If you’ve decided that you want to study in Canada but are not sure which institution to get enrolled in? The institute you choose will determine your future in Canada. In this article, you’ll find how to shortlist the institutions that suit you the best.
Step 1: Selecting a province:
Canada is a large country with 13 provinces and territories. Education aspirants should first research about the provinces and territories to get a rough idea about how their life will be studying in that province or territory. Selecting a suitable province is very necessary as each province provides a different experience. Some provinces like Quebec have a great number of French-speaking populations, so unless you’re fluent in Spanish you should avoid that province. Provinces like Ontario with cities like Toronto, give you the experience of living in a vibrant, busty city but with more population which means lesser job vacancies. Provinces like British Columbia and Prince Edward Island have comparatively smaller populations and more natural landscapes which can give you the feeling of living in a peaceful and cozy community with more job opportunities.
Step 2: Selecting an institution:
After selecting a suitable province, potential international students should check for the availability of courses of their interest in various institutions. Students should also make sure that the institute they are applying to is a Designated Learning Institute which means that the institute has the required approval from the Canadian federal and provincial governments to host international students.
While selecting the institution, candidates should also check what the ranking of that institute is in the worldwide charts and what percent of students get work placements after graduating from that institution. Higher the ranking, the better the institution and faculties.
Step 3: Selecting your preferred accommodation:
Types of housing available in Canada:
1. On-campus housing-
This type of housing is generally located on the campus or very near the campus of the university. In the On-campus housing, students have to share their rooms/dorms with other students and can help students in making new friends and give them the benefit of staying so close to the campus. Some institutes even provide meals to students for a negligible cost which can help students who are living alone for the first time. The dorm rooms are maintained by the institute and come equipped with all necessary amenities such as heating systems, running water, furniture, and storage space.
2. Private housing-
Students who do not prefer to stay with other unknown students as is the case with on-campus housing, choose the alternative private housing option. Private housing refers to renting private accommodations in an area of your choice. Most international students prefer this option as they can rent a place where they can get separate rooms with common areas such as hall, bathroom, and kitchen and share it with their friends or relatives who are living in the same area/city. This type of housing provides privacy but does not provide any pre-available furniture or amenities but still cost lower than on-campus housing. Students need to get their own furniture, Wi-Fi connection, heating system, and electricity.
3. Homestay-
Some universities and colleges have arrangements with local families who are willing to host students in their houses. This can be a great way for an international student to learn about the local culture and can help them settle in their new environment. Students are provided with a room and 3 square meals per day by the host family.
As each housing option has its own pros and cons, international students are advised to research and select their housing options based on their personal preferences, requirements, and budget.
Step 4: Working options:
Students in Canada are allowed to work for 20 hours a week while studying. Students must research the job opportunities on-campus and off-campus.
Step 5: Selecting what kind of social life you’d prefer:
If you have an extroverted personality and enjoy the nightlife, going shopping, and sports, there are various Canadian Universities in big cities like Montreal, Vancouver and Toronto have different clubs and societies which you can join and meet new people.
If you have an introverted personality and like spending time with yourself, exploring the countryside, hiking, etc. You may consider a smaller campus with an intimate atmosphere like the Universities located in British Columbia.
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