You might find it daunting to apply for Canadian schools as an international students, however with the right information, it has been made easy. Canada provide good quality education and also friendly environment, which make students around the world to study there. In this blog, you will be taken through each of the steps ensuring that your transitioning to study in Canada is as easy as possible.
Research Schools and Programs
First and foremost, the individuals are advised to search for schools and programs that offer the programs of interest or career goals of the learner. Across the federation, a university and college can be said to be many and the courses offered by these institutions are different. One should therefore explore the various schools, consider the requirements, the fees charged, as well as the geographical location. Generate a list of the institutions that you prefer most. This will serve to guide you and make sure that you are right in the place that you want to be.
Check Admission Requirements
In details, the following are the admission procedures for the international students in each school in Canada; Some of them may be the entry qualifications, language qualifications, and time of application among others. Make sure you fulfil the requirements of a program you are interested in. It is also important of compiling the academic documents like the transcript, scores of the required tests and the letters of recommendations. It has been observed that a systematic approach to the preparation of the cases in general and adherence to the above requirements in particular is mandatory for submitting a good application.
The (Ottawa) Citizen or improve your English or French
Canada is a bilingual country and majority of its population uses English and French as the major medium of communication and instruction. In some regions of the world or in particular schools it may be necessary to provide a testimonial of your proficiency in one of these languages. People are often expected to sit for an English language proficiency test like IELTS or TOEFL for English or TEF for French. It will also increase your chances of being accepted and if you are accepted then it will be easier to adapt to life in Canada since your language skills will have improved before applying.
Prepare Your Application Documents
Although the number of documents you will need to provide with your application will be relatively small, several specific documents are essential. These normally consist of your records of academic achievement, proof of language proficiency, statement of purpose as well as letters of recommendation. Some programs might also require you to submit your resume or portfolio as well. Ensure that all the documents are current and contain truthful information in regard to one’s achievements. Credible preparation of these documents is as very important so that it can support the application’s strength.
Submit Your Application
Here are the steps that you need to follow when applying; When you have all the papers prepared, you can then provide your application. That being said, majority of the Canadian schools that accept international students can be applied through their online portals. One should be very cautious with the time Limits and ensure that the application is submited before the stipulated time. There are a number of things that need to be noted here As some schools may require you to pay an application fee. This means that after applying, you can check the progress it is going through online.
Apply for a Study Permitreflection of that.
The process that follows the acceptance to a Canadian school is applying for a study permit letter. This is an important legal paper upon arriving to which a foreigner has a legal possibility to study in Canada. It is either done online by filling the study permit application form or at any of the visa application center in your country. Do not forget about bringing such necessary documents as an acceptance letter and proof of your financial position. If you do not possess a study permit you cannot study in Canada.
Plan Your Finances
There are several costs that students face while studying in Canada which include tuition cost, cost of living and transportation costs. The issue of money should therefore always be well prepared for. Explore as to how these expenses may be financed by means of scholarships or grants and/or part-time employment. A financial plan will help reduce stress levels when in Canada and ensure that the time is spent of much value studying. It is therefore important for any students to manage their finances so as to make effective budget for their education.
Arrange Accommodation
When your application for study permit has been processed and accepted you are now ready to find a place to live in Canada. On-campus accommodation is available in many school, this is beneficial for the students, the international students in particular. But if you cannot find or prefer not to live in the dormitory then you have the option of living in the apartments or in shared houses. Make sure you start your search early enough in an effort to get the best place that you will afford and one that suits your needs. Oh yeah, it is crucial to have a proper comfortable living arrangement if you want to be in good health all the time.
Prepare for Your Arrival
There are several things that you would wish to prepare for before you travel to Canada. Ensure that you carry with you a passport which is still valid, your study permit and other travel essentials if any. That is why it is more useful to get acquainted with some conditions of Canadian customs, healthcare and banking systems. Other important things that need to be included are proper clothes for Canadian climate more so if arriving during winter. This means that one should be well equipped in order to enable her or him enjoy the facilities of a new place as soon as he or she arrives.
Settle Into Student Life
On the arrival to Canada, it is important that some days are spent in order for the body to adapt to the new environment. They include doing orientation around the school to familiarize with your school and meeting other students. When: Open a bank account at your new location, purchase a local SIM card as soon as you can so that you can call home upon arrival, and see your new town. Transitional changes may not be very easy, but once you are open minded you will be okay to find a new home in a new country. For this reason, it is advisable to welcome the process and enjoy as much as possible the time that you will spend as a student in Canada.
Understand the Visa Process
Therefore the visa process is an important aspect when applying for schools in Canada. If you require a TRV or eTA you should obtain one once your study permit has been granted to you although you do not need to apply for the TRV again if you have a valid TRV dependent visa. They enable you gain an entry into Canada for purposes of studying. It is always a good idea to make sure that you are aware of all the necessary requirements that go with your country and proceed to fill the application form well in advance. This step is necessary in order not to interrupt the plans that you have in mind.
Get Health Insurance
The reimbursement of health cost is mandatory for international students studying in Canada. In some provinces, there is province financed student health insurance and in other provinces you have to purchase health cover from some other insurer. Verify if the health insurance of that province meets the standard or if you are qualified of having student health plan. If the school provides an insurance plan it would be better if the student signs up with it. If you have, then proper health coverage will enable to get proper medical facility in case of any mishaps.
Be Aware with Some Information about Canadian Culture
It is always fun to work and be associated with a new culture: Thus this adaptation may pose some interesting moments. Before you embark for your trip, ensure you acquire some knowledge concerning the Canadian people’s manners, etiquette, and practices. Familiarizing yourself with the existing culture will assist to deal adequately with the people of that nation and make friends with them. Still, discovering a little about the country’s history and territory can add to the experience. It is also good to be receptive to new experiences as well as politely embrace the cultural diversity since it will enhance the exposure when in Canada.
Acquire Friends and Family and Form a Sympathetic Network
It is important for an international student to create/build the support system for his/her success. Make friends with the other students, join some organizations and engage in different activities within the compounds. There are many schools that have international student associations whereby you can possibly get to know others who like you will also be experiencing a new environment in Canada. It is to have a good network of people who will assist you to overcome hurdles and maximize your stay overseas.
Stay Organized and Focused
There are moments when students are attempting to combine the class, work, and social activities, while in the new country. The best advice one could give to people as far as time management is concerned is that, organization is the key. Organise task in a planner or any technological based device to help one keep track of assignments and deadlines. Continue with your academics effectively but do not forget to have some rest and take care of yourself. It will also ensure that you attain a balanced approach that will enable you succeed as you study in Canada.
Conclusion
Seeking admission in Canadian schools as an international learner can therefore be loads of work that demands planning, preparation as well as passion. If schools are being searched, and admission criteria have to be met or if a study permit has to be obtained or if one has to acclimatize oneself with the culture in Canada every process is important for a smooth journey. By following these steps, one is not only going to avoid a lot of problems that are related to the application process, but also make the right preparations to enjoy academic as well as personal success in Canada.