Have you ever considered studying at a Canadian university? Canada is home to hundreds of prestigious universities, most of which accept overseas students. The decision to attend a particular university goes beyond reputation and standing. The secret is locating the best spot for you. We've explained how to enroll as a student in Canada and listed the top universities in Canada for 2023 to make things a little easier for you.
The higher education system in Canada is well-run, has excellent academic requirements, and uses contemporary teaching techniques. Every year, it draws tens of thousands of foreign students to the country who sign up for Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. programs provided by more than 90 academic institutions.
In addition, Canada is home to some of the best universities in the world. The World University Rankings 2023, published by Times Higher Education, lists 32 Canadian institutions among the top universities worldwide. Canada has numerous options for international students to receive a top-notch education, with seven universities ranking in the top 200. Additionally, Canada can offer more chances for permanent residency after graduation, lower tuition costs, and more straightforward application procedures than the US.
The University of Toronto and the University of British Columbia, Canada's top two institutions, receive very high marks for research impact, indicating that the academic output from these institutions is of the highest caliber and is widely regarded. There will be a sizable population of international employees and students at any university in Canada because many of the country's universities are recognized for fostering a global outlook by enlisting international students and staff and supporting international cooperation.
Top Universities in Canada
Which are the top Canadian universities in 2023? We've checked the latest global rankings, and here are the results:
University of Toronto
Public university The University of Toronto was founded in 1827. The university has three campuses, one of which is in Mississauga. More than 80,000 students are enrolled at the university. The university offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. Although French-language classes are also offered, English is the primary medium of instruction. One of the best universities in Canada and the entire world is the University of Toronto. It holds top positions in several areas, including:
· Arts and Humanities
· Social Sciences and Management
· Physical Sciences
· Engineering and Technology
University of British Columbia
The University of British Columbia (UBC) is a global education, research, and teaching center. Over 65,000 students are enrolled at UBC, one of the top 40 universities in the world. Founded in 1908, UBC has campuses in Vancouver and the Okanagan. In honor of its creativity and commitment to sustainability, the university was rated second internationally on the QS World University Rankings 2021 list of the most international universities. The university is ranked first in Canada and enjoys a solid international reputation for cutting-edge teaching and research excellence.
McGill University
One of Canada's top universities, McGill University, is currently ranked 46 globally. One of Canada's top universities for studying medicine is the university. The medical school at McGill University is additionally associated with three hospitals: Montreal General Hospital, Royal Victoria Hospital, and Montreal Children's Hospital. The university offers more than 300 courses in more than 40 disciplines, ranging from undergraduate to doctoral programs. The school is renowned for its law program, which Maclean's Magazine ranked sixth in the nation.
McMaster University
In the past year, McMaster has moved up two spots to take the top in Canada in the QS World University Rankings. The university received its highest score for employer stature and top marks for academic reputation, faculty-to-student ratio, and global research network. &0 research institutes and centers are located at McMaster, which strongly emphasizes the study of health sciences, such as cancer and stem cell engineering.
University of Montreal
Canada's most renowned university, the University of Montreal, will be among the top universities in the world in 2023. This public research university offers more than 650 undergraduate and graduate programs. About 34,000 students are enrolled there, with undergraduate students making up roughly 60% of the total. Three teaching hospitals and four research institutes are among the many affiliated hospitals that the University of Montreal maintains. To "change the future through educating leaders who will bring knowledge and skills to their communities" is one of its objectives. It also has connections to Polytechnique Montréal and HEC Montréal.
University of Alberta
The University of Alberta is a public research university in the Canadian province of Alberta (UAlberta). It currently ranks among the top six universities in Canada and enrolls more than 39,000 students from 155 different countries. Much like the region in which it is located, the University of Alberta is where individuals come together to develop, create, and improve things for the better.
University of Ottawa
The capital city of Canada is home to the multilingual University of Ottawa. It was founded in 1848 and served more than 43,000 students a year through its ten faculties, 170 graduate programs, and more than 450 undergraduate programs. Bilingual students have an advantage over other job candidates because they can communicate in two official languages after graduation. Additionally, students at the University of Ottawa have access to various degrees in many academic fields, including engineering, law, medical and health sciences, social sciences, education, and more.
How to Get a Study Permit in Canada
Every foreign student who wishes to pursue academic studies in Canada must obtain a study permit. If permitted, you may stay for as long as your study program lasts, plus an additional 90 days.
You must fulfill some prerequisites before applying for a study permit in Canada. These are what they are:
· to receive an acceptance letter into a Designated Learning Institution (DLI);
· both a passport and a travel document;
· It would be best if you had the financial means to support both yourself and any family members traveling to Canada;
You might need a different set of papers. But, again, this will vary depending on where you were born.
· A letter of explanation
· Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ);
· A custodian declaration, if you are a minor, and
· Additional documents may be requested from the officer.
However, it is essential to understand that the study permit does not serve as a visa for Canada and that you cannot enter the country on its own. Instead, you might need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), which Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada will give you (IRCC).
How long does it take to get a study permit in Canada?
Typically, it takes 9 to 11 weeks to get a study permit. The processing period starts once your application is received by the IRCC and is complete. When you get the application results, it's over. However, there is a stream where you can receive your outcomes more quickly. It is known as the Student Direct Stream.
What is the Student Direct Stream (SDS)?
The Student Direct Stream allows you to get a student visa more rapidly (SDS). The Student Direct Stream typically has a waiting period of around 20 calendar days. To apply for a Canadian study permit through the SDS, you must meet the following criteria:
· be a legal resident of one of the participating countries;
· do your biometrics as quickly as possible; and
· meet all eligibility requirements.
Furthermore, as an international student in Canada, you can only work 20 hours per week part-time. This is a great way to earn extra money while gaining extensive Canadian work experience. The Post-Graduation Work Permit Program offers you the opportunity to apply for an open work permit as an international student, which is a huge advantage.
What is the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program?
The Post-Graduation Work Permit Program allows you to work in Canada while holding an active work permit. This implies that you can work anywhere in Canada and for any employer. There are a few requirements, though, that you must meet.
It must be verified that:
· You have obtained a DLI qualification;
· A certified letter from your school or your transcript; and
· Each semester of your academic program, you must be enrolled full-time.
Furthermore, your PGWP could last anywhere from eight months to three years. There is still time to gain as much work experience as possible in Canada before applying for permanent residence through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).