Study in Canada from Pakistan
Experience high-quality education in Canada, known for its leading universities and rich cultural landscape. Choose from a wide array of study options to start your journey toward academic success.
Interested in studying in Canada? Contact JnS Education Consultants for expert study abroad support and find the ideal program for your goals!
Why study in Canada for Higher Education?
Canada is best country for Pakistani students due to the high-quality education and promising career opportunities. It offers countless advantages at the social and economic level.
World-Class Education
Students across the globe wish to come to Canada as it has some of the top colleges and universities that provide experience education and internationally recognized degrees. This allows students to pursue career opportunities without hindrance.
Work and Career Opportunities
Canada is offering new policies that allow international students to work up to twenty-four hours during their study which gives them practical experience and financial stability. Furthermore, PGWP (Post Graduation Work Permit) program helps students gain work experience after completing their education in Canada.
Diverse Academic Opportunities
Canadian colleges and universities offer more than just traditional programs like Business and Engineering. They are advanced in innovative fields of Artificial Intelligence, Environmental Science, and Healthcare. Such a variety of programs enables students to set their own ambitions.
Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR)
For international graduates, Canada offers a range of options to settle in the country including Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PMPs). This sets a strong foundation for Canada’s future workforce.
Best Study Opportunities in Canada
In Canada, there is no national education system. Instead, each province handles its own education, allowing them to meet provincial needs. The options for higher education in Canada include:
Diploma Program / Foundation Year
In Canada, you can get a college or university diploma after studying full-time at your high school (after completing 12 years of education). This usually involves two to six semesters. These programs teach you specific skills for certain courses or technical work. Some programs might take up to four years if they’re more detailed. These diplomas are also known as the Foundation year program. Typically requires an IELTS score of 6.0 or an equivalent recognized English proficiency test such as TOEFL, or PTE.
Fees: Approximately CAD 15,000–20,000 a year.
Bachelor’s Degree
A bachelor’s degree in Canada typically takes about four years to complete, which includes eight full-time semesters. Some programs might have an extra fifth year for professional training, like teaching. Canadian universities often integrate paid work placements, called Co-op, into undergraduate degrees. This is a valuable chance for international students to gain experience and explore career opportunities. To get into a bachelor’s degree program, you must have finished high school (12 years of education) in Canada or a similar program from another country. Typically requires an IELTS score of minimum 6.0 or an equivalent recognized English proficiency test such as TOEFL, or PTE.
Fees: Approximately CAD 25,000 – 35,000 a year.
Postgraduate Diploma
In Canada, you can enroll in a postgraduate diploma after you’ve finished a bachelor’s degree. These programs usually last one to two semesters, less than or equal to a year. They offer focused training in specific areas like Business Administration, Sales and Marketing, or Resource Management. These diplomas and certificates can sometimes be used to get admission to a master’s program or serve as extra specialization in addition to your bachelor’s degree. Postgraduate diploma is also known as Pre-Masters.
Master’s Degree
In Canada, a master’s degree takes about one to two years to complete, which means you’ll spend two to four semesters studying full-time. This degree involves advanced studies in a specific area, building on what you learned during your bachelor’s degree. Most master’s programs require you to do a lot of research, which usually ends with a big project, a thesis, or coursework. To start a master’s program, you must first have a bachelor’s degree. Typically requires an IELTS score of 6.5-7.0 or an equivalent recognized English proficiency test such as TOEFL, or PTE.
Fees: Approx USD 15,000 – 35,000 per year (average).
Popular Courses for International Students
Canada offers a wide range of courses in many different fields, giving international students plenty of options. Each course has its own advantages, but here are some of the top courses you might consider studying in Canada:
- Engineering
- Agriculture Sciences
- Art and Design
- Business Administration
- Media Students
- Health Sciences
- Construction Management
- Hotel Management
- Media Studies
- Accounting and Finance
- Human Welfare
Best Affordable Canadian Universities for Pakistani Students
Canada is home to many well-known universities that offer degrees in both science and the arts. With a total of 223 universities, including private and public institutions, there’s a wide range of options available. Notably, some universities in Canada that don’t require IELTS provide alternative pathways for students to demonstrate their English proficiency, making Canadian education even more accessible. Here’s a list of affordable Canadian universities, renowned for their high-quality education:
- University of Manitoba
- University of Victoria
- University of Windsor
- University of Saskatchewan
- Memorial University
- University of Regina
- Toronto Metropolitan University
- University of Alberta
- Simon Fraser University
- Wilfrid Laurier University
Best Colleges to Study in Canada
Here are some well-ranked colleges in Canada that offer certificate, diploma, and degree programs:
- Fanshawe College
- Seneca College
- George Brown College
- Douglas College
- Conestoga College
- Humber College
- Centennial College
For students seeking accessible admission options, there are also colleges in Canada without IELTS, offering alternative English proficiency assessments to help you kickstart your academic journey.
Intakes in Canada
Most of the universities in Canada offer three intakes in a year. But not all universities offer three intakes; they might offer 1 or 2. Below is the duration of preferred intakes in Canada for international students:
Types of Intakes | Degrees Offered | Semester Starts |
Fall Intake | Undergrad & Postgrad degrees | September |
Winter Intake | Undergrad & Postgrad degrees | February |
Spring/Summer Intake | Diploma/short courses | May/June |
English Language Requirement
For Pakistani students Canadian universities commonly accept the following English proficiency tests:
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Most universities require a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5.
- PTE (Pearson Test of English): The typical minimum PTE score required is 60 for Bachelor’s programs, Advanced Diplomas, and 65 for Postgraduate Programs.
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): While top universities often require a TOEFL score above 90, the general requirement for undergraduate programs is at least 80, and for Master’s or PhD programs, it’s 90.
Another most demanding question of students is whether they can apply to study in Canada without IELTS. Let us explore.
Study in Canada without IELTS? Is it Possible?
To get into English language courses at Canadian universities, you need to prove your English skills. Most top universities in Canada require an English language test score like IELTS for admission. If you don’t have IELTS, you can use other accepted tests like the Pearson PTE Academic Test, which nearly all Canadian universities accept. This is a common alternative for international students applying to universities in Canada without IELTS.
Scholarships in Canada for International Students
As discussed earlier, Canada has multiple scholarship options for its international students. Here is a list of Canada’s scholarships you can apply for:
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)
- Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
- Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP)
- Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED)
Canadian universities focus on providing quality education that helps students grow professionally.
Tuition Fee in Canada for International Students
Tuition fees in Canada to Pak students are generally higher compared to other countries, but this is reflective of the high standards of education and the range of services available. The tuition fee for full-time international students in Canada varies depending on your study option.
The average annual cost of an undergraduate degree in Canada ranges from CAD 25,000 to CAD 35,000, depending on the chosen course. For a master’s degree, the cost typically varies between CAD 15,000 and CAD 35,000 per year. However, these costs can differ based on the tuition fees set by individual universities and colleges.
Cost of Living in Canada for Pakistani Students
Canada is a top choice for international students, offering world-class education and a diverse cultural experience. With careful planning and budgeting, Pakistani students can effectively manage their monthly living expenses while studying in Canada. Below is an overview of the typical costs they may encounter.
Category | Details | Estimated Cost (CAD) |
Accommodation | University Residences: Dorms, may include meal plans (varies by university and city). | 500 – 1,000/month |
Shared Apartments: Sharing with roommates, depends on city and location. | 500 – 1,000/person/month | |
Private Apartments: Independent living, more expensive, varies by city. | 1,200+/month | |
Tip: Use online rental platforms and university resources for cost research. | ||
Food and Groceries | Dining Out: Casual restaurant meals. | 15 – 20/meal |
Groceries: Home cooking saves money, varies by diet. | 300 – 600/month | |
Transportation | Public Transit: Reliable buses, subways, and trains (varies by city). | 70 – 120/month |
Ride-Hailing: Services like Uber and Lyft, costly for regular use. | Varies | |
Personal Vehicles: Includes insurance, gas, and maintenance. | High | |
Additional Costs | Utilities: For off-campus housing (electricity, gas, water, internet). | 150 – 300/month |
Entertainment: Movies, events, outings (look for student discounts). | Varies | |
Health Insurance: Mandatory for international students, covered by provinces or universities. | Affordable |
How to Apply for a Canadian Study Permit?
A Canadian study permit is an official document issued by the Canadian government that allows international students to study at designated schools in Canada. For those interested in study abroad for Pakistani students, securing an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is a crucial step in the application process.
You can apply for the study permit using the general visa process (non-SDS), but if you are a permanent and legal resident of certain countries, you might qualify to apply through the faster Student Direct Stream (SDS).
Requirements to Apply for a Canadian Study Visa
Make sure you have the following documentation to meet the Canada study visa requirements when submitting a successful student visa application for your academic journey:
- A valid passport
- Polio certificate
- You will need to pay the required visa application fee as determined by the Canadian government.
- Prepare passport-sized photographs as per the specifications
- Provide your Proof of acceptance or letter of acceptance (LOA) from the Designated Learning Institute for study opportunities in canada.
- Draft a well-structured GTE statement to demonstrate your genuine intention to stay in Canada for educational purposes temporarily
- Acquire Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) to ensure you have adequate health insurance coverage while studying in Australia
- Demonstrate your ability to cover living expenses, tuition fees, return airfare, and expenses for any dependents accompanying you during your stay in Canada.
FAQ’s
What is the visa ratio in Canada for Pakistani students?
The visa approval rate varies; according to the latest Canadian immigration authorities, it is 60% or one-third of the approved study visa applications.
Which countries are listed for SDS by the Canadian government?
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) includes India, China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Pakistan, Morocco, and Senegal.
What is the total cost of a Canada study visa from Pakistan?
The application fee for a Canadian study visa is approximately CAD 150.
Can I go to Canada after studying 10th grade from Pakistan?
You can study in Canada after 10th grade if you enroll in a certificate program or have a guardian in Canada. However, it is better to complete high school in Pakistan and then apply for an undergraduate degree or foundation year program.
How many Pakistani students are in Canada?
Thousands of Pakistani students are currently enrolled in various educational programs across Canada. It is becoming a hub of education for international students.
How much money is required to study in Canada after 12th grade?
You should budget between CAD 20,000 and CAD 30,000 per year for tuition, except for the living expenses.
What is the bank statement for a Canada student visa from Pakistan?
Your bank statement must show enough funds to cover tuition fees and living costs for one year. It depends on the state you are going in and also your accommodation expenses.
If I study in Canada, can I get PR?
Studying in Canada can improve your chances of obtaining permanent residency, especially through programs like the Canadian Experience Class or Express Entry.