Studying in Canada? Things You Need To Know Before Applying

Currently, there are more than 350, 000 international students in Canada at all levels of study, which is 8% increase over the previous year. There has been an exponential increase in international students in Canada during 2008-15, which is more than 92%.

As compared to developed nations in the world, the cost of high education in Canada is affordable. In addition to this, visa procedures are simple and there are plenty of employment opportunities for international students. Nearly 1.4 million new jobs were created for university graduates in Canada during March 2008 to march 2016.

Before you apply for studying in Canada, it is important to collect information about the application process, cost, documents required to study in Canada, where and when are they to be submitted etc., to make sure that your entire visa application process progresses smoothly with the least number of interruptions.

1. Documents required to study in Canada

An international student may require a temporary resident visa and a study permit if they want to study in Canada. When students arrive in Canada, they will be met with an officer from Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) at the point of entry. They will check your passport, academic transcripts and other required documents for study in Canada. Students should be ready to show the following documents to the officer, in order to speed up the entry process to Canada.

• A valid travel document

• The letter of introduction from visa office

• Academic transcripts

• Proof of meeting English language proficiency for international students

• A copy of acceptance letter

• Proof those students have enough funds/finances to support themselves

• Letters of reference or any other documents recommended by the visa officer where you applied

• A valid temporary resident visa(If required)

2. Cost of studying in Canada

International students usually require between $15000 Cdn to $30,000 Cdn annually in order to cover tuition fee and living expenses. It is important to understand that it is average cost only and it will vary according to the program and institution in which international/foreign students are enrolled, their location and living choices.

3. Housing

Most of the Canadian universities offer on-campus residences designed for foreign or international students. Getting admission or approval at a Canadian university or college does not automatically mean that foreign students can get a room in residence. Foreign students are required to apply for on-campus housing facility separately.

The cost of on-campus residences may vary from university to university. It depends on whether or not student wants a meal plan or private room. If student chooses to live off-campus in an apartment or flat, then the cost may range from $400 Cdn to $1500 Cdn per month, depending upon the neighborhood and the type of accommodation.

4. Transportation

Depending on where they live, foreign students may be easily able to walk to campus. Many international students choose public transportation like ferries, trains, buses, subways and commuter trains.

5. Health insurance

In order to study in Canada, all international student must have health insurance. Medical coverage available to foreign students varies from province to province. International students can find out more information about the medical coverage through the university websites.