Canada has become one of the leading preferred destinations for international education and a top choice for Indian students. With internationally recognized universities, diverse campuses, work opportunities while you study, and a high quality of life, it’s no wonder that thousands of students from India choose to study in Canada every year.
If you are an Indian student wondering how to study in Canada, this guide will take you through the most important steps, requirements, and tips to fulfill your goal of studying in Canada.
Why Study in Canada?
Before we get into the steps, let’s explore the benefits of studying in Canada.
- A World-Class Education: Canadian Universities are among the top ranked in the world.
- Affordable Fees: Tuition fees are less expensive compared to the US, UK, or Australia.
- Post-Study Work Experience: The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows you to work in Canada for up to 3 years after graduation.
- Pathways to Permanent Residency: Many international students eventually settle in Canada through either Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs to get Permanent Residency.
- Safe and Welcoming: Canada is known around the world as one of the safest places to live, and the most welcoming.
Step-by-Step: How to Study in Canada from India
Discover a complete step-by-step guide on how to study in Canada from India, including eligibility, application process, visa requirements, scholarships, and more for Indian students.
1. Choose Your Course and Institution
The first step in learning how to study in Canada from India is to choose the right program and university. Canada has many prestigious universities such as: The University of Toronto, McGill University, The University of British Columbia, etc. Commonly Studied Courses by Indian Students:
- Business and Management
- Engineering and Technology
- Information Technology and Computing Science
- Health and Life Science Media and Communications
Tips to Consider:
- Confirm that the institution is a designated Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- Compare tuition fees, the duration of the program, offered campus facilities.
2. Check the Eligibility Requirements
Different universities or courses have their own entry requirements, but here are some general requirements:
- Academic Records: Good academic scores (at least above 65 percentile on 12th or under graduation, depending on course).
- Language Proficiency: IELTS (6.0-7 band), TOEFL (minimum of 80-100 iBT score), or PTE
- Entrance Tests: GRE or GMAT may be required for some master’s programs at some universities
Pro Tip: Some colleges offer language pathway programs if you miss out on the scores for English.
3. Prepare and Write Required Tests
When you are serious about how to study in Canada from India, you need to plan for the entrance exams in advance as well as prepare. IELTS is the most commonly accepted.
Recommended Prep Time:
- IELTS/TOEFL: 2–3 months
- GRE/GMAT (if required): 3–6 months
Validity of Test Scores:
- IELTS: 2 years
- GRE/GMAT: 5 years
4. Apply to Universities
When it comes to Canadian universities, most have two main intakes: Fall (September) and Winter (January). A few even offer a Summer (May) intake.
Application Process:
- Start by filling out the online applications on the university’s official website.
- Don’t forget to upload your transcripts, test scores, Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LORs), and your Resume.
- Lastly, pay the application fee, which typically ranges from CAD 50 to 150 per university.
Documents Checklist:
- Academic transcripts
- Passport
- Test scores (IELTS/TOEFL/GRE/GMAT)
- SOP and LORs
- Resume/CV
To boost your chances of getting in, aim to apply to about 4 to 6 universities.
5. Receive Your Offer Letter
If you’re accepted, the university will send you a Letter of Acceptance (LOA). It’s essential to ensure that the institution is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), as this is key for your visa application.
Once you have your LOA, you can move on to the next important step: applying for a student visa.
6. Apply for a Canadian Study Permit
A study permit isn’t a visa; it’s a document from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows you to study in Canada.
Steps to Apply:
- Head over to the official IRCC website: www.canada.ca
- Apply online and submit the required documents.
- Don’t forget to pay the application fee, which is CAD 150.
Documents Required For Study in Canada from India
- LOA from a DLI
- Valid passport
- Proof of funds (at least CAD 10,000 per year plus tuition)
- Passport-size photographs
- Immigration Medical Exam (IME)
- SOP or study plan
- Visa application form (IMM 1294)
Processing Time:– Expect it to take about 3 to 8 weeks, though this can vary depending on your location.
7. Arrange for Finances
One of the key things to consider when figuring out how to study in Canada from India is getting your finances in order.
Expected Costs:
- Tuition Fees: CAD 15,000 to 30,000 per year
- Living Expenses: CAD 10,000 to 12,000 per year
- Health Insurance: CAD 600 to 900 per year
Funding Options:
- Scholarships (both merit-based and need-based)
- Education loans from Indian banks or NBFCs
- Part-time work (up to 20 hours a week)
8. Apply for Scholarships
Many Canadian universities provide scholarships for international students. Some are given automatically, while others need a separate application.
Top Scholarships for Indian Students:
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
- Ontario Graduate Scholarship
- University-specific awards (like the University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship)
Tip: It’s a good idea to start looking into and applying for scholarships at least 8–10 months ahead of time.
9. Prepare for Departure
Once your visa is approved, it’s time to get ready for your trip.
Things to Do:
- Book your flight tickets
- Get health insurance
- Arrange your accommodation (whether on-campus or off-campus)
- Pack your essentials (documents, clothes, medicines)
Orientation and Arrival:
Most universities have an orientation for international students to help you get settled.
Don’t forget to download useful apps for transportation, banking, and communication while in Canada.
10. Work and Settle in Canada (Optional Step)
After you graduate, you can stay and work in Canada with a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This experience can pave the way for permanent residency through programs like Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
Final Thoughts
If you’re still curious about how to study in Canada from India, keep in mind that it’s a multi-step journey that requires careful planning, documentation, and a bit of determination. From choosing the right course and college to securing your visa and funding, each step brings you closer to living in one of the most welcoming countries for students.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What percentage is needed to study in Canada from India?
Most undergraduate programs require 60–70% in 12th grade and 65–75% in the bachelor degree for master’s programs.
Q2. Is IELTS compulsory to study in Canada?
Yes, usually students have to provide IELTS or any equivalent English language examination as required by the university for admission and for visa.
Q3. Can an Indian student work as well as study in Canada?
Yes, International students can work part-time for 20 hours per week in classes and full time during breaks.
Q4. How long does it take to obtain visa?
Normally the processing time for visa is 3 to 8 weeks, although this depends on the application and location.
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