Top 6 Universities in Canada and How to Apply

Known for its world-class education system, it's no surprise that Canada attracts thousands of international students each year. If furthering your studies abroad is on your list of things to do, you'll be happy to find that the Great White North has some great options. With a wide range of study programs for every degree level, the country is home to quite a few of the world's most prestigious higher learning institutions. This article explores top universities in Canada and how to apply.

Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs)

 

 

Canadian provinces and territories approve institutions that are allowed to accept international students. These are referred to as designated learning institutions (DLIs). So, if you require a study permit, the acceptance letter must be from a DLI. Your application will be rejected if this is not done. The good news is that Canada's top universities are actually all Designated Learning institutions that are authorized to accept foreign students.

Six Of The Top Universities In Canada

1. The University of Toronto

Founded in 1827, the University of Toronto is a public university with three campuses hosting over 80,000 students. Although English is the primary language of instruction, it also offers courses in French. The university ranks as one of the top universities in Canada and has a reputation as one of the best places to study globally. It is well-known for its Arts and Humanities, Social Sciences and Management, Physical Sciences and Engineering and Tech subjects.

2. University of British Columbia

With a reputation as a global leader in education and research, the University of British Columbia (UBC) is one of the top 40 universities in the world. The university was founded in 1908 and accommodates more than 65,000 students across its campuses in Vancouver and Okanagan. UBC is most known for being a force to be reckoned with when it comes to innovation, as well as its dedication to the promotion of a more sustainable world.

3. University of Montreal

The largest university in the Great White North, the University of Montreal, is a public research university, offering close to 700 programs to a student population of roughly 34,000. The university has three academic hospitals and four research centers and is affiliated with two schools - Polytechnique Montréal and HEC Montréal.

4. University of Alberta

Also falling in the top six universities in Canada, the University of Alberta (UAlberta) is a public research institution in Edmonton, Alberta. It is quite popular with international students, hosting over 39,000 students from more than 150 countries. The university's standing as an institution of excellence stretches across faculties, from the arts to business, the sciences and humanities.

5. University of Ottawa

Situated in Canada's capital city, the University of Ottawa is a bilingual institution that was established in 1848. The university has over 450 undergraduate programs and around 170 graduate and Ph.D. programs, spread across ten faculties. The annual student population stands at over 43,000. Students can apply to a great range of courses, including law, education and medicine.

6. McGill University

McGill University ranks 21st when it comes to global university rankings and is also considered to be among the top universities in Canada. Renowned for its medical school, the university is affiliated with three hospitals: Montreal General Hospital, Royal Victoria Hospital and Montreal Children's Hospital. It also has a famed law school with two law degrees - a Juris Doctor (JD) and a Bachelor of Civil Law (BCL). McGill has an offering of more than 300 courses in around 40 career fields at every level of study, ranging from undergraduate to doctoral programs.

Ready to Start? Apply Now

How To Apply To A University In Canada

As soon as you've decided on the university, you'll have to apply to attend during the next academic year. Make sure you apply a year in advance for university or college. Each institution usually has its own requirements, so make sure you gather all the information you need by contacting a university representative. They'll be able to give you advice on:

• Application costs
• Fees
• Health insurance
• Accommodation
• Cost of living in Canada
• Language requirements

Once you have all the information you need, complete the application forms and submit them. If your application is successful, you will receive an acceptance letter. This is necessary for your study permit application.

Apply For Your Canada Study Permit

To study in Canada, you'll need to obtain a Canada study permit. In the event that your permit is granted, it will be valid for the duration of your studies. You will also be given an extra three months to stay in Canada.

But before this can happen, you must meet the student visa requirements set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). You will need to:

• Be accepted into a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and have an acceptance letter to prove it
• Have a passport or another type of valid travel document
• Have sufficient funds to sustain yourself and any dependents joining you
• It's possible that you could need extra documentation. This will depend entirely on where you are from

Other Documents that you may need:

• A letter of explanation
• For Quebec: a certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ)
• A custodian declaration, if you are applying as a minor
• Any other additional paperwork as required by the immigration officer

Note: A study permit is not a Canadian visa. You won't be able to enter the country with just that. You may have to get an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) from the IRCC.

Study Permit Processing Time

Obtaining your Canada study permit can take about nine to eleven weeks. The permit processing timing begins the day the IRCC gets your complete application. It ends the moment you get the application results.

How To Get Your Results Faster

You can cut some time of processing via the Student Direct Stream. With this stream, you'll wait around 20 days. To qualify for this stream, you, however, have to meet the following requirements:

• You must be a legal resident of a participating nation
• You must complete all biometrics as soon as possible
• You must be fully-eligible

Why Study In Canada?

 

 

Degrees Cost Less

The cost of education is one of the major factors to consider when deciding where to study. Unfortunately, studying abroad is, more often than not, quite a costly affair. The good news, however, is that fees in Canada are usually less than that of other first-world countries, like Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States Of America.

A Much Lower Cost of Living

While you'll need your fees covered, you will have to make provision for additional expenses like study materials, accommodation, transport and other day-to-day expenses. You'll also need to consider study permit or visa fees when planning your budget. With all the expenses that may pile up, you can, however, breathe a sigh of relief right about now. Why? Because it costs less to live in Canada than in the US and Down Under.

Better Chance Of Admission

It can be quite tough getting into American universities but rest assured, you stand a better chance of being accepted into a program at a Canadian university. To be considered for bachelor's programs as an international student, a Canadian university will most likely take a look at your high school results. So If you've fared well in this department, chances are high that you'll be accepted.

A Diverse Environment On Campuses And In The Workplace

One of the best things about Canada is its melting pot of cultures. As an international student, you'll automatically become another strand in the bold tapestry of this North American nation - on campus when joining your industry and within Canadian society. This inclusive environment will ensure that you thrive throughout your university years and beyond as you become part of an international community in your field of expertise.

Immigration Pathways Available For International Students

Besides being one of the most affordable and safest settings to study in, Canada is equally popular because it provides foreign students with several pathways to earn permanent residency once they have completed their studies. The Express Entry System and the Provincial Nominee Program are two options.

Start Your Studies In Canada In The Next Academic Year

International students in Canada are known to thrive during their study period and far beyond. Now that you know a bit more about the top universities in Canada, get ready to take the next step, by approaching your chosen institution and applying for your course of choice.

 

Your Journey Starts Here

FAQS

Will I Need Health Insurance When I Study In Canada?

Yes. The Government of Canada does not cover the medical costs of international students. You'll find that medical cover will differ according to where you study. Make sure you find out the health insurance requirements at the university you apply to.

Will I Be Able Work On My Language Skills Once I Study In Canada?

There are institutions in Canada that offer English or French as a second language. You'll find more information about private language classes on Languages Canada.

What Happens If The Institution I'm Studying At Loses Its Designated Learning Institution Status After Receiving My Study Permit?

You'll be able to continue your studies until your permit is no longer valid. However, you'll only be able to renew a study permit if you're enrolling at a DLI.