Study In Canada From USA: Requirements, Online Programs, Schools, Cost, Tips, VISA

Many students from the USA wish to study in Canada but do not know how to go about it. To help you fulfill this dream of studying in Canada from America, we have brought a compilation of the solutions to all the questions you will probably ask. All you need to do is read and act accordingly. See you in Canada!

Canada heavily invests in education, no wonder the heavy influx of students to their globally relevant universities.

In actual terms, CIC reports that the number of international students that seek to study in Canada has increased by over 13%. This shows that students from America who do not apply right will not get the chance to study in Canada.

Stay put and learn all you need about your application, cost, online programs, and lots more to study in Canada for an American student. The table of content is right below.

Why Should USA Students Study In Canada?

According to the Canadian embassy in Washington, D.C., an estimated average of 10,000 and above Americans have been pursuing degrees in Canada.

One reason that keeps standing out is the cost of education. Let us discuss some of the reasons USA students should study in Canada.

Cost Of Education: The tuition cost in Canada is cheaper than in the USA almost by half. For instance, the yearly tuition at British Columbia costs American students and international students in general about $12,000. The average cost of an undergraduate program in the USA is around $25,000. As you can see, the difference is almost double.

Quality of Education: Canadian universities are known for their top-quality education. The quality of their education is not synonymous with the cost of education.

Lastly, Canada has some of the best global universities in the world.

These top reasons are why USA students choose to study in Canada.

What Are The Requirements To Study In Canada For USA students?

Every university in Canada has requirements peculiar to it, however, there are some general requirements peculiar to all schools. Here, we will be listing the general requirements for students who want to study in Canada from the USA. These requirements cover undergraduates, masters, and Ph.D. students. They include;

  • High school diploma (for the undergraduate program)
  • Academic Transcript of your passed degree
  • Certificates and letters of recommendation
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent (for Masters program)
  • Master’s degree or equivalent (for postgraduate program Ph.D.)
  • Letter of Intent written by candidate describing why has he has the course they are seeking admission for
  • Resume
  • English Language Proficient Test
  • Interim transcript or mark sheet if you are going for a post-secondary course
  • Bank Statement showing the applicant can foot the tuition and living expenses while staying in Canada
  • Employer’s Reference Letter (if applicable)

Also, note that you must submit the original documents of every certificate. However, the school of choice might request otherwise.

You should Also Check out: Killer Part-time Job Resume For College Students | Samples & Writing Tips

Can USA Students Take Online Programs In Canada?

Online programs are just a substitute way of making learning easy. The added comfort and flexibility have made it fun, thus, many students opt for the online education option.

Additionally, an American student can study at a Canadian university from the confines of his home in America. So, yes an American can study in Canada from America. This will afford him the time to work as well as study.

Moving on, there are some universities in Canada that give the option of online education. We will list some of the studies in Canada from American online schools.

  • McGill University
  • University of Toronto
  • University of Manitoba
  • Royal Roads University
  • Thompson Rivers University
  • The University of Fredericton
  • Yorkville University.

How To Apply For Student Visa To Study In Canada From USA

To study in Canada from the USA and apply for a Canadian visa as a USA student, follow the steps below.

Step One: Apply for Admission at a Canadian University / College

Universities and Colleges in Canada offer a wide range of programs and vast facilities for their students. So, the first step in applying for a Canadian visa is to apply and get your letter of admission from a Canadian university.

In the process of the application for admission, you will be required to submit a few documents. This includes proof of your previous academic qualifications, passport copy, and proof of your English language proficiency. And then wait to receive your offer letter.

Step Two: Begin Your Visa Application

You can apply to the Canadian visa office or online. Since it is a student visa, you will submit the documents we have listed below. Also, you need to capture your biometrics.

After this stage, you will be called for a visa interview and the outcome will either be positive or negative. Begin the application.

It is important to note the following;

  • You may travel to Canada and return to the US with an expired F-1 student visa or as long as your travel is limited to Canada and you return within 30 days.
  • If you plan to travel in Canada only and for less than 30 days, do NOT surrender your I-94 card before entering Canada.

Documents To Present For Canadian Student Visa Requirements

To apply, first, you need to know the Canadian student’s visa requirements. Also, the documents written below are what you will submit during your registration at Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) website. You may also apply manually, however, the online application is faster. Also, apply for the Quebec Certificate of Acceptance if your school is located there.

  • Visa Application Form
  • Original National valid passport with a photocopy of the Biodata page
  • Proof of Financial Support
  • Admission offer Letter
  • Use of Representative Form
  • Evidence of Proficiency in the English Language
  • Academic Documents
  • Tuition fee Payment Receipt
  • Confirmation of GIC purchase
  • Medical receipts/certificates

Read More about: Work and Study In Canada

Can I Study In Canada From the USA Without IELTS?

Many universities where you can study in Canada from America do not require TOEFL/IELTS for admission.

In essence, students who have lived and attended school for at least four years in a country where English is the primary language do not need to submit additional proof of proficiency.

So, American students do not need to submit their IELTS for admission to Canada. The English language is already their primary language and medium of learning.

Do I need A Study Permit To Study In Canada As A USA Student?

Every student who wants to study in Canada must obtain a study permit irrespective of his nationality, USA students included.

In order for a student to apply for a study permit, he or she must have already been accepted at a Canadian school.

In the same vein, you also have to show the ability to pay for tuition, living expenses, return tickets, and all expenses incurred during his stay in Canada.

Equally important is the fact that you need to apply for your study permit immediately you receive an acceptance letter early on, so there is no delay in starting your program.

So, yes, you require a study permit to be able to study in Canada as a USA student if your course will take longer than six months. Apply here.

If the steps are still Confusing, Learn How to Apply for a Canadian Study Permit and Visa

What Is the Cost Of Tuition Fees For USA Students In Canada?

For a USA student planning to study in Canada, you need to know the cost you will incur, especially when it comes to university education.

Typically, the tuition fees for studying in Canada are generally cheaper than in most universities in Australia, U.K, and even the U.S.

In order to give you a cost estimate, a bachelor’s degree in Canada tuition can range from CAD $1,800 to 20,000 per year asides living expenses and accommodation.

Similarly, we gathered that an average of CAD 12,000 is required per year for living expenses and accommodation.

In the same vein, a master’s tuition will range from CAD 2,500 to CAD 18,000 per year for a master’s degree, whereas USA students studying in Canada will pay CAD 2,500 to CAD 17,000 for a Ph.D.

In US dollars, choosing the highest figure, undergraduates will pay around $14,700.

How Can I Get Scholarship To Study In Canada From the USA?

Every study destination, including studying in Canada from America, has some scholarships. There are many scholarships for Americans to study in Canada and abroad in general. So, how can you get a scholarship to study abroad, keep reading!

Firstly, the Government of America has scholarships for American students who wish to study in Canada. In addition, Canadian institutions also offer merit scholarships and aid packages, often called bursaries, for students who need financial help.

Asides from these, here is a list of scholarships for Americans.

  • Canada University of Victoria International Undergraduate Scholarships
  • International Engineering Scholarships In Canada
  • Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program in Canada
  • Generation Google Scholarship in USA and Canada
  • Microsoft Undergraduate Scholarships for Students in Canada
  • New Brunswick University International Scholarships
  • Prestige Scholarship Program at the University of Carleton in Canada
  • Master Scholarship Program In Canada
  • University of Winnipeg President’s Scholarship for International Students In Canada
  • University of Toronto Scholarships, Canada for Women
  • Dalhousie University Master and Ph.D. Scholarship – Canada
  • Fully Funded Undergraduate Studies in Canada
  • Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS) in Canada

The full list and description of these scholarships are contained below. You should read it up.

Read more: Latest Canada Scholarships for Undergraduates, Masters & Ph.D. Programs

Which Are the Best Schools/Universities To Attend In Canada As a USA Student?

For students who want to study in Canada from America, there are many great universities you can attend. Actually, this list contains the best universities with strong records of excellence. Make a choice from these.

The best universities in Canada for USA students are;

  • University of Toronto
  • University of British Columbia
  • McGill University
  • McMaster University
  • University of Montreal

#1 University of Toronto

Acceptance Rate: 44%

Graduation Rate: 80%

Number of Campus: 3

Founded in 1827, the University of Toronto is a global leader in research and teaching.

According to The Times Higher Education Best Universities in Canada 2020 Rankings, the University of Toronto ranks 18th globally and is the top university in Canada.

It is known as one of the best schools in Canada for medicine. For example, insulin was first discovered in UofT’s laboratory by renowned Nobel laureate Frederick Banting. With a great number of undergraduate and graduate programs and a global mix of students, U of T is one of the most attractive schools in the country.

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Read Also: University of Toronto Tuition Fees & Cost of Living

#2 University of British Columbia

Acceptance Rate: 50%

Graduation Rate: 75%

Number of Campus: 2

UBC ranks second in the list of top 10 Canadian universities and 34th globally. The university earned this good portfolio due to its reputation for research, distinguished alumni, and scholarships available for international students.

As a world-leading center of teaching, learning, and research, UBC is known to transform personal initiative into innovation and new ideas into impact.

Basically, UBC supports inspires students, and staff, on their journey of discovery and challenges them to realize their greatest potential.

With its excellent facilities and numerous training centers, UBC is one of the best schools to study in Canada as a USA student.

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#3 McGill University

Acceptance Rate: 42%

Graduation Rate: 80%

Number of Campus: 1

Based in Montreal, McGill University ranks among Canada’s most prestigious universities. This school in Canada for USA students attracts thousands of international students from over 150 countries every year. A typical stat shows that it has the highest percentage of Ph.D. students in every Canadian research university. 

Founded in 1821, McGill owes its reputation as a top university in Canada for American students to study to its 50 research centers and institutes, 400+ programs, and a base of global alumni.

Furthermore, according to THE, McGill ranks third in Canada and 42nd globally. Also, it is the only Canadian university represented in the World Economic Forum’s Global University Leaders Forum.

In conclusion, it is one of three universities in Quebec at which you can learn English.

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#4 McMaster University

Acceptance Rate: 59%

Graduation Rate: 80%

Number of Campus:4

As the fourth-ranked Canadian and 72nd global university, Mcmaster is located just out of the southwest of Toronto in the city of Hamilton.

As one of Canada’s top three research-intensive universities, this study center in Canada where American students can enroll, has more than 70 Centres and Institutes including three national Centres of Excellence.

Basically, you can study at this Canadian University from America because she has earned an international reputation for creating solutions to the world’s greatest challenges.

Also well known is the fact that it offers lots of research work, particularly in the field of health sciences.

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#5 University of Montreal

Acceptance Rate: 45%

Graduation Rate: 60%

Number of Campus: 2

The University of Montreal is a French-language public research university situated in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. It is ranked fifth on the list of best Canadian universities and 85th globally.

Although Université de Montréal has 3 affiliate schools, namely, Polytechnique Montreal (engineering), and HEC Montreal (business), the University of Montreal is one of the largest universities to study in Canada from the USA as a student.

Again, the University of Montreal has a medical school. Unlike any other Canadian medical school, it has 27 affiliated healthcare institutions where you can study Canada for American students.

Lastly, The University of Montreal is well-known for its many business graduates and for graduates noted for their contributions to scientific research. However, the bulk of its students are enrolled in undergraduate studies. Only 27% are in graduate studies.

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Read More: University of Montreal Acceptance Rate

Can I Get Work Permit After Studying In Canada As A USA Student?

Actually, the Canadian government covets international graduates as ideal new permanent residents.

According to Immigration.ca, international students are young, have knowledge of the culture, are proficient in languages, have Canadian qualifications, and often work experience.

After graduation, Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit allows students including American students who studied in Canada, to begin their careers.

Also, international students who wish to reside permanently in Canada can use the Express Entry mode while applying for their student visa. This makes it easier to get a residency permit that will in turn, guarantee a work permit.

So, how long is the PG work permit? We have summarized the answer in the table below.

Length of Study8 months to 2 years2 years or moreMore than one program
Duration of PGWPSame as the length of study3 yearsThe cumulative total length of study is applicable

How Much Study Gap Is Acceptable In Canada?

American students who wish to study in Canada but have had study breaks or gaps need not worry if they will be accepted. However, read below.

The students with a study gap of up to 2 years will be accepted for diploma and undergraduate programs, while a study gap of up to 5 years is acceptable for postgraduate applicants.

However, if yours is more than these, you can present work experience as a justification for the gap. But, you will present some documents to back it up. They are letters of appointment and wage slips.

Tips For USA Students Wishing to Migrate to Canada

If you are considering studying in Canada as a USA student, we have some tips that will come in handy for your use.

Tip1: Make sure to do your Research on Application Requirements

Although most Canadian universities do not require application essays and some letters of recommendation as well, it is important that you research their admission requirements.

This is because the average grade that a student must have varies according to school. As an American student, keep this in mind while trying out the study in Canadian universities.

Tip2: Make Provision For Funds

Do you want to study in Canada from America? Take note of this.

Canada’s government requires foreign students to get a study permit which is a requirement to study. They also need proof of being able to support themselves financially.
In addition, students going to Quebec also need a Quebec Certificate of Acceptance.

If these documents are not what you can get easily, reconsider your study destination.

Tip #3: Apply For Scholarships

It is a known fact which we have already mentioned in this post that the government of America sponsors many scholarships for study in Canada from American students.

However, students not applying for these scholarships will not get them. So, American students who wish to study and work in the USA should apply for these scholarships. This will reduce their financial stress and burden.

Study In Canada From USA: Requirements, Online Programs, Schools, Cost, Tips, VISA, FAQs

Tuition to study for a bachelor’s degree in Canada

In order to give you a cost estimate, a bachelor’s degree in Canada’s tuition can range from CAD $1,800 to 20,000 per year asides from living expenses and accommodation.
Similarly, we gathered that an average of CAD 12,000 is required per year for living expenses and accommodation.
In the same vein, a master’s tuition will range from CAD 2,500 to CAD 18,000 per year for a master’s degree. Whereas, USA students studying in Canada will pay CAD 2,500 to CAD 17,000 for a Ph.D.
In US dollars, choosing the highest figure, undergraduates will pay around $14,700.

What are the best universities for American students to study in Canada?

The best universities for American students to study in Canada are the
University of Toronto
University of British Columbia
McGill University
McMaster University
University of Montreal

How much do I need to apply for Canada student visa?

You must have at least CAD$20,000 if you want to get a Canada visa.

Can you move to Canada without a job?

Yes, you can move to Canada without a job. However, ensure you have skills that are important in the economy to help you access the right opportunities.

What is a TRV document?

A Student Visa or TRV is a document that allows you only to enter/re-enter Canada as long as it’s valid. A Study Permit, on the other hand, is a document that permits you to study and stay in Canada legally as a student as long as it’s valid.

CONCLUSION

This post has written in detail all you need to know about Study In Canada From the USA as a student. All the requirements, schools that offer online programs, best universities you can study at as a USA student, cost, tips, and visa requirements.

Unlike in many other countries, you can work and study at the same time. The requirements are not difficult to meet either.

If you have any questions about studying in Canada from America, do well to contact us using the comment box and we will provide additional help. Kiiky cares!

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