Being a Student in Canada – All You Need to Know

Global Ed


You’ve been accepted into one of the prestigious universities in Canada. The hard part is over. You cheer, you celebrate. As the high goes down, questions start flooding your mind. The reality of being a global student starts to set in. But don’t worry, we got you.


Read ahead to find the top questions answered. Feel free to reach out to us if you have more.

  • University – check. What about the visa? Your study permit is essentially your proof of residence for the years you spend in Canada. So, as soon as you have your acceptance, read the immigration website. Put together all the documents needed, including the acceptance letter, proof of identity, and financial support, and update yourself on the latest COVID protocols. Once you have all the documents in place, you can begin the application process online and follow instructions to the T. Some applicants might be asked to attend an interview at the nearest Canadian Consulate.
  • Are Canadian colleges and universities different? Yes. College and University mean two different things in Canada. Colleges typically offer certifications and diplomas. Universities are the places from where you get your Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D., and other degrees. A diploma in Canada can last anywhere from 1 – 3 years.
  • What will campus life be like? Apart from attending classes, you will have plenty of opportunities to practice your skills in real work environments. It is not all theory. Your campus will be rich and vibrant with multiple sports (Canada does take its sports seriously!) and other extracurricular events happening. You can choose the ones you want to be a part of.
  • How safe is Canada for an international student? Canada ranked tenth in the Global Peace Index in 2021. One of the Canadian stereotypes is being over-polite. They are an immigrant-friendly nation that take student safety quite seriously. But since you will be in a new place, it makes sense to ensure your local emergency contacts are in place.
  • Is it possible to survive without knowing French? Yes. Canada is bilingual with English and French as its official languages. So you can survive with just English. But, fluency in French will give you a social and professional advantage, especially if you are applying for jobs in Quebec.
  • Where should I live? First choose: on or off-campus. University accommodations are typically dormitories where you are surrounded by your batch-mates. University towns also have a number of shared apartments that you can rent. Canada also has a thriving homestay culture where you live with a family that also provides your meals for a fee. If you are looking at cities, check out our post on top cities to live in Canada.
  • What will be my cost of living? How expensive is it going to be? You will spend anywhere between 15,000 and 30,000 CAD per year. This includes tuition, accommodation, and other living expenses. Here is an average monthly break-up:
    • Accommodation – 600 CAD
    • Food – 300 CAD
    • Transport – 250 CAD
    • Internet – 50 CAD
    • Miscellaneous expenses – 500 to 700 CAD.

    Of course, the city where you live and your style of living will factor in.

  • Can I work while being a student? Your study permit allows you to have part-time employment, on or off campus. Check your eligibility. During academic sessions, you can work up to 20 hours a week. You can go up to 40 hours during semester breaks. The average salary for a part-time job is 17-22 CAD per hour.
  • Besides studies, what can I do for fun in Canada? There are a few things you can’t miss: Montreal Jazz Festival, Winterlude, Celebration Of Light, Maple Syrup Festival, and Pride Toronto, for instance. Other than that, be it the natural sights or pub scenes, go forth and explore for the options are endless.
  • I am going to freeze, aren’t I? This depends on which part of Canada you are going to. The northern part is extremely cold but the Southern parts are pleasant. Nova Scotia or British Columbia has beautiful weather, for instance. When you know where you are going, don’t forget to look up the weather too and be prepared.

The adventure awaits. Good luck! Check out our other posts on Global Ed in Canada.

Also Read: MBA in Canada: Top Colleges for Indian Students in 2022


Date added
27.01.2022

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Global Ed

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