When should I start planning my application for the Winter 2028 intake in Canada?
For the Winter 2028 intake in Canada, you should typically start researching in early 2027, apply around May to August 2027, respond to decisions around August to October 2027, and finish the study permit before January 2028. Deadlines vary by university and course, so check each official page.
If you are interested in the Winter 2028 intake, you should start researching courses in early 2027. This gives you time to prepare documents, meet deadlines and handle admission and study permit requirements before January 2028.
Winter 2028 Planning Timeline
| Estimated period | What to do |
|---|---|
| January to April 2027 | Identify courses that accept January 2028 students |
| May to August 2027 | Prepare and submit applications according to each university's deadlines |
| August to October 2027 | Complete pending documents and respond to admission decisions, where applicable |
| After receiving an offer | Follow the university's instructions for accepting the offer and obtaining required documents |
| Before January 2028 | Complete the study permit process and prepare for travel |
If You Are Also Considering Fall 2027 or Summer 2028
| Intake | Estimated period | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2027 | October to December 2026 | Shortlist universities, check course requirements and prepare documents |
| Fall 2027 | December 2026 to March 2027 | Submit applications according to university deadlines |
| Summer 2028 | June to September 2027 | Research universities and identify courses with a Summer 2028 start |
| Summer 2028 | September to December 2027 | Prepare documents and submit applications where the window is open |
My Advice
Treat these months as a rough guide only. Some universities open or close Winter 2028 applications earlier or later, so read each course page and its official calendar, and leave ample time for your study permit application.
Canada Jan, May or Sep 2027: Which Intake Can You Still Apply For?
Get a personalised timeline before deadlines close.
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