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Study in Canada for Sri Lankan Students
Studying in Canada presents a remarkable prospect for students seeking a globally recognised education. Positioned in North America, Canada offers international students a distinctive chance to explore a nation that seamlessly embodies contemporary modern culture while boasting awe-inspiring landscapes. With its vast expanse, Canada stands as the second-largest country in the world, comprising ten provinces and three territories, each possessing its own cultural identity and alluring attractions. From the vibrant metropolises of Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver to the captivating coastal towns and picturesque mountain ranges, Canada provides a diverse array of experiences for students undertaking their studies in the country.
| Key Facts to Study in Canada | |
| Primary language | English and French |
| Cost of study | CAD 30 - 40k |
| Sources of funding | Scholarships, Student Loans and Part-time Jobs |
| Exams Required | IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, GRE and GMAT. |
| Degrees | Diploma, UG, PG and Doctorate. |
| Intakes | Fall, Winter and Summer Intakes. |
| Visa | Canada Student Visa |
| Best Student Cities | Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa, Quebec and Edmonton. |
| Cost of Living | CAD 600 - 800 per month. |
One of the foremost reasons why international students opt to study in Canada is its exceptional education system. Canadian universities and colleges enjoy a renowned reputation for their academic eminence, innovative research endeavours and unwavering dedication to delivering high-quality education.
Whether students pursue degrees in engineering, arts, business or any other field, Canadian institutions offer a broad range of programs tailored to their interests and career aspirations.
Furthermore, Canada is celebrated for its welcoming and inclusive society, rendering a secure and amicable destination for students hailing from around the globe. Canadians wholeheartedly embrace multiculturalism and diversity, fostering an environment that nurtures cultural exchange and the appreciation of different traditions. As an international student, you will have the opportunity to actively engage with a culturally rich society and form enduring friendships with individuals from various backgrounds.
Discover more about Canada, which will undoubtedly serve as your gateway to boundless opportunities and an enriching educational experience.
Benefits of Studying in Canada for Sri Lankan Students
Canada presents a multitude of compelling opportunities for international students seeking to pursue higher education within its borders. This nation is characterised by a wealth of prospects that enable students to make remarkable strides in their personal and academic growth. The esteemed higher educational institutions in Canada are known for their focus on career-oriented courses, which equip students with practical knowledge and skills relevant to their chosen fields of study. Additionally, Canadian study programs incorporate internships and co-op placements to provide students with hands-on experience, fostering their confidence and readiness for professional endeavours.
Within Canada, a diverse range of educational institutions are available to students. These encompass 15 research universities, 100 public universities, and 86 private universities, all contributing significantly to students' academic development. Furthermore, community colleges exist as an alternative for individuals seeking diploma programs. Regardless of whether students pursue an academic degree or a diploma, both pathways offer excellence in education, differing primarily in terms of tuition fees and duration of study.
70,000+
15,000+
150+
Universities
Canada's educational landscape presents international students with many options to pursue their higher education goals. Canadian universities and colleges provide an array of programs, including post-secondary diplomas, post-secondary certificates, post-graduate certificates or diplomas, short-term training courses, crash courses, skill trade training, preparatory programs for professional license examinations, bachelor's degree programs, English as a Second Language (ESL) training, and French language training. Hence, as a Canadian international student, one can access diverse educational opportunities to fulfill their academic aspirations.
- Canada offers high-quality education at affordable tuition fees with globally recognised degrees.
- It is a popular country to study among Sri Lankan students due to its excellent quality of life, immense post-study work and immigration opportunities.
- Canada is home to some of the top universities in the world, which follow unique and progressive education standards to give the best education to their students.
- These universities excel in providing practical and research-based education to students, so they understand the real-time applications of their study courses.
- Your time spent studying in Canada gives you access to permanent residency pathways after Graduation. This means you can move from Sri Lanka to Canada permanently if you choose.
- The country provides an easy PGWP (Post-Graduation Work Permit) process for students to receive their work permits as soon as they complete their studies in Canada.
- With Canadian PGWP, students can work part-time or full-time or even start their own businesses in Canada.
- It is easy to apply for Canadian citizenship once students have a job offer after completing their studies.
Has Canada exceeded your expectations with its impressive offerings? If you are inspired to pursue your dream of studying in Canada, AECC is here to assist you. Contact AECC today and make your dream of studying in Canada a reality.
Best courses to study in Canada
Canada is renowned for its unique education system and its wide range of courses and degrees. These courses are offered across three main levels of study: Undergraduation, Graduation and Post-graduation.
At the Undergraduate level, students can pursue a Bachelor's or Associate's degree. Typically, undergraduate programs in Canada span 3 to 4 years.
For those seeking an advanced education, Graduate-level programs are available, leading to Master's or Doctoral degrees. These programs typically require a commitment of 2 to 6 years of study.
Post-graduation courses in Canada consist of diploma programs that can be completed within 1 to 2 years.
One notable aspect of Canadian higher education institutions is their adoption of the Experiential Learning approach. This methodology emphasises the practical application of concepts, allowing students to acquire hands-on knowledge within their chosen field of study. Through this experiential learning process, students gain valuable academic experience, fostering the development of expertise in their respective disciplines.
Top choices among international students for studying in Canada include the following courses:
- International Business Management
- Master of Business Administration
- IT & Computer Science
- Engineering
- Health, Biosciences and Pharmacy
- Media & Journalism
The average annual cost to study these courses in Canada:
| Name of the Course | Average Annual Tuition Fee in CAD |
| International Business Management | CAD 15,000 - 25,000 |
| Master of Business Administration | CAD 30,000 - 40,000 |
| IT & Computer Science | CAD 20,000 - 40,000 |
| Engineering | CAD 30,000 - 50,000 |
| Health, Biosciences & Pharmacy | CAD 30,000 - 50,000 |
| Media & Journalism | CAD 20,000 - 30,000 |
Are you beginning to realise the affordability of Canada compared to other countries? Then why not embark on your study abroad journey today? Seek guidance from our skilled AECC counsellors to explore studying in Canada.
Top Universities in Canada
Canada boasts prestigious universities renowned for their outstanding facilities, ensuring a seamless and enriching educational journey for students. These universities exemplify the future of higher education by providing modern libraries, spacious contemporary auditoriums, state-of-the-art research centres and more.
In terms of accommodation, Canadian universities offer exceptional options to ensure students have a comfortable and secure environment to pursue their studies. They provide pleasant and cosy dormitories, residential halls, townhouses, and apartments, creating an enjoyable atmosphere for academic pursuits.
Currently, 31 Canadian universities have earned a place in the QS World University Ranking list. Among them, the top 11 are positioned within the top 250 universities worldwide.
Discover the top 10 universities in Canada along with their current rankings in both QS and THE rankings.
| University | University Best Known for | QS Rank 2024 | THE Rank 2023 |
| University of Toronto | One of the world’s top research-intense universities driven to invent and innovate. | 21 | 18 |
| McGill University | One of Canada’s best-known institutions that provides Engineering courses. | 30 | 46 |
| University of British Columbia | Popular for teaching and research and a consistent global ranker. | 34 | 40 |
| University of Montreal | Has the largest university complex and a popular research university in Canada. | 141 | 111 |
| University of Alberta | One of Canada's top teaching and research universities, known for providing the best Engineering, Humanities, Health Sciences and Business courses. | 111 | 118 |
| McMaster University | A popular research-intense university in Canada with its own nuclear reactor for research. | 189 | 80 |
| University of Waterloo | Known for providing matchless Computer Science, Engineering, Science and Math courses. | 112 | 201-250 |
| Western University | A consistent ranker in the top 1% of the universities in the world and known for showing excellent leadership in education, research and healthcare. | 114 | 201-250 |
| University of Ottawa | Canada’s top 10 research university and thrives on Excellence, Relevance and Impact. | 203 | 137 |
| University of Calgary | One of Canada’s top research-intense universities with the best university culture and diversity. | 182 | 201-250 |
Canada has undoubtedly captured your interest, hasn't it? So far, we have provided a clear overview of Canada, highlighted the advantages of studying there, and explored popular courses. These sub-topics collectively must have shed light on why Canada stands out as one of the most suitable study destinations for international students.
Tag along with us as we delve into the procedures for studying in Canada as an international student. Rest assured; we are committed to providing accurate and reliable information to guide you effectively through your study-abroad endeavours.
Requirements for Studying in Canada
To pursue studies in Canada as an international student, specific immigration policies must be followed. Firstly, obtaining a study permit is essential for international students to travel to Canada and commence their educational endeavours. It's important to note that a study permit is not a visa but a mandatory document required for studying at Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Canada. Additionally, students must obtain either a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorisation (eTA) to ensure legal entry into the country. Once the study permit is approved, Canadian Immigration officers will issue the corresponding visitor visa or eTA accordingly.
Under the general study visa category, the processing time for obtaining a student visa may range from 4 to 8 weeks.
How to apply for a Student Visa to Study in Canada?
The application for Canada's study permit should be exclusively done online.
In cases where students are unable to apply online, they may choose to apply on paper if they meet either of the following criteria:
- They have a disability that prevents them from applying online.
- They possess an identity or travel document for non-national residents, refugees, or stateless individuals.
Who can apply for a Canadian Student Visa?
To be eligible for applying for a Canada Student Visa, the main requirement is to receive an offer letter of admission from one of Canada's Designated Learning Institutes.
In addition, secondary requirements include providing proof of funds to cover tuition fees for the entire study duration, as well as living expenses for yourself and any accompanying family members in Canada. Furthermore, it is necessary to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover the cost of return air tickets for yourself and any family members who accompanied you to Canada.
In addition, there are several other requirements to be met, including:
- Possession of a valid certificate indicating no criminal record.
- Submission of a medical examination certificate.
- Presentation of relevant documents that provide valid reasons for studying in Canada and demonstrating intent to leave the country upon completion of the study period.
- Students who fulfill these requirements are eligible to apply for a Canadian Student Visa.
When to apply for a Canadian Student Visa?
To receive the Canadian Student Visa at the earliest, it is advisable to initiate the application process for a Canadian Student Visa promptly upon receiving the Offer letter of Admission. It's important to note that the processing time for the Canadian Student Visa can vary between 4 to 8 weeks, or potentially longer, depending on the applicant's country of origin.
What is the cost of applying for a Canadian Student Visa?
The processing fee for a Canada Student Visa is CA $150 and in addition to that, there is a biometrics fee of $85 and a service fee of $45.
What are the documents required to apply for the Canadian Student Visa?
- Acceptance letter
- Completed application form
- Proof of identity
- Proof of financial support
- Study plan
- Language proficiency
- Proof of payment
- Medical examination Certificate
- Police clearance certificate
Responsibilities of International Students in Canada
International students who are pursuing higher education in Canada are required to,
- It is necessary to demonstrate consistent academic progress throughout the entire duration of the study.
- Adherence and respect towards the conditions specified on the study permit are essential.
- If one no longer meets these responsibilities, it may be required to discontinue studies accordingly.
Intakes to Study in Canada
As a prospective study-abroad candidate, you need to be acquainted with the concept of "Intakes." Intakes refer to specific time periods during which universities in various countries accept applications from students worldwide. In Canada too, there are three intakes: Fall, Winter, and Summer.
The Fall Intake holds the highest popularity among students in Canada. It attracts the maximum number of applications as it offers a wide range of trending courses and provides numerous scholarship opportunities.
The Winter Intake is the second-most preferred intake. Although a smaller selection of courses is available during this intake, it offers equal career opportunities, internships, and scholarships to those available in the September intake.
The Summer Intake is the final opportunity to apply to Canadian universities. Only a few universities offer this intake and they provide a limited number of courses during this period. This intake is suitable for students interested in pursuing diploma programs or summer vocational programs.
| Semester Intake | Deadline |
| Fall or September Intake | December - March |
| Winter or January Intake | September - November |
| Summer or May Intake | January - February |
If you require assistance in selecting an intake that aligns perfectly with your educational requirements, do not delay any further. Take advantage of the expertise of our experienced counsellors, who can provide personalised guidance and support for your study plans in Canada.
What is the Cost of Studying in Canada?
Canada is recognised for its affordability when compared to other countries for studying abroad. Additionally, the country offers a wide range of opportunities for international students to finance their education. Students can explore various options, such as scholarships, student loans, bursaries, and assistantships, to support their academic journey.
Now, let's examine the average cost of pursuing different degrees in Canada.
| S.No | Course Level | Average Cost in CAD/ Per Year |
| 1 | Foundational Courses | $20,000 |
| 2 | Undergraduate Courses | $33,623 |
| 3 | Postgraduate Courses | $20,120 |
| 4 | Doctorate Courses | $8000 to $20,000 |
| 5 | MBA Courses | $30,000 to $40,000 |
However, it's important to note that the tuition fee alone does not encompass all the expenses of studying in Canada. There are other factors and costs to consider that contribute to the overall investment required for studying in the country.
The other factors are,
- English-proficiency exam
- Purchase of GIC
- Application Fee
- Application fee for Student Visa
- Visa Processing
- Flight ticket
- Living expenses
Taking into account all these expenses, the total cost for embarking on a higher education journey in Canada could amount to more than 15 lakhs in Sri Lankan Rupees.
Do not let the financial aspect hinder you from pursuing your dream education in Canada. Our counsellors are available to provide guidance in obtaining student loans or scholarships, which can help minimise the financial investment enabling you to commence your studies in Canada without delay.
Scholarships in Canada
Scholarships are awarded to deserving students who have exhibited outstanding academic performance. These financial grants do not require repayment, providing students with valuable funds to support their education. Furthermore, eligible students have the opportunity to apply for numerous scholarships, expanding their chances of securing financial assistance.
Listed below are some well-known scholarships offered by Canadian universities for reference purposes.
| Scholarship Name | Amount | Description |
| Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship | Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence support | Awarded to exceptional international students intending to pursue an undergraduate degree at the University of Toronto. It recognises individuals who have demonstrated leadership skills, creativity, and academic excellence. |
| Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships | CAD 50,000 per year | Designed for doctoral students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership qualities, and research potential. The scholarship aims to attract and retain world-class doctoral students in Canada. |
| IDRC Research Awards | Varies | Offered by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), these awards support research on sustainable and inclusive development in areas such as agriculture, health, technology, and social sciences. The amount and duration of the award vary depending on the specific research project. |
| Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) | CAD 15,000 per year | Available to graduate students studying at the master's or doctoral level in Ontario. The scholarship recognises academic excellence and research potential across various disciplines. |
| Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program | CAD 10,000-14,000 per year | Funded by the Canadian government, this program provides financial support to students from Commonwealth countries, including Sri Lanka, pursuing a master's or doctoral degree in Canada. The scholarship covers tuition fees, travel expenses, and a living allowance. |
| Trudeau Foundation Scholarships | CAD 40,000 per year | Aimed at doctoral students who want to research social sciences and humanities, these scholarships support individuals committed to improving society and promoting public engagement. Recipients become part of a community of scholars focused on addressing pressing global issues. |
| Humber International Entrance Scholarships | Varies | Awarded to international students applying for full-time undergraduate programs at Humber College in Toronto. The scholarship recognises academic achievement, community involvement, and leadership potential. The amount varies and is renewable for up to four years. |
Living and Studying in Canada
Canada is renowned for its diverse population, attracting migrants from around the globe. It has consistently maintained peace and harmony, leading to its recognition as the 12th safest country in the world, surpassing other developed nations. Canada's commitment to its citizens extends to providing abundant opportunities for wealth and healthcare. Upon obtaining permanent residency, individuals can avail themselves of free healthcare services.
In addition to its cultural diversity, Canada boasts a prosperous economy that rewards its workforce generously, even in the digital age. This applies not only to international employees but also to qualified candidates within the country. As a result, achieving financial success in Canada is highly attainable.
Let's explore some of the top Canadian cities that offer an exceptional student experience:
Montreal: Known for esteemed institutions such as McGill University, University of Montreal, Concordia University, and HEC Montreal, Montreal excels in providing quality education to international students. It particularly shines in the fields of Science and Technology.
Ranked as the 14th best student city globally, the cost of living in Montreal ranges from CAD 9,700 to 12,700.
Toronto: Toronto is a preferred destination for many Sri Lankan students. It offers exceptional science, business studies, and the arts programs through renowned universities such as the University of Toronto, York University, Ryerson University, Centennial College, and Humber College.
Ranked as the 15th best student city worldwide, the cost of living in Toronto is approximately CAD 31,000.
Vancouver: Known for its rich cultural heritage, languages, and vibrant population, Vancouver is a thriving city in Canada. It attracts students seeking studies in Digital Media, Engineering, and IT. Prominent institutions in Vancouver include the University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, University of Canada West, Columbia College, and Langara College.
Vancouver holds the 20th position among the world's best student cities, with an estimated living cost of CAD 3,500 for international students.
Ottawa: Renowned as Canada's finest and most beautiful city, Ottawa is a hub of research centres focusing on Science and Technology, making it an appealing choice for STEM students. The city hosts esteemed educational institutions like the University of Ottawa, Carleton University, Algonquin College, Dominican University College, and Augustine College.
Ottawa ranks 55th in the list of best student cities globally, costing around CAD 2,500.
Quebec: Quebec is predominantly French-speaking but is celebrated for its distinct Canadian culture. It stands out as one of the most affordable Canadian cities for international students, making it an ideal choice for those on a budget.
Currently ranked 106th among the world's best student cities, Quebec offers a cost of living of around CAD 1,800.
If Canadian cities resonate with your aspirations, do not hesitate to contact us today. Our experienced counsellors will provide you with reliable information to kickstart your educational journey in Canada.
Post-study Work Opportunities in Canada
Do you know Canada provides approximately 3,00,000 work permits to international students annually? To be eligible for the Canadian Post Graduation Work Permit, it is necessary to have a job offer in hand.
Upon receiving a job offer, you gain eligibility for various benefits.
- Enjoy unrestricted work opportunities in Canada to maintain employment within the specified timeframe.
- Bring your spouse and family to Canada under the Dependent Visa Category.
- Earn income in Canadian dollars.
- Enjoy the freedom to travel anywhere within the country.
- Become eligible to apply for Permanent Residency (PR) after completing one year of work.
- Experience one of the world's finest work cultures.
International students with a job offer are qualified for an Open Work Permit, allowing them to work for any employer in Canada. This permit grants students the opportunity to work in the country for up to three years and they have the flexibility to change jobs if they wish.
What documents are necessary for applying for the Open Work Permit?
- A valid visa with a duration of six months.
- A letter from your Designated Learning Institution (DLI) confirms your studies' completion.
- Your degree completion certificate.
- Two recently taken passport-size photographs.
- All academic transcripts.
- An offer of employment.
- A medical certificate.
In order to provide comprehensive information about work opportunities in Canada, we are compiling a table of popular and trending job roles that are available for international students.
| S.No | Job Roles | Average Salary in CAD |
| 1 | Business Intelligence Analysts | $77,870 |
| 2 | Cloud Architects | $121,555 |
| 3 | Cloud Systems Engineer | $120,000 |
| 4 | IT Project Manager | $91,300 |
| 5 | Data Scientists | $85,461 |
| 6 | Developers (Web, Software, Mobile) | $75,628 |
| 7 | DevOps Engineers | $89,187 |
| 8 | Full-Stack Developers | $88,542 |
| 9 | IoT Specialists | $105,000 |
| 10 | Security Specialists (Data, Information, Network, Systems, Cloud) | $100,000 |
We greatly appreciate your continued presence. If you require more comprehensive information about studying in Canada, please don't hesitate to contact us. Our services are provided free of charge as our main aim is to support and guide you towards achieving a successful study experience in Canada.
Get in touch with AECC today - your trusted study-abroad partner!
