Study in Canada After 12th: Education System & Requirements

As students from across the globe choose to study in Canada, the country has earned its reputation as the 'most sought-after study destination in the world'. Opting to study in Canada after completing the 12th grade is a wise choice for students aiming to study abroad. The country is home to the top 1% of universities in the world and follows an education strategy that prioritises international students. The warm and diverse student community benefits from opportunities to acquire new skills through study and work opportunities supported by Canada's thriving economy.

Top Reasons to Study in Canada After 12th

The Canadian government places a high value on international students who come to Canada to further their studies. It also offers a good quality of life, flexible education and job choices, and a varied and welcoming atmosphere.

However, we have listed some of the top reasons to study in Canada after 12th for international students here:

1. Safe study abroad destination: According to US News and World Report, Canada ranks third in terms of safety for overseas students. Be it the on-campus environments or cities in Canada, they all offer a safe and friendly atmosphere.
2. Flexible and high-quality education: Canadian universities provide a wide range of options, including 8,000 colleges and 16,000 university programmes. One of the most appealing aspects of Canadian colleges is the ease with which students can transition between programmes without experiencing any hurdles.
3. An affordable option: Studying in Canada is a cheaper option than other popular study countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia. Canada also offers a number of scholarships and financial aid programmes to help international students with their school costs.
4. A great start to your career: Studying in Canada after completing your 12th grade is an excellent investment since you can use your Canadian degree to develop a successful career in Canada, or elsewhere in the world.

Canadian Education System for International Students

International students can begin their education in Canada as early as elementary school and advance through high school, college/vocational courses, and higher education, including universities and graduate programmes. Additionally, language schools are accessible for students who desire to learn English or French.

Here is a quick overview of the Canadian education system for international students:

1. College and vocational schools: Canadian colleges and vocational institutions offer pupils a career-oriented experience and welcome them immediately after they complete class 12. These institutions provide a variety of courses, ranging from full-time to part-time, lasting from four months to four years.
2. Top-ranking Universities: Canada is one of the world's leading higher education locations. Universities in Canada include institutions of higher learning ranging from small, intimate learning environments to huge, research-intensive universities with global reputations.
3. Graduate studies: The term "graduate programmes" in Canada includes master's courses, PhD, and doctoral programmes in the fields of clinical medicine, biology, information and communication technologies, agriculture, fisheries and forestry, earth and environmental sciences, economics, and business.
4. Professional certificates: Accounting, education, financial planning, health care, information technology, legal, project management, and many other professions are offered by Canadian universities and professional bodies as avenues to professional and career certification. These courses provide practical information, assistance, and credibility to help you advance your career in Canada and overseas. It opens up a significant number of job opportunities.
5. Language Schools: Canadian language schools are the ideal venues to learn English or French while immersing oneself in a country unlike any other in the world. International students can learn English or French while working in Canada, or they can attend language courses to prepare for admission to a Canadian institution or college.

Admission Requirement to Study in Canada After 12th

To study in Canada after completing 12th grade (or equivalent), international students typically need to fulfil certain admission requirements. These requirements can vary depending on the specific programme, institution, and province. However, here are common admission requirements for undergraduate studies in Canada:

• Proof of completion of secondary education
• Language fluency through popular tests like IELTS Academic, CAEL, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge English, Duolingo, or PTE Academic
• Academic Transcripts to prove adequate academic performance
• Course-specific requirements such as minimum GPA, completed specific subjects like Science and Mathematics for STEM programmes.
• Standardised examinations SAT or ACT
• University/College Application Form
• Letter of Intent/Statement of Purpose
• Letters of Recommendation
• Financial Proof
• Visa and Study Permit

Top Courses to Study in Canada After 12th

The table below highlights some of the best universities and the respective popular courses that international students choose to study, every year.

Also Read: Best UG Courses to Study Abroad

Best Cities to Study in Canada After 12th

Canada offers a very safe, often economical, and high-quality lifestyle for international students. If you are planning to study in Canada after 12th grade, then here are a few cities and provinces that offer top universities and student-friendly lifestyles to international students after 12th grade:

• Alberta
• British Columbia
• Manitoba
• New Brunswick
• Newfoundland
• Labrador
• Northwest Territories
• Nova Scotia
• Nunavut Ontario
• Prince Edward Island
• Quebec
• Saskatchewan
• Yukon

Visa Application to Study in Canada after 12th

Once you're accepted, you'll receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from the institution. You can then apply for the visa application process. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a visa to study in Canada after 12th:

• Prepare Documents: Gather all the necessary documents required for your visa application. These typically include:
   
  • Valid passport
  • Letter of Acceptance from the Canadian Institution
  • Proof of financial support to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation
  • Passport-size photographs
  • Academic transcripts and certificates
  • Language proficiency test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
  • Medical examination reports (if required)
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Any other documents specified by the Canadian immigration authorities
• Apply for a Study Permit: Once you have all the necessary documents, you can apply for a Canadian study permit. You can apply online through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or through a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your country.
   
• Biometrics Appointment (if required): Depending on your nationality, you may need to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photographs) as part of the application process. You'll receive instructions on how to schedule and attend a biometrics appointment.
   
• Attend an interview (if required): In some cases, you may be required to attend an interview as part of the visa application process. The visa officer will ask questions about your study plans, financial situation, and ties to your home country.
   
• Wait for Processing: After submitting your application, you'll need to wait for it to be processed. Processing times can vary depending on the volume of applications and other factors.
   
• Receive a Decision: Once your application is processed, you'll receive a decision on your study permit application. If approved, you'll receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction along with your study permit. If your application is refused, you'll receive a letter explaining the reasons for the refusal.

Canada is globally renowned for its education system, which offers numerous international opportunities. Colleges and universities in Canada boast strong reputations, and these institutions are committed to maintaining the quality and continuously improving their programs. Starting your educational journey in Canada can seamlessly open doors to various educational institutions and career pathways. Connect with AECC counsellors today to get expert guidance to start your journey towards studying in Canada in the upcoming year.