Canada is known for some of the world’s top universities. The country accepts students in three intakes: Winter, Fall and Summer. Today, we will discuss the Winter intake in Canada in detail.
Out of primary, secondary and tertiary intakes in Canada, the primary intake gets the most admissions, the secondary the next highest, and the tertiary intake gets fewer admissions.
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Here’s an overview of all three intakes:
| Intake | Nature of the Intake | Admission Timelines |
| January/Winter Intake | Secondary | August-January |
| September/Fall Intake | Primary | December-March |
| May/Spring Intake | Tertiary | January-February |
Winter intake in Canada has fewer courses and universities available than the primary intake. But, it makes an excellent backup for those who missed the primary intake.
The Winter intake in Canada starts in January or February and goes on till the month of April. If you plan to apply to this intake in 2025, April and May of 2024 is the ideal time to start your preparation.
The Canada university application deadline for 2025 can range between August and mid-January, depending on the university. The best way to stay on track is to visit the university website and check for memos. You can also sign up with Leap and get application dates delivered to your inbox!
Most universities for Jan Intake in Canada have rolling admissions, meaning they accept applications until all seats are filled. However, it’s best to apply early- ideally in the month of September and October so you get a good consideration.
We’ve explored the timeline, universities and everything else you need to know in much detail. Let’s dive in.
List of Universities/Colleges open for January intake 2025 in Canada
Canada is widely recognized as a top destination for education, especially among international students. Its multicultural environment, high-quality education system, and promising career opportunities make it an attractive choice for advancing your academic qualifications and gaining valuable international experience.
University of Toronto
The University of Toronto is ranked #1 top university in Canada and #21 in the world by QS world university rankings in 2024. It is undoubtedly one of the best universities in Canada, with international students from over 160 countries.
The university offers over 700 course options and has quite a reputation in leadership and research.
Deadline for January intake Canada 2025: December 15th
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McGill University
McGill University is the #2 university in Canada and ranks at #30 in the world (QSWR 2024). The university enables students to learn from and collaborate with top researchers and industry professionals worldwide. 32% of the students at McGill University are international students.
Deadline for January intake Canada 2025: August 1st
University of Montreal
The University of Montreal is an excellent choice if you want to study in Canada. Ranked #116 in the world, the university is known for its research achievements. The university offers high-tech facilities, top-notch laboratories and comfortable accommodations. Montreal is an affordable place to live in Canada, which is one of the reasons why international students prefer the university.
Deadline for Winter Intake in Canada: September 1st
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The University of British Columbia
UBC ranks #34 in the world, as per QS World University Ranking 2024. The university offers over 200 graduate programs and allows students to customise the course to meet their career goals. UBC has a huge international community and supports them through various scholarships and other financial aid.
Deadline for January intake Canada 2025: January 15th
University of Alberta
The University of Alberta is among the top 5 universities in Canada and has an international student community from 150+ countries. The university is home to some of the best facilities and has a close-knit connection with industry experts, promising a bright career to all its students. Currently, the university ranks #110 in the world, as per QS World University Rankings.
Deadline for January intake Canada 2025: November 1st
Queen’s University
Queen’s University ranks among the top 250 universities in the world. The university offers more than 2000 combinations of programs. Over 90% of Queen’s graduates find a job within 6 months of graduating.
Deadline for January intake Canada 2025: September 1st
University of Waterloo
The University of Waterloo ranks at #154 in the world according to QS World University Rankings. The university, true to its ranking, offers world-class education and top facilities to a large community of international students from 120+ countries. The university has strong ties with the industry, and Waterloo graduates have a record of landing high-paying jobs.
Deadline for January intake Canada 2025: January 15th
University of Calgary
Known for its achievements in research and entrepreneurship, the University of Calgary ranks under the top 250 universities in the world. The university offers courses specially designed to meet industry requirements and has a 94% graduate employment rate. The university is in Calgary, one of Canada’s most affordable locations.
Deadline for January intake Canada 2025: September 1st
Simon Fraser University
Simon Fraser University particularly stands out for its contribution to research and development. Studies from Simon Fraser are published in the top 10% of journals. The university engages in solving problems for the world, like Climate Change. Graduate employability rates of SFU graduates are considerably high, with some courses exceeding 95%.
Deadline for January intake Canada 2025: October 17th
Is January/Winter Intake in Canada 2025 the Right Intake for you?
Choosing the right intake depends on multiple factors. Experts usually recommend the September intake, as it’s the primary intake.
Here are some reasons you should opt for the Winter intake in Canada.
- As a backup: If, for some reason, you cannot apply for the September intake, the January intake is your best option.
- Course Specific: Not all courses are available in the January intake. However, some courses are specific to only January intakes. If most universities only offer the course you’re interested in, the Winter intake in Canada, go ahead and opt for the intake.
- Faster Completion: Winter intake in Canada allows you to complete the course faster. But note a shorter duration to complete coursework might be overwhelming and requires efficient time management.
If you think you can pull it off, go for it!
The right intake depends on individual circumstances. If your course isn’t available, a winter 2025 intake in Canada might not be the best option.
Besides, not all universities offer Winter intakes, so check if your dream university opens admissions during this intake.
You must also note that Winters in Canada can be really harsh. If you think the weather can affect your health, you might want to consider opting for the fall or summer intake.
That being said, only an expert can give you a guaranteed decision based on the analysis of your profile, your interests and your goals. So, don’t hesitate to book a free consultation with Leap’s experienced counsellors today!
Timeline: When should you apply for January/Winter Intake in Canada 2025?
All students begin their journey at different times and phases of the year. Ideally, your prep for Winter intake in Canada should start between April and May.
You should have applied to universities by September and accepted admission offers by November.
Since the journey begins differently for everyone, planning your next steps is important.
The Canada January intake 2025 deadline varies with universities. However, if you’re starting late, which is post-July or August, it’s best to speak with an expert as you have a short amount of time.
Leap’s counsellors have experience guiding students regardless of their current status. Talk to our experts today to get guidance on your next steps.
Meanwhile, here’s the ideal timeline and a to-do list for your reference!
| Month | To-do list |
| April- May | -Research universities -Shortlist universities, or let us do it for you! -Find out the Eligibility & requirements for each university |
| June-July | -Take English proficiency tests -Take Entrance exams (if any) |
| August-September | -Gather all the documents -Apply to universities, or let us do it for you! |
| September- October | -Compare and accept an admission offer -Apply for a visa or avoid the hassle and let leap do it for you! |
| November- December | -Apply for scholarships -Find accommodation |
| January- February | Enjoy the start of your exciting journey! |
Final Thoughts
Several steps are involved in applying for the Winter intake in Canada, including finding universities that accept applications in January, shortlisting them based on your grades and requirements, meeting the university’s eligibility criteria, writing a Statement of Purpose (SOPs), and Letter of Recommendations (LORs) and more!
Sounds overwhelming? It can be if you don’t have the right guidance.
Leap’s mission is to simplify the process of moving abroad, and we have helped thousands of students on this journey.
Have a 5-minute chat with our experts and find out how we can simplify this process. Book a free conversation with us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What is winter intake in Canada?
A. In Canada, winter intake is when universities and colleges welcome new students like you for programs starting in January or February. It’s perfect if you missed the fall intake, offering you the chance to start your studies without waiting for the next academic year. During winter intake, you can apply for the courses and degrees you’re interested in, just like you would for the regular fall semester. It’s a flexible option for starting your academic journey sooner.
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Q. Does Canada have a winter intake?
A. Yes, Canada does have a winter intake. It’s the time when universities and colleges welcome new students for programs starting in January or February. If you missed the fall intake, this is a great opportunity to begin your studies without waiting for the next academic year. During winter intake, you can apply for various courses and degrees, just like you would for the regular fall semester. It’s a flexible option for starting your academic journey sooner.
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Q. Is it easier to get accepted in winter intake in Canada?
A. Admission during winter intake in Canada might be slightly easier due to fewer applicants than the fall intake. However, acceptance still depends on meeting the institution’s criteria and program requirements. Winter intake offers an alternative entry point for students who miss the fall deadline or seek a more flexible start to their academic journey. It’s essential to meet deadlines, fulfil requirements, and demonstrate qualifications to secure admission during this intake period.
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Q. What are the admission requirements for winter intake in Canada?
A. Admission requirements for winter intake in Canada vary depending on the institution and program. Generally, applicants must submit an application form, academic transcripts, English language proficiency test scores (if applicable), letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Some programs may require additional documents such as a portfolio or standardized test scores (e.g., SAT, GRE). Meeting deadlines and fulfilling specific criteria outlined by the institution are crucial for successful admission during winter intake.
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Q. Are scholarships available for Winter intake in Canada?
A. Absolutely! Scholarships are up for grabs during the winter intake in Canada. Many universities and colleges set aside funds specifically for international students starting in the winter term. Plus, there are government-funded scholarships you might qualify for. Just make sure you do your homework on deadlines and requirements—they can vary a lot. Check out the websites of Canadian universities and colleges, as well as the Canadian government’s site, for more details on these opportunities.
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Q. Which intake is better among all UK intakes?
A. In the UK, the most popular time to start university is in September (fall). This intake has the most courses and scholarships available, but it’s also the most competitive. If you want to start sooner and face less competition, you might think about the January intake. However, keep in mind that there might be fewer courses to choose from during this time.
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Q. What are some popular courses for winter intake in Canada?
A. During winter intakes in Canada, programs such as Computer Science, IT, Business Administration, and Health Sciences experience increased enrollment. These fields are highly sought after due to their demand, attracting many students seeking to pursue careers in these areas.
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Q. Is the winter intake as popular as the fall intake in Canada?
A. Winter intakes in Canada witness a rise in enrollment for programs like Computer Science, IT, Business Administration, and Health Sciences, reflecting their high value and demand in today’s job market. Students are drawn to these fields not only for their promising career prospects but also for the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to society through their work.
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Q. Are scholarships available for Winter intake in Canada?
A. Yes! Canada offers winter intake scholarships. Universities use them to entice students and balance enrollment. Winter terms are less competitive, so scholarship chances might be higher. Research deadlines and requirements on university websites for specifics.
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Q. What are the disadvantages of winter intake in Canada?
A. Winter intake in Canada has fewer course and university options than the fall intake. The weather conditions during this intake are quite harsh, and aren’t for anybody. Otherwise, the intake is a great option for those who missed the first intake.
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Q. When should I start applying for winter intake in Canada?
A. It is advisable to start the application process for the winter intake in Canada around 8-12 months in advance, typically in the previous year. This timeline allows sufficient time for researching institutions, gathering required documents, meeting application deadlines, and obtaining a study permit.
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Q. Are English language proficiency tests required for the winter intake in Canada?
A. Most Canadian universities and colleges require proof of English language proficiency for international students applying for the winter intake. Commonly accepted tests include IELTS or TOEFL.
However, some institutions may waive the language test requirement if you have studied in an English-speaking country or if English is your first language.
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