" STUDY DESTINATIONS - CANADA "

Canada is a country occupying most of northern North America. It is the world's second largest country by area and extends from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean and northward into the Artic Ocean. Canada shares land borders with the United States to the northwest and south.

A habitat of Aboriginal people, Canada was founded in 1867 as a union of British North American colonies. It gained independence from the United Kingdom in an incremental process that ended in 1982. It remains a Commonwealth Realm with Queen Elizabeth as its head of state.

Canada is a federal Constitutional monarchy with parliamentary democracy. Comprising ten provinces and three territories, Canada is a bilingual and multicultural country, with both English and French as official languages. A technologically advanced and industrialized nation, Canada maintains a diversified economy that is heavily reliant upon its abundant natural resources and upon trade - particularly with the United States, with which Canada has had a long and complex relationship

SYSTEM EDUCTION

Government:
The government in Canada was basically gone on British system and at present it operates as a federal multiparty constitutional monarchy. When it comes to the matter of provincial governments operate with their own ability to legislate on provincial matters. The head of state is the British queen with a governor general appointed as common wealth representative in Canada. Ottawa is a home to Canada's parliament, House of Commons and senate.

Economy:
Here are some relevant facts that would help you choose Canada as an education destination. Canada's gross domestic product (GDP) has been growing faster than any other G7 country and its employment scenario is also strengthened. Canada ranks among the top ten manufacturing nations. Most of Canada's manufacturing industry is in Ontario and Quebec, where motor vehicle production comprises the largest sector within this industry. Other important manufacturing sectors include food and beverages, paper and allied products, primary metals, fabricated metals, petrochemicals and chemicals. The Atlantic, Prairie and Pacific regions of Canada have more natural resource-based economies. The Atlantic Provinces focus on fishing, forestry and mining, while Prairie Provinces are dependent on agriculture and mineral fuels. British Columbia's primary sectors are forestry and mining, as well as tourism.

Population:
Percentage of total national population is given to the nearest tenth of a percent. Land area statistics exclude freshwater area and are current as of 2005. Population density is given to two decimal places in persons per square kilometer.

History:
Canada was a major front in the War of 1812 between the United States and British Empire. Its defence contributed to a sense of unity among British North Americans. Large-scale immigration to Canada began in 1815 from Britain and Ireland. The timber industry would also surpass the fur trade in importance in the early 1800s. Canada automatically entered the First World War in 1914 with Britain's declaration of war, sending volunteers to the Western Front to fight as a national contingent. The Conscripttion Crisis of 1917 erupted when conservative Prime Minister Robert Borden brought in compulsory military service over the objection of French-speaking Quebecers. In 1919, Canada joined the League of Nations independently of Britain; in 1931 the Statute of Westminster affirmed Canada's independence.

Geography:
Canada occupies most of the northern portion of North America, sharing land borders with the contiguous United States to the south and with the US state of Alaska to the northwest, stretching from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west; to the north lies the Arctic Ocean.[35] Since 1925, Canada has claimed the portion of the Arctic between 60?W and 141?W longitude;[36] this claim is not universally recognized. The northernmost settlement in Canada (and in the world) is Canadian Forces Station (CFS) Alert on the northern tip of Ellesmere Island-latitude 82.5?N-just 817 kilometers (450 nautical miles) from the North Pole.[37] Canada is the world's second-largest country in total area, after Russia, and the fourth largest in land area, after Russia, China and the United States.

Safety:
Canadians are proud of their strong education and social welfare system. As a result of this system, the crime rate in Canada is low. Toronto is Canada's largest city with around 4 million people, and it is continually rated as one of the safest urban areas in North America. Violent crime is rare. In general the Canadian population lives comfortably and feels safe in the Canadian environment.

Culture and tradition:
Canada is a multi-cultural country, and so it's no surprise that there is a wide variety of religions practiced there. Although Canada began as a Christian country and Christianity continues to dominate, yet there is a wide spectrum of spiritual beliefs that cover all corners of the country. Almost all of the world's ethnic groups are represented in Canada. As a result, most ethnic foods and recreational activities associated with specific cultures are available in Canada. Clubs, both informal and formal, and associations representing a multitude of ethnic backgrounds are also easily accessible. International student advisors at schools can help students get in touch with such groups. Due to an ethnic and immigrant population the variety and richness of art and sports is very evident. Canada is a bilingual country with two official languages, English and French.

Canada encourages people to maintain their original culture. Students can enjoy a multi-cultural environment and celebrate cultural diversity.
 

 

 

More than 130,000 students come to study in Canada every year. In addition to this number are many more that come to Canada to learn English or French. Foreign students bring a rich culture to our classrooms. Your knowledge and skills are welcome in our schools.

The provinces regulate education and schools in Canada. For more detailed information on living and studying in a specific province or territory, contact the school where you wish to study.

Studying in another country can be an adventure and a challenge. Read about what to consider before applying for a Study Permit, how to apply, work opportunities for foreign students and find other important information.

All persons who want to study in Canada need to apply for a student authorization and obtain the written approval of a visa officer. To apply for an authorization you must:

• Have a valid passport
• Have a letter of acceptance from an educational institution
• Have enough money to support yourself
• Complete an application form and
• Pay a fee Who needs a study permit?
  Not everyone needs a Study Permit to study in Canada. Find out if you need a Study Permit or a Temporary Resident Visa.
  
  What is a student authorization?
  A student authorization is a form issued by an immigration officer. It allows you, after your admittance, to remain in Canada to take an academic, professional or vocational training course at an approved university, college or other institution.
  
  Who needs a student authorization?
  If you are not a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident of Canada or a dependant of a diplomat accredited to Canada, you must obtain a student authorization.
  
  Where do I apply?
  You apply to the nearest Canadian visa office. You must obtain permission to study in Canada before leaving for Canada. However, the following persons may apply from within Canada:
  • Dependants of athletes, media representatives, members of the Clergy, or military personnel on assignment in Canada
  • Dependants of officials of foreign governments working in Canada with a federal or provincial agency under an exchange agreement
  • Dependants of a person who has a valid student or employment authorization and
  • A person who is a holder of a Minister's permit and his or her dependants
    
    In addition, the following persons may apply at a Canadian port of entry
    
     
  • Citizens and permanent residents of the United States, St. Pierre and Miquelon, or Greenland
  What is the cost of a visa?
  If a student visa and/or authorization is required, the cost is CAN$125
  
  How long is the visa valid for?
  Student visas and authorization are valid for the duration of the program of study
  
  What are the basic requirements for student authorization?
  You must satisfy the visa officer that you meet the requirements of the Canadian Immigration Act and Regulations and that you will be in Canada for a temporary stay. You must also:
  • Satisfy a visa officer that you will be able to return to your country or be admitted to another country after your studies
  • Have been unconditionally accepted by an approved educational institution
  • Have enough money during your stay in Canada to pay for
    
    O  Tuition fees
    O  Living expenses for yourself and accompanying dependants and
    O  Return transportation for yourself and accompanying dependants
    
     
  • Be law abiding and have no record of criminal activity (you may be asked to provide a Police Clearance Certificate)
  • Not be a risk to the security of Canada
  • Produce any additional documents requested by the visa officer to establish your admissibility
  • Complete a medical examination, if required and
  • Pay the fee
  Application Process
  This section explains how an application is made, how long it will usually take and how it will be processed by the visa office.
  
  When should I apply?
  The time required to process an application to study in Canada may vary at different visa offices. You should apply as early as possible, and allow at least six months to plan and prepare for your move. Note: Canadian universities suggest you apply for admission at least one year in advance of your planned arrival.
  
  What documents are required?
  You are required to provide the following documents for yourself and any accompanying dependants:
  
  1. Proof of unconditional acceptance
  • For attendance at a university, college or technical institution, a letter from the educational institution to show: O The name of the institution
    O Confirmation of your acceptance and/or registration as a student
    O The course of study
    O The duration of the academic program and
    O The latest date you may register
  • For attendance at a primary or secondary school, a letter from the school board having jurisdiction for the school you are attending (or for private schools, a letter from the school itself), indicating: O The name of the school
    O The level of study and
    O The duration of the course
  2. Proof of identity
  • A valid passport or travel document or identity document that guarantees re-entry to the country that issued it (citizens and permanent residents of the United States, St. Pierre and Miquelon, and Greenland do not require a passport but do require proof of status such as a national identity card or an alien registration card); and
  • Two recent passport size photos for each family member (the name and date of birth of the person should be written on the back of each photo).
  3. Proof of financial support
  • Evidence that you can support yourself and accompanying dependants while you study in Canada. Such evidence may include: O proof of a Canadian bank account in your name if money has been transferred to Canada
    O Your bank statements for the past four months; o a bank draft in convertible currency
    O Proof of payment of tuition and residence fees
    O For those with a scholarship or those with a Canadian funded educational program: proof of funding paid from
       within Canada
  • If foreign exchange control measures exist in your country, you must provide proof that you will be permitted by the exchange control authorities of your country to export funds for all of your expenses; and
  • If additional documents are required, a visa officer will inform you.
  Note: Children under 16 years of age who are traveling alone must have information (name, address, phone number) about the person or school that will be responsible for them. If the child is the subject of a custody order, proof of custody and the other parent's consent must also be provided. Minors traveling without their parents require a letter of permission from the non-accompanying parent(s).
  
  Will I need to attend an interview?
  After reviewing your application, a visa officer will decide if an interview is necessary. If so, the visa officer will inform you of the time and place.
  
  Will I or my accompanying dependants need a medical examination?
  In some cases you will require a medical examination. A visa officer will decide on this and send instructions if a medical are required. It may add over three months to the processing of your application.
  
  Can I work in Canada?
  You may be able to work while you are studying in Canada only in special situations. It can be difficult to find a job in Canada. You should come to Canada with enough money to live and pay your bills while you are studying.
  
  Do not work without authorization, if u do, you may be asked to leave Canada
  
  How do I obtain an extension of my student authorization?
  
  Phone your nearest Canada Immigration Centre in Canada at least two months before the expiry of your student authorization, to obtain an application in the mail.
  
  Embassy contact information: Please contact the nearest Canadian embassy for information on what documentation you may require to enter Canada

 

Documents to be submitted to the university/college you wish to apply to:-

• Completed Profile
• Your transcriptts from 10th class onwards (duly attested by the respective Head of the Institution) 10th and Inter (12th) transcriptts need not be in sealed envelopes. Whereas, your degree marks and provisional must be in sealed envelope, with seal and signature on the flap of the envelope too
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) - Ideally must be a one-page statement of your purpose in personal and academic life. SOP must contain information on your education objectives, career goals, reasons for study in the US and reasons for choosing a particular program in a particular institute
• Recommendation Letters - At least two-three recommendation letters from three lecturers/professors, who taught you at the degree level preferably from those who taught you the main subjects. These recommendations must be done on personal or college letterheads and must be signed and sealed (including the envelope)
• Bank Statement - Financial Statement or Bank Statement indicates the availability of funds with you, (or your sponsor) in a bank, in a Savings Bank account only. These funds must be available for the purpose of your further education. A statement given by the Bank manager, on the Bank's letterhead, clearly indicating the amount of funds available both in your native currency and also the currency of the country where you would like to study has to be given, with the seal of the bank and signature of the Manager. To each and every university you apply to, you need to enclose an original Bank Statement showing adequate funds to cover at least a year's tuition and living expenses. Instead of getting multiple originals, which may not be practically possible, you may get the first statement photocopied (before signatures are made by the banker) and then signed and sealed by the bank manager individually
• Some universities need the Financial Statement filled, in the application itself. If it is indicated as mandatory, you need to get that form appropriately filled by the Bank. Ideally, one should indicate availability of funds for the entire duration of the course. For example, for a two-year Masters program, funds must be adequate to cover for both the years. If you cannot show funds for two years, then you must indicate availability for at least one year, covering tuition, living expenses and other fees. Hence, before taking a statement, calculate what would be the maximum expenditure from among the universities you wish to apply to. Take the higher amount and arrange for Bank Statement, accordingly. This will eliminate the need to take fresh statement every time you apply to universities with higher fee structure
• Affidavit of Support on Rs.20 Non Judicial Stamp Paper
• An Original AOS (notarized) has to be sent to each university. Letter of Undertaking or Affidavit of Support (AOS) is an undertaking to be given by your sponsor who finances your education. This has to be given on Rs.20/- (if in India) Non-Judicial Stamp Paper, in a prescribed format
• Sometimes, the universities request the undertaking to be given on their applications itself, in which case you have to do so. This AOS has to be signed by the sponsor, properly witnessed and attested by Notary public. To each and every university you apply to, you need to enclose an original AOS. Instead of getting multiple stamp papers and doing the AOS, you may get the first statement photocopied (before signatures are made by the sponsor) and then signed by the sponsor and notarized individually
• Application fee in US $ (or that country's currency) as required by university
• Score Card - If you have already taken TOEFL and GRE/GMAT, IELTS you may just enclose the score card
• Covering letter - A covering letter, indicating your plans about TOEFL and GRE/GMAT and informing them that you would arrange score reporting by ETS- If not taken and reported already

Formats cannot be generalized for all the students and need to be personalized as per individual requirements.

Also, if there are any issues concerning your application, like backlogs, failures or gaps between various levels of your education etc., use the covering letter to provide an explanation about such issues? This will offset any problem that you may encounter when you do not explain.

Once all the documents are ready, you may courier them to the universities well before the suggested deadlines, since processing of applications is done on a rolling basis - i.e., first-come-first-serve. Applying early would certainly improve your admission chances than applying nearer the deadlines.

Who needs a study permit?
Not everyone needs a Study Permit to study in Canada. Find out if you need a Study Permit or a Temporary Resident Visa.

What is a student authorization?
A student authorization is a form issued by an immigration officer. It allows you, after your admittance, to remain in Canada to take an academic, professional or vocational training course at an approved university, college or other institution.

Who needs a student authorization?
If you are not a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident of Canada or a dependant of a diplomat accredited to Canada, you must obtain a student authorization.

Where do I apply?
You apply to the nearest Canadian visa office. You must obtain permission to study in Canada before leaving for Canada. However, the following persons may apply from within Canada:

• Dependants of athletes, media representatives, members of the Clergy, or military personnel on assignment in Canada
• Dependants of officials of foreign governments working in Canada with a federal or provincial agency under an exchange agreement
• Dependants of a person who has a valid student or employment authorization and
• A person who is a holder of a Minister's permit and his or her dependants
  
  In addition, the following persons may apply at a Canadian port of entry
  
   
• Citizens and permanent residents of the United States, St. Pierre and Miquelon, or Greenland

What is the cost of a visa?
If a student visa and/or authorization is required, the cost is CAN$125

How long is the visa valid for?
Student visas and authorization are valid for the duration of the program of study

What are the basic requirements for student authorization?
You must satisfy the visa officer that you meet the requirements of the Canadian Immigration Act and Regulations and that you will be in Canada for a temporary stay. You must also:

• Satisfy a visa officer that you will be able to return to your country or be admitted to another country after your studies
• Have been unconditionally accepted by an approved educational institution
• Have enough money during your stay in Canada to pay for
  
  O  Tuition fees
  O  Living expenses for yourself and accompanying dependants and
  O  Return transportation for yourself and accompanying dependants
  
   
• Be law abiding and have no record of criminal activity (you may be asked to provide a Police Clearance Certificate)
• Not be a risk to the security of Canada
• Produce any additional documents requested by the visa officer to establish your admissibility
• Complete a medical examination, if required and
• Pay the fee

Application Process
This section explains how an application is made, how long it will usually take and how it will be processed by the visa office.

When should I apply?
The time required to process an application to study in Canada may vary at different visa offices. You should apply as early as possible, and allow at least six months to plan and prepare for your move. Note: Canadian universities suggest you apply for admission at least one year in advance of your planned arrival.

What documents are required?
You are required to provide the following documents for yourself and any accompanying dependants:

1. Proof of unconditional acceptance

• For attendance at a university, college or technical institution, a letter from the educational institution to show: O The name of the institution
  O Confirmation of your acceptance and/or registration as a student
  O The course of study
  O The duration of the academic program and
  O The latest date you may register
• For attendance at a primary or secondary school, a letter from the school board having jurisdiction for the school you are attending (or for private schools, a letter from the school itself), indicating: O The name of the school
  O The level of study and
  O The duration of the course

2. Proof of identity

• A valid passport or travel document or identity document that guarantees re-entry to the country that issued it (citizens and permanent residents of the United States, St. Pierre and Miquelon, and Greenland do not require a passport but do require proof of status such as a national identity card or an alien registration card); and
• Two recent passport size photos for each family member (the name and date of birth of the person should be written on the back of each photo).

3. Proof of financial support

• Evidence that you can support yourself and accompanying dependants while you study in Canada. Such evidence may include: O proof of a Canadian bank account in your name if money has been transferred to Canada
  O Your bank statements for the past four months; o a bank draft in convertible currency
  O Proof of payment of tuition and residence fees
  O For those with a scholarship or those with a Canadian funded educational program: proof of funding paid from
     within Canada
• If foreign exchange control measures exist in your country, you must provide proof that you will be permitted by the exchange control authorities of your country to export funds for all of your expenses; and
• If additional documents are required, a visa officer will inform you.

Note: Children under 16 years of age who are traveling alone must have information (name, address, phone number) about the person or school that will be responsible for them. If the child is the subject of a custody order, proof of custody and the other parent's consent must also be provided. Minors traveling without their parents require a letter of permission from the non-accompanying parent(s).

Will I need to attend an interview?
After reviewing your application, a visa officer will decide if an interview is necessary. If so, the visa officer will inform you of the time and place.

Will I or my accompanying dependants need a medical examination?
In some cases you will require a medical examination. A visa officer will decide on this and send instructions if a medical are required. It may add over three months to the processing of your application.

Can I work in Canada?
You may be able to work while you are studying in Canada only in special situations. It can be difficult to find a job in Canada. You should come to Canada with enough money to live and pay your bills while you are studying.

Do not work without authorization, if u do, you may be asked to leave Canada

How do I obtain an extension of my student authorization?

Phone your nearest Canada Immigration Centre in Canada at least two months before the expiry of your student authorization, to obtain an application in the mail.

Embassy contact information: Please contact the nearest Canadian embassy for information on what documentation you may require to enter Canada.

 

Money Matters

'Expenditure' is an area which most students would like to have detailed information first, before they plan their education abroad. In fact, awareness about the costs involved is 'very crucial' before one ventures into this expenditure-involved process.

Here are the details of Specific costs involved in Study Abroad Process

1. Application costs
Your study abroad plans start with the application process. If you want to apply for 4-6 universities/colleges, you have to consider Application Fees, Courier Charges, Cost of Documentation and Miscellaneous Expenditure like Stationary etc.

• USA : The average application fee is between $25-95 per US University. Very few colleges facilitate applications without fee, but most have an application processing fee, which is mandatory for international students.
• Like US, most Canadian universities do charge an application fee, which is around the same costs as US universities.
• For UK, France and Switzerland, there is no application fee for post-graduate applicants.
• Some Australian and New Zealand universities charge an application fee, however there are some universities/colleges offering free application.

Altogether, the average cost of applying to 4-5 universities may come to Rs 25,000 for USA and Canada and around Rs 10,000 for UK, Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland and France.

2. English Tests
Students have to write TOEFL/GRE/GMAT/SAT/IELTS as a prerequisite for admissions. Each student has to pay Coaching Fees and Examination Fees as prescribed by the respective Testing Agencies. The total expenditure for tests will be in the range of 8,000-15,000.

3. Scores reporting costs
Scores of TOEFL and GRE / GMAT / SAT are to be directly reported for the application process. Following are the present charges for score reporting (in addition to what ETS / College Board allows FREE, at the time of registration)

TOEFL - $17	GRE - $15
GMAT - $28	SAT - $ 9
IELTS - Local center will determine the cost of additional score reporting

Students can save $40-$90, if they can report the scores to the respective universities at the time of Exam itself.

4. Tuition and fees
Interestingly, Bachelor's degree is costlier than Master's degree because of the more number of credits involved at Grad level. Please note that all the costs indicated are approximate and vary upon the universities and programs. These costs will hike from one year to another. However, the average increase is around 5-10% per annum.

5. Cost of living expenditure
Cost of food alone will come approximately to $ 300 per month in US/Canada and other countries. If you include other incidental expenditure like rent, entertainment and other expenses, the average could be around $ 800-1000 per month, for a single student.

6. Insurance
Insurance is mandatory for all international students, who plan to study abroad. Depending upon the company and policy taken, the cost of insurance for a student could be around Rs 15,000 - 20,000 per year, in any of the countries being discussed.

7. Books and supplies
This could be anywhere between US $ 400-1200 per year, depending upon field of study and the courses chosen.

8. Other costs
Visa application fee, air fare and settlement expenses like deposit on room/flat, basic necessities etc. are also to be factored in, while calculating the expenditure involved for studying abroad.

Presently, the Visa application fee is around Rs 4,400 for USA, Rs 5,100 for UK

Air fare could be between Rs 15,000 to 45,000 depending upon the country, season and airline.

 

 

 

Here is a Chart of Educational Costs: CANADA   TUITION FEES LIVING EXPENSE Under Graduation 10000-12000 CAD 8000-10000 CAD/Year Post Graduation 10000-15000 CAD 8000-10000 CAD/Year To sum up, a minimum expenditure is ideal towards preliminary expenditure - including coaching costs for TOEFL, GRE etc. and an additional Rs 3-4 lakhs towards tuition and fees for one semester and living expenses for two-three initial months. In case if bank loan or any other educational loans is available, you may not need to carry much money physically, since most payments would be taken care by the loan-granting institution. Some private education loans even pay for your living expenditure when you study abroad!

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