Study in Canada

Canada is a country with a great many similarities to Finland, but also to its next-door neighbour, the United States, which makes it an appealing destination for many students and scholars from around the world. It is one of the most diverse and multicultural nations on the planet, a vast and massive land of two official languages, and a place which offers a very high quality of life.

The Education au/in Canada website is a great resource for information on studying in Canada.

 

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Collecting Information

  • Begin by collecting information about a year prior to the start of the academic year in which you wish to be enrolled at a Canadian university. A good first step would be reading the Education au/in Canada website.
  • Determine the scope, level, and major field of study. Do you want to complete a degree, or do just a short term study abroad?
    What do you want to study, and at what level?
  • Choose where you want to study. Online guides and search programs will assist you in the selection process. Identifying your personal preferences and having clear goals will help you choose the right university for your studies.

 

The Application Process

  • The application deadlines for Canadian universities vary considerably, usually about 5-8 months before the beginning of the following academic year.
  • The applications and instructions are always obtained directly from the institutions, and can be located through the online webpages of the universities. Additional information concerning the application process and student selection can be found in university catalogues.
  • One of the basic criteria for selecting international students in Canada is the use of TOEFL - Test of English as a Second Language.
  • It is important to fill out university application forms very carefully, as incomplete applications may not get processed. All test results and supporting documents must also reach the institution by the stated deadline.
  • Begin the application process about one year prior to the start of the academic year which you wish to be enrolled in.

Resources for Finding a Suitable Higher Education Institution

Funding Sources

  • The KELA center for student financial aid usually awards government financial aid to those studying in Canada if their studies lead to a degree from a recognized institution, or if their studies in Canada are part of a degree being pursued in Finland.
  • Universities in Canada may offer financial aid to their degree students. Other possible funding sources are Finnish and/or international scholarships and grants.
  • In addition to the scholarships and government financial aid which you may receive, you will most likely also need personal funding. It is strongly recommended that you begin searching for and gathering funding about one year prior to the start of the academic year which you wish to be enrolled in.
  • Read more about the study costs for international students and tuition fees by university.
     

Funding Sources in Canada

As previously stated, universities in Canada may offer financial aid to their degree students, however, it is best to ask the universities directly about possible funding opportunities. See also the following list of organizations that support studying or researching abroad.

Before Departure

  • You can prepare for your study experience by reading through guide books that help students ready themselves for university life in North America.
  • Information about visas may be obtained from the Canadian Embassy’s website and at https://www.canada.ca/en/services/immigration-citizenship.html 
  • Most Canadian universities organize an orientation for their international students throughout the week before the semester officially begins. During this orientation, students get acquainted with their university, their local community, and with fellow students.

 

Useful Links