Studying in Canada

Currently, the rules for obtaining Canadian citizenship are as follows: you must reside in the country for 3 out of the required 5 years, spend at least 183 days in Canada each year, and have no criminal record. Therefore, the most optimal option would be a study program lasting 2-4 years. With this length of study, you will automatically be granted a 3-year work visa. During this time, you can obtain a Canadian diploma, prove yourself to an employer and get a job, and then apply for citizenship. This is the most reasonable option for obtaining citizenship, but it is also the most expensive. And don't forget that only state universities are taken into account for immigration purposes.

It's possible. Graduates from other countries can stay in Canada to work or possibly immigrate. The government has adopted a special Post-Graduation Work Permit Program: foreign students (except for graduates of language and secondary schools) are granted the right to work officially for eight months to three years. The work period is determined as follows: if a person has studied in Canada for 8 months to 2 years, they receive a permit for a period not exceeding the duration of the study program. If the educational program exceeded two years, a work permit is issued for a period of three years.

If you plan to stay in Canada after your studies, you need to pay attention to the status of the educational institution. Colleges and universities must meet two criteria:

• be state-accredited as a designated learning institution (DLI)
• offer special PGWP programs.

In general, the education system motivates students to obtain permanent residence in this country. For example, combining study and practical training is an additional bonus for participating in the Canadian Experience Class program. When applying for a job, work experience and proficiency in the official languages are mandatory requirements. Employers also take into account personal qualities such as creativity, communication skills, leadership, and other soft skills.

The employment application process has certain specifics. Within three months after graduation, you must apply for a PGWP (official website of the Government of Canada — Canada.ca). You need to be prepared for financial expenses (approximately $350) required for processing the application, obtaining a work permit, and biometrics.

International students can also find work through additional immigration programs:

• Canadian Experience Class;
• Federal program for highly qualified specialists;
• Federal program for working specialties;
• Provincial immigration programs;
• Atlantic Immigration Pilot.

Recently, the relevant ministry approved a new three-year plan (2021–2023) for immigration to Canada, according to which the country will accept 1,233,000 people.

Over the past two years, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to new conditions for education and employment. Foreign students in Canada now study online. After completing this form of education, graduates from 2020 to August 31, 2022, can also obtain a work permit. Prior to this period, only graduates of full-time programs received such a document.

Canadian citizens receive free education. For example, secondary education is free at public schools (attended by about 95% of students) and Catholic schools. The country also has private schools with unique curricula, which are difficult to get into due to high competition.

For foreigners, education in all schools is paid and costs CAD 8,000–15,000 per year. To this can be added the cost of food, accommodation, and transportation, which ranges from CAD 800 to 1,000 per month. The cost of attending private boarding schools (per year) is even higher: CAD 20,000–25,000.

Despite lower prices (compared to European and American schools), the cost of education is quite high. The costs for foreign students are increased by the presence of relatives (guardians) who are required to accompany students until they reach the age of majority (18 years).

After school in Canada, you can study at a college or university. Education here is paid for by almost everyone: depending on the region, students spend CAD 11,000–15,000 per academic year at college.

The cost of an annual educational program at a university averages CAD 15,000–25,000. For some specialties, these costs are significantly higher: from CAD 30,000 (music programs) to CAD 75,000 (dental studies).

The country also has business schools offering MBA programs, which are cheaper than American and European schools. The cost of studying at such schools for international students is approximately CAD 20,000–70,000 per year.

There are several ways to reduce the cost of educational programs.

1. First and foremost is excellent academic performance, which allows you to receive a scholarship that covers up to 70% of the cost.
2. Universities also provide talented students with grants for scientific research, which is more common for master's, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. Although such grants do not cover the entire cost of tuition, they can significantly reduce the price of educational services. These university student financial support funds include:
   • Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship — a doctoral grant for an annual scholarship (CAD 50,000) for engineering, social sciences, and humanities;
   • Alberta Innovates — a master's degree grant (CAD 26,000) and doctoral degree grant (CAD 31,000) for research in information and communication technologies, nanotechnologies, and -omics (genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and the like);
   • Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship — postdoctoral grant (CAD 70,000) for researchers in health, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities, and other fields.
3. To reduce the cost of education, students also use government loans on favorable terms.

Yes, you can, but with the exception of language schools, secondary schools, and some other educational programs (exchange programs, short-term courses). In most higher education institutions in Canada, as in all universities around the world, students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week. During holidays, this time is extended to 40 hours.

Universities in this country have created special programs that allow students to successfully combine study and work (internships). Jobs are offered primarily by the universities themselves, and the vacancies are more focused on undergraduate students. The structure of available positions usually includes work for students as tutors and assistants in international services. Libraries, faculty and departmental units also serve as work platforms for them. Students can work part-time as bartenders or waiters in cafes (restaurants) located on campus, which is very convenient as they do not have to leave the campus and waste time traveling. The proximity of educational buildings and workplaces on the same territory also prevents students from taking long breaks from their studies. Canadian universities provide financial incentives to students who are involved in teaching or creative activities (such as theater).

The education system makes extensive use of special Co-op programs, which allow students to combine their studies with practical experience (such as paid internships) in relevant companies.

It is important to note that international students can only work off campus under certain conditions. Students from other countries must:

• have a study permit;
• study at an accredited educational institution (designated learning institution) on a full-time basis;
• study well (without missing classes);
• expect to receive specialized diplomas and certificates upon graduation.

Another mandatory requirement is that the duration of study must be at least six months. Violation of any of these requirements automatically deprives the student of the right to work.

Working students, depending on the region where the university is located, receive the minimum hourly wage (Minimum Wage): from 11 to 15 CAD per hour. Off-campus jobs (shops, cleaning, call centers, etc.) pay higher wages: from 20 to 30 CAD per hour. It is important to note that wages are indexed by the government (once or twice a year), which slightly offsets the impact of taxes. Depending on the region, working students must pay tax at a rate of 20-25% of their monthly earnings. Disposable income (what remains after deductions) usually covers students' expenses for food, transportation, and partial rent.

The cost of education in any country depends on the level and duration of study, the field of study, the city chosen, and a lot of other factors. Let's start by saying that education in Canada can be cheaper than in many popular English-speaking destinations (London, New York). Despite this, Canada falls into the category of expensive countries. Primary (five years of schooling) and secondary (grades 6-12) education in public schools is free, and compulsory education ends at age 15-16.

The country has world-renowned private secondary schools. For example, the classical secondary school in Montreal (Académie Kells Elementary) offers educational programs for children from kindergarten onwards. For the 2022-2023 academic year, enrollment in this school and subsequent accommodation are subject to the following non-refundable fees:

• application fee ($50);
• admission fee (200$);
• total annual tuition fees ($18,800 from kindergarten to grade 11).

These payments must be made by August 1, 2022. Fees from August 24, 2022, to January 31, 2023, will be $9,400. Additional services, meals, accommodation, second language learning, and other expenses should be added to these costs. More detailed information about alternative payment methods can be found on the school's website.

The cost of higher education, tuition fees for bachelor's degrees vary greatly — from $430 to $24,000 per year. The cost of a master's degree can be safely multiplied by two.

Let's look at specific examples of expensive and affordable education options in Canada.

• Memorial University of Newfoundland is a public university offering affordable education, including online programs. According to rough calculations on the university's official website, the cost of the most expensive option per year, including university fees, books, accommodation, and meals, is about $15,000. The university offers options to reduce this amount through university grants. The most budget-friendly option is distance learning: online programs cost only about $80 per university hour.
• The University of Toronto is a leader among research institutions in North America. The university's website has a special calculator that can be used to calculate the approximate cost of tuition. For example, full-time undergraduate study at the Faculty of Pharmacy, accommodation on campus within walking distance of the university, meals, textbooks, and school supplies will cost $50,000. A master's program with similar living conditions and student expenses will cost $27,000.

As we can see, even studying at an inexpensive Canadian university is quite expensive, and considering the exchange rates, the cost of tuition is often simply unaffordable. Fortunately, in recent years, many universities have been offering distance learning options, which significantly reduce costs (by saving on visas, logistics, and many other expenses).

The University of Toronto offers a one-year Foundation preparatory program designed specifically for international students. For detailed information on the full requirements for applicants to the program and application deadlines, please contact our consultants.

In Canada, there are two main types of educational institutions where foreign students can continue their education. The first option is international colleges, which are special preparatory educational institutions primarily for foreign high school students. The second option is traditional boarding schools, these private schools are attended by both local students (usually 40-60%) and foreigners. Studying at traditional boarding schools provides an opportunity for deeper immersion in the language environment. English language proficiency requirements depend on the specific educational institution, not its type, so it cannot be said that the requirements for admission to boarding schools are higher.

Boys' schools are still quite popular in Canada. A good example of such a school is St Andrew's College, it ranks among the top schools every year based on final exam results and is renowned for its high level of education. The school accepts boarding students from the age of 10.

The cost of studying at a Canadian college is significantly lower than in the US or England, starting at $14,000-19,000 per academic year, excluding accommodation costs. The final cost depends on the chosen educational institution, location (city, province), additional services, type of accommodation, and specialty. You also need to factor in pocket money — at least $20-30 per day.

Colleges in Canada are considered higher education institutions where you can get professional training and take intensive courses to prepare for admission to leading universities. They offer more than 500 different programs, with mandatory internships in the chosen specialty taking priority. The difference from universities is that college students do not engage in scientific and research activities, but immediately begin practical training.

The country's colleges are included in the lists of the world's top-ranked educational institutions, with a level of education that meets international standards. There are specialized preparatory courses for students from other countries. Instruction is conducted in English. All higher education institutions are divided into technical and public. College diplomas are recognized by countries in Europe and the United States.

The best colleges in Canada are:

• Humber College (Toronto) — Polytechnic College
• George Brown College (Toronto) — design, innovative technologies
• Seneca College (Toronto) — business program, IT program

The exact amount depends largely on the length of stay in the country (from a week to several years) and the chosen field of study: various language, summer, and specialized courses for adults, children, and teenagers, high school and college programs, and higher education. The cost of education in the country is lower than in the US and the UK, but for students from other countries, the cost will be 2-3 times higher than for local residents.

• Depending on the duration and initial training, courses (language, thematic professional) start at CAD 180/week.
• One academic year at school will cost about CAD 10,000-25,000/year.
• At university, it will cost CAD 10,000-20,000 per year.
• Summer camps and language courses for schoolchildren start at CAD 200/week.

There are public, private, and Catholic schools in the country, and the cost of each varies significantly. Private schools are fee-paying for everyone, both local and foreign children. Students from other countries are accepted from the age of 11-13. An additional CAD 20-30/day should be taken into account for daily expenses.

There are about 120 colleges in Canada. They are located throughout the country — in the provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, Labrador, and Prince Edward Island. Canadian colleges are educational institutions where you can take courses to prepare for admission to leading universities in the country and around the world, as well as receive professional education with a strong emphasis on practical training. The learning process at colleges is faster — 2-3 years — unlike universities, where students study for 4 years. Colleges only teach the subjects necessary for students to achieve a professional level.

Top 10 colleges in the country:

• Algonguin College
• Humber Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning
• Niagara College
• St. Lawrence College
• Seneca College
• Douglas College
• George Brown College
• Fanshawe College
• Centennial College
• Conestoga College.

Exams in Canada are taken in high school. They are held in the middle and at the end of the academic year. For each subject that a student takes, they receive 1 credit (sometimes 0.5-2), and over 4 years, they must earn at least 30 credits. A similar system is practiced in some foreign universities.

There are compulsory subjects that every student takes: English, French, mathematics, history, drama, physics, chemistry, and biology. Students choose the rest of their subjects themselves. Exams are usually in the form of tests or essays, but some, such as drama, include creative work. Subjects and exam requirements may vary depending on the province.

In grades 10 and 12, students are assessed on their proficiency in mathematics and English, which are compulsory for final certification. The final grade is based not only on exam results, but also on work done throughout the semester.

The government invests heavily in education, so free education is only available to citizens of the country. Foreigners can apply for scholarships that cover all or part of their tuition fees, but it is much more difficult for them to obtain them. Scholarships are mainly awarded to students by universities for academic and other achievements. State grants are only available to master's and doctoral students.

A few educational institutions offer sports scholarships, but these are available to schoolchildren and students of sports academies. The money is allocated by the educational institution in the form of a discount on tuition, which can be up to 100%. A mandatory requirement for students who receive funding is to play for the institution's team.

Higher education in Canada can be obtained in two ways — at a college or at a university.

1. College education provides a comprehensive applied higher education. The program is more practice-oriented, while universities provide students with more theoretical knowledge. College students study for 1-4 years and upon graduation receive a sought-after specialty, certificate, or diploma. Graduates have real work experience in their field, are in demand among employers, and receive good positions and salaries.
2. Levels of education in Canadian universities:

• Vocational education — Diploma
• Higher education — Bachelor’s Degree
• Programs based on a first degree — Post-graduate Certificate, Master’s Degree, PhD.

The country's universities offer a more extensive list of specialties than colleges. At the country's universities, students receive a classical academic education and can engage in research, become teachers, lawyers, or doctors.

Programs include bachelor's (3-4 years), master's (2 years), and doctoral (4 years) degrees. Tuition is paid, and classes are taught in French and English, with bilingual programs also available. The academic year consists of two semesters, beginning in early September and ending in late June.

Canada has one of the best education systems in the world, with universities ranking among the best globally. Educational institutions offer scholarships and grants. Teaching uses traditional methods and often the British education system, which opens up wide opportunities for employment and a successful career in any country in the world.

The cost of higher education in the country for foreign students is higher than for local ones, and starts at CAD 7,000. The final price depends on factors such as:

• chosen specialty,
• program
• prestige and rating of the university,
• its location (center, regions),
• whether it is a public or private university.

It is important to remember the costs of accommodation and food, medical insurance, travel, and personal expenses — from CAD10,000/year.

Canada attracts students with high-quality, relevant education on par with the UK and the USA, but the cost of living and tuition fees are significantly lower here.

The best universities in Canada and their prices:

• University of Toronto – from CAD 22 000/year
• McGill University – from CAD 7100/year
• University of British Columbia – from CAD 21 600/year
• Douglas College Vancouver – from CAD 18 300/year
• University Canada West - from CAD 7000/year.

In Canadian universities, dental training starts at $8,000/year. The duration of studies is 3 years, depending on the field, university, and ultimate goal of training.

• The University of Alberta 's Department of Dentistry offers a 3-year full-time program leading to a Master of Medical Science degree (from $8,700/year).
• McGill University offers a Doctor of Medicine degree in dentistry over 6 years (from $49,000/year).
• The University of Manitoba offers a 3-year degree in pediatric dentistry, leading to a master's degree (from $30,000/year).

To enroll in medical schools in Canada, students must take the MCAT. Only a limited number of medical schools accept foreign students (Queen's University, McMaster University, University of Toronto). Before applying, you must obtain a bachelor's degree in chemistry or biology.

Students in this program study the causes of oral diseases and methods of treatment.

1. The first year is preparatory, covering physiology, anatomy, and biochemistry.
2. From the second year, students begin regular practice and improve their skills.
3. After receiving a bachelor's degree, students move on to a more narrow specialization: dental prosthetics, pediatric dentistry, or dental research.

Throughout the program, students undergo certification and must complete a clinical internship to receive their qualification.

Canada ranks 17th in terms of education level, but this is not always a clear and unambiguous indicator. The level of education in the country is high — 18 Canadian universities are among the top universities in terms of the quality of services provided. The best standard of living, safety, and comfortable conditions for higher education attract students from different countries, and the cost of education in schools and universities is lower than in other European countries.

Canada has been in the top 10 countries in the world in terms of education for more than 5 years, on a par with the UK, the US, and Australia.

The country ranks second in terms of the quality of its education system after the United States. Ninety of the country's universities, both public and private, meet high international standards. The Canadian education system offers great opportunities to students. Up-to-date knowledge, regular practice, and personal and professional growth of students guarantee the production of the best specialists in their field.

Popular fields of stidy:

• Engineering
• Microelectronics
• Information Technology
• Natural Sciences
• Business.

Top universities:

• University of Toronto — 20th place
• University of British Columbia — 32nd place
• McGill University – 39th place
• McMaster University — 94th place.

The academic degree — PhD — is awarded to doctoral graduates (Doctor of Philosophy). Tuition fees start at CAD 7,000-11,000 per year. Programs for specialists aged 20 and older are taught in English and/or French. Duration is 3-6 years. Painstaking work on a dissertation takes a lot of effort and time, and sometimes studies can last more than six years.

In the Bologna Process, which includes educational institutions in Canada, the final stage of university education is the award of a doctoral degree. One of these is the PhD (the most common), but there are also other doctoral degrees, such as the EdD, DML, and JSD. Doctoral programs are divided into two structures: professional doctoral studies and PhDs.

PhD programs focus on original research and analysis, unlike other professional programs. Graduates with a Doctor of Philosophy degree work at universities, conduct research at top large organizations, pursue academic careers, and hold high government positions. The Doctor of Philosophy degree is awarded to specialists in the fields of engineering, art, philosophy, physics, and biology.

Additional expenses include accommodation, food, and transportation, which amount to CAD 10,000 per year.

The public University of Toronto in Canada accepts applicants from the age of 17. It is one of the best universities in the world and has approximately 88,000 students, teaching is conducted in English.

• Tuition fees start at $22,000 per year.
• Bachelor's programs (English, from the age of 17) — from $59,000 per year.
• Master's programs (English, from the age of 21) — from $22,000 per year.

The academic year is divided into 2 semesters/3 trimesters.

Every year, the university awards 4,400 scholarships. Scholarships vary, some of them can cover the cost of tuition, study materials, and accommodation for 4 years. Everyone is eligible to apply for scholarships: first-year students and international students.

Accommodation in university residences costs between $10,000 and $20,000 per year, including meals.

Doctoral studies in Canada are fee-based. The cost depends on factors such as:

• location of the university,
• chosen specialty and program,
• prestige (of the university and field of study), etc.

Prices start at $8,000/year. MBA programs at universities in Ontario and British Columbia are the most expensive in the country, starting at $40,000/year. PhD programs start at $16,000/year. The most popular and expensive fields are medicine, law, and engineering.

A PhD in dentistry costs from $16,000/year, and a PhD in social sciences costs from $87,000/year. The cost of studying for a PhD in engineering and applied sciences in Canada starts at $7,500 per year (full-time, 4-year program). A PhD in biomolecular sciences costs from $5,500 per semester.

Students of all courses can apply for and receive scholarships or grants for professional, academic, or athletic achievements.

Doctoral programs last from 3 to 6 years. Canada offers PhD programs, the highest academic qualification, as well as professional programs such as DBA and EdD.

Doctoral studies are the final level of higher education, where students study their chosen specialty in depth and engage in research activities. In the PhD program, students study subjects related to the topic of their dissertation. Students choose their subjects independently under the guidance of a research supervisor.

• In the first year of study, students take general courses in research, pedagogy, and publishing.
• Starting in the second year, students work on their dissertation project. In professional doctoral programs, students engage in practical work and thematic research. Graduates of all programs are awarded a scientific degree after defending their dissertation.

Some Canadian universities accept bachelor's degree graduates into doctoral programs. In such cases, students first undergo 1-2 years of training and then move on to full doctoral programs.