Over the past few years, getting a student visa for the USA has become tougher, which has made youngsters look for other options. Among the preferred ones, Canada has emerged as one of the topmost study destinations for Indians. High standards of education, easy visa approval, multi cultural environment, scenic beauty and bright career opportunities are attractive propositions for students heading to Canada.
To have a greater insight, we speak to the office of the Trade Commissioner Service of the Government of Canada.
What programmes do Indian students typically pursue?
The majority of Indian students pursue degree, diploma and certificate programmes in Business, IT, Engineering and Hospitality sectors. The quality of Canadian higher education is consistent across the country, because most post-secondary education is publicly funded. Canadian governments, both federal and provincial, have made substantial investments in science and technology and other areas of research. Canada’s colleges are leaders in applied higher education, offering a variety of recognised credentials including university transfer programmes, academic and applied degrees, and post-graduate diplomas.
What makes Canada a good study destination?
Canada is a top destination for high quality, globally recognised education, in an open, tolerant, safe and multicultural environment. Canada has some of the world’s best universities, colleges, and research institutes. Canadian institutions are known for their student-centric approach, which provides the support and flexibility for students to broaden their horizons and excel in the areas that they are passionate about. There are over 25,000 programmes offered at Canadian institutions, which prepare students for their future. Innovative programmes like co-ops and internships, where educational institutes collaborate with industries to give students real life work experience, offer an important head start for students striving to become the leaders of tomorrow.
What are the key points to remember if one is planning to study there?
Where to begin? Visit educanada.ca. Find a university or college programme: Search by field of study, language of study, programme level or location. 1. Find out how much the programme costs: This estimate includes tuition/ programme fees, books/supplies, groceries, local public transport and miscellaneous costs. 2. Identify your entry requirements as an international student. 3. After receiving a letter of acceptance from a university or a college in Canada, students should apply for a study permit as soon as possible. 4. Every applicant should also make sure that study permit applications are complete in all respects. Incomplete applications often lead to increased processing times.
Can students work during and after their course?
International students in Canada are often eligible to work both on and off campus during their term of studies, depending on the educational institution and the academic programme. This gives students the opportunity to move beyond academic learning to apply and test their skills in real workplace settings. Many programmes that are designed in collaboration with potential employers offer work placement opportunities to students.
Full-time international students who successfully obtain a study permit and are pursuing an academic, professional or vocational training programme at a designated learning institution, will be able to work, without a work permit on-campus and off-campus for up to 20 hours per week during a regular academic session and full time during regular scheduled breaks.
International students who wish to participate in a co-op or internship programme must apply for a work permit as well as a study permit. International graduates of Canadian institutions may obtain a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) after their studies, allowing them to work anywhere in Canada for up to three years.
Can Indian students be awarded scholarships, financial aid or grants?
A number of scholarships and bursaries are available to international scholars and researchers. The Government of Canada manages many scholarships programmes that support study, research or professional development in Canada. Two of the most prestigious, the Banting and Vanier scholarships, are attracting the world’s best and brightest students and researchers to Canada.
For scholarships offered by the Canadian governments and organisations, visit www.scholarships.gc.ca.
