Understanding Your Student Status: America To Canada

If you're an American considering studying in Canada, you may be wondering if you would be classed as an international student. The answer is yes, you would be an international student. As an international student in Canada, you can expect to receive a career-focused education with practical, hands-on training in areas such as business, technology, health sciences, and more. You will also have access to numerous student services and supports, as well as the opportunity to connect with ethnic clubs and organizations. It's important to note that international students are not eligible for financial aid from the Canadian government, but you may be eligible for financial assistance from the United States' federal student aid program. Be sure to check with your college of choice to see if they participate in this program.

International student eligibility

If you are a US citizen looking to study in Canada, you are an international student. Canadian colleges provide career-focused education with practical, hands-on training in applied fields like business, technology, the arts, health sciences, skilled trades, and more.

Each province and territory in Canada is responsible for designating schools at the post-secondary level that may enrol international students. These schools are known as designated learning institutions (DLI). If you need a study permit, your acceptance letter must be from a DLI. If it isn’t, your application will be refused. All primary and secondary schools in Canada are DLIs. You can search for a list of post-secondary schools, such as colleges and universities, and language schools that have been designated.

Once you choose a school, college, or university, you must apply to go there. Every school has different rules on how to apply. If the school admits you as a student, they will send you a letter of acceptance. You need this letter to apply for a study permit. The Government of Canada does not pay for the medical costs of foreign students. Health coverage for foreign students varies depending on where they live.

As an international student, you are not eligible to receive financial aid from the Canadian government. However, if you are applying to a degree program, you may be eligible to receive financial assistance from the United States' federal student aid program. Check with the college(s) you're applying to in order to find out if they participate in this program. Once enrolled at a college in Ontario, international students typically qualify for the same awards and scholarships as other students.

Study permits

As an American student, you are considered a foreign national and are therefore required to obtain a study permit to enrol in a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. This study permit is a document that allows you to pursue your desired field of study at the institution of your choice in Canada.

To obtain this permit, you must submit a completed application, which may include providing biometrics, such as fingerprinting and photographs, and attending a visa interview. Additionally, a fee of 150 CAD is required for processing the study permit application. This fee can be paid online, at a visa application centre in the United States, or through a bank transfer.

It is important to note that the study permit is typically valid for the duration of your course plus an additional three months. This allows you to complete your studies and provides a buffer period for any necessary arrangements after graduation. If you intend to stay in Canada beyond this period, you must apply for a different visa or a visa renewal through the immigration office.

While studying in Canada, you are not eligible to receive financial aid from the Canadian government as an international student. However, you may be eligible for financial assistance from the United States' federal student aid program, depending on the college you are attending and their participation in this program. Once enrolled, international students generally qualify for the same awards and scholarships as their Canadian counterparts.

Financial aid

As an international student from America studying in Canada, you are not eligible to receive financial aid from the Canadian government. However, you may be eligible to receive financial assistance from the United States' federal student aid program. Check with the college(s) you're applying to to find out if they participate in this program.

The average tuition cost for international students in Canada is $14,000 Canadian dollars per year (or about $10,500 US dollars). This cost, along with other fees and the cost of living, may require you to access various financial aid options. Before you can obtain your Canada study permit, you must be able to show proof of finances.

The Canadian government offers a few financial aid options for international students, including the Government of Canada International Scholarships and the Canada Student Loan program. The Canada Student Loan program offers loans with the same terms (including interest rates) as permanent Canadian residents. However, international students may not be eligible for these loans depending on provincial law.

Another option for financial aid is scholarships. Scholarships are typically awarded based on academic merit or a specific ability. Many schools offer scholarships for outstanding academic achievement, and some offer aid purely for being an international student. You can use a free College Scholarship Search tool to find contact information for more than 1,600 awards and then apply through the scholarship sponsor's website.

Bursaries are another option for financial aid. These are available for students who meet specific financial criteria.

Health coverage

As an international student from America studying in Canada, you may be eligible for free basic health coverage. This depends on the province in which you are studying and the length of your studies.

In British Columbia, international students studying on a valid study permit for at least six months of the year pay a health fee to benefit from B.C.'s health-care coverage, known as MSP. You must apply for MSP as soon as you arrive in BC, but it takes about three months for applications to be processed. iMED provides basic health insurance during this waiting period. Students may purchase extended health coverage to supplement the basic coverage offered by MSP.

In Alberta, international students are covered by Alberta Health Care, which only covers basic health expenses. If you are ineligible for AHCIP, you must purchase a private plan.

In Saskatchewan, international students studying for at least six months may be eligible to register for free basic health coverage by obtaining a Saskatchewan Health Card.

In the Northwest Territories, international students studying for at least 12 months may apply for health insurance through Northwest Territories Health Care (NWTHC), which provides free basic health care.

The province's Medical Care Plan (MCP) offers free basic health coverage to international students enrolled in full-time studies for at least 12 months.

If you are not eligible for any of these provincial health plans, you must purchase private health insurance for the duration of your stay in Canada.

Student services

If you are a student from the United States studying in Canada, you are considered an international student. This means that you will need to apply for a study permit and may need a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada.

As an international student in Canada, you can access a range of student services to support your academic and personal needs. These services are designed to help you transition to life in Canada and ensure you have a positive and successful study experience.

Academic Advising: Most educational institutions in Canada offer academic advising services to help students with course selection, program planning, and academic goal-setting. Academic advisors can also provide guidance on transfer credits, changing programs, and accessing academic accommodations or supports if needed.

International Student Office: Many institutions have a dedicated office or department for international students. They can assist with matters such as study permits, visas, health insurance, and cultural adjustment. They often organize social events and activities to help international students connect with each other and adapt to Canadian culture.

Housing Services: Student housing services can help you find suitable accommodation, whether it's on-campus residence or off-campus housing. They can provide information on different options, assist with applications, and offer advice on tenant rights and responsibilities.

Health and Wellness Services: Maintaining your physical and mental health is important during your studies. Most institutions offer health services, including medical clinics, counselling, and mental health support. These services are typically confidential and can help address any health concerns or challenges you may face during your time in Canada.

Career Services: Career services can assist you in exploring career options, developing employability skills, and preparing for the job market. They often offer resume and cover letter reviews, interview preparation workshops, and networking events. Some institutions also provide access to job boards and internship opportunities specifically for international students.

Financial Aid: As an international student, you may be eligible for scholarships, bursaries, or awards offered by your institution. Financial aid services can provide information on funding opportunities and help guide you through the application process. They can also advise on part-time work options, both on and off-campus, and the regulations surrounding working in Canada as an international student.

Remember to familiarize yourself with the specific services offered by your educational institution in Canada. Take advantage of these resources to make the most of your time as an international student and ensure a smooth and enjoyable academic journey.

Frequently asked questions