With the world moving at a fast pace and opportunities opening up left and right, students have hundreds of paths to choose from in terms of education and careers. While this makes for a great atmosphere to follow one’s own aptitude, all the choices can be overwhelming and confusing. Of late, Canada has become one of the top picks for Indian students to study abroad, for a number of reasons ranging from great cultural exchange, an excellent quality of life to many post-studies job opportunities. Read on to find out what you need to apply to and study in Canada, and how to get through each step.
Choosing a university or school
This is the first and most important step of the process of applying abroad, and it can also be the most confusing. Breaking it down, first list the qualities you want in a program or university, the content you wish to study further and the possible learning outcomes and career paths. This will make shortlisting universities and programs easier and give your search a better direction. Keeping in mind that the application fee can range anywhere from CAD 50 to CAD 250, applying to and choosing the right institution is crucial.
At the same time, make sure that what you select is a DLI- a school that is approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students, and that you are applying to a study duration which is also government-approved.
Academic Documentation
It is common knowledge that such application processes require a lot of paperwork. Having a list ready of necessary documents can make this process much smoother and hassle-free. WIthout proper preparation, you run the risk of missing out in submitting a particular document, or submitting the wrong one, which is just as bad. Primarily, most Canadian universities require the same set of documents-
- SOP (Statement of Purpose)
- Cover letter and essay
- Marksheets and transcripts of previously completed education in India
- PAL (Provincial Attestation Letter)
- LOI (Letter of Intent)
- Medial Reports
Apart from these, it is vital to research and ask university authorities of each institute you are applying to which documents they require.
Visa Application
There are a few steps that must be followed in order to acquire a Canadian student visa. The average processing time for the visa is around 7 weeks, though several factors can affect this duration. The time taken to verify documents, completion of application, queries of the authorities all play a part in the total time required. There are two ways to apply, online or in-person. However, for both processes students will be required to provide a fingerprint scan or some documents at the regional Visa Application Centre.
Apart from the necessary biometrics, students are required to pay the processing fee, which is non-refundable, as well as submit all their papers and supporting documents on time. After receiving a Letter of Acceptance, you are good to go.
Language-related and other Exams
Considering that Canada is a bilingual country, students are required to pass certain standardized and internationally-recognized language exams. For English, the Canadian government accepts the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) as proof of proficiency in English. Particular courses may require you to show a proof of proficiency in French, such as TCF Canada and the DALF/DELF exams. Appearing for and passing the exams which are applicable to you is extremely necessary, as students are required to achieve a certain score to be permitted entry into Canada for study.
Apart from these, the GRE, GMAT, SAT and LSAT are also exams required for specific courses at certain universities. Finding out what you need through proper research is a must, as well as keeping copies of your result ready at the time of application later on.
Prospects after studying
Studying in Canada is a fulfilling experience, and so is making a career there. After completion of your degree, many universities and their respective departments offer placements opportunities as well as guidance from experts and alumni to help you step into the professional world. Applying for a work visa is also an easier process if you have previously studied in a Canadian university.