About Canada
Covering most of the northern part of the North American continent, Canada is the second-largest country in the world (after Russia), with a total land area of 9.9 million square kilometres. It stretches from the Pacific Ocean on the west, and to the Atlantic Ocean on the east. Northern Canada reaches into the Arctic Circle, while southern Canada stretches below the northern points of the United States (with which it shares the longest border in the world). The capital city is Ottawa (in the province of Ontario).
One of the world’s wealthiest countries, Canada is a major industrialized trading nation. It is a member of the G7/8, the G20, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, and many other international bodies. It boasts a highly educated workforce and an increasingly diversified economy, but it is unusual among developed nations in the continuing importance of its natural resources sector (e.g., logging and oil). The Canadian economy is market-oriented like that of the U.S., yet government tends to provide more support and intervention than does the U.S. government. International trade is an important part of the Canadian economy, especially with the U.S. The currency is the Canadian Dollar.
Five Quick Points About Canada
- Huge area, relatively small population, beautiful natural environment
- One of world’s wealthiest nations
- Multicultural society with many immigrants
- Well-respected and sophisticated education system, and one of the top destinations for international study
- Safe and interesting place to study – students should begin planning early since admissions can be competitive
Cost of Living
Many people find the cost of living in Canada is significantly lower than their home country, but of course this is not the case for all students (e.g., students from India or Nepal). Canadian housing is generally inexpensive compared with other developed nations – the average house price in Canada is around five times the average annual wage.
Other costs are comparable or a little less expensive than other industrialized nations, with the exception of car insurance, which can be quite expensive in Canada. Citizenship and Immigration Canada estimates that international students require approximately $10,000 CAD per year, not including tuition fees, to cover living expenses.
Education System
Canada claims one of the highest rates of post-secondary education completion in the world. According to the 2006 census, six out of every 10 adults between 25 and 64 years of age had completed some form of post-secondary education. Enrolment in post-secondary education has grown significantly in recent years, due to increasing educational demands in the labour market rather than because of population growth. Post-secondary institutions are located throughout the country; there are approximately 70 universities and 80 colleges in Canada.
In Canada, the provinces and territories are responsible for all levels of education including colleges and universities.
In addition to post-secondary options, Canada offers a wide range of independent private boarding schools for younger students noted for their excellence in preparing young men and women for university and college placement.
University
Canadian universities offer high-quality education and are very well respected around the world. A degree from a Canadian university holds substantial prestige, thus making Canada a primary target for many international students.
University degrees are offered at three successive levels – bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral. Bachelor’s degrees normally require three or four years of full-time study, depending on the province. An honors bachelor’s degree involves a higher degree of concentration in the major subject, as well as a higher level of academic achievement, and in some cases, an additional year of study. A master’s degree typically requires two years of study after completion of either a general or an honors baccalaureate program.
Virtually all Canadian universities are public institutions, which is the main difference between Canadian and American universities.
College
A community college is a public post-secondary educational institution that offers a variety of programs to high-school graduates and adults seeking further education or employment training. Public colleges offer vocational programs in a wide range of professional and technical fields including business, health, science, agriculture, applied arts, technology, skilled trades, and social services.
Diplomas are awarded for the successful completion of two- or three-year programs, while certificate programs most often take one year to complete.
Many colleges offer university transfer programs, providing the first two years of a university undergraduate program. Many also offer bachelor’s and applied degree programs.
Colleges are much cheaper than universities and more career-oriented.
Admission & English Language Requirements
In order to study in Canada, general academic requirements are given below:
- Undergraduate: At least completion of 10+2 from recognized board or equivalent qualification with 50%.
- Graduate: At least completion of bachelor degree from recognized university or equivalent qualification with 55%.
All undergraduate& graduate applicants to English instruction faculties need an adequate level of English Language Proficiency before admission, regardless of their citizenship status or country of origin. - Undergraduate:Total score of at least 6.5 with no less than 6 each section in IELTS or Total score of at least 86 with no section less than 21.
- Graduate:Total score of at least 6.5 with no less than 6.0 each section in IELTS or Total score of at least 90 with no section less than 22.
Visa Requirements
Generally, foreign nationals must obtain a study permit in order to study in Canada. A study permit is a written authorization issued by an officer allowing foreign nationals to study in Canada. For more details about study permit, please visit website: www.cic.gc.ca
Embassy Information
Canada Visa Application Centre
VFS Global Mauritius (P) Ltd.
Academy of Culinary Arts Building,
Ground Floor, Mahalaxmisthan Marga,
Lagankhel, Lalitpur, Nepal
T: 977-9824927848
E: info.canp@vfshelpline.com
High Commission of Canada
7/8 Shantipath, Chanakyapuri
New Delhi 110 021, India
T: +91 -011- 4178-2000
E: delhi.consular@international.gc.ca
Information for International Students
In 2008–09, there were over 80,000 international students in Canadian universities, constituting 7.7% of the total enrolment. The main countries from which students came were China, the U.S., France, India, and South Korea.
International students applying directly from high school to a university or college in Canada should begin planning early, since universities in Canada or particular programs within a university can be competitive.
Due to the different laws and regulations in each province the correct visa information can be obtained by visiting the Education in Canada website.
Students who want to work while studying in Canada must be registered as full-time students at an eligible post-secondary educational institution participating in the Off or On-Campus Work Permit Program. For part-time work on campus for the first six months of studies (maximum 20 hrs per week), students must prove that they are in good academic standing and are able to manage their studies first and foremost. Part-time on- and off-campus work permits are available after six months of studies provided students possess satisfactory academic standing. Work placements (co-op) are often available in the programs of study. Students can get access to up to three years of full-time employment in Canada after graduation.
How to Apply
STEP 1: Registration
1. Application Forms or APPLY ONLINE
2. Verified Academic Documents
3. Passport
4. Recommendation Letters
5. Work Experience Letter (Optional)
6. Updated CV
7. Statement of Purpose (SOP)
8. Photo
9. IELTS / TOEFL (Optional)
10. Bank Balance Certificate and statement
11. University ApplicationFee
12. NIMAS Registration Fee: Rs. 15,000 +13% VAT (Non- Refundable)
STEP 2: Offer Letter
• Tuition Fee Payment
STEP 3: Letter of Acceptance
Processing Fee: Rs. 15,000/- + 13% VAT
STEP 4: Visa Application
• Visa Application Form
• Police Clearance Certificate
• Medical Test Report
• Income Source
• Property Valuation
• CA Report
• Tax Clearance Certificate
• 6 Months Pay Slip if Employee
• Bank Balance Certificate + Statement or Education Loan
• Affidavit of Support
• Relationship Certificate
If Dependent is applying,
• Proof of Relationship (Marriage Certificate, Birth Certificate, Photographs, Video, emails, cards etc.)
Step 5: Visa Decision If approved
• Ticket Confirmation
• Travel Plan
• Service Fee: Rs. 40,000/- +13% VAT
If Decision is Negative:
• Apply for Refund of tuition fee (As per Agreement)