Canada Guide Masters
Canada Guide Masters
STUDY GUIDE
For international students aspiring to pursue their Master's Degree.
THE MASTER'S
EDITION
1. INTRODUCTION TO CANADA
2. CANADA'S CULTURE AND LIFESTYLE
3. CANADA AS A STUDY DESTINATION
4. A SNAPSHOT OF CANADIAN EDUCATION SYSTEM
5. INTAKES IN CANADA
6. TYPES OF COURSES IN CANADA
7. POPULAR MASTERS COURSES TO STUDY IN CANADA
8. UNIVERSITY APPLICATION PROCESS
9. ADMISSION TESTS TO STUDY MASTER'S DEGREE
10. ENGLISH TEST PREPARATION PROGRAMS AND STUDY PATHWAYS
11. HEALTH INSURANCE
12. STUDENT VISA APPLICATION PROCESS
STNETNOC FO ELBAT
CANADA
Preparing for the future is an exciting process. It may involve a ton
of research, evaluation, and even facing unexpected challenges
which you would have never dreamt about before.
CULTURE &
LIFESTYLE
Canadian culture is primarily influenced by its
constituent nationalities' European traditions
and cultures, especially French and British
culture. Core Canadian values include equality,
fairness, social justice and inclusiveness. This
is evidenced by the nation's approach to
governing people, including higher taxation to
promote the redistribution of wealth, public
health care, the legalisation of same-sex
marriage, the suppression of far-right politics
and the abolition of capital punishment.
Guess what? Canadians are open to accepting
other religions and cultures as they are
fascinated by learning and adapting to
multiculturalism.
DESTINATION
Ontario in Canada has some of the best universities globally, offering a diverse
range of courses to draw international students from all over the world. It is home
to over 20 publicly-funded education institutions where students can apply for a
two-year diploma.
UNIVERSITY LIFE
A dynamic and multicultural classroom environment, reputed faculty
and methodology may leave you amazed at Canadian institutions
teaching quality. Even though the classes are informal, you are still
expected to reach the classroom in time and meet assignment
deadlines.
Due to its high GDP spending on education (ranked 2nd amongst the G-8 countries),
student outcomes are of the highest standards. Canadian degrees, diplomas and
certificates are well regarded across the world.
With the focus on technology, research, and innovation, you’ll be engaged with
individuals living in a forward-thinking society while learning from some of the
brightest minds in Canada.
Postgraduate
diplomas/certificates for
Masters in Canada (degrees),
one or two years of study.
available after a bachelor's degree
to excel in a particular subject, for
one to two years.
The average tuition fee in a public university is between 7,500 CAD and 22,500 CAD
per year. Most Canadian universities teach their courses in English. So, this is an
excellent opportunity for international students to enhance their English skills.
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INTERNATIONAL
STUDENT INTAKES
FALL INTAKE
September - December or
Early January
WINTER INTAKE
January - May
TYPES OF 8
COURSES
Certificate level - You will have
to do this for a year.
Diploma level - 1 or 2 year courses
Postgraduate diplomas/
certificates - 1 or 2 years.
Post-Doctoral programs- No
specific duration as these
programs are research-oriented.
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UNIVERSITY
ADMISSION PROCESS
Step 1: Get a deeper understanding of the requirements.
1 PETS
It is advised to plan for a Canadian study permit a year in advance. Some
mandatory requirements to study in Canada include:
An updated passport.
Minimum grades or bands in the language tests to prove your
proficiency in English or French.
Proof of Funds (POF Document) to study and live in Canada.
2 PETS
All international students must take any one of the language proficiency
tests (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE). Some universities also accept Cambridge
English: Advanced or TOEFL exam scores.
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4 PETS Step 4: University Application
Your next task is to apply for a study permit. You can either apply online or in
any of the visa processing centres.
5 PETS
The documents required to apply for the study permit in Canada:
INSURANCE IN
CANADA
None intends to fall sick while studying abroad. Still, you
need to consider taking up a health cover plan to avoid
spending a lump sum in hospitals. It is advisable to
understand the health care system in Canada to plan your
study abroad journey better in Canada. Besides, all
international students studying in Canada must have a health
insurance plan. All private health insurance covers dental
costs, prescription drugs, private hospital rooms, ambulance
services and prescription glasses.
If you have not chosen your health cover properly, you will
have to pay out-of-pocket for all health-related expenses.
For instance, you could pay over CAD 1,000 for emergency
room visits and CAD 3,500 for acute care in standard wards.
Depending on the hospital you prefer, you may be expected
to pay for costs upfront.
14
Note: Your can consult an AECC Global counsellor to help you with visa filing
and application
STUDENT VISA
APPLICATION PROCESS
IN CANADA
15
CANADA STUDENT VISA
DOCUMENT CHECKLIST
PROOF OF FUNDS
When you submit your student visa
application, you must attach proof of funds
(tuition fees and living expenses) as
suggested by Canadian Immigration.
Typically, the immigration department
demands proof of at least 10,000 CAD for
each academic year of your course tenure.
For studying in Quebec, you need to show
evidence of a minimum of 11,000 CAD
every year.
IME - IMMIGRATION
MEDICAL EXAMINATION
Canadian Immigration demands international
students to undergo an Immigration Medical
Examination a week before their student visa
application process. This one-week duration is
required by the doctor/physician to examine
and upload all the mandatory documents in
the Citizen of Immigration database.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE
REQUIREMENT TEST
To receive confirmation from a Canadian
University and as a part of your student visa
process, you should have cleared at least one
of the English Language Proficiency Tests
such as IELTS or TOEFL.
The minimum undergraduate score
required for the TOEFL (iBT) test is 79.
The average IELTS score required to
study at a Canadian University is 6.5, with
each component (Listening, Reading and
Writing) not less than 6.0.
STATEMENT
OF PURPOSE
Canada is one of the very few countries that
demand SOP during student visa processing.
When you apply for a Canadian Study Permit
from your home country, you would be asked
to write an essay stating the purpose behind
your travel to Canada and the reason for opting
for the particular course at the institution.
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PASSPORT SIZE
PHOTOGRAPHS
In order to submit your student visa application online, you must attach a digital photograph
(not older than 6 months) in size, and not over 4 MB. If you opt for an offline visa application
process, you will need 2 passport-sized photographs of sizes at least 35 mm x 45 mm.
Biometric fee 85
The mandatory documents to apply for a study permit in Canada are mentioned above. A study
permit will be valid for the total study duration. It allows you to stay in Canada for an additional
90 days to decide whether you need a permit extension or wish to leave Canada.
The time taken to process the study permit varies based on your country of origin. Since the
processing time is indefinite, make sure to apply for the study permit beforehand. Waiting till
the last moment makes the process a whole lot complicated.
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You should have an idea about what kind of accommodation you opt for and the number
of people you share the house with. You can also find part-time work to manage your
expenses, if necessary. Canada is generous to students; the state provides student
housing loans and discounts. Most students living in Canada can vouch for the fact that
Canada is student-friendly.
Famous cities like Montreal and Toronto are equally beautiful as New York and London and
are more affordable. The average rent for student accommodation can be anywhere
between CAD 675 and CAD 875 per month. If you plan to live in a student dormitory (in the
city), it will cost you an extra CAD 550 - 600. International students can work 20 hours per
week during college and work full time during summers and winter breaks. If you ask
whether the students can pay off their daily expenses and college tuition with the income
from a part-time job, the answer is ‘No’. One cannot completely depend on a part-time job
income to pay the tuition fee. When compared to other popular study destinations, Canada
offers affordable education. So, a carefully planned budget should help you easily get
through.
The following estimation may vary according to the city and the university you are
studying in:
SCHOLARSHIPS
AND TUITION FEES
Studying abroad is expensive, yet a foolproof investment for your future. But,
compared to famous study destinations such as the UK, New Zealand, the US
and Australia, the universities in Canada charge lesser tuition fees. The
tuition fees can be anywhere between CAD 7,000 and CAD 29,000 a year.
These are approximate figures, and the fee largely depends on the university
and the kind of program or degree you choose.
OPPORTUNITIES AFTER
A BACHELOR'S DEGREE
IN CANADA
From 2015 to 2018, Canada’s job market experienced consistent growth, and the number of job vacancies
rose by over 52%, rising more than 500,000 for the first time. During this period, Canada’s unemployment
rate dropped to 5.8% from 6.7%. This data clearly states the demand for fresh graduates passing out from
Canadian universities.
Over the past 15 months, the healthcare industry experienced demand for skilled workers, and the job
vacancy rose by 16% between January 2020 and June 2021.
VISA DOCUMENTS
CHECKLIST
Complete family
information
Resume
Confirmation letter
from the university
Evidence of purchase of
Guaranteed Investment
Certificate, GIC ($10,000)
Proof of medical
examination certificate
ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTS 24
Canadian declaration of
parent/custodian if the
student is under 18
Original letter of
scholarship provided by
college/institute (if any)
Statement of purpose
EDUCATION LOAN
Based on financial needs, education funds are allocated through Canada's Student
loan program and provincial student loan program. International students studying full
time in Canada can receive up to 60% of the education cost via the Canada student
loan program and the remaining 40% through the special student loans program
(provincial).
As an international student in Canada, you would be able to obtain student loans for
3 or 4 years, depending upon your academic program, along with an additional year
in case of unforeseen delays in completing the course
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Documents required to apply for a Student Education Loan in Canada:
Copies of qualifying
exams (like GMAT, IELTS)
Statements of borrowers bank
accounts (last one year)
Types of education
loans in Canada
The Private Student Loan
The Federal Student Loan
course completion).
13 CAD/hour
Educational Interpreter
25 CAD/hour
Bookkeeper
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ON-CAMPUS WORK
International students can work on-campus as
soon as their study program commences in
Canada. To start working in Canada,
international students’ study permits must be
entitled to work for an on-campus job.
RIGHTS
Post-Graduation Work Permit duration is
equivalent to the official length of your
program:
Students are not eligible for the Post- Received funding from the Canadian
Graduation Work Permit Program if: International Development Agency
(CIDA).
Studying a program that is less than
eight months duration. If awarded an Equal Opportunity
Scholarship, Canada-Chile.
If awarded a scholarship by the
If awarded a scholarship: Canada-China
Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship
Scholars Exchange Program.
Program funded by the Department of
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Funded by the Organization of American
Canada (DFATD). States Fellowships Program.
If awarded a scholarship by the
Studying a distance learning program
Government of Canada Awards Program
either from abroad or from within
funded by (DFATD).
Canada or have previously been issued
a Post-Graduation Work permit.
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MONTREAL
Montreal is a top pick by many
international students since it is home to
several renowned universities. McGill
University, which ranks 24 in the world, is
located in Montreal. The city hosts
comedy shows and is known for its rich
cultural festivals.
Transport
In terms of transport, the city offers
affordable transportation. There are about
200 bus routes and 50 metro stations in
Montreal. Students can travel in public
transport with just CAD 3.25 and choose to
buy student passes.
Safety
Montreal is ranked as the 17th safest city in
the world.
Job opportunities
International students can find part-time
jobs in their chosen field during their study
tenure. Some universities provide
guidance for students to land a job.
Cost of accommodation
International students can rent a single
bedroom for around CAD 1050.
POPULAR CITIES FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS IN CANADA 33
VANCOUVER
Though it is regarded as one of the most
expensive cities in Canada, the city stands
in 17th place among the student-friendly
cities. Being a tourist spot, students can
experience adventurous surfing and hiking
here. Vancouver is also known for its
forests. Here are a few reasons why
students like to study in Vancouver.
Diversity
European Canadians are the majority in
this city. The Chinese, English, Scottish and
Irish constitute the rest of the populace.
Safety
Vancouver is one of the student-friendly
and safest cities in the world.
Cost of accommodation
International students can rent a single
bedroom for around CAD 1900.
POPULAR CITIES FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS IN CANADA 34
TORONTO
17% of the student population in Toronto Cultural diversity
are International students. The city is Over 140 languages are spoken here.
always bustling and alive with several
food festivals and art shows. Many Public Transportation
famous historical monuments and The Toronto Transit Commission provides
prominent art galleries are located here. streetcars, bus services and subway
The iconic view from the top of CN services across the city. The metro pass
Tower is an exciting sight. Many costs around CAD 133.75, while the daily
international students aim to get into the pass costs you CAD 11.
top-ranked University of Toronto or (U
of T). Safety
With a safety index of 81%, the city is
student-friendly.
Job opportunities
Toronto provides lucrative employment
opportunities to international students
upon graduation.
OTTAWA
It is one of the most renowned student-
friendly cities in Canada. The state
capital is culturally rich and famous for
winter sports such as skiing and skating.
People who wish to make a living in
Canada opt to work in Ottawa.
Transportation
The busy routes of Ottawa have high-
frequency bus and light rail transit Job opportunities
systems. Another feature of the transport Ottawa is a hub for technical jobs. It has
services in Ottawa is the Para Transpo the most prominent IT tech park, and the
service, which is aimed at providing safe city is a Federal employment node that
transport to disabled people. provides jobs to the students.
QUEBEC CITY
Transportation
People in Quebec City bike a lot as the
city has over 179 km of bike paths.
Cars, buses, taxis, ferries and bicycles are
some of the other modes of transportation
that people of Quebec City use. Taxis
charge CAD 1.70 per 0.6 miles, and a bus
ticket costs you around CAD 3.
Safety
There is little to no violence in the place,
and it is a highly safe city.
Job opportunities
The city has the lowest unemployment
rate among all the famous Canadian cities,
as there are adequate employment
opportunities here.
8 UNAVOIDABLE REASONS
TO STUDY IN CANADA
FOOD IN CANADA
Poutine and maple syrup are very popular in
Canada. The Canadians are often found
pouring maple syrup on waffles, pancakes
and many other dishes. Poutine can be
described as French fries with gravy and
cheese curds on the top. The food available is
not restricted to Canadian cuisine. You can
find many Indian and South East Asian
restaurants in Canada that are extremely
popular.
LIFESTYLE IN CANADA
Canadians are open-minded. They live in
harmony with people of all ethnicities and
religions. Canadians are very punctual, and it is
said that some Canadians show up 15 minutes
early to be punctual. Showing up late to work is
considered disrespectful in Canada. Canadians
respect theirs as well as other people's privacy.
So, it is a good practice to keep your
boundaries and not ask personal questions like
age and marital status.
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PEOPLE IN CANADA
If you ask, "Are Canadians, friendly people?"
The answer is ‘Yes. Canadians are known to
be welcoming and polite people.
HOUSING
You can rent nice houses in Canada at a
cheaper rate compared to many other
countries. As a tenant, you are entitled to
certain rights and responsibilities. Check out
the apartment yourself and make sure you got
all the amenities as promised.
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SPORTS IN CANADA
Canada is very well-known for winter sports
such as ice hockey and skiing. You can try
other thrilling sports like skating and
tobogganing. Though Canada's official sport is
lacrosse, ice hockey is played extensively. One
might be surprised to know that basketball was
invented in Canada. If you love sports, Canada
is the place to be.
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CLIMATE IN CANADA
You cannot escape the harsh and chilly winters
in Canada. Make sure you buy all the winter
clothing beforehand. You will require winter
boots, several warm coats, thermals and
gloves. Though the temperatures are low in
winters, the scenery feels like you are in a fairy
tale to someone who has never seen snow.
You can still explore your neighbourhood if you
are all wrapped up in your warm clothing.
DESTINATION
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HIGHLIGHTS
Canada is the world’s second largest country
International students are able to apply for a range of work permits while
studying in Canada.
CONTACT US
Find the address and contact details of AECC Global offices
from the website dedicated to your country and contact the
office nearest to you for free guidance from our expert study
abroad counsellors.
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