Why Choose Canada?

Canada is a top global destination for international students, offering high-quality education, multicultural cities, and a safe, welcoming environment. Canadian degrees are internationally recognized and emphasize practical learning, research, and innovation.

All designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada are approved by provincial or territorial governments and must meet strict quality standards. International students are protected under Canadian law and benefit from strong student support services.

Key Facts at a Glance

Fact	Detail
Primary Language	English (majority); French in Quebec and some bilingual programs
Visa Type	Study Permit (with Letter of Introduction) + eTA or TRV (We provide full assistance.)
Major Intakes	Fall (September), Winter (January), and Summer (May) – varies by institution
Required Exams	IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Duolingo English Test (French tests like TEF/TCF for French programs)
Program Levels	Undergraduate (3–4 years), Postgraduate (1–2 years), Diploma/Certificate, and Co-op Programs
Est. Annual Fees	Undergraduate: CAD 15,000 to CAD 35,000 Postgraduate: CAD 16,000 to CAD 40,000+
Funding Sources	Scholarships, education loans, part-time work, and personal savings

Top-Ranked Universities (QS 2024)

Canada is home to globally respected institutions known for research excellence, affordability, and student satisfaction.

University	QS Rankings (2024)
University of Toronto	21
McGill University	30
University of British Columbia	34
McMaster University	133
University of Alberta	111
University of Waterloo	112

Popular Fields of Study

International students in Canada often choose career-focused, in-demand programs with strong co-op and employment opportunities:

Computer Science & IT: AI, cybersecurity, and software development with strong tech industry ties.
Engineering: Civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering with hands-on labs and co-op placements.
Business & MBA: AACSB-accredited programs with global networking and internship options.
Healthcare & Life Sciences: Nursing, public health, and biomedical sciences with clinical exposure.
Data Science & Analytics: High-demand field supported by Canada’s growing tech sector.
Hospitality & Tourism Management: Practical training in one of the world’s most visited countries.

Admission & Visa Requirements

To study in Canada, you must gain admission to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and apply for a Study Permit through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

1. Academic & Language Requirements

DLI Approval: Your school must have a valid DLI number (e.g., O19397775672 for many colleges).
Eligibility: Meet academic criteria (e.g., 12th-grade marks, bachelor’s degree) for your chosen program.
Language: Submit IELTS (typically 6.0–7.0 overall), TOEFL, or equivalent as required.

2. Proof of Funds

You must show sufficient funds to cover tuition + living expenses (approx. CAD 10,000/year outside Quebec, plus tuition). For a single student: ~CAD 20,000–30,000 total for the first year.

3. Study Permit Application

Submit your Letter of Acceptance, proof of funds, language results, medical exam (if required), and biometrics. Many applicants now use the Student Direct Stream (SDS) for faster processing (within 20 days).

Excel's Support: We assist with DLI verification, SDS eligibility, financial documentation, and visa interview prep.

Important Application Intakes

Canadian institutions offer flexible intakes to accommodate international students:

Intake	Timeframe	Recommended Application Period
Fall (Main)	September to December	January to May (apply early for competitive programs)
Winter	January to April	June to September of the previous year
Summer	May to August	October to January (limited programs)

Cost of Study & Living Expenses

Budgeting accurately ensures a smooth study experience in Canada.

Expense	Estimated Cost Range (CAD)
Tuition Fees	CAD 15,000 – 40,000+/year (varies by province and program)
Living Expenses	CAD 10,000 – 15,000/year (major cities like Toronto/Vancouver: ~CAD 15,000; smaller cities: ~CAD 10,000)
Health Insurance	CAD 600 – 1,000/year (mandatory; some provinces include it in tuition)
Additional Costs	CAD 1,500 – 3,000/year (books, transport, phone, personal)