Study in Canada: A Complete Guide for Indian Students

Why Choose Canada as Your Study Abroad Destination?

Dreaming of studying in Canada in 2025? For Indian students, Canada isn’t just a destination-it’s the desh ki dhadkan of higher education. You're not alone! Known for its top-tier education system, multicultural society, global recognition, and welcoming environment, Canada is one of the most popular destinations for Indian students.

Canada isn’t just about maple syrup and breath-taking landscapes. It’s a place where dreams come true, Bollywood-style! Picture yourself saying, “Mera sapna sach ho gaya!” after receiving a degree from a globally ranked university. Canada offers:

• Global Recognition: A degree from Canada is like owning a Shah Rukh Khan autograph-respected and sought after worldwide.
• World class Education: Universities like the University of Toronto and McGill are consistently ranked among the best globally.
• Diverse Culture: You’ll find parathas in Toronto, chaats in Vancouver, and new friends from every corner of the world.
• Safety First: Canada ranks high on safety indices, making it an ideal destination for students stepping out of their homes for the first time.
• Post-Study Opportunities: Thanks to work permits and PR pathways, your Canadian education can be the prequel to a blockbuster career.

Canada’s Education System

Canada's education system is inclusive, student cantered, and geared toward producing globally competitive graduates. It integrates practical skills, critical thinking, and academic excellence, ensuring students are well-prepared for future challenges. With over 200 institutions, students have access to innovative research labs, practical learning, and career-focused curricula.

Education in Canada is governed by provincial and territorial governments, not the federal government. Each province has its own Ministry or Department of Education, responsible for setting curricula, policies, and funding. For example:

• Ontario: Ministry of Education.
• British Columbia: Ministry of Education and Child Care.

The Council of Ministers of Education, Canada (CMEC) serves as a collaborative body that ensures consistency and sharing of best practices across provinces and territories.

Popular Student-Friendly Cities in Canada

The QS World University Rankings 2025 ranked Montreal, Vancouver, Toronto, Ottawa and other Canadian cities as one of the best student cities in the world. Let’s learn more about these cities and what makes them unique.

• Montreal: Consistently ranked among the top student cities globally (QS Best Student City Rank 10 for 2025), is a haven for academic excellence and cultural exploration. Known for its European charm, historic neighbourhoods, and lively arts scene, Montreal offers a bilingual environment that is perfect for international students. Popular courses include medicine, engineering, business, and the humanities. Institutions like McGill University, and Université de Montréal provide world-class education in one of Canada's most student-friendly cities.
• Toronto: Often referred to as the financial and cultural heart of Canada, is a magnet for international students. Ranked 11 in the QS Best Student City Rankings for 2025, it offers a dynamic multicultural experience. The University of Toronto stands as a beacon of academic excellence, complemented by other prestigious institutions. Popular courses include business and finance, law, medicine, and technology, making Toronto a perfect destination for career-focused individuals.
• Vancouver: Ranked 19 as per the QS Best Student Cities in the world in 2025, Vancouver, with its stunning coastal backdrop and eco-friendly ethos, offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. This west coast city is home to globally ranked institutions like the University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University. Known for its programs in environmental sciences, computer science, and arts, Vancouver attracts students seeking innovation and sustainability. The city’s liveability, safety, and academic opportunities make international students attracted towards it.
• Ottawa: Canada’s political and intellectual hub, provides a quieter yet equally enriching environment for students. With a QS Best Student City Rank of 57 in 2025, it is renowned for safety, affordability, and quality education. The city is home to the University of Ottawa and Carleton University, offering exceptional programs in public administration, engineering, political science, and law. Its bilingual setting and proximity to government institutions provide unique opportunities for internships and networking.

Top Universities to Study in Canada in 2025

Home to numerous prestigious educational institutions, Canada is committed to academic excellence, research innovation, and industry-focused education. Let’s have a look at the top 5 universities in Canada as per the QS World Ranking 2025:

Top Courses to Pursue in Canada in 2025

Canada is attracting numerous international students in 2025 in high-demanding fields like:

• Computer Science and IT
• Engineering
• Healthcare and Medicine
• Business and Finance
• Environmental Sciences

Intakes in Canadian Universities

• Fall: The most popular intake, which runs from September to December. The application period is typically October to November.
• Winter: Runs from January to April or May. The application period is typically August to November. This intake is less popular than Fall, but it's a good option for students who missed the Fall deadline.
• Spring: Also known as the May or Summer intake, this intake runs from May to August. The application period is typically September to February. This is the least popular intake, and only a few universities offer courses during this time

Cost of Studying in Canada 2025

If you plan to pursue courses like arts, humanities and education in Canada, you’ll find it cheaper as compared to pursuing courses like medicine, engineering, business and management. Moreover, the costs would also differ depending on the program you choose.

Cost of Living in Canada 2025

Here's a list of the approximate breakdown of monthly expenses for international students:

Eligibility Criteria for Studying in Canada

If you plan to pursue your higher education in Canada, you must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma, bachelor's degree, or master's degree in a related field. You must meet the test score requirements for the exam you choose to take. For example, you may need a score of at least 6.0 on the IELTS, 90 on the TOEFL, or 300+ on the GRE. You need to prove sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and return transportation, with CAD 20,635 required in your bank account. Enrollment at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is necessary, and you must show intent to leave Canada once your study permit expires.

How to Apply for an Education Loan for Studying in Canada?

Securing an education loan to study in Canada can be a time-consuming process as you will compare various lenders to find the most suitable loan for you. It is also recommended that you start the loan process for studying in Canada at least 3-4 months before your enrolment day to ensure smooth and timely completion.

At Lorien Finance, we ensure you don’t have to go through this daunting and time-consuming process, thus, we do all the hard work for you.

On getting in touch with you, our loan counsellors understand all your needs related to securing a study abroad loan for Canada in your dream university and help you compare the interest rates among 15 international and domestic banks and NBFCs. They negotiate with these lenders on your behalf so that you fulfil your study-abroad dream cost-effectively.

Once you find the most suitable lender per your needs, the loan counsellor will help you proceed with the application process. After submitting all required information and necessary documents, your application will be logged in with the lender, who after carefully scrutinising it, will approve or reject it.

Lorien’s loan counsellors help you throughout the way to minimise any chances of loan rejection. Once the loan is sanctioned, you decide your loan disbursement date and finalise your loan.

We aim to ensure you have a smooth loan application process without any hassle so that your focus remains on your education abroad.

How to Apply for a Student Visa for Studying in Canada?

With some of the world’s top universities offering high-quality education, study in Canada for international students from all parts of the world are attracted to the country. Studying in Canada for Indian students to pursue higher education, require a study permit. To know everything you’d need for a study permit for Canada, continue reading:

Since you’re planning to pursue your bachelor's or master's in Canada, you would require a D study visa or a long-term study visa (meant for a stay of more than 3 months). It is recommended to apply for a long-term study visa up to 3 months before your date of travel to Canada from your home country.

• Start applying for your student visa online via the IRCC portal by creating an account.
• Complete the online form and prepare all necessary documents required for applying for your student visa in Canada.
• Upload scanned copies of all documents.
• Complete a fee payment of CAD 150 for your study permit.
• Book your biometrics collection appointment as soon as you can to avoid processing delays.

Documents Required for Applying for a Canadian Student Visa

• Study Permit Questionnaire
• Current and old passports, if any
• Letter of application/statement of purpose, outlining the reasons for selecting Canada, your provider and your course
• Acceptance letter from your Canadian university
• Evidence of fee payment for the course
• Previous academic mark sheets
• Language proficiency test results
• Proof of finances
• Medical insurance
• Photographs
• Income Tax Returns

Post-Study Work Visa in Canada

Once you complete your studies in Canada, you might want to stay a little longer and consider taking up career opportunities to gain work experience in your related field of study as part of your Canadian post-study work visa plan. This will only strengthen your CV and add to establishing your career once you decide to return to your home country.

You must apply for the post graduation work permit (PGWP) within 180 days of graduating. If your study permit expires before you apply, you can apply for a PGWP within 90 days after your study permit expires. To do this, you must first change your status to a visitor. You can apply for a PGWP from inside Canada or from another country. To apply online from outside Canada, you can get instructions from your local visa office.

FAQs

Can I work while studying in Canada?
You can work part-time i.e. up to 24 hours per week during your classes and full-term i.e. 40 hours per week during holidays. It is recommended to still check your visa guidelines for working on your study visa.

What are the English requirements for Canadian universities?
You are required to take an English proficiency exam to showcase your proficiency in the language. Most universities require IELTS or CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) General Test scores.

What are the options for study abroad loans in Canada?
At Lorien Finance, we have an array of loan options for your education in Canada. You can easily secure collateral as well as a non-collateral loan at competitive interest rates with us. Simply reach out to us and our team will guide you every step of the way.

What are the application deadlines for scholarships to study in Canada?
Application deadlines for scholarships to study in Canada vary depending on the scholarship. It is important to check the specific deadline for each scholarship.