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How to Study in Canada, Work, and Immigrate

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by Kathy Watkins

Studying, Working, and Immigrating to Canada

Considering options for higher education abroad? Canada might have caught your attention. Studying in Canada is a realistic and rewarding option. The country has earned a solid reputation for being one of the best destinations for higher education. This acclaim stems from its internationally recognized degrees, secure and inclusive environment, and promising job opportunities. But what’s the real experience like? How do you apply to a Canadian university or college? And what can you anticipate once you land? In this guide, our team at Immigration to Canada will answer these questions and provide resources to help you embark on your study journey.

Navigating Your Path to Education in Canada

Canada stands out with its exceptional higher education system. To begin, you need to choose the right institution. Research universities and colleges that align with your academic interests and career goals. Once you have a shortlist, check their entrance requirements, including language proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL.

Study in Canada - Immigration to Canada

Why Opt for Canada for Your Higher Education?

Exceptional Academic Standards

Every year, countless international students decide to pursue their studies in Canada. A major factor behind this decision is the superior quality of education provided by Canadian institutions. Renowned for their rigorous research-oriented curriculum and emphasis on student development, Canadian universities frequently make the top 100 global university rankings. This means that by studying in Canada, you are investing in a degree that is both respected and recognized worldwide. Discover more about Canada's robust education system.

Affordability

When compared to other popular international student destinations, Canada offers a more affordable education.

Diverse Cultural Experience

Canada is a cultural mosaic, hosting individuals from all over the globe. This multicultural setting provides a unique chance to immerse yourself in various cultures, traditions, cuisines, and perspectives. Such exposure can be incredibly enriching, both on a personal and academic level. Learn more about Canada's rich multicultural environment.

Cost-Effective Education

While studying abroad can come with a hefty price tag, opting for Canada makes it much more affordable. Compared to other popular destinations like the United States and the United Kingdom, Canada offers quality education at more budget-friendly tuition rates. Additionally, living expenses are generally lower and manageable. To further ease the financial burden, the Canadian government and numerous universities provide scholarships specifically for international students. Find out more about the cost of studying in Canada.

Secure and Inclusive Environment

Choosing Canada for your studies means selecting a country that is known for its safety and welcoming atmosphere. Canada consistently ranks high on global safety indexes. Furthermore, Canadians are celebrated for their friendliness and the local communities are highly inclusive. There are extensive support networks available for international students to ensure a smooth transition. Discover more about safety in Canada.

Promising Career Opportunities

Graduating from a Canadian university not only gives you a globally recognized degree but also bolsters your career prospects with valuable multicultural experiences. Worldwide, employers hold Canadian degrees in high regard. Moreover, Canada offers ample opportunities for employment during and after your studies, including pathways to permanent residency.

Guide on Studying in Canada

Applying to a Canadian University The initial step in studying in Canada involves applying to your selected university. Start by researching and choosing a program that fits your academic goals, meet all entry criteria, prepare and submit your application with the required documents before the deadline. Ensure you fulfill Canada’s specific requirements for international students, including proof of language proficiency and academic records.

Is a Study Permit Required? Most international students will require a study permit to study in Canada. A study permit allows you to live in Canada for the duration of your educational program. Additionally, you might need a Canadian student visa or an entry visa depending on your country of residence.

Steps to Apply for a Canadian Student Visa

Step 1: Verify Eligibility First, check if you meet the criteria for a Canadian student visa. Requirements include a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), proof of financial support, and a clean criminal record.

Step 2: Obtain a Letter of Acceptance Securing a letter of acceptance from a DLI is essential for your study permit application. This document confirms that you’ve been accepted to a Canadian institution approved to host international students.

Step 3: Compile Necessary Documents Collect all required documents, which typically include your acceptance letter, proof of financial stability, your passport, and other supporting materials.

Step 4: Submit Application and Pay Fees With your documents ready, complete the application form, pay the required fees, and submit your application.

After Submitting Your Canadian Study Permit Application Once your application is submitted, a visa officer will review it. If approved, you’ll receive your study permit. If denied, you’ll be provided with a letter outlining the reasons for the refusal.

Overview of Universities and Colleges in Canada

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has authorized over 1,500 universities, colleges, and educational institutions in Canada to admit international students. Known as Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs), these institutions facilitate academic learning and offer pathways for students to stay in Canada post-graduation. The IRCC-approved list of DLIs is continually updated, so you should always confirm the status of your intended institution on the Canadian government’s official website.

Ontario and Quebec, being the most populous provinces, are home to nearly 1,000 DLIs combined, making them prime destinations for international students.

Finding an Educational Program in Canada

With the vast number of DLIs across Canada, you’re likely to find a program that aligns with your academic and career goals.

Quality of Education in Canadian Universities

Universities throughout Canada generally maintain high standards of education. This is due to the country’s commitment to educational equity, ensuring that students receive top-quality education no matter where they study.

Canadian Community Colleges

In addition to universities, Canada boasts approximately 150 community colleges that provide robust educational opportunities. While universities focus on theoretical knowledge and specialized career training—including fields like medicine, engineering, and law—community colleges emphasize practical training designed to help students enter the workforce swiftly. These programs are tailored to enhance employability in specific fields of study.

Consistent Educational Standards

Both colleges and universities across Canada maintain similar educational standards. International students can feel confident that the credentials they earn from Canadian institutions will bolster their professional and immigration prospects upon graduation.

By choosing to study in Canada, you are making an investment in your future, supported by a country that values high-quality education and practical training for all students.

Study in Canada - Immigration to Canada

New Guidelines for Canada’s Study Permit

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced a significant update for 2024, limiting the issuance of study permits to 360,000. This quota will be apportioned to provinces and territories based on their respective student populations. Each province and territory must develop a process to issue provincial attestation letters by March 31, 2024.

Notably, this cap excludes master’s and doctoral students as well as those enrolled in elementary or secondary education. Also, the policy will not affect study permit renewals.

These changes aim to maintain sustainable numbers of international students, protect stakeholders from misuse of the international student program, and ensure that there is adequate housing for incoming students. Under the new regulations, IRCC will allocate portions of the study permit cap to provincial and territorial governments, which will then distribute permits to Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in their regions.

Starting January 22, 2024, all study permit applications will require a provincial attestation letter to confirm support for the applicant’s study plans in Canada.

IRCC anticipates that these measures will be in place for two years, with a reassessment scheduled at the end of 2024 to determine study permit allocations for 2025.

Pathways to Canadian Permanent Residence for International Students

At Immigration to Canada, we specialize in helping international students transition from studying in Canada to obtaining permanent residence. Completing higher education in Canada opens numerous doors for extending your stay and eventually becoming a permanent resident.

Having Canadian education often gives you a competitive edge in the immigration process. Both federal and provincial programs highly regard candidates who have studied and worked in Canada.

Once you’ve completed your post-secondary education, you can acquire valuable Canadian work experience through a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). Depending on the length of your academic program, a PGWP can allow you to work in Canada for up to three years.

During your PGWP period, you can explore various permanent residence options available at both federal and provincial levels. These options include:

Submit Your Permanent Residency Application Through Express Entry

A popular pathway to permanent residency in Canada is by submitting an Express Entry profile through our company, Immigration to Canada. Express Entry manages the majority of Canada’s economic class immigration applications.

Candidates in the Express Entry pool are evaluated using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The CRS favors individuals who are young, have obtained Canadian education and work experience, and possess strong proficiency in English and/or French. These attributes are common among Canada’s international students.

International students who have graduated from Canadian institutions often find themselves in a strong position to qualify for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program. This program enables thousands of former international students and temporary foreign workers to achieve permanent residency each year.

Explore the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) enables individual provinces and territories to nominate immigration candidates who fulfill their specific economic needs. Many PNP streams favor former international students or are exclusively tailored for them.

Immigrate Through Quebec

As Canada’s second-largest province, Quebec, and its vibrant city of Montreal, are attractive destinations for international students. Quebec has its own immigration system that operates independently of federal programs and the PNP. The Quebec Experience Program is a significant pathway for former international students aiming for permanent residence.

Discover Other Federal Programs

Beyond Express Entry’s three managed programs, the federal government offers additional economic class immigration pathways. These programs have special provisions for international students and may exempt them from Canadian work experience requirements. Notable programs include the Atlantic Immigration Program and the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot.

FAQ
Why should I study in Canada?

Canada offers high-quality education at a reasonable cost in a safe and multicultural society. You can work during your studies and get a work permit after graduation if you meet the criteria. Working in Canada after your studies increases your chances of becoming a permanent resident. Canada is also very welcoming, hosting international students from nearly 200 countries.

How many international students are in Canada?

Over 800,000 international students are in Canada. Canada's popularity as a study, work, and immigration destination has tripled the international student population in the past decade. Starting in 2024, Canada will limit study permit applications to around 360,000 per year, with reevaluation planned for 2025.

Which countries do Canada’s international students come from?

International students in Canada come from nearly 200 countries. The most common countries are India, China, South Korea, France, Vietnam, the U.S., Iran, Brazil, Nigeria, and Mexico. Many students also come from Europe, Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Asia.

Can I bring my family to Canada?

Yes, you can bring your spouse, common-law partner, and dependent children. They want you to be happy while studying, so your spouse/partner can come on an open work permit, and your children can join you too.

Can I stay in Canada after my studies?

Yes, you can stay in Canada after your studies. You may get a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to work temporarily. There are other paths to stay longer or permanently, like applying for Express Entry or other federal and provincial programs.

Can I become a permanent resident after my studies in Canada?

Yes, many international students become permanent residents each year. You can use programs like Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program, or others. Some require Canadian work experience, which you can gain with a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after your studies.

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