What do I need to qualify for the September intake in Canada for my undergraduate, postgraduate or diploma programme?
Canada has no national grade or English score rule for the September intake, so each school sets its own. Undergraduate applicants typically need Class 12 and the programme cut-off, postgraduate applicants a recognised bachelor's degree, and diploma rules vary by college. Check each official page.
Eligibility for the September intake in Canada depends on your level of study, and there is no national grade or English score rule. Each school sets its own, so you should read the entry page of every programme you shortlist.
Typical Requirements by Study Level
| Level | What schools typically look for |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | Class 12 or an equivalent, grades that meet the programme cut-off, IELTS, TOEFL or PTE scores, and subject prerequisites such as Maths for engineering |
| Postgraduate | A recognised bachelor's degree, a relevant academic background, IELTS, TOEFL or PTE scores, and GRE or GMAT where the programme asks |
| Diploma and certificate | Set by each college. Post-graduate certificates usually need a finished degree or diploma, while shorter diplomas may accept Class 12 |
Extra Requirements and School Examples
- Some universities set higher benchmarks. McGill, for example, sets a minimum of a B+ equivalent for Class 12, and most programmes want more.
- UBC asks for IELTS Academic 6.5 with no band below 6.0, but these rules vary by school and can change.
- Portfolio: usually for art, design and architecture courses.
- Work experience: usually for MBA and some professional programmes.
- Interview or extra tests: for some competitive courses, depending on the programme.
My Advice
Open the admission page of each programme and note the grade cut-off, English score and any extras in one sheet. Treat the figures here as examples, and check the official university page for the latest rules before you apply.
Low percentage, study gap or no work experience?
Find out which Canadian universities you still qualify for.
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