For many students, the opportunity to travel abroad for school is one they don’t want to miss out on. In the ever-connected world of today, students can more easily travel and receive a world-class education outside of their home country.
Some of these world-class institutions are located in the country of Canada, and this article is going to explain how after graduation from the 12th grade, students the world over can have the opportunity to travel to Canada in order to continue their education.
The following is a helpful list for prospective students to guide them through their process.
Learn About Canada
First, prospective students should learn about Canada. It is a beautiful country with its own culture. Take time to read about it. Reach out to people that have been there. Try to find pen pals online that can tell you all about it.
Did you know that there is a province that had an official language other than English? Find out what you can about its geography, people, and politics. It will lessen the culture shock when you arrive!
Decide Where You Want to Live/What Schools You Want to Study At
Canada is home to many wonderful cities, and the choice of where to live should be top on any prospective student’s mind. Do they want the cool temperate climate of Vancouver? Or the east coast hipness of Toronto? Also, what schools and programs are located in what cities? What do you want to study?
If you are going to study in Quebec, understand that the provinces’ official language is French, not English, and you may want to brush up on your French language skills before arriving. Some schools are better regarded than others for a certain subject, and still, others might not offer what you want to learn. Is it computer science or political science that you are interested in? Do your research, and come up with a list.
Apply to Different Schools
Once you start to develop the list of schools that you are interested in applying to, it comes time to actually put pen to paper, or finger to keyboard. If you are interested in a university or college, then you should be prepared to apply a year in advance.
Many schools will require transcripts or diplomas from your other schools. You may also be required to complete essays. Be careful, as each institution will have different rules on how to apply. You should contact these schools, and look at: the cost of applying, tuition fees, any language tests you may need to take, rent or room and board, as well as the cost you may need to pay for health insurance.
Get a Study Permit
Study permits are written authorization from the Government of Canada, allowing foreign nationals to study in Canada, and are relatively easy to get. You can apply online or by paper.
If you are taking a course or program that is six months or less in length, you might not need to get one. Make sure you check the Government of Canada’soffical website to get up to date information. You must also make sure that the school you want to attend is listed as a Designated Learning Institution.
Those students that wish to study in Quebec must also obtain a Certificatd’acceptation du Quebec (CAQ). If you are a legal resident of China, India, the Philippines, or Vietnam, then there is good news! You can apply through the Student Direct Stream, and have your application processed in 20 calendar days!
How to Find Scholarships/Aid/Pay for School
It is, unfortunately, a fact of life; post-secondary schools can be expensive. However, Canada is such an attractive destination because of its relatively low tuition fees, especially when compared to the United States or the United Kingdom. It isn’t free, however.
Many of the schools have their own scholarships and aid packages that they can offer prospective students. Make sure to check with them. Foreign students are also allowed to work up to 20 hours a week to help offset the cost of school as well as living expenses.
The Canadian government website has a list of international scholarship opportunities for non-Canadians that you may want to look through.
How to Move to Canada
Alright, you have applied to a school and you have been selected. Congratulations! Now for how to get to Canada. At this stage, you should already know if you are eligible for entry as well as secure your study permit or CAQ as needed.
Once you have these, it is important to gather other documents required for entry, such as a valid passport, two copies of a detailed list of all the personal or household items you are bringing, and two copies listing any items that might be arriving later and their money value.
You should set up student housing, or if staying in an apartment, you may want to visit before your official arrival to give yourself time to find accommodation. You will also need to purchase private health insurance for at least your first three months in the country. After that, Canada offers free health insurance to residents and citizens.
Think About Post-Graduation
While it may be years off, it is important to think about what you may want to do after you graduate from your program. You have probably put time and effort into this already, as you picked an institution or program based upon what you want to study. You should also know that if you want, it is fairly easy to stay after graduation!
Foreign students can apply for permanent resident status. It should be noted that this process can last from 15 to 18 months. The earlier you start on this, the better. Foreign students also have access to a three-year work permit after graduation if they so wish.
Best Canada’s Scholarships for International Students
Coupons plus Deals “Save for Future” funding for International Applicants
Coupons plus Deals is pleased to offer a Coupons plus Deals “Save for Future” funding grant. This is to help those candidates who want to pursue their studies but cannot complete it because of the financial problems.
Award: $3000
Deadline: December 31, 2019
Apply
Guaranteed Removals Scholarships for US and Canadian Students
Guaranteed Removals Scholarships are open for US and Canadian Students. Students those entering the first year or starting their second year, and to those currently enrolled in their undergraduate program in the areas of computer science, criminology and law.
Award: $5,000.00
Deadline: June 28, 2019
Apply
University of Toronto Alan Hill Bursary for Undergraduate Students in Canada
Hill Bursary for Undergraduate Students award is available for the excellent applicant to take part in an undergraduate degree program and aims to fulfill the financial need of them. The award is presenting by the University of Toronto.
Award: Determined annually
Deadline: June 3, 2019
Apply
Suncor Emerging Leaders Awards in Engineering for International Students in Canada
University of Waterloo is glad to provide Suncor Emerging Leaders Awards in Engineering. This award is open for the flashy Canadian and international aspirants to pursue an undergraduate degree program in the field of Engineering at the university.
Award: $10,000
Deadline: Open
Apply
S. Ubakata Fund for Japanese Students at the University of Toronto in Canada
Are you Japanese students from Japan proper who want to get a scholarship? If yes, then you will happy to know that the University of Toronto is offer S. Ubakata Fund for Japanese Students. The fund is available for a candidate from Japan who wants to study a full-time undergraduate or graduate degree program at the University of Toronto.
Award: $700
Deadline: July 2, 2019
Apply
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important for any prospective foreign student who wants to study in Canada to do their research. Check with both the Canadian government and the schools you are interested in to see what the exact requirements are.
Plan on looking well over a year before you wish to travel. But once you are accepted into a program here, know you will have the time of your life. Canadians are a warm and welcoming group of people. We love showing our nation and its culture to those from abroad. We will see you when you get here!
