What You Need to Know for Studying in Canada: Quick Guide in 2025
By Anne Lui, founder and principal consultant of Hopeway Immigration
Making the decision to study abroad is one of the most important investments in your future. Canada consistently ranks among the world’s top destinations for international education, offering a blend of academic excellence, cultural diversity, and post-graduation opportunities that can change your life.
According to global education rankings, Canada ranks #4 among the best countries for education, with more than 8,000 college programs and 16,000 university programs across every field of study. Whether your interest lies in technology, health sciences, business, or the arts, there is a Canadian program tailored to your ambitions.
Before you enroll into a school that interests you, here are the 10 things you need to know:
1. Choose a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
A Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. Most international students must obtain a study permit, and an acceptance letter from a DLI is required for that application.
All primary and secondary schools in Canada are DLIs, but if you plan to attend a college, university, or vocational school, you should confirm that it appears on the official DLI list published by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
2. Meet the Language Requirements for International Students
Each institution sets its own English or French language proficiency requirements. Most post-secondary schools require proof through an accepted language test, such as IELTS, Pearson Test, or TOEFL for English, and TEF or TCF for French unless you are exempted.
Students who meet academic requirements but do not yet meet the language threshold may be offered admission through English transition or pathway programs that prepare them for full-time studies.
3. Affordable Tuition Compared to Other Countries
Although studying abroad is a significant investment, tuition fees in Canada are generally lower than in countries such as the United States or the United Kingdom.
According to Statistics Canada (2022):
- Undergraduate programs cost approximately $36,100 per year for international students
- Graduate programs cost approximately $21,100 per year
- Colleges and vocational programs typically range from $7,000 to $22,000 per year, depending on program length and specialization
4. Living Costs Have Risen Across Canada
The cost of living has risen across Canada in recent years. IRCC now requires international students to demonstrate proof of at least $22,895 CAD to cover living expenses (excluding tuition and travel).
Actual living costs depend heavily on location and lifestyle. Major urban centres such as Toronto and Vancouver tend to be more expensive, while smaller cities and rural areas often offer lower costs. Housing options include on-campus residences or off-campus private accommodations.
Source: IRCC website, https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/get-documents/financial-support.html
5. Verify Medical Coverage Policy Before Arrival
Health insurance is essential for all international students. Coverage policies differ from one province or territory to another. Some provinces provide public health insurance after a mandatory waiting period, while others require students to purchase private plans.
For instance:
- In Ontario, all international students must be enrolled in the University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP).
- In British Columbia, students may qualify for the Medical Services Plan (MSP) after living in the province for three months.
Always verify your institution’s health coverage policy before you arrive in Canada.
6. Work While You Study
Full-time international students enrolled at a Designated Learning Institution may work up to 24 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, without the need for a separate work permit.
Before you begin work, you must apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) — a nine-digit number issued by the Government of Canada that authorizes you to work and access government programs.
Your study permit must include a statement confirming your eligibility to work off campus. If this condition is missing, you must request an amendment before starting employment.
7. Scholarships and Financial Aid
Canada offers a wide variety of scholarships, grants, and financial awards for international students. Some scholarships are automatically awarded upon admission based on academic merit, while others require a separate application.
For example, the Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) program provides up to $15,000 for qualified master’s and doctoral students. Many universities also have institution-specific awards for outstanding international students.
8. Work in Canada After Graduation
One of the greatest advantages of studying in Canada is the ability to gain valuable work experience after graduation through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program.
The PGWP allows graduates from eligible schools and programs to work in Canada for up to three years, depending on the length of the program and the validity of the student’s passport. You need to make sure you meet the eligibility requirements for the field of study and language level before you apply.
Graduates who obtain Canadian work experience under the PGWP are often well-positioned to apply for permanent residence through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or certain Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP).
9. Co-op and Internship Opportunities
Many Canadian programs, especially at the college and university levels, include co-operative education (co-op) or internship placements that provide hands-on experience in real workplaces.
If your program includes a mandatory co-op component, you will need to apply for a co-op work permit in addition to your study permit. This permit authorizes you to work as part of your academic program.
These placements help students build professional networks, gain Canadian experience, and often lead directly to post-graduation employment opportunities.
10. Pathways to Permanent Residency
Canada offers multiple pathways to permanent residency (PR) for international graduates who wish to stay after completing their studies.
Graduates with Canadian education and work experience may qualify under the Federal Government’s Express Entry – Canadian Experience Class (CEC), or the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) managed by various provinces. Some of the PNPs, such as the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), have international graduates streams that allow fresh graduates who have a valid job offer in the province to apply for PR without work experience. These pathways recognize the value of international graduates who contribute to Canada’s workforce and communities, making it easier to transition from temporary to permanent status.
Final Thoughts
Studying in Canada offers far more than an academic qualification. It provides access to high-quality education, valuable work experience, and a clear pathway to building a long-term future in one of the most welcoming countries in the world.
At Hopeway Immigration, we assist students and families in navigating every stage of their Canadian education and immigration journey—from choosing the right school and program to preparing study permit applications, post-graduation work permits, and permanent residency submissions.
Book a Consultation today to learn how you can turn your Canadian education into a lasting opportunity.
