intakes for some college programmes. Because study permits are capped and processing takes time, apply early.
Cost of studying in Canada
Tuition depends on your institution, course and province, and living costs are higher in cities such as Toronto and Vancouver. For your study permit you must show you can pay your first-year tuition plus a set amount for living costs — check the current figure on the IRCC website.
Scholarships in Canada
Many institutions offer entrance scholarships and tuition discounts for international students. Your counsellor will find the awards you are eligible for and help you apply on time.
Canadian study permit
To study in Canada for more than six months you usually need a study permit from IRCC. You will normally need:
- A letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- A provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL) for most applicants — some students, such as certain master's and doctoral students, are exempt, and your institution will confirm
- Proof of funds for tuition and living costs
- Biometrics and any medical exam requested
Students going to Quebec also need a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ). Check the current requirements on the IRCC website before you apply. Eligible graduates may be able to work in Canada after their studies through the Post-Graduation Work Permit — confirm the current rules on IRCC.
How EduQuantica helps you study in Canada
We shortlist DLI-listed colleges and universities for your goals, check your documents and funds, support your applications and help you prepare your study permit file.
Applications to this destination are not free of charge: pricing depends on the services you need, so speak to our team for a quote.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)?
A DLI is a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. You need an offer from a DLI to apply for a study permit.
Do I need a provincial attestation letter (PAL)?
Most study permit applicants do, but some groups are exempt, including certain master's and doctoral students. Your institution will tell you whether your programme needs one.
Is EduQuantica's help with Canadian applications free?
No. Our UK services are free, but applications to Canada carry a fee that depends on the services you need. Speak to our team for pricing.
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