How to Study Abroad in Canada

From wildlife field trips to French immersion courses, Canadian educational institutions provide many opportunities. The country is also home to world-class universities, beautiful nature, and multicultural cities—an international student’s dream! So where do you start researching how to study abroad in Canada?

First of all, you will need to decide on the type of experience you want to have. Big cities, field trips in nature, or diverse wildlife—Canada has it all, just not all in the same place. Here’s everything you need to know.

Does Canada have student visa requirements?

From bustling cities to escapes into nature, there’s something for everyone in Canada.

Canada student visa requirements depend on how long you want to study in Canada and what nationality you have. As a ground rule, you need to apply for a study permit if you’re a foreign national who wants to study in Canada for more than six months.

Once your study permit gets approved, you will obtain your Canadian visa, known as Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). That said, the application process is different if you’re already in Canada or if you’re going for fewer than six months. You can find out what to do by filling out a short questionnaire.

What are the requirements and documents for a student visa in Canada?

To get a study permit in Canada, you need the following documents:

• Proof of acceptance: You need a letter of acceptance from a Canadian DLI (which stands for designated learning institution).
• Proof of identity: This can be a valid passport or a travel document.
• Proof of financial support: You’ll need to show proof that you can support yourself while studying in Canada.
• Letter of explanation: This covers why you want to study in Canada.
• Quebec Acceptance Certificate: This one is only for students who want to study in Quebec!
• Medical exam: Depending on how long you’re studying in Canada and where you’ve traveled previously, you may need a medical exam.

5 other requirements to study abroad in Canada

Do you meet all the requirements? Then it’s time to study abroad in Canada!

In addition to the study permit, here are five other requirements to study abroad in Canada:

• Letter of introduction: Once you get your study permit, the Canadian government will issue you a letter of introduction. You need to bring this document with you as some border services officers might want to see it upon your arrival at a Canadian airport.
• GPA: GPA requirements vary from program to program but for most of them, a GPA of 3.0 will be more than enough.
• Passport: Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Canada.
• Language: Canada has two official languages, English and French. If you’re studying at an English-speaking institution, English would be sufficient. However, in a French-speaking institution, especially in Quebec, you will need to speak French.
• Age: Some study abroad programs are for high school students, while others are for college students.

How to study abroad in Canada

1. Decide when and where to go.

Most big cities in Canada, including Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, have great universities with excellent academic standards. This can make it difficult to choose where to go.

In this case, consider your future goals and how a city will help you achieve them. For example, if you’re currently learning French, going to Quebec City or Montreal would give you many opportunities to practice your language skills.

If you’re going to Canada for one semester only, you will need to decide when. You have three options: fall (September to December), winter/spring (January to April), and summer when there are summer courses going on (May to July).

2. Choose a program.

There is a wide range of Canadian study abroad programs, from university exchanges to field trips in nature. While choosing programs, you have two options:

• Option 1: Inquire at your university to do a student exchange in Canada.
• Option 2: Choose a Canada study abroad program from an independent program provider.

3. Make sure you meet the requirements.

Some programs might have technical requirements. For example, university courses might have prerequisites. Or language courses might require you to have a certain level in the target language.

4. Apply!

Once you’re sure you fit the requirements, apply as soon as possible. But don’t rush! Give yourself time to gather all the necessary documents, write a great personal essay, and look for scholarships if needed.

5. Plan your budget.

All that budgeting you do will be so worth it.

Canada isn’t the cheapest study abroad destination. Research the average cost of living for the state that you’re going to and plan your finances accordingly. You might also be eligible for financial aid or scholarships—worth checking!

6. Prepare a pre-departure checklist.

Make sure you complete everything you need to do before jetting off to Canada by creating a checklist. Note what paperwork you need to get done if you have student visa requirements in Canada, where to find accommodation, what to pack for the duration of your stay, and any important dates related to your program. This way, you’ll stay on top of all your tasks.

7. Book your flight!

Check your university or program provider’s website to see what dates they recommend for arrivals. They might also be able to give you tips on how to book cheap flights. You’re on your way!

Our Online Advisor can match you with 5 study abroad programs in Canada—it’s free!

How much does it cost to study abroad in Canada?

First things first: Canada is a huge country—the second largest one in the world, to be exact. As you can imagine, the cost of living highly depends on which state you’re in. Statistics show that Victoria, Vancouver, and Calgary are the most expensive cities, whereas Kitchener, Windsor, and Brampton are among the cheapest ones.

Here are some examples of what your major expenses will be as an international student so you can better calculate how much it costs to study abroad in Canada:

• Price of the study abroad program: On average, program providers charge around $2,000 per week, including tuition, training, accommodation, meals, and activities. If you’re doing an exchange at a Canadian university, you won’t need to pay tuition as your home university will be sending you as a part of an exchange program.
• Plane tickets to and from Canada: Depending on where you are, factor the plane tickets into your budget, as they are often not covered in the program.
• Visa application fees: The study permit application fee is 150 Canadian dollars, in case you need one.
• Accommodation: If you’re going to Canada as an exchange student instead of a study abroad program participant, you will likely need to find your own accommodation. According to 2023 statistics, the average one-bedroom apartment costs CA$1,719.26. Some cheaper options are homestays, renting a room, or student residences.
• Travel and activities: When in Canada, you’ll want to see more of the country, go on hikes, or get a taste of adventure travel.

3 study abroad programs in Canada to consider

Now that we’ve covered how to apply to study abroad in Canada, it’s time for some study abroad inspiration! Here are three different programs that show how diverse your options are in Canada:

1. French Language & Culture Immersion in Québec City, Canada

• Why? Are you a high school student looking to experience university life abroad? This program sends you to Université Laval in Quebec City where you will take French lessons, join conversation groups, and practice your language skills in the city. You will stay in Université Laval dorms and take weekend trips to places like Levis, Cap Tourmente, and Cap Rouge.
• Where? Quebec City, Quebec
• Read Abbey Road Programs reviews

2. Study Abroad Field Botany Courses

• Why? If you’re aspiring to work in the environmental industry, here is a highly prestigious program. You will be identifying plants, developing field skills, and meeting expert botanists. On top of that, you will contribute to valuable plant research in Ontario, which will make your resume shine.
• Where? Hamilton, Ontario
• Read Earthquest (Canada) for the Environment reviews

3. Taku Watershed Conservation Program

• Why? Discover the rich wildlife of northern British Columbia through research, hiking, and backpacking. In this six-week summer program, you will conduct wildlife surveys, bird surveys, and a long-term alpine vegetation study. Together with your peers, you will also learn more about Tlingit culture and make long-lasting memories.
• Where? Atlin, British Columbia
• Read Round River Conservation Studies reviews

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Don’t overlook Canada for studying abroad—it offers some of the best experiences!

Now that you know how to study abroad in Canada, it’s time to make your dream a reality.

No matter what you decide to study, your experience in Canada will be full of academic excellence, nature, culture, and new friends! Choose Canada for a study abroad experience you’ll never forget.

Explore ALL Study Abroad Programs in Canada on GoAbroad.com!