Study - Canada
Canada, renowned for its multicultural environment and high-quality education, offers an inclusive society and world-class universities, providing an ideal setting for students to achieve their dreams.
Overview of Canada
Introduction to Canada
- Canada is the second-largest country in the world, known as the 'Land of the Maple Leaf.' Its capital is Ottawa, the fourth largest city and metropolitan area in the country.
- Canada is a federal nation composed of ten provinces and three territories, including British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador, Yukon Territory, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut. These are divided into four main regions: Western Canada, Central Canada, Atlantic Provinces, and Northern Canada.
- Canada is rich in natural resources and highly developed in technology, making it one of the world's wealthiest and most economically advanced countries.
- Canada’s high-quality education system is widely recognized internationally. There are approximately 100 universities, many of which are globally renowned, offering excellent academic standards. Its safe and livable environment also attracts international students.
Weather
- Canada experiences four distinct seasons, with significant temperature variations across provinces. In winter, the western coastal regions, like Vancouver, tend to be milder with little snowfall, whereas eastern regions, like Toronto, often experience heavy snow.
Time Difference
Time Difference | Winter Time (November - March) | Summer Time (April - October) |
---|---|---|
Start Time | First Sunday of April every year | First Sunday of October every year |
Vancouver | 16 hours behind Hong Kong | 15 hours behind Hong Kong |
Calgary | 15 hours behind Hong Kong | 14 hours behind Hong Kong |
Saskatoon | 15 hours behind Hong Kong | 14 hours behind Hong Kong |
Winnipeg | 14 hours behind Hong Kong | 13 hours behind Hong Kong |
Toronto | 13 hours behind Hong Kong | 12 hours behind Hong Kong |
St. Johns | 12 hours behind Hong Kong | 11 hours behind Hong Kong |
Communication and Basic Living Information
Communication
Country Code | Area Code | Local Phone Number |
---|---|---|
+1 | e.g., 604 (Vancouver), 416 (Downtown Toronto), 613 (Ottawa) | 123-4567 |
Currency
- Canadian Dollar (CAD $)
Voltage and Plugs
- 110V 60Hz
Popular Cities
British Columbia
Vancouver
Alberta
Calgary
Saskatchewan
Saskatoon
Manitoba
Winnipeg
Ontario
Toronto
Newfoundland and Labrador
St. Johns
Pathways to Study in Canada
Pathways to Study in Canada
University Transfer Program (UTP Stage 1)
- Most universities offer UTP Stage 1 courses, which typically last for one year.
- After completing the program, students do not need to take public exams. Instead, evaluations are based on academic performance, attendance, tests, and exams. Students can choose a variety of subjects in addition to English and Mathematics, depending on their intended degree.
- Students who successfully complete the program and meet the specified requirements can progress directly to the first year of university or proceed to UTP Stage 2. This program is suitable for students with at least a secondary five education level.
University Transfer Program (UTP Stage 2)
- Equivalent to the first year of university, this program is suitable for students who have completed secondary six. It provides a less demanding entry requirement compared to direct university admission and offers a wide range of courses. In addition to university-level subjects, students must also take English and study skills courses, taught in small classes.
- Most programs are conducted on university campuses. Upon successful completion, students can progress to the second year of university, making this an ideal pathway to prestigious universities.
College Diploma Programs
- Colleges offer a wide range of professional training and vocational diploma courses, including popular subjects like business, IT, hospitality management, early childhood education, beauty, hairdressing, fashion arts, music, and nursing. Many colleges also provide English enhancement courses to help students improve their language skills.
- After completing a diploma program, students can continue to a bachelor’s degree. Universities may grant credit exemptions depending on the student’s performance and the relevance of the courses, allowing direct entry into the second or third year of university. There are two intakes annually, in September and January.
Bachelor's and Master's Degrees
- There are approximately 100 universities in Canada. A bachelor's degree program typically takes four years, requiring students to earn sufficient credits to graduate.
- Universities offer a wide range of courses. For direct admission to a bachelor's degree, students must achieve good results in secondary school and public exams. TOEFL or IELTS scores must also meet the university's requirements.
Secondary Education
- Secondary education in Canada typically starts from Grade 8 or 9 and continues to Grade 12. Schools are divided into public and private sectors, both of which accept international students.
- Public schools are managed by local education boards and allocate schools based on student preferences and grades. Tuition fees are relatively low, but many districts impose an upper age limit for admission.
- Private schools offer more flexible admission criteria. They usually require students to submit academic records for the past two to three years and pass an interview as part of the evaluation process. For Grades 11 or 12, private schools may also require TOEFL or IELTS scores. Students must complete Grade 12 before applying for university, and admission is typically based on their academic performance in Grades 11 and 12. There are two intakes each year, in September and January.
Canada Visa and Insurance
Student Visa
- Students enrolling in courses longer than six months must apply for a student visa, which typically takes 4 to 8 weeks to process.
- Applicants must complete the online application process and schedule an appointment.
- Applicants are required to visit a designated medical center for a health checkup. Once completed, the e-medical report must be uploaded to the Canadian visa website.
- Documents required for a student visa application include:
- Valid passport, Letter of Acceptance (LOA), proof of payment, Study Plan, graduation certificates and transcripts, financial proof (in English), and medical examination report.
- Visa fee: CAD $150; Biometric fee: CAD $85 (biometric records are valid for 10 years).
- Once the visa is approved, a confirmation letter will be issued, which must be printed and presented upon arrival in Canada to obtain the official visa.
For detailed student visa information, please refer to the official Canadian IRCC website.
Health Insurance for International Students
- International students studying in Canada must have valid health insurance during their stay.
- The school will provide relevant information and assist students in choosing suitable health insurance.
- Premiums vary based on the province and the specific insurance plan.
Education Budget for Studying in Canada
Education Budget for Studying in Canada
English Courses | $13,000 – $18,000 |
Secondary School Education (including accommodation and meals) | $24,000 – $50,000 |
University Transfer Courses | $10,000 – $24,000 |
Bachelor’s Degree | $12,000 – $26,000 |
Master’s Degree | $15,000 – $35,000 |
Accommodation Options in Canada
Student Dormitories
- Most Canadian institutions offer student dormitories, which may not always be located on campus.
- Different room types are available, and students can choose based on their budget and personal preferences. Weekly costs range from CAD $400 to $700, depending on the room type. Fees typically include utilities and internet.
- Most dormitories require students to cook for themselves.
Homestay
- Students stay with Canadian families and are provided with a private room.
- Homestay families typically provide two meals on weekdays (breakfast and dinner) and three meals on weekends and public holidays.
- The cost of homestay is approximately CAD $300 to $500 per week (depending on the location) and includes utilities and basic furniture. A deposit equivalent to four weeks' rent and a matching fee are required to secure a spot.
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