Studying in Canada FAQ
Q: Where will I live as a student?
A: There are multiple housing options for international students in Canada
Q: How will I meet people?
A: International Student Associations are available on most campuses. These student groups will provide you with helpful information about life in Canada, and often hold activities where you can make friends with other students.
Multiple other student groups and associations exist on every campus. It is important to get yourself involved in them if you truly want to meet people and get the most out of your student experience. Enjoy a sport? Try out for the school team! Are you a fan of classic literature? Join the reading group! Ask a representative from the students association for information on the student groups available to you.
There are many LoonLounger’s who are currently studying in Canada. Connect with them today!
Q: What if I need to improve my French/English?
A: Most universities and colleges have language courses, often free to international students. You could also try a language exchange with another student. For example, if you speak fluent Mandarin, but need to improve your English, perhaps an English-speaking student will be studying Mandarin and need your help!
Q: How will I pay to study in Canada?
A: You may need to obtain a student line of credit from a bank, or a student loan from the government. If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you may be eligible for a Canadian or Quebec student loan to help you pay for your education.
Many students work part-time while studying, both to obtain work experience and to make ends meet. Find out about work permits and work opportunities for foreign students.
Q: Is there any chance that my studies in Canada will not require a study permit?
A: Study permits are not needed for the following:
Q: Can my spouse or common law partner come with me to Canada?
A: Yes, however specific guidelines apply. Review government requirements closely.
Q: Will I require a medical examination?
A: Some applicants will be required to take a medical examination. You will be instructed by the government officer if it is necessary.
Q: If I need to leave Canada during my studies, will I be able to re-enter?
A: Yes, but you must travel with your valid passport, study permit and, where required, your temporary resident visa. You must present these valid documents to the immigration officer upon returning to Canada.
Additional Information
There are many international students on LoonLounge that you can connect with right now. Ask questions, share advice, and build connections that will help you when you arrive in Canada as a student.
For additional information about studying in Canada, visit Studying in Canada –Study Permits by Citizenship and Immigration Canada.
The Council of the Ministers of Education, Canada’s education website, will help you find a school and a program that is right for you, teach you how to obtain a visa to study in Canada, help you calculate and budget for the costs of studying and more:https://www.educationau-incanada.ca/index.aspx?lang=eng
Q: Where will I live as a student?
A: There are multiple housing options for international students in Canada
- Most colleges and universities have student residences or dormitories. Bathrooms are often shared, and meals are served in cafeterias. Some schools have student apartments and shared student houses as on-campus housing options.
- Some schools have programs where students live with volunteer ‘sponsor’ or ‘billet’ families who provide you with your meals, and a bedroom in their home. Inquire with your school to see if this is an option.
- You can rent an apartment off-campus. You can rent your own apartment or share one with other students. Most colleges and universities have student classified ads where you can find apartment listings, and other students to live with which helps to keep costs lower.
Q: How will I meet people?
A: International Student Associations are available on most campuses. These student groups will provide you with helpful information about life in Canada, and often hold activities where you can make friends with other students.
Multiple other student groups and associations exist on every campus. It is important to get yourself involved in them if you truly want to meet people and get the most out of your student experience. Enjoy a sport? Try out for the school team! Are you a fan of classic literature? Join the reading group! Ask a representative from the students association for information on the student groups available to you.
There are many LoonLounger’s who are currently studying in Canada. Connect with them today!
Q: What if I need to improve my French/English?
A: Most universities and colleges have language courses, often free to international students. You could also try a language exchange with another student. For example, if you speak fluent Mandarin, but need to improve your English, perhaps an English-speaking student will be studying Mandarin and need your help!
Q: How will I pay to study in Canada?
A: You may need to obtain a student line of credit from a bank, or a student loan from the government. If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you may be eligible for a Canadian or Quebec student loan to help you pay for your education.
Many students work part-time while studying, both to obtain work experience and to make ends meet. Find out about work permits and work opportunities for foreign students.
Q: Is there any chance that my studies in Canada will not require a study permit?
A: Study permits are not needed for the following:
- programs that are completed in six months or less and can be completed within the period of time you are authorized to visit Canada
- courses that are not academic, professional or vocational in nature
- courses included in tour packages as a tourism activity
- nursery, pre-schools or kindergartens
Q: Can my spouse or common law partner come with me to Canada?
A: Yes, however specific guidelines apply. Review government requirements closely.
Q: Will I require a medical examination?
A: Some applicants will be required to take a medical examination. You will be instructed by the government officer if it is necessary.
Q: If I need to leave Canada during my studies, will I be able to re-enter?
A: Yes, but you must travel with your valid passport, study permit and, where required, your temporary resident visa. You must present these valid documents to the immigration officer upon returning to Canada.
Additional Information
There are many international students on LoonLounge that you can connect with right now. Ask questions, share advice, and build connections that will help you when you arrive in Canada as a student.
For additional information about studying in Canada, visit Studying in Canada –Study Permits by Citizenship and Immigration Canada.
The Council of the Ministers of Education, Canada’s education website, will help you find a school and a program that is right for you, teach you how to obtain a visa to study in Canada, help you calculate and budget for the costs of studying and more:https://www.educationau-incanada.ca/index.aspx?lang=eng
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