Canada is the hub of the world’s best study and research programs and houses some of the most cutting-edge academic institutions and state-of-the-art research laboratories in the world. With 21 of the world’s top 500 colleges and 32 in the best 1000, Canada invites more than 400,000 foreign students every year. If you are planning to go overseas for higher education, Canada ought to be at the highest priority on your list. Read ahead for a systematic step-by-step guide to applying to study in Canada.
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STEP 1: Understanding the Prerequisites to apply for study in Canada
Effectively applying to a Canadian university requires a thorough understanding of various prerequisites for schools and the courses they offer. Applicants likewise need to research and investigate the guidelines applicable to the Canadian student visa application process. Preferably, you should begin making arrangements for your Canadian study permit no less than a year ahead of time. Regular prerequisites for all colleges and establishments incorporate a valid visa, capability in either English or French alongside a proof of passing the recommended language tests with acceptable grades/bands, and financial statements verifying that you can back your study and cost of living in Canada.
Obviously, requirements may differ from cities to cities or between two universities, which is the reason this step/exercise must be performed in a precise and careful way.
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STEP 2: University Screening
The initial step towards picking an institute is to find out its status as a Designated Learning Institute because only DLIs can admit international applicants. You will be required to decide upon a particular major/concentration when applying for universities in Canada. The Canadian academic setup is quite flexible towards switching majors and courses; however, it is always advisable to compare your options in advance and select coursework that you are really keen on seeking after.
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STEP 3: Language Proficiency Test
As mentioned earlier, in order to get into Canada, every international student must demonstrate capability in English or French. Although IELTS is the favoured test for proficiency in English, certain colleges also accept the Cambridge English: Advanced or TOEFL test score. For French, you can take DALF, DELF, or TCF, despite the fact that the TEF test is the most well-known alternative. So, pick the test, pay the exam fees, and book your exam dates well ahead of time. Make sure you sharpen up on your language skills beforehand to guarantee your application does not get rejected.
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STEP 4: Applying to Universities
Once you have shortlisted your colleges/institutions, acquire their application packages, and submit them well ahead of time. Consider applying to five to six universities (of different ranks and levels) to increase your chances of admissions; please note that the application fees for each university may vary from $100 to $250. Try not to apply aimlessly. Always have a backup plan. Think about your choices, recognize your favoured course and organization, and select a couple of options as reinforcements.
Be cautious when filling in the application and ensure you furnish exact data supported with enough proof. When this is done, it is time to face the painful wait until you get your admit letter. Once you accept their offer, the university will send you a formal acceptance letter; a paper that will play a crucial and vital role in all the formalities ahead.
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STEP 5: Get a Student Visa
After getting the acceptance letter from the university, the time has come for you to apply for the Canada Study Permit. You can apply on the web or visit your local visa application center. Your visa application must be supported by the Admit Letter, a valid and updated passport, and bank statements reflecting adequate finances to study in Canada. If you have applied to a college in the Quebec province, then you will receive a “Certificat d’acceptation du Québec” (CAQ) in addition to the acceptance letter. Ensure to incorporate this certificate in your visa application documents.
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STEP 6: Pack your bags
Upon receiving your student permit, it is time for you to start planning your travel to Canada. Check the start date on your Visa and book your flight accordingly as you won’t be allowed to enter the country before this date.
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STEP 7: Welcome to Canada
The immigration officer will crosscheck your Visa and supporting documents at the port of entry before enabling you to enter Canada. This is the last and final step of the immigration formalities, and you would now be able to concentrate on your excursion as an international student in Canada. And upon graduation, you can begin your career in Canada by seeking Post-Graduation Work permit. Moreover, you can take advantage of the recently update ‘Express Entry’ selection system and easily apply for a permanent residency, if you want to settle down in Canada.
