How to Study Abroad in Canada: 5 Steps to Make Your Dream Come True

Dreaming of epic adventures, wide-open spaces, snowy forests in winter, swimming in crystal-clear lakes in summer, or maybe trying out a world-famous poutine after class? Canada might be exactly what you're looking for. And guess what? Studying abroad in Canada is way more doable than you might think.

With over 100 incredible universities and colleges set in picture-perfect spots, Canada has earned its place as a top pick for international students. You'll feel right at home in no time, both in your classes and within welcoming multicultural communities.

So, how do you make it happen? Just follow these five easy steps to turn that dream into your real-life adventure.

1. Find the Right Program for You (and the Campus That Excites You)

Canada is packed with prestigious schools, cutting-edge colleges, and campuses surrounded by mountains, beaches, or buzzing city life. Whatever your vibe is, there’s something here that matches.

Head over to EduCanada.ca to browse a wide range of Designated Learning Institutions (DLI) and explore programs that match your interests, whether it’s sustainable agriculture, filmmaking, engineering or tech.

Pro Tip: Don't just pick a school based on rankings; pick a lifestyle! Think about how you want to live too. Are you a big-city type who thrives on culture and diversity? Or more into chill vibes in a smaller town where everyone knows your name?

And if you're aiming for the stars, 33 Canadian universities made the 2025 Times Higher Education world rankings. The University of Toronto is still the best university in Canada, a ranking it has maintained since 2011, followed by UBC out in beautiful British Columbia, and then McGill in Montréal, which is famous for its global outlook and top-tier faculty.

2. Sort Out Your Budget (and Discover Ways to Fund Your Canadian Adventure)

Studying abroad also means learning to handle your money, but don’t stress! You're definitely not alone on this journey. There are lots of tools and resources ready to guide you every single step of the way.

On EduCanada.ca, you can compare tuition fees, rent, transportation, and health insurance across provinces. Even better, there's a huge database of scholarships specifically for international students. That could mean less out-of-pocket costs and more freedom to enjoy your new adventure.

And wait, there's more! Your study permit lets you work legally up to 20 hours a week during school semesters, and up to 30 hours during breaks. It's an awesome way to earn some extra money while getting a taste of professional life in Canada.

Canada also stands out with its co-op programs and paid internships that give you the chance to gain real-world experience while you're still studying. Working and learning at the same time is not only possible, but it’s super encouraged in Canada!

3. Apply to Your Dream Schools

Once you've narrowed down your choices, it's time to send in those applications. Polytechnique Montréal, HEC, UBC, McGill... the hardest part might just be picking! Nothing is stopping you from applying to a few different schools to boost your chances of getting that acceptance letter to study in Canada.

Each school will give you a clear list of what you need to submit: academic transcripts, grade reports, diplomas, language test scores, and other paperwork. Take your time and make sure your application is solid.

Starting January 2024, most future students will also need to include a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL). This is a document from the province or territory where you’ll be studying, and your school can tell you if it’s required in your case.

Once that official letter of acceptance lands in your inbox, things start to get real and exciting: preparing to study abroad in Canada!

4. Apply for Your Canadian Study Permit

You got accepted? Huge congratulations! Next up: your study permit. This is what allows you to live and study in Canada legally.

The fee to get a study permit for Canada is $150, and that's a fixed amount for all international students. The processing time, though, can change depending on where you're from. You can check the estimated times right on the IRCC Applications section.

To apply for your Canadian study permit, you'll need:

• Your acceptance letter from a designated learning institution (DLI);
• Your Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) from the province or territory you're headed to;
• Proof that you can cover your tuition and living expenses;
• A valid passport.

Everything is done online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Once your application is in, you'll get an invitation to provide your biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) at an approved centre. If everything checks out, IRCC will put a visa in your passport and give you an introduction letter.

Hold on to this introduction letter tightly and keep it with your passport. You'll need to show it to the border services officer when you land in Canada. That's when your study permit will officially be handed to you.

Just a heads up: if you pick a school in Québec, you'll also need a Québec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) on top of your study permit. You can find all the details on the official Government of Québec website.

5. Get Ready for Your Big Move to Canada

This is it, the final stretch! Before you hop on that flight, here are some absolute must-dos to get ready for your arrival:

• Book your plane ticket to your new Canadian city;
• Find a place to live (whether it's a student residence or off-campus housing);
• Scan and save digital copies of your key documents (and anything your school asks you to bring);
• Bring your medical records and vaccination booklet;
• Double-check Canadian customs rules (before crossing the border, make sure you look up the latest requirements on the Canada Border Services Agency website);
• Figure out what type of travel and health insurance you need.

One last but important tip: Don’t forget to get travel insurance. International students are required to have coverage, and it’s easy to get a quick quote from soNomad before you leave.

Some provinces, like Alberta and British Columbia, offer public health coverage to international students under certain conditions. Others, like Ontario or Prince Edward Island, require you to have private insurance.

When you arrive in Canada, show your passport and introduction letter to a Canadian Border Services officer. If everything is in order, you'll get your Canadian study permit right there at the border.

Don't forget to pack your original documents, your medical records, and... a massive dose of excitement!

Studying Abroad in Canada: An Adventure That Will Change Your Life

Choosing Canada is saying a huge YES to world-class education, an unbelievably vibrant cultural diversity and a quality of life that's celebrated worldwide.

It's also a promise for your future. Thanks to the Post-Graduation Work Permit, the Express Entry system, or Provincial Nominee Programs, you might just decide to stick around for a while… maybe even for good.

Join thousands of international students who make this leap every single year. Collect unforgettable memories, build your future, and experience Canada in full colour.