CANADA · CHAPTER 1
Why Canada,and is it right for you?
Canada offers respected universities, a post-graduation work permit of up to three years and clear routes to permanent residence. Since 2024 it has capped study permits, raised proof-of-funds to CAD 23,448 (from 1 September 2026) and tightened PGWP rules, so choose your programme and institution carefully.
Published by Althéa Consulting · Adviser: Harshita Kohli
Source review: · How to use our guides
- Proof of funds (1 person)
- CAD 23,448
- Applications from 1 Sep 2026, excl. tuition
- Off-campus work
- 24 hours / week
- Unlimited in breaks
- PGWP
- Up to 3 years
- PAL for master's/PhD
- Not required
- Public institutions, since 1 Jan 2026
What Canada does well
- High-quality public universities and colleges
- PGWP of up to three years after eligible programmes
- Canadian work experience counts towards permanent residence
- Diverse, welcoming cities with large Indian communities
The honest trade-offs
Study permits are capped each year and most college and undergraduate applicants need a provincial attestation letter (PAL). Rents in Toronto and Vancouver are high, and the part-time job market is competitive.
PGWP rules now include language requirements and, for non-degree programmes, eligible fields of study. Pick a programme that keeps you eligible.
IN DEPTH · TAP A TOPIC TO OPEN
University or college?
| University | College / polytechnic | |
|---|---|---|
| Programmes | Bachelor's, master's, PhD | Diplomas, postgraduate certificates, applied degrees |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Teaching | Academic and research | Hands-on, industry-focused |
| PGWP rules | Degree programmes: no field-of-study list | Most programmes must match an eligible field |
| Spouse open work permit | Master's of 16+ months and PhD | Generally not available |
Things to know before choosing Canada
- Study permits are capped each year; most applicants need a provincial attestation letter (PAL/TAL)
- Housing is tight in Toronto and Vancouver; budget more or consider other cities
- Winters are long and cold in most provinces
- PGWP eligibility depends on your programme and language score
- Permanent residence is competitive and points-based
QUICK ANSWERS
Your questions, answered.
Yes for students who choose eligible programmes at strong institutions, plan their money carefully and understand the caps and PGWP rules. It is no longer an easy route for low-cost college programmes alone.
WHERE TO GO NEXT
Keep going: the pages that help next.
Each card says what you will find there. Looking for something else? See every page on the site.
CANADA GUIDE
Universities & colleges
Canadian universities vs colleges, degrees, diplomas, postgraduate certificates, DLIs and the September, January and May intakes.
CANADA GUIDE
Fees & cost of living
Canadian tuition for international students, CAD 23,448 living funds, permit fees and monthly costs in Toronto, Vancouver and other cities.
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Study in France
The full France guide: degrees, fees, Campus France, visa, housing and work, chapter by chapter.
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