Marigold Education

Study in the Canada

Canada Student Visa Consultant

Canada is one of the most preferred destinations for international students, known for its high-quality education, affordable tuition fees, post-study work opportunities, and safe multicultural environment. Whether you are planning for college, university, or a PG diploma, Canadian study visa consultants can guide you through the SDS and non-SDS visa pathways and help you prepare a strong application.

What Is The Education System in Canada?

Canada offers a high-quality, student-friendly education system with globally recognized qualifications and strong pathways to work. Public schools and post-secondary institutions are regulated by provinces/territories, ensuring consistent standards nationwide.

School Education

Schooling is typically organized as:

  • Elementary / Primary School (Grades 1–6, ages ~6–12)
  • Middle / Junior High (Grades 7–8, varies by province)
  • High School (Grades 9–12; Québec ends at Grade 11)
  • Québec Pathway: after Grade 11, students attend CEGEP (pre-university 2 years or technical 3 years)

Higher Education in Canada

Canada has universities and public colleges (including polytechnics and institutes of technology). Programs are aligned to industry needs, with options for co-op and work-integrated learning.

Program Type Duration
Certificates / Diplomas (College) 1 – 2 years
Advanced Diplomas (College) 2 – 3 years
CEGEP (Québec) 2 years (pre-university) / 3 years (technical)
Bachelor’s Degrees 3 – 4 years (most are 4 years)
Graduate Certificates / Diplomas 8 months – 1 year
Master’s Degrees 1 – 2 years
PhD / Doctoral Programs 4 – 6 years
Canada Study

Why Study in Canada?

  • Top Canadian Universities & DLI Colleges
  • Co-op Programs & Industry-Led Learning
  • Post-Graduation Work Permit (up to 3 years)
  • SDS Pathway with GIC for Faster Decisions
  • Work While Studying + Strong Job Outcomes
  • Wide Range of Affordable, High-Quality Programs
  • Multiple Scholarships for International Students
Talk to an Expert

Admission Intakes in Canada

Canadian universities and colleges offer three major intakes, providing flexibility for international students to start their studies based on program availability and preparation time.

🎓

Fall Intake (September)

The biggest and most popular intake with the highest number of programs, scholarships, and seats across Canadian universities and colleges.

📘

Winter Intake (January)

A great alternative for students who miss the Fall intake. Offers a wide range of programs across major colleges and universities.

🎯

Spring/Summer Intake (May)

Available at select colleges and universities for specific diploma, certificate, and short-term programs.

Avail Free Counselling
Canada Campus Books
Canada Student Admission

Admission Requirements

To secure admission at a Canadian university or college, international students typically need:

  • Academic Transcripts from Class 10, 12, Diploma, or Bachelor's degree
  • English Proficiency: IELTS / PTE Academic / TOEFL / Duolingo
    (SDS usually requires IELTS 6.0 with no band below 6.0)
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP) outlining study goals & career plans
  • Letters of Recommendation (LORs) as required by the program
  • Updated Resume/CV (especially for postgraduate programs)
  • Portfolio for fields like design, architecture, & media
  • Valid Passport with required validity
  • Proof of Funds for tuition + CAD $20,635 living cost (GIC under SDS)
  • Tuition Deposit to secure your seat & receive your LOA (Letter of Acceptance)
Avail Free Counselling

Student Visa Requirements for Canada

Applying for a Canada student visa (SDS or Non-SDS)? Here’s what you’ll need:

Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a DLI-approved Canadian college or university
Proof of funds
(GIC + 1-year tuition fees)
English proficiency
(IELTS / PTE Academic / TOEFL; SDS needs IELTS 6.0 no band < 6)
Biometrics & Medical Examination
(IME)
Tuition Fee Receipt
(SDS requires full-year payment)
Valid Passport
+ Visa Application (IMM forms)
Apply with Expert Help

Your pathway to the Canada Dream

Personalized Guidance

Expert counselling to choose the right Canadian universities & colleges

University & College Shortlist

Canada institutions shortlisted based on your profile, budget & career goals

Offer Letter & Documentation

Help with applications, documents, LOA, tuition fee steps & SDS process

Visa & GIC Assistance

Student visa help including GIC, biometrics, medicals & financial docs

Wondering? We've got answers!

How much does it cost to study in Canada?

International tuition typically ranges from CAD $15,000–$40,000 per year depending on the program and institution. Living costs are commonly CAD $15,000–$20,000 per year (higher in big cities like Toronto or Vancouver).

Is IELTS required to study in Canada?

Most colleges and universities accept IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, and many also accept Duolingo English Test. Minimums vary by program; many undergraduate programs require roughly IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall (no band below 6.0 for SDS).

Do international students need health insurance in Canada?

Yes. Health coverage depends on the province. Some provinces allow international students to enroll in the provincial plan, while others require private health insurance arranged through the school. Always confirm with your institution and province.

Are scholarships available for Indian students in Canada?

Yes—universities offer entrance and merit scholarships, and there are government/provincial awards such as Canada Graduate Scholarships, Vanier CGS (PhD), and other institution-specific bursaries. Many awards provide partial tuition reductions (10%–50%) based on academic performance.

How much bank balance is required for a Canada student visa?

For a Study Permit, you must show funds for first-year tuition plus the updated cost-of-living requirement of CAD $20,635 for a single applicant (outside Quebec), plus travel. Under the SDS stream, students typically purchase a GIC matching the living-cost amount. Requirements differ in Quebec and when bringing dependants.