International Students: Getting Into Canadian Universities

Canada is a popular destination for international students, offering a range of opportunities and experiences. The country is home to top-tier universities and is one of the world leaders in tertiary education. Each province and territory in Canada is responsible for its own education system, and there are many factors for international students to consider when applying to universities in Canada. This includes choosing the right university and program, meeting eligibility requirements, applying for a study permit, and planning their move.

Choosing a program and school

When choosing a program and school, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, ensure that the institution you are applying to is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). A DLI is a school that has been approved by the provincial or territorial government to host international students. This is important because you will need a study permit to study in Canada, and you can only apply for one if you have an acceptance letter from a DLI.

The next step is to decide on an area of study and research the different universities that offer programs in that field. Each university has different programs with varying specializations, so it's important to find one that aligns with your interests and goals. For example, if you are interested in a degree in politics, you might find programs in global politics and international studies, political science, or global political economy.

Another factor to consider is the language of instruction. Canada is a bilingual country, and you can choose to pursue your studies in English or French. Most provinces are English-speaking, but if you wish to study in French, you should focus on universities in Quebec, New Brunswick, and Manitoba. You will need to prove your proficiency in the language of instruction, and you may need to take a language proficiency test.

The location of the university is another important consideration. Canada is a large and diverse country, and each province has its unique characteristics, such as weather, cost of living, and quality of life. Tuition fees can also vary significantly depending on the province and university, so be sure to take this into account.

Once you have considered all these factors and narrowed down your choices, be sure to check the admission requirements for each university and program. Requirements can vary, but most programs will require academic transcripts, language proficiency test results, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or essay. Some programs may also require additional components, such as college essays or interviews. It is also important to start the process early, as applying to university in Canada can be complex and time-consuming.

Applying to a school

Once you have chosen a school, college, or university, you must apply to join it. Each school has its own rules for how to apply, so make sure you contact your chosen school to find out what you need to do.

You should apply at least six months in advance if you want to study at a primary or secondary school, or a year in advance for a post-secondary program.

You will need to submit various documents as part of your application, which may include:

• Academic transcripts
• English language proficiency test results
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement or essay
• Graduation certificate or diploma
• Language proficiency test scores
• Evidence that you can support yourself financially during your studies
• College letter of recommendation
• Academic CV

You may also need to submit a resume or curriculum vitae (CV) outlining your academic and professional experience, extracurricular activities, and other relevant achievements. If you are applying for a creative course, you may need to submit a portfolio of your work.

It is important to note that you will need to provide financial documents that prove you have the funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses. These documents can include bank statements, sponsorship letters, or income tax returns.

Additionally, a valid passport is mandatory for admission. Ensure that your passport is up to date, as it will determine your legal status in Canada.

Study Permits

If you are an international student, you will need to apply for a study permit. You can only apply for a study permit if you have received an acceptance letter from a designated learning institution (DLI). A DLI is a school that a provincial or territorial government has approved to host international students.

If you are planning to study in the province of Quebec, you will also need to obtain a 'Certificat d'acceptation du Québec' (CAQ), which your university will send to you.

Language Proficiency

As Canada is a bilingual country, you can pursue your studies in English or French. If you wish to study in English, you will need to prove your proficiency in the language. The most popular English language proficiency tests are IELTS or TOEFL, but some universities may accept other tests, like:

• CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language Assessment)
• CanTEST (Canadian Test of English for Scholars and Trainees)
• MELAB (Michigan English Language Assessment Battery)

If you wish to study in French, you will likely need to take a French proficiency test. The most common is the TEF exam, but you could also take the DALF, DELF, or TCF.

List of learning institutions for international students

Canada is a popular destination for international students, with 530,540 international students holding Canadian study permits as of 31 December 2020. The country is home to 223 universities, with 30 of those securing a spot in the QS World University Rankings 2024.

When choosing a university, international students should consider whether the institution is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). A DLI is a school that a provincial or territorial government has approved to host international students. To study in Canada, an international student will need to apply for a study permit, and they can only apply for one if they have an acceptance letter from a DLI.

• University of Toronto: One of the best universities in Canada for international students, famous for its research and development centres. It has 27,536 international students from a total of 84,158. The minimum IELTS required score is 7.0.
• University of British Columbia: UBC attracts more than 50,330 students, of which 15,399 are international. The university counts 8 Nobel laureates and 71 Rhodes Scholars among its alumni. The minimum IELTS required score is 6.0.
• McGill University: McGill attracts thousands of international students from over 150 countries every year and has the highest percentage of PhD students of any Canadian research university. The minimum IELTS required score is 6.5.
• University of Montreal: With its affiliated schools, Polytechnique Montreal and HEC Montreal, the University of Montreal is one of the largest university complexes in North America. The minimum TCF (French language) required score varies.
• McMaster University: McMaster has students and faculty from 98 countries worldwide and 70 international academic exchange agreements in place. It is the only Canadian host site of a United Nations University. The minimum IELTS required score is 6.5.
• University of Alberta: The University of Alberta is home to nearly 39,500 students, including more than 9,690 international students from over 150 countries. It is home to world-leading facilities such as Canada's National Institute for Nanotechnology. The minimum IELTS required score is 6.5.
• University of Waterloo: The University of Waterloo is home to approximately 37,970 students, of which 10,269 are internationals. It is located in Waterloo, Canada's largest and most dynamic city, with residents from 200 cultural backgrounds. The minimum IELTS required score is 6.5.
• Western University: Western University is located in London, Canada, and has 28,309 students, of which 6,314 are internationals. More than half of its faculty staff are internationals. The minimum IELTS required score is 6.5.
• University of Calgary: The University of Calgary is a major Canadian research-intensive institution, with 14 faculties, 53 departments and more than 200 academic programs. It has 77 Canada Research Chairs and 85 research centres. The minimum IELTS required score is 6.5.
• University of Ottawa: Home to more than 38,380 students, with more than 8,880 internationals. One-third of the faculty staff are internationals. The minimum IELTS required score is 5.0.
• Queen's University: The minimum IELTS required score is 7.5.
• Dalhousie University: The minimum IELTS required score is 3.5.
• Simon Fraser University: The minimum IELTS required score is 6.5.
• University of Victoria: The minimum IELTS required score is 6.5.
• University Laval: Requires TCF (French proficiency).
• University of Saskatchewan: The minimum IELTS required score is 6.5.
• Concordia University: The minimum IELTS required score is 6.5.
• York University: The minimum IELTS required score is 6.0.
• University of Guelph: The minimum IELTS required score is 6.5.
• Carleton University: The minimum IELTS required score is 6.5.

English and/or French language proficiency qualification

As a bilingual country, Canada offers international students the opportunity to pursue their studies in English or French. However, proficiency in either language must be proven to gain admission to a Canadian university.

English Language Proficiency Tests

Most Canadian institutions accept scores from standardised tests to assess English language proficiency. The following are some of the most widely accepted English language tests:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): This test evaluates your English proficiency in reading, listening, speaking, and writing.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): This test assesses your English language proficiency in listening, reading, writing, and speaking. It is recognised globally.
• CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language Test): This test is specifically designed for Canadian academic environments and evaluates your readiness for university-level English.
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): The IELTS Academic test is for students, while the IELTS General test is for skilled workers and entrepreneurs applying for immigration. The test assesses your proficiency in English in four aspects: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. The scores range from 1 to 9, with 1 being the lowest and 9 indicating an expert level of proficiency.
• CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program): This test is designed by IRCC to assess proficiency in Canadian English, including accents. There are two versions: General and General LS, with the former being the required test for immigration applicants. The scores range from 0 to 12, with 12 indicating expert proficiency. A score of 7 or higher is required for Canadian immigration.

French Language Proficiency Tests

If you plan to study in a French-speaking province like Quebec, you may need to demonstrate proficiency in French. The following are some common French language proficiency tests:

• TEF (Test d'évaluation de français): This test measures your French language skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
• TCF (Test de connaissance du français): This test assesses your ability to comprehend, read, speak, and write French. It is recognised by IRCC as a valid French-language test for immigration purposes.
• DELF/DALF (Diplôme d'études en langue française/Diplôme approfondi de langue française): These are French language proficiency tests recognised by the French Ministry of Education.
• TCF-Quebec: A version of the TCF test specifically for Quebec.
• TCF-Canada: Another variation of the TCF test for Canada.
• TEFaQ (Test d'évaluation de français pour l'accès au Québec): An electronic test that assesses your French proficiency for entry to Quebec.
• TEF Canada: An electronic test that assesses your French proficiency for Canada.

Language Proficiency Requirements for Immigration

To immigrate to Canada, you must meet the minimum language proficiency grade, which is the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) for English and the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) for French. A CLB/NCLC score of 7 or higher is generally required for immigration programs like the FSWP or CEC. However, a lower score of CLB 5 is acceptable for certain streams. Learning French can boost your Express Entry prospects and make you eligible for additional points.

Proof of funding

To gain admission to a Canadian university as an international student, you must prove that you can support yourself and any family members who come with you during your time in Canada. This is a mandatory requirement for your application.

The amount of money you need to prove you have depends on the number of family members and the province you will be living in. For example, if you and two family members plan to live in a province outside of Quebec for a year, you will need a minimum amount of $27,635, including $20,635 for living expenses (for the student) and $7,000 for the two family members.

You can prove your funds with at least one of the following:

• Proof of a Canadian bank account in your name, if you have transferred money to Canada
• A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian financial institution
• Proof of a student or education loan from a bank
• Your bank statements for the past four to six months
• A bank draft that can be converted to Canadian dollars
• Proof you have paid tuition and housing fees
• A letter from the person or school giving you money
• Proof of funding paid from within Canada, if you have a scholarship or are in a Canadian-funded educational program
• If your country uses foreign exchange controls, you must prove that you will be allowed to export funds for all of your expenses

If you are applying through the Students Direct Stream, you must secure a GIC. This is a secure investment bank account where students deposit money and earn interest over time.

Frequently asked questions