Summary
- Why is Canada a popular country for Indian students?
- How to apply to universities and colleges in Canada?
- Study permit application process
- How many Indian students go to Canada every year?
- Top academic courses in Canada
- Canada is a popular country for students in India. Many people ask how Canada is for Indian students.
- Scholarships
- Things you need to have while studying in Canada
- Conclusion
- FAQ’s
Reasons Why Canada Is Famous Among Indian Students:
As a study destination, Canada is quite popular among Indian students. The popularity of the country is due to many factors. Some of the reasons can be summarised as:
- Top Universities in Canada
Some of the world’s ranked universities are in Canada. This makes it a country of academic excellence. These universities in Canada are ranked as top among the universities on a global level.
- Budget-Friendly
Compared to some of the foreign universities, universities in Canada are more affordable for Indian students. In comparison to countries like the US and UK, Canadian universities often charge less tuition fees from international students.
The cost of living is also much more affordable than other western and European countries around the world. This makes it more accessible for students in India.
- Easy Adjustments in The Country
As most people in Canada speak English it is easier for students from India to adjust to the country. Unlike countries like France and Germany where the native language is not English.
- Diverse Cultures
Canada is a country of diverse cultures, with students from different parts of the world making Canada their home for education. This introduces Indian students to different cultures and traditions, thereby exposing them to a whole new world.
- Safe for Students
Canada is a safe country for students and residents. However, appropriate behaviour is always expected in any country.
Following the country’s rules and regulations can help to a great extent when it comes to securing your safety in the county.
- Part-Time Student Jobs
Part time jobs are another advantage of studying in Canada is that the country allows students to participate in part-time jobs while studying thereby helping students to pay for expenses while they study in the country.
- Job Prospects
Canada is a highly developed economy. The country is considered as one of the top ten trading countries in the world with a large service sector employing several people every year.
The country provides ample job opportunities to students who have completed courses in the country.
Canada’s Post Graduation Work Permit Programme allows students to work in the country for three years after graduation.
- Availability of Scholarships
There are several scholarships available in Canada for students from India.
- Two official languages
English and French are the two official languages of Canada. Anglophone refers to the segment of the population that speaks English, while francophone refers to the segment that speaks French.
Your student visa application can be submitted in either English or French.
- Institutions offer assistance
Canadian colleges and universities want their international students in Canada to be successful. There will be an international student office at your college, which should offer services including assistance with health insurance and visas, programmes to improve skills, and tips on how to adapt to life in Canada.
- On-campus housing
On-campus housing is available at most Canadian educational institutions. First-year students may have priority in housing on campus. However, many universities and colleges also provide housing on campus for international students in Canada.
- Post-study visas
After graduation, Canada provides a few options for students to find employment there. If you meet the requirements, the post-graduation work permit can let you remain in Canada for up to three years after finishing your studies. You might also ask your employer to apply for a work permit.
- Values global perspective
Owing to these advantages, Canada is a popular country for Indian students. The question that now arises is how to go to Canada as a student?
Students need to follow certain steps for admission to universities in Canada. It will be in your best interests to consult a study abroad consultant for your studies in a foreign country.
A study abroad consultant has experience and knowledge on various procedures for student applications in different countries.
You May Also Like Scholarship to Study Abroad for Indian Students
Here Is How You Can Go to Canada from India to Study:
- Research on Available Courses in Canada
The first step in how to go to Canada as a student is to research the available courses that suit your preference. Many universities and colleges in Canada offer short-term and long-term specialised courses for students.
These courses are specialised or generalised. You can research what type, of course, you would like to pursue in the country.
- Attempt the Language Proficiency Test
IELTSEvery student seeking to pursue a course in Canada must pass the English or French language proficiency test. You can take up the English proficiency test in IELTS TOEFL. French students can attempt the DALF or DELF tests.
- Apply to Schools or Colleges in Canada
Once you decide on the course you would like to pursue, the next step would be to apply to the college or university that offers the course.
It is pertinent to note that Canada designates only certain colleges and universities for international admissions.
Make certain that the college you apply to is a Designated Learning Institute. All student applications must have an acceptance letter from a designated learning institute.
While applying to the college students must take note of the application details. Deadline, course information, and other important details.
- Apply for The Letter of Acceptance
Once you decide on the course you wish to pursue, you must apply for a letter of acceptance from the college. This is a crucial document without which study permits will not be granted.
- Apply for A Study Permit
A study permit is a document that allows students to study in Canada in a designated learning institute.
International students need a study permit to pursue a course in the country. This is an important step for how to go to Canada as a student.
- Visa Applications
You must start visa applications early so that you do not miss out on your course. Apply for a visa through the consulate in India.
- Planning Your Travel to Canada
Once you receive your study permit, students must plan their travel to the country. The dates on the study permit have a direct impact on your travel dates to the country.
- How to Get a Canadian Student Visa?
Now that you have zeroed in on your college or university, you may ask how to get a Canadian Students Visa?
The process to get a Canadian student visa from India is not complicated. However, it is advisable to start the process in advance to avoid any obstacles that you may face during the process.
Every student visa application must be accompanied by a letter of acceptance by the university or college you seek to pursue the course. This is an important document. Without this visa applications will not be processed.
The next step is to find out what you require to complete the student visa application. You can directly visit the immigration website or the consulate in India for further details. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada | Immigration, Réfugiés et Citoyenneté Canada (cic.gc.ca)
The website or consulate may ask you a few questions to determine if you are eligible to apply for the visa in the first place. This is not a visa interview. It is only a preliminary investigation into your visa process.
Once you are considered eligible to apply for a visa, the student will be given a visa application code. This code will be valid for the next 60 days.
This code is exclusive to your visa application and contains a file with details of documents you will have to submit for your student visa to Canada.
After you have prepared all documents to submit for the student visa, you can create a personal account on the visa application website. Here you may upload your documents while referring to the checklist.
You can then submit your application after paying the required visa application fees online.
At times there may be interview calls for students at the consulate.
Additionally, students may need to submit a medical record or police verification status while applying for the visa.
Visa applications make it mandatory to show proof of funds to finance your education in the country.
8.1. Application of Student Visa Through Student Direct Stream
Students from India have an added advantage of applying for a student study permit to Canada through the Student Direct Stream.
This process is faster than applying for a permit through the normal route. Language tests are mandatory under the Student Direct Stream.
These are the simple procedures of how to get a Canadian student visa. The process is easy and smooth.
The smooth process of study permits along with Canadian visas for students is evident through the number of Indian students that travel to Canada every year.
How Many Students Go to Canada Every Year from India?
Research surveys have shown that in 2019 there were 219000 Indian study permits in Canada. This comprised a whopping 34% of the international student population in Canada.
Top Courses in Canada
Nursing: One of the most popular healthcare careers for overseas students is nursing. It is always recommended to choose an undergraduate nursing programme over a diploma programme, even when both are available. The majority of nursing programmes are specialised, including those in emergency care, paediatrics, oncology, etc.
Business and Finance: The most popular course for international candidates is business management courses. One of the most popular programmes in this area is the MBA. Banking, management consulting, and investment finance are always in demand. The need for managerial leaders is growing across all industry sectors.
Engineering: Engineers are in high demand worldwide, and Canada has a particularly high need for them. If you have a bachelor’s degree in engineering from a reputable university in Canada, you will be well-positioned for career success after graduation.
Pharmacy: High levels of skill are necessary in this sector. The majority of those working in this profession in Canada often have PhD degrees, if not post-doctoral research experience. It has a strong focus on research. Additionally, there are many job choices available, including positions as a community pharmacist, hospital pharmacist, educator, etc.
Hospitality & Leisure Management: Degrees in hospitality management prepare you for a variety of jobs in the hospital sector. With innovative ideas, you will be able to change the industry, and you will have enthralling possibilities open to you all over the world.
Scholarships for International Students in Canada
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Both Canadian and foreign students may apply for the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship. Students who are pursuing a doctoral degree at a Canadian university and who are extremely motivated and competitive are given this fellowship.
- Douglas College International Student Scholarships
International students in Canada may apply for the Douglas College International Student Scholarship for undergraduate courses. Each academic year, a maximum of 5 qualified grantees will be chosen.
- University of Waterloo Scholarships
Students may apply for the University of Waterloo Scholarship for International students in Canada, which is completely financed. This fellowship is available for studies at undergrad, master’s, and doctoral levels.
- Université de Montréal Scholarships
The Université de Montréal Scholarships exempt recipients from paying tuition. All international students are eligible to submit an application. These scholarships are offered for studies at the undergraduate, master’s, and PhD levels.
- Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program
International students may apply for the fully financed Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Programme. 37 scholarships in all are offered for undergraduate study in Canada. This scholarship will pay for four years’ worth of tuition, books, miscellaneous expenses, and complete housing support.
- UBC Undergraduate Scholarships
Outstanding International Student (OIS) Awards and International Major Entrance (IMES) Scholarships are the two categories of undergraduate scholarships offered by UBC. Depending on the amount of funds available, different numbers and levels of these scholarships for international students in Canada are given out each year.
Things you need to have while studying in Canada
Passport
A passport is required for foreign travel. Apply for a passport in your home country if you don’t already have one. If you do have a passport, make sure to check the expiration date since if it’s in six months or fewer, you cannot travel abroad. If you have any other official government identification from your native country, you should bring it along with you or a copy of it.
Financial support
To be granted a study visa you must provide proof that you will be able to properly support yourself, covering both your tuition charges and additional living expenses. This is referred to as financial support proof.
Letter of acceptance
You will receive a letter of acceptance if you have been accepted into a certain Canadian post-secondary institution. A letter of acceptance is often referred to as an acceptance letter or an offer letter. To get a study permit, you will have to present your letter of acceptance.
Study permit
You must have a study permit in order to remain in Canada and pursue your studies. It is distinct from a student visa, which is the authorization to enter Canada. A study permit roughly costs $150 CAD.
Bank account in Canada
You will require a bank that is aware of your unique requirements as a newcomer and an international student.
Accommodation
When you get to university, you must have secure housing prepared for you. As soon as you have been accepted to a university, you should begin making accommodations.
Copy of your medical records, current medicines, and prescriptions
Ask your doctor for a copy of your medical history and immunisation records before you leave the country. You should keep track of any existing medical conditions or prescriptions so you can manage them once you begin your studies in Canada.
Health insurance for students
Basic and extended health insurance is a requirement for all international students studying in Canada. International students are not always eligible for publicly subsidised health insurance in all provinces. You might be eligible for provincial health insurance in your area or you might need to purchase university-provided or personal health insurance.
Winter clothing
For all international students entering Canada, winter clothing is necessary.
Mobile data plan
You’ll need a Canadian data plan if you already have a mobile phone. Compared to other countries, Canadian data plans are typically more expensive. Prices for mobile data plans vary depending on the services that are included in your package.
Emergency contacts
In the event of an accident or emergency, your university can ask you for a list of emergency contacts. Select one or two members of your family or close friends from your country of origin to be your emergency contacts. If you have close relatives or friends living in Canada, you should additionally include one of them as an emergency contact.
Conclusion
As seen above, Canada is a popular country among Indian students, owing to several benefits and advantages.
In the years to come, Canada will see an increase in the intake of the Indian student population in academic institutions.
The Canadian Government is making the processes easier and smooth for Indian students to apply to courses in Canada.
FAQ’s
- How much does it cost to study in Canada?
The cost of attending a university depends on the program and institution you select. In Canada, the average cost of a university education roughly, on average, undergraduate international students can expect to pay between CAD 20,000 to CAD 40,000 per year, while graduate programs may range from CAD 10,000 to CAD 50,000 per year.
- What is the first step to study in Canada?
The first step to studying in Canada is to do your research and choose a programme and college or university that fits your academic objectives and interests.
- How much money do I need to study in Canada?
For international students, the expense of studying in Canada is largely covered by the tuition fees that colleges charge. Several factors, like the type of course, its reputation and reach abroad, the city of study, etc., affect the overall cost. Therefore, the average cost of attending some of the best institutions in Canada can be CAD 35,000 (INR 18,84,000) in terms of tuition fees.
- What do I need to know before studying in Canada?
Prior to enrolling in a programme of study in Canada, you should be aware of the following:
Admission requirements for the university and programme of your choice, the procedure for getting an international student study permit, financial preparation, taking into account living costs, prospective scholarships, and tuition costs, alternatives and criteria for health insurance during your visit to Canada.
- Is it easy to get a job in Canada while studying?
International students studying full-time at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada with a study permit are eligible to work off campus without a work permit. This implies that you can work anywhere in Canada for any company and in any profession. If they wish, international students may also work on campus.
- Do I need IELTS if I study in Canada?
Yes, it is possible to study in Canada without having taken the IELTS exam. Canadian colleges offer a variety of options to international students without IELTS scores. Language competence tests like the TOEFL, Duolingo English Test CanTEST, CAEL, CPE, PTE, Cambridge English Exams, etc. are some possibilities.
- What is the age limit for a study visa in Canada?
In Canada, there is no age restriction for acquiring a student visa. To be eligible to apply for a study visa, you must be accepted into a DLI and be able to show that you have the money to pay your tuition and living expenses. The minimum age requirement varies based on the university or program.
- Are there scholarships available for international students studying in Canada?
Yes, international students can receive financial aid and scholarships to study in Canada. These include external scholarships from organisations in your home country, government scholarships like the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, and scholarships granted by Canadian universities. Make sure to look for and submit applications for relevant scholarships early.
- What are Canada’s top universities?
The University of Toronto, McGill University, University of British Columbia, University of Alberta, and McMaster University are few of Canada’s best universities. However rankings can differ, so it’s crucial to do your thorough research and choose the one that best suits your subject of study.
- Are there any English language proficiency requirements for taking courses in Canada?
The majority of Canadian colleges demand proof of language competency from foreign applicants. Tests like the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), or the Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) test can be used to demonstrate English language ability.
- How does Canada’s healthcare system treat foreign students?
The majority of provincial health insurance programs in Canada provide access to medical care for international students. It’s crucial to remember that each province may have unique laws and insurance policies. In order to fill in any gaps in the provincial coverage, international students are typically obliged to seek health insurance coverage, either through the institution or a commercial insurance company.
