Requirements to Study in Canada for International Students in 2025
Canada stands tall as one of the most desirable destinations for international education. With globally recognized universities, diverse multicultural communities, and welcoming immigration pathways, it’s no wonder students from around the world dream of studying here. But before you pack your bags, it’s essential to understand the complete list of requirements to study in Canada as an international student.
In this comprehensive guide brought to you by Tensor International, we will walk you through every academic, visa, and financial requirement, including documentation, eligibility, application processes, and more.
Why Choose Canada for Higher Education?
Before diving into the requirements, here’s why Canada is a top pick for international students:
| Benefits of Studying in Canada | Description |
| Quality Education | Home to top-ranked universities like the University of Toronto, McGill, and UBC. |
| Affordable Tuition | More affordable than the US and UK with competitive tuition fees. |
| Work Opportunities | Work part-time during studies and full-time during scheduled breaks. |
| Permanent Residency Pathways | Programs like Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and Express Entry support transition to PR. |
| Safe and Inclusive Society | Low crime rate and welcoming policies for immigrants. |
Key Requirements to Study in Canada as an International Student
To study in Canada, you need to meet a combination of academic, financial, language, and immigration requirements. Below is a breakdown of these:
- Admission Requirements
Each university and college in Canada has its own eligibility criteria, but some common elements include:
| Requirement | Details |
| Academic Transcripts | High school (for UG) or undergraduate transcripts (for PG) with minimum GPA or marks. |
| Letters of Recommendation | Usually 2–3 from teachers, professors, or employers. |
| Statement of Purpose (SOP) | A personal essay outlining your academic goals and reasons to study in Canada. |
| Resume/CV | Especially for postgraduate programs or those with work experience requirements. |
Undergraduate Program Admission Requirements
- Completion of 12 years of school education.
- Minimum percentage (usually 70% or above) depending on the institution.
- English proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL).
Postgraduate Program Admission Requirements
- A recognized undergraduate degree.
- GPA of 3.0/4.0 or its equivalent.
- GRE/GMAT may be required for certain programs.
- Language Proficiency Requirements
English or French proficiency is mandatory for admission to Canadian institutions.
| Test | Minimum Score Requirement (General) |
| IELTS Academic | 6.0 – 7.5 overall band |
| TOEFL iBT | 80 – 100+ |
| PTE Academic | 58 – 65+ |
| Duolingo English Test (DET) | 105 – 125+ (Accepted by many Canadian institutions) |
| TEF/TCF (For French Programs) | B2 level for most institutions |
- Financial Requirements
You must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support your studies and living expenses in Canada.
Tuition Fees (Approximate Annual)
| Study Level | Annual Tuition (CAD) |
| Undergraduate | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Postgraduate | $18,000 – $35,000 |
| MBA Programs | $30,000 – $60,000 |
Living Expenses
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requires a minimum fund proof of CAD $20,635 per year (as of 2024) for living expenses.
| Expense Category | Monthly Estimate (CAD) | Annual Estimate (CAD) |
| Accommodation | $400 – $1,200 | $4,800 – $14,400 |
| Food | $200 – $400 | $2,400 – $4,800 |
| Transport | $80 – $150 | $960 – $1,800 |
| Miscellaneous | $100 – $300 | $1,200 – $3,600 |
Proof of Financial Support
You may provide:
- Bank statements (past 4–6 months)
- GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) from a Canadian bank (for SDS stream)
- Scholarship or funding letters
- Affidavit of financial support from parents/sponsors
- Study Permit Requirements
A study permit is mandatory for any international student planning to study in Canada for more than 6 months.
Key Documents for Study Permit Application
| Document | Description |
| Letter of Acceptance (LOA) | From a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. |
| Proof of Funds | To cover tuition + living costs. |
| Passport | Valid for the entire duration of your program. |
| Immigration Medical Exam | Required for students from certain countries. |
| Police Certificate | To prove no criminal record. |
| Passport-size Photos | Digital and printed. |
| Visa Application Forms | Completed online with payment of fees (CAD $150). |
SDS vs. Non-SDS Stream
Canada offers two types of study permit application streams: Student Direct Stream (SDS) and Regular (Non-SDS).
| Feature | SDS | Non-SDS |
| Processing Time | 20 calendar days | Varies (4–12 weeks) |
| Language Requirement | IELTS 6.0 in each band (mandatory) | IELTS/Duolingo/TOEFL accepted |
| GIC Requirement | CAD $10,000 GIC mandatory | Not mandatory |
| Upfront Tuition Fee | 1-year tuition must be paid | 6 months or full |
| Application Mode | Online only | Online or offline |
Health Insurance
International students must have valid health insurance while studying in Canada.
| Province | Insurance Requirement |
| Ontario | Must buy private health insurance |
| British Columbia | Covered under MSP after 3 months |
| Alberta | Eligible for public health care |
| Quebec | May require private insurance depending on bilateral agreements |
- Additional Requirements
- Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ): Needed if applying to institutions in Quebec.
- Custodian Declaration: For students under 18 or 19 (age of majority depends on the province).
- Portfolio: For art, architecture, design, or media programs.
Application Process – Step by Step
Here is a simplified process to apply to study in Canada:
Step 1: Research and Choose Your Program
- Decide on your study level, field of interest, and preferred provinces.
- Check admission deadlines and eligibility on university websites or contact Tensor International for expert help.
Step 2: Take Language Proficiency Tests
- Book and take IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent.
- Aim to meet minimum scores for SDS or institutional requirements.
Step 3: Prepare and Submit Applications
- Apply to 3–5 DLIs.
- Submit documents like transcripts, SOP, LORs, resume, and test scores.
Step 4: Receive Offer Letter
- If selected, you’ll receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from your chosen institution.
Step 5: Arrange Finances
- Open a GIC account (for SDS).
- Pay the first year’s tuition fee.
Step 6: Apply for Study Permit
- Apply online via IRCC portal.
- Submit biometrics and medical (if required).
Step 7: Travel to Canada
- After approval, receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter.
- Book flight tickets and plan your arrival.
FAQs: Study in Canada as an International Student
- Can I study in Canada without IELTS?
Yes. Some institutions accept alternatives like TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo. Also, if your previous education was in English, you may be exempt.
- What is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)?
A DLI is a school approved by a Canadian provincial or territorial government to host international students. You must receive your LOA from a DLI.
- What is a GIC?
A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) is a Canadian investment required for SDS applicants to show proof of funds. It provides monthly disbursements for living expenses.
- Can I work while studying?
Yes! You can work:
- Up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions.
- Full-time during scheduled breaks (e.g., summer, winter holidays).
- Can I bring my spouse or children?
Yes. You can apply for spousal open work permits and study permits for children. Tensor International helps with dependent visa applications too.
How Tensor International Helps You Succeed
Applying to study in Canada can be overwhelming—but not with Tensor International by your side.
| Service | Description |
| University Shortlisting | Based on your profile, career goals, and budget. |
| Test Preparation | For IELTS, TOEFL, and other language tests. |
| Application Assistance | Document review, SOP writing, LOR guidance, resume editing. |
| Visa Filing | End-to-end support for SDS and Non-SDS applications. |
| Scholarship Guidance | Find and apply for scholarships to ease your finances. |
| Pre-Departure Briefing | Flights, accommodation, banking, and settling tips. |
Ready to Study in Canada?
Book a free consultation with our experts at Tensor International today!
🌐 Visit us at: https://tensorinternational.com/
📞 Call: 7877951237
📧 Email: ceotensor@gmail.com