Study in Canada: Eligibility Options, Future Prospectus, Part -1

Canada offers a blend of high-quality education, multiculturalism, and a welcoming environment to international students. Its universities and colleges are globally recognized, providing diverse academic programs and research opportunities. With over 100 universities and 200 plus colleges and technical institutes, featuring virtually every program imaginable, Canada may just be the place of your dreams. There are lot of advantages to choosing Canada for study. As I mentioned, Canada offers high quality education, diverse culture, post-graduation work opportunities, and pathways to permanent residency. Tuition fees are comparatively low, that makes it an affordable place to live and study. Also, the application process is straight-forward, Canada accepts and recognizes Indian certificates and degrees/diplomas. Canada offers a wide range of study options including undergraduate, graduate, diploma, and certificate programs across various fields like engineering, business, arts, information technology, medicine and other sciences. Canada is a world leader in software development, telecommunications, aerospace, engineering, urban transport, biotechnology, mining technology and environmental industries. The main difference between the education system in India and the education system in Canada is the theoretical approach vs. practical approach. Indian education is primarily theory-based, whereas a Canadian education system is predominantly practical-based. Moreover, the standard of living between the two countries is the key factor. Despite the better affordability that India offers, Canada provides a far better lifestyle to its residents. One of the major contributors to this ease of living is Canada’s comparatively lower population and less pressure on public resources and infrastructure. Canada prioritizes international student safety through various measures: strict laws and policies maintain a safe environment, campuses have security protocols and personnel, cities employ community policing, educational institutions offer emergency support services, the country’s commitment to diversity promotes respect, and international student advisors provide safety information and resources. These efforts collectively aim to create a secure and inclusive atmosphere, ensuring the safety and well-being of international students throughout their studies in Canada. International students in Canada have access to healthcare provisions that vary by province. Many provinces offer coverage through provincial health insurance plans, which might include essential medical services. Additionally, some universities mandate health insurance for international students, providing coverage for services not included in provincial plans, like prescription drugs or vision care. It’s crucial for students to understand the healthcare coverage available in their province of study and whether they need supplementary health insurance to ensure comprehensive coverage during their stay in Canada. Several sectors in Canada actively seek international graduates, including technology, healthcare, engineering, finance, and research sectors. These industries often have a high demand for skilled professionals, providing ample employment opportunities and career growth potential for international graduates.

“Canada’s practical-based education system, safety measures for international students, and healthcare provisions varying by province. Overall, Canada emerges as a promising destination for international students seeking academic excellence and career prospects.”

The job market in Canada for international graduate students is actually very good all across Canada in a variety of fields. The number of employed people in Canada was forecast to continuously increase between 2023 and 2024 by 0.1 million people (+0.5 percent). After the fourth consecutive increasing year, the number is estimated to reach 20.22 million people and therefore a new peak in 2024. As per new rules announced by Canadian Govt. in Jan 2024, open work permits will only be available to spouses of international students enrolled in master’s and doctoral programs, as well as professional programs such as medicine and law. Undergraduate and college students will no longer be eligible to bring their dependents. Dependents are defined as spouses and/or unmarried minor children. Children over the age of 21 are not eligible to enter as the dependent of an international student. While filling out your study permit application, the student needs to indicate that his family will be accompanying him. As long as one parent holds valid status in Canada e.g. study/work permit, permanent resident or Canadian citizen, their children are permitted to study at the pre-school, primary or secondary school levels without paying any fees. Moreover, the spouse of the international student (masters and doctoral programs only) can apply for open work permit and on approval can work legally in Canada. In Canada, each province and territory has its own laws and systems when it comes to education. This means it’s important for an international student to do proper research into the type of course he/she wants to pursue, and the requirements needed. Eligibility criteria include test grades and scores from previous level examinations, in addition to language requirements. The requirements vary from college to college and depend on course eligibility criteria. However, students generally need to have at least 60% to get a Canada study visa. Yet, there are many things to know, so let’s see! If students are willing to apply for higher studies in Canada, it will require them to have a minimum of 70% along with a SAT/ ACT score. To study in Canada, international students usually need to show they’re good at English or French. Most schools ask for test scores from exams like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE to prove language skills. Depending on the course and school, they might also ask for scores from exams like SAT, GRE, or GMAT. These tests assess speaking, listening, reading, and writing abilities to ensure students can effectively communicate and study in the language of instruction. To apply to study in Canada, you need to find the programs you like, collect your grades and test scores, and apply online. Make sure to send all needed documents and pay the fee. Write a statement explaining why you want to study in Canada and get recommendation letters. After the college accepts you, the next step is to apply for a study permit and visa. To be eligible for a study permit in Canada, applicants from India must demonstrate proof of acceptance from a DLI, provide evidence of adequate funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation, and have a clean criminal record. As per new rules announced, Study permits will be allocated based on each province’s population. Students now must provide a provincial attestation letter as part of their study permit application and additionally; applicants need to satisfy the immigration officer that they will leave Canada upon completion of their studies and authorized stay. Yes, International students need a medical exam to study in Canada. Medical Check-ups are mandatory for Indians for Visas, such as Student, Worker and Immigration. The Canada Medical Examination can be scheduled before submitting a visa application to speed up the visa process. It is one of the basic documents required when we apply to become a permanent resident or a Canadian citizen. It’s not required in case of temporary permit visa like a visitor, student or temporary worker. However, immigration may ask for a police clearance certificate in certain cases. Canadian institutions are known for their diverse and inclusive student communities. They attract students from various cultural backgrounds and nationalities worldwide. The student body comprises individuals from different countries, ethnicities, religions, and socioeconomic backgrounds, fostering a rich and multicultural environment on campus. Canadian universities prioritize supporting international students by offering a range of dedicated services. These include guidance from trained International Student Advisors covering immigration, academics, and cultural adaptation, specialized orientation programs for settling into campus life, healthcare support with tailored insurance options, mental health counseling, language workshops, help finding accommodation, social integration events, financial aid advice, and assistance with legal and immigration matters. These services collectively aim to ensure that international students have the resources and support needed to thrive academically, socially, and personally while studying in Canada. Many Canadian universities offer co-op programs or internships integrated into academic curricula, providing students with valuable hands-on experience in their field of study. These programs enable students to apply classroom learning to real-world scenarios and build professional networks. International students seeking PR after studies should assess their eligibility for various pathways such as CEC, Express Entry, or provincial programs. They should align their goals with specific requirements; improve qualifications if needed, gather necessary documents, and stay updated on changes in immigration policies to successfully navigate the PR application process. With over 15 years of experience I endorse Canada’s appeal, including its high-quality education, cultural diversity, post-graduation work options, and pathways to permanent residency. Canada’s practical-based education system, safety measures for international students, and healthcare provisions varying by province. Overall, Canada emerges as a promising destination for international students seeking academic excellence and career prospects. However, if there are any further questions, readers are advised to reach directly email at [email protected]
………………………To be continued tomorrow on Saturday
(The author is a senior immigration consultant and a member in good standing with the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC) in Canada. He is also former member of the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC and member of Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants (CSIC) and Canadian Migration Institute -CMI. The views, opinions and conclusions expressed in this article are those of the author and aren’t necessarily in accord with the views of “Kashmir Horizon”.)