College and University Admission for Newcomers in Canada: A Complete Guide
By WelcomeAide Team
Why Study in Canada?
Canada is home to world-class colleges and universities, many of which consistently rank among the top institutions globally. For newcomers, pursuing post-secondary education in Canada can open doors to better career opportunities, help you integrate into Canadian society, and provide a pathway to permanent residency through programs like the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and Express Entry. Whether you are a recent permanent resident, a refugee, or an international student, understanding the Canadian post-secondary system is the first step toward academic and professional success.
Canadian institutions offer a wide range of programs, from one-year certificates and two-year diplomas at colleges to four-year bachelor's degrees, master's programs, and doctoral degrees at universities. The choice between a college and a university often depends on your career goals, academic background, and financial situation.
Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs)
If you are an international student who needs a study permit, you must attend a designated learning institution (DLI). A DLI is a school that has been approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. All publicly funded colleges and universities in Canada are DLIs, but not all private institutions qualify. Always verify that your chosen school is on the DLI list before applying, as attending a non-DLI school may affect your eligibility for a study permit or PGWP.
How to Check If a School Is a DLI
You can search the official DLI list on the IRCC website. Each DLI has a unique identification number that you will need when applying for your study permit. If you are a permanent resident or Canadian citizen, the DLI requirement does not apply to you, but attending a recognized institution is still important for the quality of your education and the recognition of your credentials.
The Application Process
Applying to a Canadian college or university typically involves several steps. Most institutions accept applications through provincial application centres (such as the Ontario Universities' Application Centre, or OUAC, and ApplyAlberta) or directly through the institution's own website. Application deadlines vary, but most fall programs have deadlines between January and March of the same year. Some programs, especially competitive ones, may have earlier deadlines.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
First, research programs and institutions that align with your career goals. Consider factors such as program curriculum, location, campus facilities, co-op or internship opportunities, and graduate employment rates. Next, review the specific admission requirements for your chosen programs, which may include minimum grade point averages, prerequisite courses, portfolios, or entrance exams. Then, gather your required documents, which typically include official transcripts, proof of language proficiency, a statement of purpose or personal essay, letters of recommendation, and a copy of your passport or immigration documents.
Transcripts and Credential Evaluation
Canadian institutions require official academic transcripts from all previous educational institutions you have attended. If your transcripts are from a country outside Canada, they may need to be evaluated by a recognized credential assessment organization to determine their Canadian equivalency. Common assessment organizations include World Education Services (WES) and International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS).
The credential evaluation process can take several weeks, so plan ahead. You will typically need to request that your previous institutions send sealed, official transcripts directly to the evaluation agency or to the Canadian institution. Some schools may also require notarized translations if your transcripts are not in English or French. For more details on credential recognition, see our credential recognition guide for newcomers.
English and French Language Requirements
Most English-language institutions in Canada require proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English. The two most widely accepted tests are the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic and the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Some institutions also accept the Duolingo English Test, the Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) Assessment, or the Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic.
Minimum Score Requirements
Required scores vary by institution and program. As a general guideline, most undergraduate programs require an IELTS Academic overall band score of 6.0 to 6.5, while graduate programs often require 6.5 to 7.0. For TOEFL, typical minimum scores range from 80 to 100 on the internet-based test (iBT). Some institutions offer conditional admission, where you can begin language training through a pathway program before starting your academic studies. Check each institution's specific requirements, as they can differ significantly.
Tuition Costs and Financial Planning
Tuition fees in Canada vary widely depending on the institution, program, and your residency status. Canadian citizens and permanent residents pay domestic tuition rates, which are significantly lower than international student rates. For the 2025-2026 academic year, average annual domestic undergraduate tuition in Canada is approximately $7,000 to $8,000 CAD, while international undergraduate tuition averages around $38,000 to $40,000 CAD per year. Graduate tuition is generally lower but varies widely by program.
In addition to tuition, you should budget for living expenses, including housing, food, transportation, textbooks, health insurance (for international students not covered by provincial health plans), and personal expenses. A reasonable estimate for annual living costs in most Canadian cities is between $12,000 and $18,000 CAD, with higher costs in major urban centres like Vancouver and Toronto.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Canadian permanent residents and citizens are eligible for government student loans and grants through federal and provincial programs. International students generally do not qualify for government student loans but may be eligible for institutional scholarships, bursaries, or external awards. Many Canadian schools offer entrance scholarships based on academic merit, and some have dedicated funding for newcomers, refugees, or students from specific countries. Visit the Government of Canada student aid page for more information on federal and provincial programs.
Study Permits and Immigration Considerations
International students must obtain a study permit before arriving in Canada. To apply, you will need a letter of acceptance from a DLI, proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses, a valid passport, and potentially a medical exam and police clearance certificate. Processing times vary by country of origin, so check the IRCC website for current estimates and apply early.
If you are already in Canada as a permanent resident, you do not need a study permit and can apply to any institution regardless of DLI status. Refugees and protected persons may also have access to specific educational supports. For more about navigating the immigration system, explore our permanent residency pathways guide and our guide to working as an international student.
Support Services for Newcomer Students
Canadian colleges and universities offer extensive support services for newcomer students, including international student offices, academic advising, writing centres, peer tutoring, mental health counselling, career services, and cultural clubs. Many institutions also have settlement services on campus or partnerships with local settlement agencies that can help with housing, language support, and community connections.
Bridging and Pathway Programs
If your academic credentials or language proficiency do not yet meet the requirements for direct admission, many institutions offer bridging or pathway programs. These programs help you strengthen your academic skills, improve your English or French, and prepare for successful entry into a degree or diploma program. Completing a pathway program at a specific institution often guarantees admission to that institution's regular programs upon successful completion.
Next Steps and Resources
Applying to college or university in Canada is a multi-step process, but with careful planning and the right resources, it is very achievable. Start by researching your options, gathering your documents, and reaching out to admissions offices for guidance. For personalized support, use our AI Newcomer Navigator, browse our blog for more guides, or learn about WelcomeAide's mission to help newcomers thrive in Canada.