So you’ve decided you want to study in Canada – now what? The next few years as a student in Canada have the potential to be some of the most exciting and rewarding of your life. There are a range of quality colleges and universities in Canada; now it’s up to you to find the perfect one to suit your needs and goals.
Start by asking yourself what the most important factors are in your decision. Do you already know where you want to live in Canada, and you want to find the right institution there? Or do you want to prioritize a particular area of study, and you don’t mind where that takes you?
Potential international students in Canada also need to make sure that their intended institution is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), meaning it is approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. Find out more about DLIs, including a list of institutions, on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
Colleges and universities in Canada: Rankings first?
The best universities in Canada consistently perform well in worldwide charts, both for academic excellence and student experience. You may have your sight set on a prestigious program at a top university. However, don’t rely solely on the academic reputation of a university – focus instead on the right program for you.
If you thrive on challenging lectures and research, an academically-focused university may best suit your talents. Many Canadian universities have long-standing reputations of academic excellence in offering provocative, demanding, and rewarding programs that will help you become equipped with the skills and knowledge you need to launch a successful career, either in Canada or abroad.
If you would rather learn from practitioners and gain experience working while you study, maybe a college program with work placements and industry-focused training is a good fit for you. While there may be a perception that a college education is somehow less impressive than university on paper, don’t let that put you off – Canada’s renowned network of colleges have a strong reputation among employers.
Get more advice on finding the right program for you.
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