Study in Canada

Canada has recently updated their Study permit policies for 2025, which will significantly affect International students planning to study in Canada. Let’s take a closer look at recent Policy highlights.

• National Study Permit Caps - Yes, You Read It Right! The IRCC, i.e., Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, has set a limit of 437,000 study permits for 2025, which includes master's and Doctoral students.
• Provincial Attestation Letter: Many applicants seeking study permits must now submit a Provincial attestation letter, effective since January 2025, which applies to both master's and Doctoral students.
• Guaranteed Investment Certificate: To ensure that international students can manage the cost of living in Canada, the Guaranteed Investment Certificate fund requirement has been increased, ensuring that these students have the necessary funds during their time in Canada.
• SDS Route Closure: The SDS, also known as the Student Direct Stream, was a process that offered an expedited student permit to applicants from certain countries. It is now closed, and such applicants from these countries will now have to apply through the study permit process.

• Globally Recognised Universities: Canada is home to several prestigious institutions known for academic excellence, research output, and innovation across various fields.
• Safe and Welcoming Environment: Canada is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world, offering a multicultural and inclusive environment for international students.
• Affordable Education: Compared to other popular study destinations, Canada offers relatively lower tuition fees and numerous scholarship opportunities.
• Post-Study Work & PR Pathways: Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and immigration-friendly policies make it easier for international graduates to gain work experience and eventually apply for permanent residency.
• Quality of Life: With clean cities, stunning landscapes, free public healthcare, and a strong commitment to human rights, Canada offers an excellent quality of life.

Canada’s major cities are home to leading universities and offer a dynamic mix of culture, safety, innovation, and job opportunities, making them ideal destinations for students from all over the world.

The following cities are among the top-ranked student cities in the world, offering a vibrant academic and social environment for international students.

Source: QS World Rankings 2025

Canada offers a world-class academic environment backed by strong research funding, expert faculty, and industry linkages. The QS World University Rankings 2025 features 10 Canadian universities in the global top 200, reflecting Canada’s growing academic influence.

Below is a list of the Top Canadian universities for Indian students:

Canada is globally recognised for its practical, industry-aligned education, robust research facilities, and strong ties with leading global employers. Canadian universities and colleges offer a diverse range of programs that combine academic excellence with employability, making them an ideal choice for Indian and international students.

Top 10 Master's Courses to Study in Canada

• Business and Management
• Computer Science and IT
• Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical)
• Finance
• Data Science
• Biological Science
• Nursing
• Psycology
• Health Science
• Architecture

Canadian universities offer three major intakes: Fall, Winter, and Spring/Summer. The Fall intake (September) is the most popular and widely available across programs, while the other intakes cater to more specialised or limited course offerings.

Here’s a breakdown of each of the Intakes in Canada:

Applying to Canadian universities requires thoughtful planning, strong academic credentials, and clear communication of your personal and professional goals. Indian students must ensure their academic records, English proficiency, and financial planning are all in place to successfully gain admission.

When applying to Canadian universities, students can expect application fees ranging from approximately INR 3,000 to INR 9,000 (CAD 50 to CAD 150), depending on the institution and program.

How to Apply?

Step 1: Research and Shortlist
Identify programs and universities that align with your interests, budget, academic performance, and career goals. Check their eligibility criteria and deadlines.

Step 2: Consult Experts
Work with a certified education counsellor to streamline your application, explore scholarship options, and understand visa processes.

Step 3: Finalise Program Choices
Select 3–5 universities and specific courses based on your research, acceptance chances, and return on investment.

Step 4: Prepare Documentation
Gather key academic documents like Class XII mark sheets, degree certificates, transcripts, CV, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.

Step 5: Prove English Proficiency
Take tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Most universities require a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or a TOEFL score of 80.

Step 6: Arrange Finances
Plan how you will pay tuition and living expenses. Explore scholarships, bank loans, or personal funds.

Step 7: Apply to Universities
Apply through individual university portals or through provincial platforms like Apply Alberta or OUAC (for Ontario). Submit all required documents before the deadlines.

Step 8: Apply for a Study Permit
Once you receive a Letter of Acceptance, apply for a Canadian Study Permit online through the IRCC portal, along with proof of funds, identity, and acceptance.

Admission requirements vary by university and program, but here’s a general overview for Indian students:

Undergraduate Programs:

• Academic Transcripts: Completion of Class XII from a recognised board with an average score of 70–85%, depending on the course.
• Application Fees: CAD 50–150 per university.
• English Language Proficiency: IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL 80 or equivalent.
• Additional Materials: Portfolios for programs in art/design; video auditions for music/drama; personal statements.

Postgraduate Programs:

• Bachelor’s Degree: A 3–4-year undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 2.5–3.0 (approx. 70%).
• Work Experience: 1–3 years of professional experience may be required for programs like MBA or Public Policy.
• Standardised Tests: GMAT (650+) or GRE (optional/required depending on program).
• English Language Proficiency: IELTS 6.5–7.0 / TOEFL 80–100.
• Additional Materials: CV, Statement of Purpose, writing samples, or portfolios, depending on the program.

General Requirements (for both UG and PG levels):

• Valid Passport: Must be valid throughout your intended stay in Canada.
• Academic Transcripts: Class XII for UG, bachelor’s for PG.
• Letters of Recommendation (LOR): Usually 2–3 academic or professional references.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): Explaining academic background, future plans, and why you chose the program/university.
• Proof of Finances: Show you have at least CAD 20,000–25,000 per year through bank statements, GIC, or sponsor letters.
• Application Form: Submitted through the respective university’s portal or a provincial platform.
• Optional Documents: Certificates, awards, publications, or extracurricular activities can strengthen your profile.

English Language Proficiency

Most Canadian universities require proof of English language proficiency to ensure students can succeed in academic and social settings. Indian students are typically asked to submit scores from one of the following standardised tests:

Studying in Canada is often more affordable than studying in other popular destinations like the US or the UK. However, tuition fees can still vary depending on the university’s location, prestige, and the program you pursue. Public universities are generally more economical, and various scholarships and financial aid options are available to support international students.

Here’s a breakdown of the cost of studying in Canada for Indian students:

Please note: The amount mentioned may vary depending on the currency exchange rate.

Living expenses in Canada are moderate compared to other countries, but they still require proper budgeting. The cost of living in canada will depend on the city you reside in, your housing arrangements, and your lifestyle.

On average, international students can expect to spend CAD 1,000 – CAD 1,500 per month (INR 61,000 – INR 92,000) excluding tuition.

Here’s a typical monthly cost breakdown for Indian students in Canada:

Please note: The amount mentioned may vary depending on the currency exchange rate.

To study in Canada, Indian students need a Canadian Study Permit, which serves as a student visa for the duration of their studies.

Eligibility Criteria to Study in Canada

• Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution.
• Proof of Financial Support: You must show you have enough money to pay for tuition, living expenses, and return travel.
• No Criminal Record: A police certificate may be required.
• Medical Exam: You may need to undergo a medical exam from an approved panel physician.
• Ties to Home Country: You must prove that you’ll leave Canada when your study permit expires.

Required Documents to Study in Canada

• Valid Passport
• Letter of Acceptance from a Canadian DLI
• Proof of Funds (bank statements, scholarship letters, GIC, education loan)
• Passport-size Photographs (meeting Canadian visa photo specifications)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Academic Transcripts & Certificates
• English Proficiency Test Scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo)
• Visa Application Form (IMM 1294)
• Receipt of Application Fee Payment (CAD 150 or INR 9400)

Studying in Canada offers a high return on investment, but costs like tuition, living expenses, and books can be substantial. Fortunately, many universities, provincial governments, and private organisations offer generous scholarships to ease the financial burden for international students.

Here are some of the most popular scholarships for Indian students in Canada:

Please note: The amounts mentioned may vary depending on the currency exchange rate.

Canada offers excellent post-study work opportunities for international students. Graduates can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows them to work in Canada for up to three years, depending on the length of their study program.

High-Demand Fields in Canada:

Please note: The amounts mentioned may vary depending on the currency exchange rate.

If you plan to stay in Canada after graduation, here are a few of the things that you should know in advance. From gaining valuable work experience to becoming a permanent resident, Canada supports education, employment, and citizenship.

With rising difficulty for international students due to the recent policy changes, the measures regarding visas and work permits have become stricter. A few things one can stay cautious about are housing Shortages, the financial strain that students face while living in Canada, and the increasing discrimination that international students experience.

1. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

The PGWP is the Canadian equivalent of a Post-Study Work Visa and is a major reason why many Indian students choose to study in Canada.

• Eligibility: You must have completed a full-time program of at least 8 months from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
• Duration: The permit can be issued for up to 3 years, depending on the length of your program.
• Work Flexibility: You can work full-time for any employer in Canada, with no restrictions on the type of job or location.
• No Job Offer Required: You do not need a job offer to apply for the PGWP.

2. Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada

After gaining Canadian work experience on your PGWP, you may become eligible to apply for Permanent Residency through various federal and provincial immigration programs.

Popular PR Pathways:

a. Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – Express Entry

• Designed for individuals with at least one year of skilled Canadian work experience.
• English proficiency like IELTS and a competitive Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score are required.
• Fast processing time: typically within 6 months after ITA (Invitation to Apply).

b. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

• Each province has its own immigration stream targeting graduates and skilled workers.
• You can apply through the Express Entry-linked PNP or directly to the province.
• Provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta are highly popular among international students.

c. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

• For graduates from Atlantic provinces like Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick.
• Offers a faster route to PR if you get a job offer in the region.

d. Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)

• Specific to international graduates from institutions in Quebec.
• Requires French proficiency and one year of work experience in Quebec.

3. Transition from PGWP to PR: A Typical Pathway

• Complete a post-secondary program from a DLI in Canada.
• Apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and gain over 1 year of Canadian work experience.
• Apply through CEC or PNP via Express Entry.
• Receive PR and later qualify for citizenship after meeting residency obligations.

It is advised that applicants avoid the most common mistakes. Let’s take a quick look at the most common mistakes while applying to study in Canada in 2025

• Submitting a study permit application without the required Provincial Attestation Letter will result in your application being rejected.
• Submitting your applications late may not be processed once the set cap limit is reached.
• Failing to update your Guaranteed Investment Certificate fund amount to meet the new financial requirements will result in your application being rejected.
• Applying via the now-discontinued Student Direct Stream will not lead to a successful outcome; the SDS was closed in late 2024, and students are advised to use the regular study permit application process instead.