Students: Applying to Study in Canaa

Canada is a land of opportunity and a pathway to success for many international students. With its rich cultural diversity, stunning landscapes, and world-class educational institutions, studying in Canada is a decision you won’t regret.

Once you’ve chosen Canada as your destination, the next step is to navigate the application process.

Applying to Study in Canada

The first step is to review the admission requirements for the programs you're interested in. Keep in mind that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach—each program may have different requirements, and these can vary by institution. Additionally, requirements can change over time, so it’s important to stay updated.

Canadian post-secondary institutions generally assess applicants based on a variety of factors, including:

• Academic Performance: Previous transcripts are usually required, along with translations where applicable.
• Prerequisite Courses: Some programs may require specific courses to be completed beforehand.
• English Language Proficiency: Institutions typically evaluate your proficiency through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, CAEL, Duolingo, PTE, among others.
• Supplementary Materials: This may include a resume, statement of purpose, or other documents as specified by the program.

Submitting Your Application

Be sure to check the application deadlines for each institution and submit your application on time.

In Canada, admissions are typically offered for fall (September), winter (January), and summer (May) terms. The fall intake in September is the most common and marks the official start of the academic year. Keep in mind that many programs only accept students for the fall term.

Application Processing Times

There is no simple answer when it comes to application processing times. However, we strongly recommend submitting your application as early as possible. This will allow ample time to secure your study permit and visa, as well as address any feedback or additional requests from the institution. Canadian universities and colleges can take up to 60 days after the application deadline to process your application and issue a Letter of Acceptance (LOA), which is necessary to apply for a study permit.

Next Steps

Now that you have a general overview of the Canadian application process, it's time to hit the ground running! Use ApplyBoard to get started on your application today!