Studying at internationally renowned universities in Canada is a popular choice for international students from many nations because the most excellent colleges in Canada provide a wide range of courses, globally recognized degrees, and vibrant campuses.
International students apply in considerable numbers to Canada’s leading universities for undergraduate and graduate programs. Because the building and architectural industries are flourishing in Canada, many students look into the best engineering institutes in the country. Canada offers a diverse and multicultural environment, world-class public infrastructure, and promising work opportunities for qualified graduates. In conclusion, studying abroad in Canada provides a wealth of opportunities.
McGill University, the University of Toronto, and the University of British Columbia are among the top 50 universities in the world as rated by the QS World University Rankings 2023. University of Alberta, Université de Montréal, McMaster University, University of Waterloo, and Western University are among the top 200 universities in the QS World University Rankings 2024.
Along with engineering and technology programs, three universities are ranked among the top 50 for programs in the Arts, Humanities, Medicine, and Life sciences. These research and rankings attest to Canada’s superior educational curriculum, prestigious institutions, and the country’s inviting ambiance and promising academic and career opportunities.
Why Study in Canada After the 12th?
There are several compelling reasons if you wish to study in Canada after the 12th. Twelve leading Canadian Universities have found a place in the Times Higher Education Supplement Top 200. Based on the QS World University Ranking 2018, McGill University, the University of British Columbia, and the University of Toronto have found a place within the top 50 list. The top 100 includes the University of Waterloo, along with these three names in QS World University Rankings by Subject 2018: Engineering and Technology. The three universities have also been placed in the top 50 for Arts, Humanities, Medical, and Life Sciences courses. These studies and rankings are a testament to the superlative educational curriculum and distinguished institutions in Canada, along with the country’s welcoming ambiance and excellent future academic/career prospects. In fact, more than 5 lakh international students applied to study in Canada in 2017.
Canadian Education Framework
If you want to study in Canada after 12th, you will have to keep its educational framework in mind. Canada is popular amongst international applicants owing to its educational system which is regarded as one of the best globally. Along with offering top-class infrastructure and facilities in tandem with highly qualified and experienced faculty members, Canadian universities also offer beautiful and scenic landscapes, proximity to various attractions and scope of working during the course or post-completion along with exclusive healthcare benefits for students.
Valid study permits are sufficient for students to obtain employment after completing their studies since no separate work permit is needed in this regard. Yet, if students are planning to stay in Canada for some more years, then they will have to apply for a requisite work visa. With the country witnessing diverse seasonal fluctuations, there are several activities relevant for every season.
Canada is a popular educational destination for students across the globe. The picturesque beauty and amazing landscapes make the country one of the most recommended spots for international students. The world-class educational facilities are well-recognized in the world. Canada is filled with academic institutions with cutting-edge facilities, the best placement offers, high-ranking research techniques, and excellent career opportunities.
Some cities in Canada are best-known for their perfect environment to study and stay such as Vancouver, Montreal, and Toronto. International students must choose their location based on educational institutions, safety, cost of living, beauty, etc.
The top 5 cities for international students are as follows:
Montreal
Vancouver
Toronto
Ottawa
Quebec City
Top Universities of Canada
There are numerous courses in Canada after 12th for international students. Along with full-time courses, universities also have diploma courses for 1-3 years and PG Diploma courses for 1-2 years. There are vocational and certificate courses too. The subject that you choose after 12th will have a direct bearing on your academic future and professional career.
QS Ranking 2024
Universities
34=
University of Toronto
31
McGill University
47
University of British Columbia
110
University of Alberta
154
University of Waterloo
172=
Western University
116=
Université de Montréal
242
University of Calgary
152
McMaster University
237=
University of Ottawa
246=
Queen's University at Kingston
308=
Dalhousie University
328=
Simon Fraser University
359=
University of Victoria (UVic)
473=
University of Saskatchewan
456
York University
Source: QS WUR 2024, TopUniversities.com
Top Universities for Arts & Humanities in Canada
Programs in Arts & Humanities in universities that are offered in Canada are Archaeology, Art & Design, Classics & Ancient History, English Language & Literature, History, Linguistics, Modern Languages, Performing Arts, Philosophy, Theology, Divinity & Religious Studies etc.
QS WUR Ranking by Subject 2023
QS WUR Ranking by Subject 2022
Institution
15
16
University of Toronto
23
30
University of British Columbia
36
37
McGill University
148
120
Université de Montréal
171
180
University of Alberta
183
159
York University
195
234
Queen's University at Kingston
204
210
University of Calgary
224
242
Simon Fraser University
236
283
Concordia University
236
242
University of Ottawa
247
288
Western University
293
253
Université du Québec
Source: QS WUR by Subject 2023, TopUniversities.com
Top Universities for Engineering & Technology in Canada after 12th
Programs in Engineering & Technology that are offered in universities of Canada are Computer Science & Information Systems, Chemical Engineering, Civil & Structural Engineering, Electrical & Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mineral & Mining Engineering, Petroleum Engineering etc.
QS WUR Ranking by Subject 2023
QS WUR Ranking by Subject 2022
Institution
27
34
University of Toronto
33
36
University of British Columbia
37
49
University of Waterloo
41
53
McGill University
93
126
University of Alberta
119
104
Université de Montréal
147
177
University of Calgary
169
208
Queen's University at Kingston
214
236
McMaster University
224
281
University of Ottawa
249
273
Western University
293
332
Concordia University
348
303
Université du Québec
Source: QS WUR by Subject 2023, TopUniversities.com
Top Universities for Life Sciences & Medicine in Canada
Programs in Life Science & Medicine that are offered in universities of Canada are Agriculture & Forestry, Anatomy & Physiology, Biological Sciences, Dentistry Medicine Nursing, Pharmacy & Pharmacology, Psychology, Veterinary Science etc.
QS WUR Ranking by Subject 2023
QS WUR Ranking by Subject 2022
Institution
13
12
University of Toronto
22
24
University of British Columbia
26
28
McGill University
48
49
McMaster University
69
75
University of Alberta
97
87
Université de Montréal
115
108
University of Calgary
142
152
University of Ottawa
175
162
Western University
185
166
Université Laval
196
223
Queen's University at Kingston
204
195
Dalhousie University
Source: QS WUR by Subject 2023, TopUniversities.com
Top Universities for Social Sciences & Management
Programs in Social Sciences & Management that are offered in universities of Canada are Accounting and Finance, Anthropology, Business & Management Studies, Communication and Media Studies, Development Studies, Economics and Econometrics, Education and Training, Hospitality & Leisure Management, Law and Legal Studies, Library & Information Management, Politics, Social Policy & Administration, Sociology, Statistics and Operational Research etc.
QS WUR Ranking by Subject 2023
QS WUR Ranking by Subject 2022
Institution
15
21
University of Toronto
17
31
University of British Columbia
42
43
McGill University
136
185
Western University
139
129
Université de Montréal
144
199
Queen's University at Kingston
152
189
University of Alberta
209
238
University of Calgary
209
234
York University
218
234
University of Waterloo
227
298
University of Ottawa
275
285
Simon Fraser University
Source: QS WUR by Subject 2023, TopUniversities.com
Top Universities for Natural Sciences in Canada
Programs in Natural Sciences that are offered in universities of Canada are Chemistry, Earth & Marine Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Geography, Geology, Geophysics, Materials Science, Mathematics, Physics & Astronomy, etc.
QS WUR Ranking by Subject 2023
QS WUR Ranking by Subject 2022
Institution
17
26
University of British Columbia
23
24
University of Toronto
41
63
McGill University
74
93
University of Waterloo
112
152
University of Alberta
171
184
Université de Montréal
182
241
University of Calgary
200
275
Queen's University at Kingston
248
271
University of Ottawa
257
275
McMaster University
280
351
Western University
Source: QS WUR by Subject 2023, TopUniversities.com
Courses Offered by Top Universities after 12th in Canada
Top 5 universities of Canada according to QS World Ranking offer variety of courses for undergraduates. Below table is
University
Courses
McGill University
BA in Economics & Finance; BSc in Microbiology and Immunology; B.Eng. Computer Engineering; BCom in International Management; BSc in Agricultural and Environmental Sciences; BA/ BSc in Psychology; BSc in Nursing
University of Toronto
BBA; BCom; BA in Economics, BA Hons in Criminology, Law & Society, BA Hons in Media, Journalism & Digital Cultures, BSc Hons in Paramedicine, Bachelor of Applied Science in Electrical Engineering, BSc Hons in Data Science
University of British Columbia
BSc in Nursing, BA in Psychology, BA in Economics, BSc in Biotechnology, Bachelor of Applied Science in Computer Engineering, BSc in Physics, BSc in Computer Science
University of Alberta
BCom, BA in Criminology, BA in Anthropology, BA in Environmental Studies, BSc in Nursing, BSc in Computer Engineering, Bachelor of Science Electrical Engineering, Bachelor of Science Pharmacy, BCom in Marketing, BCom in Finance, BCom in International Business
Université de Montréal
BSc in Biological Sciences, BA in Sociology, BSc in Biological Sciences, BA in History, BSc in Chemistry
Best Courses in Canada after 12th – UG, Diploma & Certificate
Students in Canada can choose from the plenty of courses offered after 12th for international students. The country not only provides full-time programs, but the universities also have diploma courses with a duration of one to three years and PG Diploma courses with a tenure of a maximum of one to two years. The students can also choose from vocational and certificate courses after 12th.
Here is a detail about the types of undergraduate courses students can pursue in Canada:
Certificate Programs:
These programs span three to eight academic months of post-secondary study of one subject. The candidates gain knowledge and skills for the entry-level profession after these programs.
College or University Diploma:
The College Diploma programs are a minimum of two full-time academic years of post-secondary study. These programs also offer industrial and technical skills.
Associate Degree:
These are usually two-year full-time study programs in arts, humanities, and social science fields. It is equivalent to the first two years of the regular four-year degree program. Upon completing an associate degree program, students can move to a bachelor’s degree using their credit points to enroll in a university/college.
Apply Now: Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Canada
Top Courses in Canada
Although there are no subject-specific criteria for choosing a system in Canada, some courses students generally opt for after 12th. There are many renowned B-schools in Canada. For Indian students, a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) is a preferred choice of courses after commerce in 12th. Similarly, students choose to go for a Bachelor’s in Technology science courses in canada after their 12th.
The table below shows some of the specializations/programs in different areas students can choose for their undergraduate studies in Canada.
Stream
Specialization
Commerce
BBA, BCom, BA LLB, CS, CA, Cost Accounting, BCA
Arts
Language and Linguistics, Journalism, Fashion Design, Human Rights, Filmmaking, Philosophy, Economics, Political Science, Music, Hotel Management
Diploma in Office Administration, Diploma in Business Administration (HR/Marketing/Finance), Diploma in Hotel Management
Diploma courses (Technical)
Heavy Duty Equipment Technician, Electronics Engineering Technician, Architectural Technology, Automotive Service Technician, Automotive Power Technician
Top Management Courses in Canada
B-Schools in Canada are highly reputed and offer superlative management courses to students worldwide. BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration) is a highly preferred course for Indian students.
Here is a list of courses in Canada after the 12th for Management Programs-
BBA (HR Management)
BBA (Supply Chain Management)
BBA (Finance)
BBA (Accounting)
BBA (Marketing)
BBA (Retail Management)
UG Diploma programs in Management-
Diploma in Business Administration (HR)
Diploma in Business Administration (Marketing)
Diploma in Business Administration (Finance)
Diploma in Office Administration
BBA Courses are especially popular in Canada amongst management aspirants from India and other countries. Aspirants can take a closer look at the exclusive BBA program at Yorkville University offered by upGrad Abroad. For the first two years of the program, students will be studying online at Chandigarh University, while the final two years will revolve around on-campus study at Yorkville University, Canada.
Eligibility for the course is 50% marks in Class XII, while students can save a whopping INR 25 lakh compared to a regular Canadian degree course. They also get assistance with TOEFL/IELTS/PTE training, live and group classes, end-to-end support with applications, visa applications, counseling, and post-study work visa opportunities for up to 3 years.
In Canada, each university’s application and admissions procedure is handled separately, and the process is generally straightforward.
As a result, students should go to the website of the university they want to attend and make sure they meet all of the entrance standards specified there. The following are some of the most commonly requested documents during the application process:
Academic transcripts.
Relevant school completion documentation (Marksheets, Transfer Certificate)
Letter of Intent/Statement of Purpose/ Resume as per the guideline of university
Recommendation letters (if required)
Proof of extracurricular/athletic/community service involvement (if required)
Loan or Financial Documents
Application process and deadlines for Undergraduate Courses
For undergraduate courses, most of the deadlines for the Fall semester are between December and March and for the Winter semester are between September and November.
The admissions for these courses are restricted to Fall and Winter. There are no admissions for the spring/summer courses. Some of the exceptions in summer intakes are the University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, and University of Alberta
1. Choose a Course
In Canada, there are tons of course alternatives. Therefore, the first step on your path to continuing your education in Canada after the 12th grade is selecting a course that fits your interests, background, and preferences.
2. Choose a university
There is a comprehensive list of universities in Canada that admit foreign students. Not all universities, though, will fit your budget and offer the education you choose. Make a checklist of the colleges that best suit your needs before further. After high school, you might think about attending one of these top Canadian universities:
3. Check eligibility
In Canada, there are distinct eligibility requirements for each university and course. You can only be admitted to a certain university and course if you match the prerequisite eligibility requirements.
On the university website, you can find the necessary eligibility details.
4. Documentation
You must arrange your documents prior, in order to study in Canada. On time availability of these documents is essential because your application could be rejected if any are missing or presented improperly.
5. Apply and wait for acceptance
The university’s official website is where the application can be submitted. Getting a response from the university could take a few days or weeks. If your application is accepted, you will obtain an offer of admission. By following the necessary instructions provided by the university, you can reserve your seat there.
Academic cycle
Canadian colleges and universities admit students in three intakes. Some universities refer to the intakes as semesters. The three intakes in Canada are:
Cost of Studying in Canada for International Students after 12th
Canada is known as one of the preferred destinations for overseas education. Besides quality education, an excellent lifestyle, and multiple opportunities, an affordable tuition fee compared to other developed nations is the prominent reason to attract students. For students to study in Canada after the 12th, the average tuition fee ranges between CAD13,500 to CAD 38,000 annually for undergraduate courses. However, the students must pay about CAD 2,000 to CAD 18,000 yearly for diploma or certificate programs.
Living in Canada may require costs hovering between C$400-C$800 every month. Accommodation may cost somewhere around C$4800-C$7200 every month, while food may cost anywhere around C$250-C$300 every month. Miscellaneous costs may also vary between C$215-C$280 per month. Regarding accommodation, several universities offer on-campus housing for international and national students, although rooms are not guaranteed. Students will have to apply separately for on-campus residences, which will be charged separately. The costs vary across universities, depending upon parameters like meals, type of rooms, and other vital amenities.
While global students have reserved rooms, advanced applications are necessary to combat the rush. International students may consider apartment/flat sharing and rentals. A two-bedroom apartment may cost somewhere around C$600-1,600 every month, depending upon the neighborhood, city, and apartment type. You will have to pay for electricity, internet, cell phone, personal and laundry costs, and renter’s insurance. Most students choose public transport such as ferries, commuter trains, subways, and buses for reaching campus. Student discounts are provided if you obtain student passes that cost roughly C$80-C$110 every month.
All international students will have to invest in health insurance in Canada, and costs will vary from one State to another. Provinces like British Columbia, Labrador, Alberta, Newfoundland, and New Brunswick offer coverage for medical care of international students under their provincial health care system. Coverage majorly depends upon the length of the international student’s stay in the country.
The SPP (Student Partners Program) was launched in April 2009 as a joint administrative venture between the CIC (Citizenship and Immigration Canada) and ACCC (Association of Canadian Community Colleges). The key goal here is to streamline the admission and visa procedure for CICs to enable an increase in the number of visas issued for Indian students aspiring towards the same.
CICs usually have a high number of Indian aspirants applying for PG and UG diploma courses, and the program was made to help them with the visa and admission procedures. The program has been a success, listing 47 community colleges under this program.
Numerous well-known universities from various Canadian provinces are covered by SPP, including
Alberta
British Columbia
Manitoba
Ontario
Saskatchewan
Eligibility/Requirements for Undergraduate Degrees Under the SPP-
IELTS exam result of 6.5 throughout, with no band below 6.0 in any component.
With rare exceptions for students with good grades and a three-year gap, a study gap of no more than two years is generally desired.
The student should have an overall minimum score of 50% in their most recently finished diploma or degree.
Proof of one-semester or one-year tuition payment (as asked by the SPP institution).
Purchase a CAD 10,000 ScotiaBank Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) to cover living costs for your first year in Canada.
You are not eligible to apply under the SPP if you have previously been denied a Canadian student visa.
Student visa for Canada: Application requirements
As soon as the university sends you a letter of admission, you should apply for a student visa to Canada. You need to provide the following paperwork to apply for a student visa in Canada
Letter of acceptance
Passport
Photographs passport size
Financial support documents
Statement of Purpose
Language proficiency test score
Medical Certificate
Custodian declaration in case of minor
For Ontario Colleges and Universities-
Ontario University Application Center (OUAC) is a unified application system for applying to universities in Ontario province. You need to visit the portal and fill out the application details.
For Quebec Colleges and Universities-
In Quebec province, applicants must submit application forms at the respective university’s registrar’s office. It is also a unified procedure for universities in the province of Quebec.
For getting admission into the best courses after 12th in Canada, you will have to furnish several documents at the application stage. For undergraduate courses in Canada, there are several documents that you will require at the time of admission, post getting the offer letter.
Visa and part-time work
The application procedure may require anything up to seven weeks since numerous documents will have to be processed.
You will have to apply for your visa likewise.
You will have to apply for a student visa and convince the immigration officer during your interview.
You should have a valid letter of admission/acceptance from the Canadian university, medical certificate, no earlier record of criminal or unlawful activity, ample funds for enabling education and living costs and should not be any risk to the security of the country.
Students should also check with the university and regulations of the territory/state for added proof and documents.
The benefit of studying in Canada is that students are allowed to work in North America while graduating. Upon completing two semesters or one year of the educational program, students are eligible for a year of post-graduate work permit in both North America and Canada. Completing two or more years of the course or at least four semesters ensure eligibility for a three year work permit. You can also work part-time while pursuing the course.
Canada is thus one of the most preferred countries for Indian students after 12th as it offers high standards of living, comparative affordability with regard to tuition fees and lucrative options for further studies and employment alike.
York University International Student Scholarship Program
International students with a solid academic record who are accepted to York University are eligible for scholarships ranging from CAD 60,000 to CAD 100,000 for a four-year degree.
Winnipeg President’s Scholarships for World Leaders
The President’s Scholarship for World Leaders at the University of Winnipeg is given to international students enrolling for the first time in any university’s divisions. The scholarships are worth between CAD 3,500 and CAD 5,000.
Humber College International Entrance Scholarships
Incoming international students starting classes in September and January are eligible for renewing full and partial tuition subsidies.
University of British Columbia Scholarships for International Students
UBC acknowledges excellent students worldwide by allocating more than CAD 10 million per year to awards, scholarships, and other kinds of financial aid for international undergraduate students.
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program at the University of Toronto is designed to encourage international students who excel academically and creatively and are regarded as leaders in their communities. The scholarship will cover four years of tuition, books, incidental fees, and living expenses.
Carleton Prestige Scholarships
Prestige scholarships are available to outstanding incoming undergraduate students with an entrance average of 90% or higher. CAD 20,000-30,000 is the value of the Chancellor’s Scholarship, the Richard Lewar Entrance Scholarship, the Carleton University Scholarship of Excellence, and the Carleton University SHAD Scholarship. The Riordon Scholarship and the Collins Prestige Scholarship, on the other hand, cover full tuition for four years.
Calgary International Entrance Scholarships
The University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship is a distinguished grant that acknowledges the remarkable achievements of international students starting their undergraduate studies at the University. The undergraduate program costs CAD 60,000 in total over four years.
BBA Courses are especially popular in Canada amongst management aspirants from India and other countries. Aspirants can look at the exclusive BBA program at Yorkville University offered by upGrad Abroad. For the first two years of the program, students will be studying online at Chandigarh University, while the final two years will revolve around on-campus study at Yorkville University, Canada.
Eligibility for the course is 50% marks in Class XII, while students can save a whopping INR 25 lakh compared to a regular Canadian degree course. They also get assistance with TOEFL/IELTS/PTE training, live and group classes, end-to-end support with applications, visa applications, counseling, and post-study work visa opportunities for up to 3 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum percentage required for studying in Canada after 12th?
70% or higher in Class XII is required for studying at most UG programs in Canada. Test scores will also play a major part.
What if I score lower marks?
You can still study in the country if you have scored a lower percentage in the 12th standard. Your admission will also depend upon the test scores. You can also find diploma programs or SPP colleges where the percentage criteria are flexible. Some universities even offer Pathway or Foundational programs.
What are the test score criteria for admission into Canadian universities?
Most Canadian universities will require IELTS scores of 6.0/6.5 band or 213 in TOEFL in computer-based format and 550 in paper-based TOEFL exam.
What are the average tuition fees in Canada?
Tuition fees vary approximately between CAD 20,000-30,000 annually. However, the tuition fee for programs in Canada varies as per the universities and programs.
How to study in Canada after 12th science?
After completing Chemistry, Maths, Physics, and elective subjects such as Economics, Computer Science, and others, students can opt for courses offering high salaries after studying 12th with science. There are many courses that students can choose to study apart from medical courses in Canada after 12th. One of the popular non-medical courses post class 12th is the B Arch or the Bachelor of Architecture.
What are SPP colleges in Canada?
SPP colleges are gateways for Indian students to study in top educational institutions in Canada. Many SPP universities and colleges provide certificate courses and undergraduate, doctoral, postgraduate, and diploma programs in different disciplines. According to their marks, students can opt for any courses in Canada after 12th.
What percentage is required to study hotel management after 12th in Canada?
After class 12th, Hotel management has a good scope. The hotel industry offers a promising career, and students can opt to study the subject after any stream. Students must pass with a minimum of 50% marks to be eligible for admission to hotel management colleges to study in Canada after 12th.
Is it good to go to Canada after 12th or graduation?
It is best for class 12th pass students to go to Canada as they can get acquainted with a system of Canadian education and lifestyle. Moreover, it will also be easier to get further admission after completing your bachelor’s degree in Canada.
Which are the best courses to study in Canada after 12th?
Some of the best courses to study in Canada after 12th are:
Engineering and Technology Courses- There is scope for programs in Engineering and Technology
Management Programs- Canada provides many business courses that students can choose from after class 12th
Science Programs- Colleges and universities of Canada have many world-class science degrees. Students with medical background without maths can opt from a variety of courses like Botany, veterinary sciences,food and nutrition etc.
Commerce Courses- There are a myriad of courses to choose from for students with commerce background. Students with commerce background without maths as subjects can choose programs like Supply Chain Management, Business studies, Marketing, LLB etc.
Paramedical and Healthcare programs
Design Programs.
What exams are required to Study in Canada after 12th?
Certain requirements need to be fulfilled to study in Canada after 12th. Firstly, students must prove they have good English skills. Students can choose any English proficiency assessments like the TOEFL, PTE, and IELTS.
Rakhee Talukdar is an edtech expert with five years of experience in the education technology sector, focusing on K-12 and higher education systems in various countries, including Canada, USA, Finland, France, and Germany. Her background includes founding a startup and working with early-stage educational ventures, giving her a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities within these educational landscapes. Additionally, Rakhee specializes in helping students craft compelling Statements of Purpose (SOPs) for studying abroad, leveraging her insights into different education systems to guide students in articulating their academic and professional goals effectively. Her comprehensive knowledge and strategic approach make her a valuable resource for students navigating their educational journeys and financial planning.
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