Canada Study Guide for Indian Students: Eligibility Criteria, Expenses, and Employment Opportunities
Canada stands out as an attractive destination for international students owing to its distinction as the nation with the largest land area in North America (second globally) and its uncomplicated immigration policies, encompassing a diverse range of professional diploma programs. In 2024, it has recorded more than half a million students from 18 countries among them India and China are both on the top. India occupies a position among the top ten nations for these students in the world. The magnitude of the economic contribution from these international students that reach to about US $15.3 billion annually draws Canada’s attention as a destination for studies.
This blog serves as a viable path for the international students intending to undertake studies in Canada. It starts with filling a university application form, moves to obtain a study permit. In this guide, one will get the full details on how to go about moving into Canada for academic purposes. It also responds to the question ‘Why Canada?’ indicating its globally esteemed universities and respected education system.
Why Canada should be chosen for advanced studies?
Choosing Canada for higher education over India has several compelling factors:
– In Canada, there are also numerous prominent institutions which include the University of Toronto and McGill University that is well known for its ultimate academic objective.
– Learning areas in the Canadian system are very applicable and also employment oriented.
– In comparison to countries such as the US and UK, Canada has significantly lower living and studying costs.
– The worth of a degree MBA, MS, Data Science and Hospitality Management in canada is recognized globally.
Educational Excellence in Canada
There are several renowned universities in Canada, including McGill University and the University of Alberta. In 2021, over half a million international students enrolled with many Indians.
With excellent career opportunities, the vocational programs are in high demand especially for Business Administration, Engineering and Tourism. Employment opportunities in Canada, due to the relatively small size of its population, are very benefitious for many immigrant students seeking higher education and also an promising career.
Best universities and cheaper colleges in the Canada
Top Canadian Universities:
– University of Toronto: Known for research and innovation.
– University of British Columbia: It has numerous programs and also an attractive campus.
– McGill University: Known for its very high level of discipline and excellent faculty.
– McMaster University: They are also very strong in health sciences and research.
– University of Waterloo: Known for their co-op programs and engineering.
Cost-Effective Canadian Colleges:
– Bow Valley College: Provides affordable vocational programs.
– Humber College: It highlights practical learning in many of the courses.
– Algonquin College: Combines the practical application with classroom knowledge.
– Northern Lights College: It is oriented towards the provision of technical training within the community.
– Conestoga College: Known as a professional and practical programs.
Safety in Canada
Canada is known for the high standard of living and for being in the top-see safest countries. The country is proud of an encompassing community, where the people are treated not based on their ethnicity or appearance but on actions and character. This culture of respect and harmony, makes Canada a very safe haven for all the people worldwide.
Weather Variations Across Canada:
Such a varied geography of Canada, stretching through the five zones from the Pacific to the Atlantic ocean has every kind of weather. Montreal has cold, snowy winters where the temperatures range from -6 °C to -15° C and for in summers the temperature is between 20-27 degrees. Similarly, while also experiencing cold winters but milder compared to the other Canadian cities making winter temperatures between -10°C and 12°C remain constant in summer as those of Montreal. The diversity in climate across these cities is a reflection of the vast geographical difference that Canada occupies.
Academic and Social Integration
In Canadian universities, academically and socially interacting is very important. Academic success is determined by how actively a student participates in the class discussions and also group projects. Being involved in extracurricular activities like joining clubs and the sports teams helps to build language skills as well as gain the experience. As far as the social life is concerned, the early semesters provide excellent opportunities to make lots of new friends. The tendency to use polite phrases such as “please” and also “thank you” often is a key feature of Canadian culture, which may greatly contribute to the smooth social relations.
Choosing Accommodation
In choosing the accommodation as a student in Canada, you need to consider university housing or private living accommodations. Catered or self-catering are typically the university accommodation choices. Meal planning is made much easier by the catered housing and, in certain cases, it can even be more economical. Begin by obtaining the information about available options from the university’s housing bureau.
For private rental, the same office can also help with providing a list of local residences. It is very important to review the terms of responsibilities in a lease agreement, before committing oneself. You should always know your rights and also responsibilities as a tenant at all times.
Orientation
Arrival prior to the orientation week is very crucial for all international students. This is an important stage of the course registration and familiarization with a university, its buildings. An important resource to the students is the campus’ orientation manual that leads them through the application process and also offers some insights into life on college grounds. Taking full advantage of the orientation requires a close examination of this manual.
Activities
The extracurricular activities of the Canadian universities beyond sports include many clubs and societies dedicated to a lot of diverse interests such as writing, music, drama among others. These activities typically involve many outdoor learning and also other leisure endeavors. Participating in the university activities also refers to participating in cultural events like plays and concerts as well as visiting educational places such as libraries, art galleries, historic sites, and scientific businesses. These experiences make the education more versatile, adding a valuable experience to overall college life.
How can Indian students apply to Canadian universities?
The eligibility criteria are different for Indian students seeking admission to Canadian colleges based on their programme and level of study. Here’s a general overview:
English Proficiency:
Regardless of undergraduate or master’s program, each course requires a minimum level of English proficiency.
Undergraduate Admissions:
• Humanity Stream: 55% minimum is required in Grade XII for admission into Canadian universities.
• Science/Commerce Stream: The need is usually higher usually about 70–80%.
• If the score is below 60%, there are Basic and Diploma courses.
Age Requirement: Students must be 18 years and above at the time of admission.
Master’s Degree Admissions:
Many Indian students would prefer to study masters programs in Canada especially on STEM or business fields.
The MS needs a minimum GPA of 3 on the scale of 4 in order to be considered eligible. This roughly translates to 70-75% or CGPA ranging between 7.0 and 7.4.
Documents
This section details the required documentation for international students applying to Canadian educational institutions:
Academic Records:
• X and XII grade mark sheet copies.
• If applicable, photocopies of bachelor’s degree.
Recommendation Letters:
• Two or more recommendations from a teacher who has taught you recently.
• If you have employment history, two reference letters from a supervisor or an employer who has observed your performance at work.
Statement of Purpose (SOP): A carefully prepared document describing your academic and career goals.
Resume/CV: Provide the detailed information about educational background, skills and experience.
Standardized Test Scores:
• GMAT for business-related courses.
• For English proficiency, IELTS or TOEFL scores.
• In art and architecture programs more test scores might be necessary.
Additional Credentials:
• National or state-level successes and honors.
• Participation in extracurricular activities.
Financial Proof: The availability of financial resources to cover tuition fees and livelihood expenses while studying in Canada.
Medical Examinations:
Medical examinations are also a mandatory process for most international students seeking to join Canadian institutions, especially those who intend to stay longer. These tests evaluate the health condition of the candidate and make sure safety for public. However, it is necessary to check the specific requirements and process of medical examinations with a particular Canadian embassy or consulate as well as university’s policy in this regard.
Letter of Recommendation (LOR):
A Letter of Recommendation is a formal confirmation on the candidate’s skills, qualities and performance due to which it received support during course work / employment usually.
Recommender: Generally, a LOR is composed by someone who has known the applicant for long in either professional or academic setting like friend supervisor professor mentor.
Purpose: The LOR gives to the admissions committee a third-party point of view on what candidate is both capable as well as fit for this program.
Entry Cost:
• Application Fee: All universities charge an application fee once you have submitted your application.
• Variability: The amount of this fee also depends on the program and institution. It is recommended to get in touch with each university regarding their respective application fee.
Steps for Admission:
• Research: First, investigate different institutions and courses.
• Gather Information: Talk to teachers, and check out university sites for comprehensive information.
• Shortlist Universities: Drawing from your research, make a list of favorite colleges.
• Entrance Exams: Prepare and take the required admission tests including IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT.GRE, SAT exams-
• Preparation of Documents: Write the LORs and SOP.
• Application Submission: Apply to the universities that suit you.
• Interviews: Attend video interviews with universities that have shortlisted you.
• Visa Application: Once approved, move forward with processing the student visa.
The stages are vital as the initiative to apply for studying in Canadian universities. Proper planning and execution of each step is essential to ensure a smooth application process.
Intake in Canada
In Canada, the universities have their main intakes in September and January with the major dates being in September that provide a wide variety of courses as well as Wide range Scholarships. It is advisable that an individual should apply six months before the date of application, which usually falls between October and January.
Subsequently, the process involves the completion of language and aptitude tests within three months prior to the deadline, followed by the submission of the application. For intake in the September, all application and visa processes should be completed by June or July. Intake is selected based on the availability of courses as some specific courses might not be available in January. Vocational courses in Canada may begin accepting admissions during January, as even May or July.
Key details about Canadian intakes include:-
Intake in Canada Time Important Points
Fall Intake September – December Main intake offering the widest variety of courses and scholarships, with the highest applicant numbers.
Winter Intake January – May Secondary option with a more select range of courses and typically fewer applicants.
Spring/Summer Intake May – August Offers a few specialized courses with the least competition among applicants.
What is the experience like for Indian students living in Canada?
Most of the Indian students in Canada prefer the major cities such as Toronto and Vancouver, where over seventy percent of the population is based. Smaller cities such as Montreal, Edmonton and Calgary are also witnessing a growth in their Indian populations.
Canadians have two cultural centers, which are Little India and also a part of Gerrard Street in Toronto. Noticeably, Vancouver has numerous inhabitants in Surrey and also Abbotsford. According to statistics from 2022, India took the lead in the study visas issued with almost 356 thousand permits slightly lower than that of China but higher compared to all other nations.
Canadian Language Proficiency Test for the Admission in Canada
Potential students wishing to study in Canada have got an obligation of proving their proficiency in the English language by passing tests such as PTE Academic, TOEFL and IELTS that are internationally recognized. These tests have many different scoring bands and formats depending on the evaluation standards.
Students are permitted to take the IELTS multiple times without any set limit. In the case of the TOEFL, although retakes are unrestricted, a minimum gap of 12 days must be observed between successive attempts. Similarly, the PTE Academic allows for multiple trials, provided that earlier scores have been received before booking a new test.
The exam fees are generally as follows: For IELTS, the estimated price is around INR 17000; for TOEFL it stands at approximately around INR 16,900.
For September admission, one should better take these tests in the November of the previous year to ensure early applications. Universities will indicate their willingness to accept the certain test scores. The student’s decision whether to take which exam is given a choice. These tests can take from two to four months for preparation depending on the current English language levels.
Understanding Standardized Exams for The Graduate Programs
• GMAT: The Graduate Management Admission Test is a very important exam for the aspirants planning to pursue management or any business-related postgraduate courses. It measures mathematical, English and also analytical abilities.
• GRE: Different graduate programs such as MA and MS degrees require the Graduate Record Examinations, while business schools may take note of them to allow MBA admissions.
• LSAT: The Law School Admission Test is required for law school admission and evaluates the reading comprehension as well as the verbal reasoning skills.
• SAT: The Scholastic Assessment Test, commonly employed for university admission purposes among high school students, regularly evaluates literacy, writing-based proficiency, and problem-solving skills that are indicative of college success.
Universities will list the necessary tests and their scores. When the options are available, students can decide which examination best serves their intentions.
Retakes:
• GMAT: The number of times you can repeat the test is unlimited and it should be done not more often than once every 16 days.
• GRE and LSAT: Retests may be allowed after 30 days since the previous test date.
• LSAT: An average score of about 162 is generally acceptable.
Living Expenses for the International Students in Canada
The cost of life in Canada, by international students is remarkably different depending on the specified city and way of living especially with regard to social activities. Here are the core expenses that students need to consider:
• Accommodation Rent
• Groceries and Dining
• Utilities
• Phone Bills
• Study Materials
• Travel
There are many other costs, which may vary according to the personal needs and also preferences. This is very critical for the students to keep in mind while budgeting and planning their studies as well.
Annual living Cost
The average amount spent by a student in Canada can be reasonably estimated at Rs 11.36 Lakh per annum on an average. But this price difference widely depends on where they will stay at. For example, the cost of living in large cities such as Toronto or Vancouver can reach up to CAD 15,000 a year. However, the figure could decrease to about CAD 8,000 to 10,000 depending on the location.
Health Insurance for International Students
For international students who reside in Canada for long terms, a health insurance is very compulsory. In choosing a policy, it is essential that medical expenses are covered as well as dental care; personal accidents such as incidents of interruption and lost passport. Practically all the insurance plans are cashless and this is why students do not have to pay for the treatment directly. All International students must have either the basic or advanced medical insurance, which is different for each university.
Tuition Fees in Canada
The cost of college education in Canada exhibits significant variation based on factors such as region, program, and institution. For undergraduate degrees, students can anticipate an average tuition fee range of INR 6,46,000 to 16,15,000 for a duration of 3-5 years. Postgraduate course candidates are advised to budget approximately INR 9,54,000 for a 1-2 year program in tuition fees.
Scholarships for Indian students in Canada
In Canada, a wide range of scholarships are available for international students including the Indian ones and based on merit as well as need. These scholarships bases the eligibility on academic performance, high scores in the standardized tests and also extracurricular accomplishments.
To avail of these opportunities; all the needed documents need to be submitted by the stipulated deadlines. Moreover, the appearance of the application matters a lot because it helps to create a final image and also affects decision-making. Students must ensure that their applications are well organized and actually represent their qualifications, skills as they stand to benefit from the initiative.
Essential Documents
For students applying for scholarships in Canada, the following documents are generally required:
• Academic Transcripts: Official documentation reflecting your academic record and also performance.
• Resume: Recent resume that shows your education, many accomplishments and experiences.
• Letter of Intent: It serves as a good cover letter that describes your ambitions and motivations for the current application.
• Language Proficiency Certificate: Evidence of English language proficiency, which generally involves the TOEFL or IELTS scores.
• Letters of Recommendation (LOR): Written recommendations from the educators or professionals who are knowledgeable about your skills and character.
Loans
When applying for a student loan in Canada as an Indian citizen, consider the following points:
• Applicants must be Indian citizens.
• A good academic performance is very necessary.
• The program should be a technical, vocational or academic one; and it would be better if it is career-oriented.
• A foreign university must grant an admission.
• Loans can be requested by the applicants parents under the age of 18.
• Workforce-oriented vocational or technical courses will suffice as a graduation level.
• MCA, MBA, MS or diploma courses can be a postgraduate level.
• Accredited universities or certified organizations should provide the courses.
Loan Amount
For Indian students seeking education loans for studying in Canada, the process varies across banks but generally involves loans up to INR 1.5 crores with interest rates between approximately 8.75% to 13%. Collateral is required for loans over INR 7.5 lakhs. The loans cover expenses like tuition, books, and accommodation, with repayment terms extending up to 15 years and grace periods post-study. Each bank has specific eligibility criteria and documentation requirements, so it’s crucial for students to compare these details before applying.
Required Documents for student loan applications
Send your acceptance letter from a university that states the enrollment and fee details attached along with your most recent academic mark sheet to verify the credentials.
Student Loan Repayment Terms
Repayment for the student loan commences upon the completion of the course. When an individual is employed within a year of finishing the course, the repayment begins one month from their employment date. Even if you are unemployed after a year, the repayment commences with immediate effect. The repayment term for the loan is usually between five to seven years from the beginning of its duration, which can also be extended by two additional years if studying takes longer than planned. Maximum repayment time is ten years.
Visa Categories in Canada
• Temporary Permits
• Student Visas
• Grandparents and Parents Super Visas
• Entry-level Permits to Work are essential for safety.
• Family Sponsorship Programme
• Quebec Skilled Worker Selection Programme
• Business Class Immigration Visa
• Visa for Federal Skilled Workers
• Canada Experience Class Visa
• Provincial Nomination — Federal Skilled Trades Programme
• Live-in Caregiver Programme
Student Visa Requirements for Canada
To get a student visa for Canada, you need to make sure you meet certain requirements:
• The existence of a Canadian school or college where you are enrolled as a student is a prerequisite.
• A predetermined amount, adequate to cover tuition fees, living expenses for yourself, and those of any accompanying family members in Canada, along with the provision for return tickets, is required.
• In order to do so, an affidavit of non-criminal status should be filed.
• Additionally, you need a health certificate showing your healthy state.
• One of the most crucial things to do during a visa interview is convince immigration officers that your intention, after completing studies, is going back home.
• If you are a native speaker, then there is no need to take an English proficiency test such as TOEFL or IELTS. However, non-native speakers do have that necessity.
Canada is a top country to study abroad and if you have all the required documents, getting student visa for studying in canada would be fairly easy.
Getting a student visa for Canada involves a series of steps:
1. Verify Processing Times: A student visa to Canada usually takes about seven weeks of processing time. On the other hand, it depends on a number of factors such as the type of visa application, completeness/validity, easily verifiable information and response delay from the student.
2. Choose Your Application Method:
In Canada, you have two options to apply for a student visa:
• Apply Online: You will require a credit card that works, access to the scanner or a camera for document uploads. After submitting the application students need to do the biometrics from the nearest VFS Cernters.
• Apply In-Person: Read the instruction booklet and visit their website to download an application kit with the necessary information about study visas and also instructions. The document checklist and the instructions should be read very carefully.
3. Pay the Processing Fee:
Based on the current information available, a fee of CAD 150 and CAD 85 for biometrics is to be paid by students looking for study permit in Canada. This fee is for both new applications and extensions. Moreover, in instance of need to restore student permits the total amount is CAD 379 (CAD 229 for restoring and CAD150 for new study permit). It is important to mention that all processing fees are non-refundable. For the latest and most comprehensive data, please refer to IRCC Fee List.
4. Include Supporting Documentation:
Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) are an essential aspect of applying for a Canadian study visa. In order to ensure timely processing of the application, you need to include biometric fee. Upon making payment, you will receive a biometric instruction letter that confirms the need for biometrics to qualify your visa and whereby it can be provided. This procedure features personal biometrics capture in a Visa Application Centre. As soon as you receive your instruction letter, make an appointment. The individual biometrics fee is CAD 85, with a maximum total charge of CAD 170 for families applying as a group.
Medical Examination for Canada Visa:
It is necessary for the Indian applicants to go through a mandatory medical examination conducted by the panel physician, who has been listed on the official Canada immigration website. The output will be sent to CIC, and you can take the test after applying for a visa or even before that.
Spouse’s Visa:
If full-time students prove that they have enough financial support, then they may bring their spouses on a Dependent visa ( Spouse Open work permit. ) In Canada, spouses can work full-time if they stay beyond a year.
Pre-Departure Checklist for Students
Before your journey, make sure to prepare these items carefully for your trip to Canadian airports:
• Your institution’s acceptance letter
• Evidence of funds, like a bank statement
• Health and travel insurance documents
• Passport
• Academic transcripts from previous universities: Make sure all your paperwork is complete.
• Immunization and medical records
• Prescription medications
• Airline ticket
• Traveler’s checks (if necessary)
• Confirming your accommodations in Canada.
• Important contact numbers and addresses
Programme for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP Canada)
Knowledge of the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) in Canada is very important for all international students. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Study Permit Duration: Your study permit will be valid throughout your whole academic program and also ninety days afterwards. You have two options: if you want to stay, you can apply for the extension at least thirty days before your student permit ends and prepare yourself to leave Canada within these ninety days.
2. PGWPP Opportunity: PGWPP allows the graduates from studying Canadian universities and also colleges to gain valuable work experience in Canada. PGWPP completion may enable a permanent residence in Canada through the CEC.
3. Time Frame: Your post-graduation work permit should not exceed the length of your academic program. For instance, if you finished a two-year post-graduate program then your work permit duration will be of 2 years.
4. Eligibility Requirements:
• You should have taken a full-time course in the Canada.
• Your course should last for at least eight months.
• Although you studied in any public or private post-secondary institution located within Canada, your education must be complete now.
5. Application Timeline: In 90 days of the official confirmation from your institution that you have graduated, you can apply for a work permit. Note that a valid student visa is the only requirement for receiving a work permit.
6. Fees: Fee payments for the Standard Work Permit and Open Work Permit Holder both need to be paid in Canadian dollars either at an office or online.
7. Work Permit Duration: Your work permit cannot be longer than that of your course. If your program lasted for eight months, you will get an eight-month work permit.
For students considering their options after completing education abroad, such as a PhD in India and wanting to work in Canada, there are a few routes to consider:
• Seeking Canadian permanent residency if you seek to work directly in Canada.
• Making Canada your destination for learning by first obtaining a student visa and then attending a Canadian university.
• Seeking post-doctoral studies in Canada.
• Looking at Canada PR options to work in the country.
Employment for Indian Students in Canada
In Canada, however, the conventional approach to campus placements does not prevail as much as it is perceived in India. In Canadian colleges, there are many career service centers that aid the students in their job hunts and also interview practice.
Recruitment on campus is mainly based upon the student interest, and employers often provide co-op programs or internships except for jobs. They also prefer to evaluate a student’s skills and abilities over the course of several months before offering full-time employment.
Co-Op Education Program in Canada
Structured employment and study terms comprise the co-op programs in Canada. The main goal is to find job candidates while they are still studying, with the objective of providing permanent jobs upon their completion. They usually take place at many universities and colleges. Indian students who want to get into co-op programs have to apply for both the study and work permits.
Eligibility Requirements:
• You need a valid study visa.
• Your future position should be very relevant to the Canadian study program you have chosen.
• You will have to obtain a letter from some responsible official in the university confirming that your employment is an integral part of your academic program.
FAQs – Study Visa for Canada
Q1: What is the difference between educational permits and study visas for Canada?
The other name of Canada study visa is a Canadian study permit. They are related but they have different functions. You can enter Canada by a study visa; to register at a Canadian university, you need a study permit.
Q2: Is a Canada student visa IELTS based?
A: Yes, most often an application for a study visa to Canada requires the confirmation of English language skills. IELTS is accepted, although the candidates can also use Duolingo, PTE or TOEFL.
Q3: What is the cost of student visas to Canada?
A: A study visa for Canada costs approximately CAD150. Further, Indian students are subject to additional fees such as CAD 85 for the biometrics.
Q4: Where Does One Apply to a Study Visa in the Canada?
A: Students from India who wish to enrol in the Canadian educational system need to apply through an online portal and they must submit their biometrics at a suitable Visa Application Centre. The materials for the paper applications can be filed in person at a nearby VFS or they can also be sent directly to a Canadian embassy closest by. Paper applications limited to certain circumustance only.
Q5: What is the fastest way to get a Canada study visa?
A: The processing time for a typical Canada study visa is not less than five weeks. On the other hand, suitable applicants with full documentation may apply under SDS and receive their visa in around three weeks at the most.
Q6: When will I receive my Canada student visa?
A: Unlike other countries, eligible students receive their study permit for Canada at the airport or “port of entry” upon arrival. They will be granted student visa and for Indian sutudents visa stamped in their passport once student visa got approved
