Education in Canada falls under the jurisdiction of its provinces and territories, meaning there is no centralized federal education system. Reflecting the country's strong commitment to education, public schooling is free up to and including secondary school (Grade 12) across all provinces and territories.
At the postsecondary level, educational institutions are categorized into community colleges and universities. Many university graduates pursue college programs after earning their degrees to gain vocational skills and enhance their employment prospects.
Canada, situated in North America, is composed of 10 provinces and 3 territories. Stretching from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific in the west, and extending northward into the Arctic Ocean, Canada covers 9.98 million square kilometers, making it the second-largest country in the world by total area and the fourth-largest by land area. Its border with the United States is the longest shared land boundary in the world.
A highly developed and affluent nation, Canada ranks among the wealthiest globally, boasting the eighth highest per capita income and the eleventh highest position in the Human Development Index. The country consistently excels in global rankings for education, government transparency, civil liberties, quality of life, and economic freedom.
Canada boasts one of the world’s most respected and high-performing education systems. Each year, thousands of international students choose Canada to achieve their academic ambitions. With opportunities to gain valuable Canadian work experience during and after studies, coupled with pathways to permanent residency, studying in Canada offers immense advantages.
Canada’s education system is structured into three main levels:
Canada, known for its leadership in innovation, technology, and research, places its post-secondary institutions at the heart of the knowledge economy. Whether you choose to study at a college, a university, or both, you can acquire essential skills, collaborate with industry leaders, and contribute new ideas to the academic community.
Most Canadian universities and colleges welcome international students during the following intakes:
International students must meet the English language requirements to enroll in Canadian institutions. Accepted test scores include:
Canada’s blend of quality education, work opportunities, and immigration pathways makes it a top destination for students aspiring to succeed in a global economy.
Canada offers a wide range of scholarships to students worldwide, which can be broadly categorized into two main types: 'Automatic Consideration' scholarships and 'Need to Apply' scholarships. These scholarships are commonly awarded based on the following criteria:
Depending on your country of origin, the type of study, and its duration, you may need the following documents:
The required documentation varies based on your country of origin, the program you are enrolling in, and the length of your studies:
If you are enrolling in a program of six months or less but plan to continue studying in another program afterward, it’s advisable to apply for a study permit before arriving in Canada. Without a valid study permit, you would need to leave Canada to apply for one before continuing your studies.
