With the year coming to a close, students have one thing on their minds and that’s getting their school applications done. International students who did not succeed in 2021 have another shot next year! Here’s what you need to prepare for the 2022 school year.
Winter/Spring Semester 2022
What it’s called is interchangeable and depends on the school. A number of schools throughout Canada have intake for their winter semester, which typically starts in January. Many schools have their cut-off in November, but each institution has a different specific date. Even though some may still be open now for both local and international schools, it’s better to hurry and start the application as soon as possible. For Filipinos, there’s even an option to apply under the Student Direct Stream (SDS).
Summer Semester 2022
It’s especially uncommon for schools to have an intake in the summer, but the competition might not be as high. Most students opt to have their break during this time so less courses are available than in the fall. If you’re itching to get yourself to Canada, SAIT, University of Manitoba, and University of Canada West are all schools that accept new students in the summer.
Fall Semester 2022
If you don’t have enough time to get your documents in order for the next winter semester, you still have a chance for the fall semester. The fall semester starts in September the following year and it’s more common for students to enter schools during this time.
What You Need for Your Application
- Transcript/Diploma
Every program will have different requirements, but they typically just need you to have finished high school if you are aiming for a diploma program. For Filipinos, you will need to have completed a senior high school diploma and one year of study at a recognized institute of higher learning. You’ll have to submit your grades to the institute of your choice and proof that you have finished their minimum requirements equivalent to Canadian education standards. For a Postgraduate Degree, you will have to acquire a Bachelor’s degree to be eligible.
- Proof of English Proficiency
For practically every school in Canada, you’ll need to show that you’re proficient enough in English. Accepted English proficiency tests vary from school to school, but the IELTS and TOEFL are safe bets. If you wish to apply under Student Direct Stream, the minimum score you need for the IELTS is 6.0 overall. Whereas for TOEFL, you’ll need an overall score of 86 (only for school applications). Filipinos are recognized for their good English language skills and you will come across schools that are waiving it specifically for us!
- Valid Passport
If you already have your passport, this won’t be too much of a hassle. You’ll have to scan the information page and send it together with your application. If you don’t have a passport, you’ll need to give yourself time to get one. In the Philippines, it takes about 12 working days for your passport to be processed and 6 working days if you get it expedited. It’s always best to renew your passport before applying!
- Funds
Post-secondary education is expensive and even the application has a fee. For international students, the cost will be much higher. When you are offered a letter of acceptance, the schools will also ask for a non-refundable deposit, which can cost thousands of dollars depending on the institution. Keep in mind that other than application and tuition fees, there are student, laboratory, health care, and other miscellaneous fees to be settled. Education itself is an investment, but it is always worth it!
- Program Specific Requirements
Although the above mentioned are general, some programs may ask for more requirements such as a recommendation/reference letter, license, or certifications, and even an interview. You can find these specific requirements under the dedicated program page of your desired school.
- Study permit
The last, but important thing you’ll need is your study permit. Even though you are successfully accepted into a school, you won’t be able to attend until you have a study permit. To be approved for this, you have to demonstrate that you were offered a letter of acceptance. Not only that, you have to show that you have already gone ahead and accepted the offer and have paid the tuition deposits. Once all of that is done, only then can you apply for your permit, with the other documents to support your application. You can do a DIY application, or to be extra safe, hire an immigration consultant.
These six things are what you’ll likely need in every application. The rest of the specifics will be determined by the school you’re applying for.
Application Deadlines
For the most part, the deadline for applications depends on the school you’re applying for. Typically, universities have an earlier deadline than colleges or polytechnic institutes do. Some schools have an even earlier deadline for international students. There’s no country-wide admission cut-off; some close their applications by December 31st while others go on until July. It can also depend on what kind of program you’re taking within the schools. Some specialized courses may have an earlier deadline than regular degree pathways.
Open Intake vs Limited Intake
The difference between the above types of intake is that open intakes don’t have a limit of students. These are your general areas of study like science or business. On the other hand, limited intake programs have a higher standard. These are typically vocational programs like legal administration or graphic design. The class sizes don’t usually exceed 50 students so it’s much harder to get into. These kinds of programs may also have different requirements and a different application deadline.
Scholarships
Institutes recognize that tuition fees are expensive, especially for international students, so they provide resources and scholarships. Some schools even have exclusive international student scholarships as well. But just like any scholarship, your grades have to be impressive. The deadline for applying for this is usually around the same time the school applications close. It’s better to look into this sooner than later.
Source: Intl Student Requirements U of Manitoba Intake Types at KPU SAIT How to Apply SaskPoly Application Requirements Proficiency Requirement UofM UVic Scholarships Canada Summer Intake