How Many Intakes in Canada? A Complete Guide for Sri Lankan Students

Planning to study in Canada from Sri Lanka? One of the first things you need to understand is how the intake system works. Canada offers three major intakes—January, May, and September—each with its advantages, challenges, and timelines.

Overview of Study Intakes in Canada

An "intake" refers to the specific time when universities and colleges in Canada start new academic programmes. It marks the start of a new academic term, where new students begin their courses and continuing students advance to the next level.

September Intake in Canada (Fall Intake)

September is the main intake in Canada and the most popular choice among international students, including those from Sri Lanka. This intake aligns with the traditional academic calendar and offers the widest range of opportunities.

Why is the September Intake Popular in Canada?

• Maximum course and programme availability
• All universities and colleges participate
• Best scholarship and financial aid opportunities
• Traditional academic calendar (easier to transfer credits)
• The largest international student community joining together

September Intake in Canada: Pros and Cons

• Pros: Maximum choices, traditional academic calendar, best scholarship options, largest peer group.
• Cons: Highest competition, earlier application deadlines, longer waiting period.

January Intake in Canada (Winter Intake)

The January intake, also known as the Winter intake, begins at the start of the new year. This intake is suitable for students who missed the September deadline or prefer to begin their studies in January.

• Potentially less competition for admission compared to September, particularly in certain programmes within fields like business and engineering, offering a good alternative to popular courses
• Good option if you missed the September intake in Canada
• Available for most business, engineering, and computer science programmes

• Fewer course options compared to September
• Limited availability in some specialised programmes
• Adjusting to Canada's winter can be challenging, especially for students coming from Sri Lanka's tropical climate.
• Tighter visa processing window, especially if applications are submitted closer to the deadlines, potentially requiring swift action after receiving an offer

May Intake in Canada (Spring/Summer Intake)

The May intake, also known as the Spring or Summer intake, is the least common of the three main academic intakes in Canada. It typically begins in May and concludes in August. This intake is primarily available for diploma and certificate programmes, often for short-term courses, diplomas, and certificate programmes.

• Primarily available for diploma and certificate programmes
• Some universities, such as the University of Windsor and Thompson Rivers University, offer select bachelor's and master's programmes during this intake
• Popular for diploma and certificate programmes, often including specific specialisations in hospitality, business, and various technical fields
• Good weather for settling into Canadian life

• Pros: Smaller applicant pool, quick admission process, pleasant weather, flexible for gap year students,
• Cons: Very limited programme options, fewer universities participate, limited financial aid.

Intakes in Canada: Which is Best for Sri Lankan Students?

Below is an overview of how each Canadian intake differs regarding timelines, course options, competition, and visa preparation. This can help Sri Lankan students plan better based on their academic needs and personal timelines.

The September intake in Canada is the best choice for most Sri Lankan students because it offers the most programmes and scholarship opportunities and aligns with completing A-levels or undergraduate degrees. However, January can be excellent if you need more time to prepare or missed September deadlines.

Intakes in Canada: Application Deadlines

Understanding and adhering to application deadlines is paramount for a successful application to Canadian universities. The following are typical application timelines for each intake in Canada:

• Application window: January to March
• Typical deadlines: April to May
• When to start preparing: 12–15 months in advance

• Application window: June to October
• Typical deadlines: September to October
• When to start preparing: 9–12 months in advance

• Application window: November to February
• Typical deadlines: January to February
• When to start preparing: 6–9 months in advance

Course Availability Across Different Intakes in Canada

Course availability varies across different intakes of Canada. While the most popular and common degree courses are available in the primary or September intake, the secondary and tertiary intakes in Canada offer less common short-term programmes and diploma courses.

• All undergraduate programmes
• All graduate programmes
• Research programmes and PhDs
• Professional programmes (Medicine, Law, Business)
• Maximum scholarship opportunities

• Most business and management programmes
• Engineering and computer science programmes
• Many arts and social science programmes
• Some healthcare programmes
• Limited research positions

• Diploma and certificate programmes
• Limited undergraduate business programmes
• Tourism and hospitality programmes
• Selected technical programmes
• Continuing education courses

Tips for Choosing the Right Intake in Canada

Consider these factors when deciding on your intake in Canada:

• Academic Readiness: When will you complete your current studies? September works if you finish A-levels or an undergraduate degree by mid-year. January is good if you complete your studies by the end of the year.
• Financial Planning: September offers more scholarship opportunities but requires earlier financial planning. May intake allows for quicker admission but with fewer funding options.
• Career Goals: If you need specific programmes or want maximum choice, target September. If you're flexible and want to start quickly, January or May might work better.
• Visa Timeline: Account for 3-4 months for visa processing. September intake applications should be complete by May to allow enough visa processing time.
• Personal Circumstances: Consider your family situation, work commitments, and readiness to move to Canada. Avoid rushing the process if your documentation or academic results are not ready.
• Weather Preference: If you are concerned about Canadian winters, September's arrival gives you time to adjust before the cold season. May's arrival lets you enjoy pleasant weather while settling in.

Visa Application Timelines Based on Intakes in Canada

Securing your student visa on time is crucial for studying in Canada. To navigate the immigration process, refer to the typical timelines below:

• Submit university applications: January-March
• Receive admission letters: April-June
• Apply for study permit: May-July
• Receive visa decision: July-August
• Travel to Canada: August-September

• Submit university applications: June-August
• Receive admission letters: September-November
• Apply for study permit: October-November
• Receive visa decision: November-December
• Travel to Canada: December-January

• Submit university applications: November-January
• Receive admission letters: February-March
• Apply for study permit: March-April
• Receive visa decision: April-May
• Travel to Canada: April-May

Choosing the right intake for your Canadian studies is an important decision that affects your course options, admission chances, and overall experience. September intake offers the most opportunities but requires early planning and faces higher competition. January intake provides a good balance of options and competition, while May intake offers quick admission for specific programmes.