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Canada has become a popular destination for international students in recent years. With its high-quality education, excellent living environment, reasonable tuition fees, and diverse cultural and career opportunities, more and more high school students are choosing Canada for their higher education.
If you are considering studying in Canada after graduation, this article will provide you with a comprehensive guide on the benefits of studying in Canada, the application process, visa requirements, packing tips, and budgeting for living expenses—all the essential information you need in one place! 🚀
1. Why Choose Canada? What Are the Advantages of Studying Abroad in Canada?
Canada has become a top choice for international students, and for good reasons. The following advantages make studying in Canada more attractive compared to other English-speaking countries:
1️⃣ English-Speaking Environment for Language Improvement
As an English-speaking country, Canada provides an immersive language environment for international students. Daily life and academic discussions are primarily conducted in English, allowing students to enhance their language proficiency while gaining specialized knowledge.
2️⃣ World-Class Educational Resources
Canada has a globally recognized higher education system, with many universities ranking among the world's top 100, such as:
✅ University of Toronto (UofT)
✅ University of British Columbia (UBC)
✅ McGill University
Additionally, Canadian universities emphasize diverse learning methods, encouraging independent thinking and innovation.
3️⃣ High Quality of Life and a Safe Environment
Canada is consistently ranked as one of the most livable countries in the world. It offers an excellent healthcare system, low crime rates, and a comfortable living environment, ensuring that students can study and live with peace of mind.
4️⃣ More Affordable Study Abroad Costs
Compared to the U.S. and the U.K., tuition and living expenses in Canada are more affordable.
United States: NTD 1.5-2.9 million (approximately CAD 65,000-125,000)
United Kingdom: NTD 1.0-2.2 million (approximately CAD 45,000-95,000)
Canada: NTD 800,000-1.8 million (approximately CAD 35,000-80,000)
Here is an estimated cost breakdown for studying in Canada. Actual expenses may vary depending on individual circumstances, the university, and the location. It is recommended to refer to the latest official announcements for accurate information.
Category | Cost (CAD/year) | Remarks |
Tuition Fees | $20,000 - $60,000 | Varies by institution and program; medical and business programs are more expensive. |
Accommodation | $8,000 - $18,000 | On-campus housing is more expensive, while off-campus shared rentals are more affordable. |
Living Expenses | $10,000 - $15,000 | Includes food, transportation, entertainment, and daily expenses. |
Visa & Health Insurance | $600 - $2,000 | Varies by province; some universities provide health insurance. |
Total Estimated Budget | $35,000 - $80,000 (approx. NTD 800,000 - 1,800,000) | Depends on the university, location, and individual lifestyle. |
5️⃣ Multicultural Environment and Global Perspective
Canada is a diverse and immigrant-friendly country, home to students and residents from all over the world. This multicultural environment allows international students to study and live in a setting that fosters cross-cultural communication and broadens their global network.
2. Canada University Application Guide
1️⃣ Application Timeline and Planning
The main intake season for Canadian universities is Fall (September). Some institutions also offer Winter (January) and Spring (May) intakes, but these options are more limited. Application deadlines vary by school and program, so it is recommended to start preparing 8-12 months in advance to avoid missing key deadlines.
Intake Season | Application Period | Features |
Fall (September) | October (previous year) – January to March (same year) | Main intake season, most competitive with the highest number of available spots. |
Winter (January) | June – September (previous year) | Limited availability, fewer programs offered. |
Spring (May) | August – December (previous year) | Only a few schools provide this option, with limited seats. |
✅ Recommended Application Strategy:
Fall Intake (September): Best option with the most opportunities and fair competition.
Winter Intake (January): An alternative if you miss the fall application, but with fewer options.
Spring Intake (May): Suitable for students with flexible plans, but limited availability and fewer school choices.
2️⃣ Required Application Documents:
📌 Official transcripts (English version) 📌 Proof of English proficiency (IELTS / TOEFL / Duolingo) 📌 Letters of recommendation (2-3) 📌 Personal statement 📌 Study plan (SOP) – required by some schools 📌 Portfolio – applicable for art, architecture, and design-related programs
3️⃣ English Proficiency Requirements:
IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 or above, with no individual band lower than 6.0 (varies by school and program).
TOEFL: Overall score of 90-100 or above.
Some universities accept the Duolingo English Test as an alternative.
3. Student Visa and Entry Preparation
1️⃣ Student Visa (Study Permit) Application Requirements
📌 Letter of Acceptance from the school
📌 Passport valid for at least six months
📌 Proof of financial support (showing sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses)
📌 Study Plan
📌 Medical examination report (required for some applicants)
2️⃣ Documents to Bring Before Entering the Country
📌 Port of Entry Letter
📌 Proof of tuition payment
📌 Accommodation address and contact details
⚠ Recommendation: Make 1-2 copies of all documents in case of loss.
It is recommended that applicants check the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for the latest visa application information:
4. Packing Guide for Studying in Canada
1️⃣ Baggage Allowance
📌 Checked Baggage: Each piece must not exceed 23 kg (50 lbs) (check with your airline for specifics).
📌 Carry-on Baggage: Usually 7-12 kg (15-26 lbs) + one personal item (e.g., backpack, laptop bag), depending on the airline.
2️⃣ Packing Checklist
📌 Important Documents: Passport, study permit, letter of acceptance
📌 Clothing: Suitable for different seasons; winter coat can be purchased locally
📌 Personal Items: Skincare products, toiletries (only travel-sized, as they can be bought locally)
📌 Medications: Cold medicine, pain relievers, stomach medicine (Avoid bringing traditional Chinese medicine, as it may be flagged by customs)
📌 Electronics: Phone, laptop, chargers, power bank
📌 Study Supplies: Notebook, stationery, reference books
📌 Small Taiwanese Gifts: For local friends or host families
5. Estimated Cost of Studying in Canada
Studying in Canada is relatively more affordable compared to the U.S. and the U.K., but proper financial planning is still necessary to ensure a smooth study experience.
The information provided is for reference only. Actual costs may vary depending on individual circumstances, the chosen school, and the location. It is recommended to refer to the latest official announcements for accurate details.
Top Universities in Canada
According to Maclean’s 2025 latest Medical Doctoral university rankings, the top five research-intensive universities in Canada are:
Rank | University | Notable Programs | Description |
1 | McGill University | Medicine, Science, Arts, Engineering, Management | Renowned for its excellence in medicine, offering high-quality English-language education. Home to Nobel laureates and many distinguished alumni. |
2 | University of Toronto | Arts, Medicine, Science, Management | Canada’s largest research university, ranked among the world’s best in medicine, AI, business, and engineering. |
3 | University of British Columbia (UBC) | Computer Science, Engineering, Psychology, Mass Communication | One of the most beautiful campuses in North America, rich in research resources, attracting international students. |
4 | McMaster University | Medicine, Management, Public Health | Famous for its Problem-Based Learning (PBL) approach, excelling in medicine and health sciences. |
5 | University of Alberta | Petroleum Engineering, Energy Studies, Agriculture | Known for programs related to energy and natural resources, offering generous scholarships to international students. |
FAQ | Common Questions About Studying in Canada
1. How difficult is it to apply to Canadian universities?
The admission requirements vary by university and program. Generally, factors such as academic performance (GPA), language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), extracurricular activities, and recommendation letters influence the chances of acceptance.
Top universities (e.g., University of Toronto, UBC, McGill) typically require a GPA of 85%-90% or higher.
Competitive programs like medicine, law, business, and engineering have stricter admission requirements.
Language Requirements:
IELTS: Typically 6.5-7.0 or higher
TOEFL: Usually 90-100 points
Some universities accept the Duolingo English Test as an alternative
Application Tips:
Pathway Programs (Dual Admission): If language or academic scores do not meet the requirements, applicants can consider pathway programs offered by universities such as York University and the University of Manitoba.
Increase Your Chances of Admission:
Start preparing application documents early
Use personal statements and extracurricular activities to highlight strengths
Obtain strong recommendation letters
Planning ahead and strengthening your application can improve your admission chances.
2. Can international students work while studying in Canada?
Yes, international students with a valid study permit can work legally, but they must follow these regulations:
During academic sessions: Up to 24 hours per week
During scheduled breaks (e.g., summer/winter vacation): Full-time work allowed with no hour restrictions
Common part-time job opportunities:
On-campus jobs (library, cafeteria, teaching assistant)
Retail, customer service, and food service jobs
Paid internships (Co-op programs)
Salary Reference:
General part-time jobs: Approx. CAD 15-20 per hour
Co-op placements (internships): Approx. CAD 20-30 per hour
⚠ Important Updates:
The Canadian government temporarily allowed international students to work more than 20 hours per week during the pandemic, but this policy ended on April 30, 2024.
As of November 15, 2024, the Canadian government is expected to implement a new regulation allowing students to work up to 24 hours per week during academic terms. However, this policy is still subject to official confirmation by IRCC. Please check the IRCC official website for the latest updates.
Exceeding work-hour limits may affect your study permit and future Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility.
If you plan to participate in a Co-op or internship program, check with your university to see if an additional Work Permit is required.
For the latest policy updates, refer to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) official website:
3. Can I stay and work in Canada after graduation?
Yes, eligible graduates can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to legally work in Canada. The duration of the PGWP depends on the length of the program:
1-year program → Up to 1-year PGWP
2-year or longer program → Up to 3-year PGWP
PGWP New Regulations (Effective November 2024)
✅ Graduates with a university degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD) are expected to remain eligible for PGWP, with no restrictions on the field of study. However, discussions are ongoing regarding potential changes to PGWP eligibility, including possible language requirements. Please refer to the IRCC official website for updates.
✅ Graduates from colleges or non-degree programs may face new restrictions on PGWP eligibility. Current proposals suggest that PGWP may be limited to graduates in the following designated fields. However, this policy is still under discussion and subject to official confirmation by IRCC:
Agriculture & Agri-Food
Healthcare
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
Skilled Trades
Transportation-related fields
❌ College graduates in non-designated fields may no longer be eligible for a PGWP.
⚠ Important: These policies have not yet been finalized and are subject to official confirmation by IRCC. Please check the IRCC official website for the latest updates.
Immigration Opportunities
After obtaining a PGWP, graduates can apply for Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) through the following pathways:
Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Eligible after 1 year of work experience in Canada.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Some provinces (e.g., BC, Ontario) offer fast-track immigration options for graduates.
For the latest updates, visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) official website.
4. What are the accommodation options?
Type of Accommodation | Cost (CAD/month) | Features |
Student Dormitory | $800 - $1,400 | High security, ideal for new students, well-equipped facilities, but relatively expensive. |
Off-Campus Rental | $900 - $1,600 | More affordable, requires independent searching, best for students familiar with the area. |
Homestay | $1,000 - $1,400 | Meals included, great for new arrivals, offers cultural immersion. |
⚠ Recommendation: For the first year, consider living in on-campus housing or a homestay to familiarize yourself with the environment before moving off-campus.
5. Is the cost of living in Canada high?
The cost of living varies by city. In major cities like Toronto and Vancouver, the estimated annual cost (excluding tuition) is $10,000 - $15,000 CAD.
Expense | Monthly Cost (CAD) | Notes |
Food | $300 - $600 | Eating out is expensive; cooking at home saves money. |
Transportation | $128 | Student monthly pass price (Toronto/Vancouver). |
Health Insurance | $600 - $2,000/year | Varies by province. |
⚠ Money-Saving Tips:
Apply for student discount transit passes (TTC, TransLink).
Cook at home more often to reduce expenses.
🔹 Note: The above costs are estimates. Actual expenses vary depending on individual lifestyle and location.
6. Is it difficult to adapt to Canada’s weather?
Canada has diverse climates across regions. Winters can be harsh, so proper clothing is essential.
City | Winter Temperature (°C) | Climate Features |
Vancouver | 0 ~ 5°C | Mild climate, frequent rain, rare snowfall. |
Toronto | -5 ~ -10°C | Cold winters, thick winter coats recommended. |
Montreal / Calgary | -10 ~ -15°C | Harsh winters, requires snow boots and windproof coats. |
⚠ Cold Weather Tips:
Layered Clothing ("Onion Dressing") helps adapt to indoor and outdoor temperature differences.
Vancouver: Mild but rainy—bring a waterproof jacket and rain boots.
Eastern Canada (Toronto, Montreal): Extremely cold, wind chill makes temperatures feel even lower—prepare thermal coats and winter gear.
Calgary: Dry climate—use moisturizers and warm clothing.
🔹 Note: Always check the local weather forecast and adjust your clothing accordingly.
Conclusion
Canada offers excellent academic opportunities, a high quality of life, and strong career prospects for international students. With proper preparation in university applications, visa processing, packing, and financial planning, you can smoothly transition into your new study-abroad experience. ✈️
We hope this guide helps you get ready for an exciting and successful journey in Canada! 🇨🇦
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