Brief History of Canada
Canada’s story is quite an interesting one, beginning thousands of years ago with Indigenous peoples who lived across the land in diverse communities, each with its own culture, language, and traditions. Long before any European ships arrived, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples had well-established societies and deep connections to the land.
In the late 15th and early 16th centuries, European explorers, most notably from France and Britain, began arriving, drawn by the promise of new territory and valuable resources like fur. France established colonies in areas like Quebec, while Britain gained control of other parts of the land. Over time, tensions between the two powers led to conflict, with Britain eventually gaining control after the Seven Years’ War in the mid-1700s.
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In 1867, Canada officially became a self-governing country through Confederation, uniting four provinces to form the Dominion of Canada. Over the following decades, more provinces and territories joined, and Canada steadily moved toward full independence from Britain, which was largely achieved by the mid-20th century.
Canada’s history includes challenging chapters, including its treatment of Indigenous peoples, which continues to be a focus of reconciliation and healing today. The country also played key roles in both World Wars, which helped shape its national identity and global reputation.
Today, Canada is known as a multicultural and democratic nation, proud of its diversity, Indigenous roots, and commitment to peace and inclusion. Its history continues to evolve, shaped by its people, their stories, and the values they uphold.
Canada’s Regions and Climate
Canada sits at the top of North America, sharing its southern border with the United States and stretching all the way up to the Arctic. It’s a massive country, second only to Russia in land size, covering nearly 10 million square kilometers. Canada is made up of 10 provinces and 3 territories, and the country spreads from Atlantic shores in the east to the Pacific coast in the west, and into the icy north. Additionally, when it comes to climate, Canada’s climate isn’t one-size-fits-all, because of the vast landscape, but most parts of the country experience four clear seasons:
- Winter (December to February) can be intense. In the middle and northern parts of the country, it’s brutally cold and snowy, while coastal areas like Vancouver get much milder, rainy winters.
- Spring (March to May) arrives slowly in some regions, especially up north, but it’s a refreshing time of melting snow, blooming trees, and rising temperatures across much of the country.
- Summer (June to August) brings warmth and sunshine, especially in the southern parts. Cities like Toronto and Montreal can get hot and humid, while western provinces like Alberta enjoy drier, pleasant weather. Farther north, summer is shorter but filled with long daylight hours.
- Autumn (September to November) is a favorite for many, with crisp air and stunning fall colors lighting up forests, especially in eastern provinces like Quebec, Ontario, and the Maritimes.
Different parts of Canada also have their own unique climate. For instance, British Columbia’s west coast is known for its rainy, mild weather, while the prairie places like Saskatchewan and Manitoba see dry summers and bitterly cold winters. Up north, in the territories, winters are long and freezing, with brief but beautiful summers under almost constant daylight.
Choosing the Right School and Program
A very important step in your study abroad journey is selecting the right school and the right course that fits your qualifications and aligns with your future goals. Canada is home to almost 500 colleges and universities, and selecting the right option as a student may not be as easy. However, I’ve outlined the top things to look out for when selecting a university in Canada.
1. Outline Your Career and Educational Goal
Many international students often select a country as their top choice, and they get excited about the thought of studying in that country. But studying abroad is not just about picking a specific country or a school. First things first, outline your career and educational goals. Students often pursue an MBA because it’ll benefit their careers in the long run. However, if you’re big in the education space and you’re aiming to be a lecturer or researcher, then you should select master’s courses that are thesis courses or go ahead to apply for an MBA course. Additionally, if you plan on furthering your education, ensure that the current course you’re studying aligns with the course you intend to study in the future. These may seem insignificant, but they impact the quality of your application.
2. Accreditation and Ranking
Another factor to consider when selecting the right school in Canada is to ensure that the school is accredited. Accreditation means the school meets certain academic standards and that your degree will be recognized globally. You can check this on the Government of Canada website. In addition to accreditation, you should also consider school ranking. Private universities seem easier than public ones. The higher the ranking of your school, the more competitive it is to gain admission into that school; however, the prestige attached to the school will be beneficial in the long run.
2. Location and Proximity
When choosing a school in Canada, it’s important to also consider accommodation and its cost. Major cities like Toronto and Vancouver offer more job opportunities and networking potential, but they tend to be more expensive. On the other hand, smaller cities or towns often have lower living costs and a more relaxed lifestyle. It’s also wise to factor in the weather as some provinces experience long, snowy winters, while others have milder climates.
3. Course Content and Faculty
The course content and faculty shouldn’t be overlooked. Before applying to any school, just important to do a check and understand the course content, take it a step further to ensure that it aligns with your academic and career goals. Beyond the school name, see if the subjects match your interests. Check the faculty profile too. Professors with industry experience or strong research backgrounds can make a big difference in your learning.
4. programmes Available in Canada
Canada offers a wide range of programmes across various disciplines, including:
- Engineering and Technology
- Business and Management
- Health Sciences and Medicine
- Social Sciences
- Arts and Humanities
- Computer Science and Data Science
- Education, Law, Agriculture, and more
Depending on your level of education, Canadian institutions provide several programme options:
Diploma and Certificate programmes
Diploma and certificate programmes are typically offered by colleges and last for 1 to 3 years. These programmes provide practical, hands-on training for students aiming to enter the workforce directly or gain a strong foundation before further study. Popular areas of study include:
- Business Administration
- Information Technology
- Early Childhood Education
- Graphic Design
- Nursing
- Hospitality Management
Associate Degree programmes
Although it is less common in Canada than in the U.S., some provinces like British Columbia and Alberta offer associate degrees through colleges. These are usually 2-year programmes designed either for direct entry into the workforce or as a bridge to a bachelor’s degree.
Pathway programmes
Pathway programmes help international students meet the academic or English language requirements needed for direct admission to undergraduate or graduate studies. These programmes are often offered by colleges or through university partnerships and typically last about a year. They include:
- Undergraduate Pathway programmes: for students preparing to enter a bachelor’s degree.
- Graduate Pathway programmes: for those aiming to pursue a master’s degree.
Examples of institutions offering pathway programmes include:
- Fraser International College (Simon Fraser University)
- Navitas at Toronto Metropolitan University
- ICM at the University of Manitoba
- CultureWorks (various university partners)
Undergraduate programmes
Canadian universities offer bachelor’s degrees in fields such as science, arts, business, and engineering. These programmes typically last 3 to 4 years. Popular degrees include:
- Bachelor of Arts (BA)
- Bachelor of Science (BSc)
- Other specialized degrees like BEng (Engineering), BFA (Fine Arts), BSW (Social Work), and BDes (Design)
Graduate programmes
Graduate studies in Canada include master’s and doctoral programmes. They usually focus on research, advanced skills, and professional development. They often last 1 to 3 years. Examples include:
- Master’s Degrees (MA, MSc, MBA)
- Doctoral Degrees (PhD)
- Professional Degrees in law (JD), medicine (MD), education (MEd), and more
Types of Institutions in Canada
Canada has various types of post-secondary institutions to meet different student needs:
- Colleges: they focus on career-oriented diploma and certificate programmes.
- Polytechnics and Institutes: they offer hands-on, industry-focused training and applied research.
- Universities: they provide undergraduate and graduate degree programmes, with a strong focus on academic and research excellence.
- CEGEPs (in Quebec): they are public institutions offering pre-university and technical programmes.
Tips for Applying to Canadian Schools
To apply successfully:
- Research institutions and programmes thoroughly.
- Choose schools that match your academic goals and language proficiency.
- Consider your budget, location preferences, and the school’s admission requirements.
- Apply to a mix of schools to increase your chances of acceptance.
Top Universities in Canada
Below is the list of the top 50 universities according to the Times Higher Education Ranking.
| Canada Rank 2025 | WUR Rank 2025 | University | Overall | Teaching | Research Environment | Research Quality | Industry | International Outlook |
| 1 | 21 | University of Toronto | 88.3 | 76.2 | 93.5 | 93.4 | 94.9 | 91.8 |
| 2 | 41 | University of British Columbia | 77.8 | 62.3 | 76.7 | 89.7 | 79.8 | 94.3 |
| 3 | 45 | McGill University | 76.7 | 66.2 | 70.9 | 88.6 | 78 | 91.6 |
| 4 | 116 | McMaster University | 65.2 | 41.2 | 50.2 | 93 | 100 | 87.6 |
| 4 | 116 | University of Alberta | 65.2 | 48.2 | 56.7 | 79.3 | 100 | 90.4 |
| 6 | 125 | Université de Montréal | 64.3 | 49.3 | 53.2 | 79.5 | 97.8 | 86.8 |
| 7 | 163 | University of Waterloo | 60.9 | 41 | 48.9 | 83.1 | 77.1 | 88.4 |
| 8 | 191 | University of Ottawa | 59.2 | 37.2 | 44.7 | 85.1 | 81.4 | 87 |
| 9 | 201–250 | University of Calgary | 55.8–58.6 | 34.4 | 42.8 | 83.6 | 88.9 | 85.7 |
| 9 | 201–250 | Western University | 55.8–58.6 | 39.5 | 42.1 | 76.7 | 99.5 | 87 |
| 11 | 251–300 | Université Laval | 53.7–55.7 | 40.5 | 38.9 | 70.8 | 96 | 76.1 |
| 12 | 301–350 | Dalhousie University | 51.1–53.6 | 29.6 | 32.9 | 76.9 | 78.2 | 88.5 |
| 12 | 301–350 | Queen’s University | 51.1–53.6 | 35 | 36.4 | 76.2 | 79.8 | 76.3 |
| 12 | 301–350 | Simon Fraser University | 51.1–53.6 | 28.6 | 35.5 | 81.8 | 84.5 | 92.2 |
| 12 | 301–350 | University of Victoria | 51.1–53.6 | 29.6 | 37.1 | 81.7 | 65.8 | 86.5 |
| 16 | 351–400 | University of Saskatchewan | 49.4–51.0 | 39.2 | 34 | 63.9 | 94.2 | 78.5 |
| 17 | 401–500 | University of Guelph | 46.0–49.2 | 33.9 | 36.3 | 66.4 | 80.4 | 65.7 |
| 17 | 401–500 | University of Manitoba | 46.0–49.2 | 28.1 | 34.4 | 73.1 | 63.3 | 60.4 |
| 17 | 401–500 | York University | 46.0–49.2 | 28 | 32.5 | 73.5 | 71 | 82.9 |
| 20 | 501–600 | Carleton University | 43.3–45.9 | 22.1 | 30.4 | 65.2 | 70.4 | 77.5 |
| 20 | 501–600 | Concordia University | 43.3–45.9 | 23.9 | 30.6 | 65.2 | 66.5 | 87.5 |
| 20 | 501–600 | Memorial University of Newfoundland | 43.3–45.9 | 30.3 | 26.1 | 64.2 | 83.7 | 87.3 |
| 20 | 501–600 | Université du Québec | 43.3–45.9 | 31.7 | 34.2 | 56.5 | 71.8 | 74.9 |
| 20 | 501–600 | University of Windsor | 43.3–45.9 | 28.7 | 30.5 | 59.7 | 65.9 | 89.7 |
| 25 | 601–800 | Toronto Metropolitan University | 38.2–43.2 | 19.5 | 31.4 | 59.9 | 67.7 | 63.3 |
| 25 | 601–800 | University of New Brunswick UNB | 38.2–43.2 | 22.1 | 23.6 | 61.9 | 67.1 | 81.2 |
| 27 | 801–1000 | Ontario Tech University | 34.5–38.1 | 17.7 | 25 | 61.4 | 53.6 | 64 |
| 27 | 801–1000 | University of Regina | 34.5–38.1 | 18.6 | 20.4 | 66.5 | 37.6 | 70.1 |
| 27 | 801–1000 | Wilfrid Laurier University | 34.5–38.1 | 15.6 | 20.2 | 55.2 | 61.4 | 67.2 |
| 30 | 1001–1200 | Lakehead University | 30.7–34.4 | 16.3 | 24.2 | 53.5 | 42 | 59.5 |
| 30 | 1001–1200 | University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) | 30.7–34.4 | 21.1 | 22.4 | 50.6 | 20.3 | 54.7 |
| 32 | 1201–1500 | St Francis Xavier University | 25.2–30.6 | 16.7 | 18.1 | 48 | 27.9 | 54.5 |
| 33 | 1501+ | University of Lethbridge | 10.5–25.1 | 19.1 | 14.3 | 29.6 | 41.7 | 61.2 |
Top Courses in Canada
Below is a list of top courses and competitive careers in Canada:
| S/N | Major | Starting Salary (CAD) | Mid-Career Salary (CAD) | Common Job Roles |
| 1 | Petroleum Engineering | $85,000 | $170,000 | Drilling Engineer, Production Engineer, Reservoir Engineer |
| 2 | Computer Science | $70,000 | $120,000 | Software Developer, AI Specialist, Data Scientist |
| 3 | Electrical Engineering | $65,000 | $115,000 | Electrical Engineer, Control Systems Engineer, Power Systems Engineer |
| 4 | Chemical Engineering | $70,000 | $115,000 | Chemical Engineer, Process Engineer, R&D Engineer |
| 5 | Aerospace Engineering | $68,000 | $115,000 | Aerospace Engineer, Flight Systems Engineer, Design Engineer |
| 6 | Data Science | $68,000 | $120,000 | Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Data Analyst |
| 7 | Mechanical Engineering | $62,000 | $105,000 | Mechanical Engineer, Project Engineer, Product Designer |
| 8 | Finance | $60,000 | $110,000 | Financial Analyst, Investment Analyst, Risk Manager |
| 9 | Civil Engineering | $60,000 | $100,000 | Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Construction Manager |
| 10 | Information Technology | $58,000 | $100,000 | IT Specialist, Network Administrator, Systems Analyst |
| 11 | Nursing | $65,000 | $95,000 | Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse |
| 12 | Business Administration | $55,000 | $100,000 | Business Analyst, Marketing Manager, Operations Manager |
| 13 | Pharmacy | $65,000 | $110,000 | Pharmacist, Clinical Pharmacist, Drug Safety Associate |
| 14 | Architecture | $55,000 | $95,000 | Architect, Urban Designer, Interior Designer |
| 15 | Economics | $60,000 | $105,000 | Economist, Financial Analyst, Policy Consultant |
| 16 | Mathematics | $58,000 | $100,000 | Mathematician, Statistician, Quantitative Analyst |
| 17 | Physics | $60,000 | $105,000 | Physicist, Research Scientist, Data Analyst |
| 18 | Biomedical Engineering | $62,000 | $100,000 | Biomedical Engineer, Clinical Engineer, Medical Device Developer |
| 19 | Environmental Engineering | $60,000 | $98,000 | Environmental Engineer, Sustainability Analyst, Water Resource Engineer |
| 20 | Marketing | $50,000 | $90,000 | Marketing Manager, Brand Strategist, Digital Marketing Specialist |
Note: Salaries are estimates and may vary based on province, experience, and employer. The figures provided are averages and should be used as a general guide.
Universities In Canada without Application Fees
Below is the list of schools in Canada without application fees:
| University Name | QS World Ranking 2025 | Application Fee Policy |
| University of British Columbia (UBC) | 34 | Offers application fee waivers for eligible international students through partner programmes. |
| University of Alberta | 96 | Fee waivers may be granted for students applying through specific scholarships or programmes. |
| University of Calgary | 182 | Some graduate programmes offer fee waivers to applicants from specific countries. |
| University of Ottawa | 203 | Application fee waivers are available for international students via select agreements. |
| Memorial University of Newfoundland | 751–760 | No application fee for Canadian and international undergraduate applicants. |
| University of Lethbridge | 1201–1400 | Waives application fee during promotional periods or for certain graduate programmes. |
| Royal Roads University | Not Ranked | No application fee for most graduate and online programmes. |
| Booth University College | Not Ranked | No application fee for domestic and international students. |
| Quest University Canada (closed in 2023 but may reopen) | Not Ranked | Previously waived fees; check current status if reopened. |
| Redeemer University | Not Ranked | No application fee for undergraduate applicants. |
| Tyndale University | Not Ranked | No application fee for undergraduate applicants. |
| Canadian Mennonite University | Not Ranked | No application fee for both domestic and international applicants. |
| University of Winnipeg | Not Ranked | Occasionally waives fees for international students through access programmes. |
| Booth University College | Not Ranked | No application fee required for most programmes. |
Note:
- Some universities waive fees conditionally (e.g., through international partnerships, graduate scholarships, or during application campaigns).
- Rankings are from the QS World University Rankings 2025, where available.
- Policies may change yearly, so it’s best to confirm with each university’s official admissions office or website.
Understanding the Application Process
The process of applying to Canadian colleges and universities can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. However, with accurate information and proper planning, it can be smooth and seamless.
Generally, the entire application process can take 8 to 12 weeks or more, depending on the institution and programme. After submitting your application, it may take 4 to 6 weeks (or longer) to receive a decision, especially during peak periods.
It’s highly recommended to apply to multiple schools to increase your chances of admission and keep your options open. Since acceptance is not guaranteed until you receive an official offer, having backups reduces the risk of disappointment and gives you flexibility when choosing the right fit.
If you’re planning on applying to US universities, here’s what you’ll typically need to apply:
- Academic Transcripts: For Nigerian students, this includes your secondary school results and your degree results for postgraduate programmes.
Related: The Right Way to Prepare Your Transcripts for Study Abroad Applications
- Standardized Test Scores: Many schools require SAT or ACT (for undergraduates) and TOEFL or IELTS (to show English proficiency). Depending on your country and qualifications, this can be waived.
Standardized Test Scores For Canadian Universities
| Test | Marks Obtainable | Average Score Range | Top University Score Range |
| SAT | 1600 | 1050–1250 | 1400–1600 |
| ACT | 36 | 20–24 | 30–34 |
| GRE | 340 | 290–310 | 320–330 (for competitive grad programmes) |
| GMAT | 800 | 550–600 | 700–740 (for top MBA programmes) |
| TOEFL iBT | 120 | 70–90 | 100–110 |
| IELTS | 9.0 (Band Score) | 6.0–6.5 | 7.0–8.0 |
| Duolingo English Test | 160 | 90–105 | 110–120 |
| PTE Academic | 90 | 50–60 | 70–80 |
| LSAT (Law School) | 180 | 150–155 | 165–175 |
| MCAT (Medical School) | 528 | 500–510 | 515–528 |
| DAT (Dental School) | 30 | 17–19 | 20–22 |
| CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language Test) | 90 | 60–70 | 70–80 |
| CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) | 12 | 6–8 | 9–12 |
NOTE:
- Not all programmes or universities in Canada require the SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT, especially for domestic students.
- TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, DUOLINGO, CAEL, and CELPIP are used to assess English proficiency for international applicants.
- LSAT, MCAT, DAT, and PCAT are required for specific professional programmes (Law, Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy).
- Always check individual university requirements, as score expectations vary by programme and competitiveness.
- Statement of Purpose or Personal Essay: This is where you tell your story, your goals, interests, and why you’re a good fit for the school.
Related: How to Write a Winning Statement of Purpose (SOP) – with samples
- Letters of Recommendation: They are usually written by your teachers or mentors.
Related: How to Get a Recommendation Letter from Your Professor? Easy Guide
- Application Fees: Most universities in Canada charge an application fee ranging from CAD $50 to $200. However, some institutions may offer application fee waivers in special cases, such as financial hardship or through specific partnerships or recruitment programmes.
It’s important to remember that while there are generally accepted application documents, each university and programme may have specific requirements depending on the course of study. In addition to understanding the required documents, it’s equally important to know about the application intakes, which are the periods when universities accept new students.
In Canada, there are typically three main intakes each year:
- Fall Intake (September): This is the primary and most popular intake, with the largest number of courses and programmes available. Most students aim to begin their studies during this time.
- Winter Intake (January): This is the second major intake and offers another opportunity for admission if you miss the Fall deadline. While not all programmes are available, many popular ones still accept students.
- Spring/Summer Intake (May/June): This is the least common intake, usually limited to select programmes, diploma courses, or shorter-term studies. Availability may vary by institution.
If you’re planning on studying in Canada and you require professional guidance, we’re there to help. At EdXtra, we guide students through every step of this process, from choosing schools to submitting strong applications and following up.
Also, the earlier you start, the better your chances of meeting deadlines and submitting strong applications. The stages of an application include:
- Stage 1: Outline your career/academic goals.
- Stage 2: Search a list of possible schools
- Stage 3: Go through their requirements and prepare your documents.
- Stage 4: Pay your fees, apply, and submit your application. Most Canadian universities use online application systems, which vary by province or institution. For example, students applying to schools in Ontario typically use the OUAC (Ontario Universities’ Application Centre) for undergraduate programmes. Other provinces or individual universities may have their own online application portals available on their official websites for both undergraduate and graduate admissions. British Columbia uses EducationPlannerBC, and Alberta uses ApplyAlberta.
- Stage 5: Follow up to see if there are additional requirements and wait for the results.
Funding and Scholarship
One of the concerns for international students planning to study in Canada is how to afford it. Education generally is expensive, and studying abroad is even more expensive. However, there is good news as several funding opportunities are available. Students can apply for scholarships or fellowships. Examples of scholarships include:
1. Merit-Based Scholarships
These are awarded based on your academic performance, leadership, or special talents. Many universities offer them automatically if you have high grades or test scores. Some may require separate applications. When it comes to scholarships, early application is often encouraged. Most scholarships have early deadlines, which are often months before the academic year begins. Applying early increases your chances and gives you enough time to prepare a strong application.
2. Need-Based Aid
This type of funding is given to students whose families cannot afford the full cost of tuition. Canadian schools may ask you to submit financial documents to assess your eligibility.
3. External Scholarships
Several global organizations offer scholarships for international students. Notable examples include:
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED)
- Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP).
- Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
- Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
- Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships
- Organization of American States (OAS) Academic Scholarship Program
- Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
- PEO International Peace Scholarship for Women
Some of the scholarships are fully funded, which means they cover the entire study cost, including accommodation, feeding, tuition fee, book fare, and stipend.
Universities also have various scholarships for international students. They can be based on the course or performance.
4. Work-Study and Campus Jobs
International students in Canada with a valid study permit are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks (such as winter or summer holidays). This opportunity helps students support themselves financially and gain valuable Canadian work experience.
On-Campus Jobs (No additional permit required)
You can work on campus at the university or college where you’re enrolled, as long as you meet the eligibility requirements of your study permit.
Common on-campus jobs include:
- Library assistant
- Research assistant (within your department)
- Teaching assistant (TA)
- Campus tour guide
- Cafeteria or food service worker
- Bookstore cashier or clerk
- IT support or computer lab monitor
- Administrative office assistant
- Lab technician (campus labs)
- Residence or dormitory assistant (RA)
Off-Campus Jobs (Permitted under your study permit)
You may work off-campus without a separate work permit if:
- You’re a full-time student at a designated learning institution (DLI)
- Your study programme is at least 6 months long and leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate
Examples of off-campus jobs include:
- Retail or customer service roles
- Restaurant or café staff
- Freelancing (allowed, as long as it complies with Canadian work laws)
- Internships or part-time roles in your field of study
Co-op and Internship programmes (Require a co-op work permit)
If your academic programme includes a mandatory co-op or internship, you will need to apply for a co-op work permit in addition to your study permit.
Examples:
- Clinical placements for nursing or health programmes
- Engineering internships
- Business or tech co-op work terms
Ensure to always check your study permit conditions and ensure you meet all eligibility requirements before taking a job.
Related: How to Move to Work in Canada
5. Fellowships
Fellowships are highly competitive funding opportunities, often offered for graduate-level programmes (master’s or PhD). They usually cover full tuition, living expenses, travel, and sometimes research costs. Fellowships are often tied to leadership, academic excellence, or specific fields of study.
6. Student loans
Student loans are another way to fund your education in Canada. While international students are generally not eligible for government-funded loans like Canadian citizens or permanent residents, there are private loan options available. These loans often come with specific requirements. Some may require a Canadian co-signer or collateral, while others are more flexible. Many loan providers offer deferred repayment, allowing students to begin payments after graduation when they start working. It is important to note that each lender has its own eligibility criteria, interest rates, and repayment plans, so it’s important to compare your options and choose what best fits your financial situation.
Below are a few student loan providers that support international students studying in Canada:
| MPower Financing | Offers loans without requiring a Canadian co-signer.Available to students from over 190 countries.Supports both undergraduate and graduate programmes at approved Canadian institutions. |
| Prodigy Finance | Provides loans mainly for graduate programmes in fields like business, public policy, law, and STEM.No co-signer or collateral needed.Available to students from over 150 countries.Loan approval is based on future earning potential. |
| Windmill Microlending (for skilled immigrants and refugees) | Provides microloans (up to CAD $15,000) to help internationally educated professionals cover costs for licensing, training, or education.No co-signer required.Focused on helping newcomers qualify to work in their field in Canada. |
| Lendwise | Offers postgraduate education loans to international students in select Canadian institutions.May not require a co-signer.Loan amounts and repayment terms depend on your study program. |
Cost of Studying in Canada
To get an accurate idea of the cost of studying in Canada, it’s important to consider various factors like application fees, medical fees, tuition, accommodation, and so on. The breakdown of the true cost of studying in Canada is below:
1. Application Fees
Furthermore, when it comes to studying abroad, the expenses begin to add up right from the moment you decide to study in Canada. Most Canadian colleges and universities charge application fees, typically non-refundable, though some institutions may offer fee waivers or free applications during specific periods or events.
In addition to application fees, you might incur other costs depending on your chosen school and program. These can include fees for language proficiency tests, credential assessments, and document submission.
Here’s a general breakdown of typical costs during the application stage:
| Item | Estimated Amount (CAD) |
| Application Fees | 100 – 150 per school |
| Language proficiency test | 200 – 350 each |
| Credential evaluation (if required) | 240 – 300 each |
| Document mailing | 30 – 100 each |
Note: Most undergraduate applications in Ontario are submitted via the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC), which also charges a base fee (currently $156 CAD for three choices, with additional fees per extra choice). Other provinces have their own centralized portals or direct application systems.
2. Tuition Fees
After the application phase, once you’ve been given admission, the next fee you’ll be paying is your tuition deposit to secure your slot till you pay the full tuition fee. Tuition fee varies based on the school, location, course, and program. However, the table below gives an estimate of the tuition fee for international students in Canada.
.Undergraduate programmes
| Public Universities | $20,000 – $35,000/year |
| Private Universities | $35,000 – $40,000+/year |
| Communications Colleges | $6,000 – $18,000/year (2-year programmes) |
Graduate programmes
| Public Universities | $20,000 – $30,000/year |
| Private Universities | $30,000 – $50,000+/year |
| MBA/Law/Medical programmes | $50,000/year or over |
3. Student Visa Cost
To study in Canada, international students must apply for a study permit, which serves as the student visa. You may also incur additional costs if you’re required to submit medical exams, police certificates, or document translations. Below is the breakdown of the key costs involved:
| Item | Cost (CAD) |
| Study permit application | 150 |
| Biometrics | 85 |
4. Transportation
Transportation fees to Canada vary based on your location as an international student. If you’re a Nigerian, you’ll be spending around CAD1,900 on your flight to Canada. Check in with your travel agent for a more accurate price range when you’re ready.
5. Medical Fees
As an international student in Canada, health insurance is often mandatory. The cost varies based on your province, institution, and the type of coverage. Some schools provide health insurance plans that are automatically included in tuition, while others may require you to pay separately for this coverage. Generally, medical fees for international students range from $500 to $2,000 CAD per year, depending on the province and level of coverage. In some provinces like British Columbia, Manitoba, and Quebec, provincial health plans are available, but international students may still need to purchase additional private insurance.
6. Living Expenses
Living expenses as an international student in Canada will vary based on the city or region you choose. Major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal tend to be more expensive, while smaller cities or rural areas are typically more affordable. The table below outlines estimated monthly living costs for international students in Canada:
| Item | Amount (CAD) |
| Housing (Shared) | From $400 |
| Food | From $250 |
| Transportation | From $80 |
| Personal expenses | From $100 |
| Books | Varies |
Student Visa Process
If you’re planning to study in Canada, you’ll need a study permit, which acts as your student visa. The application process typically begins after receiving your Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
To apply, visit the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) at www.canada.ca. You will need to create an account either through the GCKey portal or the IRCC secure login. From there, complete the study permit application form (IMM 1294), upload the necessary documents, and pay the required fees online.
The required documents typically include:
- A valid passport
- Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a DLI
- Proof of financial support (bank statements, GIC certificate, or scholarship letter)
- Passport-size photographs
- Tuition fee payment receipt (if already paid)
- Statement of purpose or study plan
- Medical exam results (if applicable)
- Police clearance certificate (if requested)
After submission, you may be asked to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo). You’ll receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL) with details on how and where to provide this information. Biometrics must be submitted at an authorised Visa Application Centre (VAC); you can find the nearest one via VFS Global.
The visa processing time varies by country but usually takes between 2 to 10 weeks. Once your application is approved, you will receive:
- A Letter of Introduction (to be presented at the Canadian port of entry)
- A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), depending on your nationality
When you arrive in Canada, present the Letter of Introduction, your passport, and your LOA to the border services officer. If everything is in order, you will be issued your official study permit at the point of entry.
Visa Interview Tips (if required):
In most cases, Canada does not require an in-person interview for a study permit. However, if you’re invited for an interview by the visa office or asked to provide biometrics, here are some tips:
- Speak clearly and honestly about your intentions.
- Be concise; answer only what is asked.
- Show understanding of your study programme and how it aligns with your goals.
- Demonstrate financial support and clear ties to your home country.
- Stay calm and professional.
Preparing for Departure to Canada
Once your study permit is approved, it’s time to prepare for your move. This period is crucial for a smooth transition into your new academic and cultural environment.
Book Your Flight Early
You can travel to Canada as early as your study permit start date, which is usually indicated in your approval letter. Book flights early to avoid high prices and limited availability for near-term start dates.
Find Housing
You’ll need a place to stay before arriving in Canada:
- On-campus housing: Convenient for first-year international students; often includes meals, utilities, and easy access to classes.
- Off-campus housing: May be more affordable, but you’ll need to handle rent, meals, and utilities on your own. Make sure to sign a lease only after confirming safety and reliability.
Organize Your Documents
Keep important documents in your carry-on bag, including:
- Valid passport and visa
- Letter of Introduction from IRCC
- Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from your school
- Proof of funds (bank statements, GIC certificate, etc.)
- Tuition payment receipt
- Medical records and vaccination certificates
- Academic transcripts or certificates
It’s also a good idea to store digital copies of all important documents on your phone and cloud storage for easy access.
Pack Wisely
Only bring essentials like:
- Clothing suited for Canadian weather (layering is key)
- Adapters, electronics, medications, and toiletries
- Cultural or comfort items from home (for settling in)
You can buy most things in Canada, so pack efficiently.
Learn About Canadian Culture
Adjusting to life in Canada goes beyond academics. Familiarise yourself with:
- Classroom etiquette (punctuality, participation, respecting opinions)
- Social norms (privacy, politeness, tipping in restaurants)
- Local laws (alcohol use, work permit limits for students, etc.)
- Being open-minded and proactive will make your transition smoother and help you enjoy your time as a student in Canada.
