Selecting the Right Programs - International Students

With so many choices available, choosing just one is a hard undertaking. One needs to be clear-headed in order to reach such a weighty decision. Adequate research, planning and the right timing and advice, can land you in the college and the course of your choice.

Before applying, make sure about the course and university you want to get in. Following pointers should be followed before applying:

i. Research about the required course and the college you desire to apply to:
Research the course, colleges and check the online course brochure for special requirements and eligibility. Also, jot down the colleges that offer the course that you want to take on.

ii. Select your program and study mode:

• Select your program and location (e.g. undergraduate, postgraduate by coursework, Research Higher Degree, Study Abroad, on campus, distance education, Study Centers),
• Decide on the study mode (on campus or distance education)
• Check availability of the course according to your preferred study location:
• Check entry requirements
  

Academic Requirement

The academic requirements (including evidence of English or French language skills) will vary depending on the level of education and province in Canada. Institutions can have different entry requirements, so read the course information on their website carefully and contact them.

Entry requirements for the different levels of study:

• English and French language - Entry requirements vary between institutions and provinces.
• Schools - Entry requirements vary between schools depending on the state or territory you will be studying in. Academic performance and ability is considered during the application process.
• Higher Education Undergraduate - To gain entry into a Canadian undergraduate course you will need to hold a Canadian Higher Secondary Certificate of Education (Year 12), or the overseas equivalent. Some undergraduate courses may also have specific pre-requisite subjects.
• Higher Education Postgraduate - After the satisfactory completion of one degree at undergraduate level, the institution may get hold of research ability or relevant work experience into consideration.
  

English Language Requirement

Acceptable test for English Proficiency:

• Academic IELTS (International English Language Testing System) overall score of at least 6.0, and with no score below 5.5
• TOEFL Internet-based score of 80 and writing score of 25

iii. Check if you are eligible for credit:
The credit policy differs for every University and Course.

iv. Read Student visa information clearly and also, check the closing dates for the course.

v. Apply to accredited colleges:
Check whether the college meets a minimal set of standards or not. Visit their respective websites and know more about the affiliation/accreditation.  It is important to be sure that the colleges to which you are applying are accredited by a recognized accrediting authority. Though, there is no formal accreditation system in Canada as the postsecondary education in Canada is the responsibility of provincial and territorial governments. But thought the institutes have been granted the status, it needs to be confirmed by visiting their website.
 
vi. Check the number of International Students on Campus:
If there are many international students on campus, the school is more likely to be sensitive to the needs of students from other countries. The states which are most popular with international students are Ontario, Quebec and British Columbia.