Study in Canada

 Steps for applying to a Canadian education institution:

Step 1: Understand the Requirements

Successfully applying to a Canadian educational institution requires understanding the specific requirements for schools and the courses they offer. Here are some common requirements applicable to all universities and institutions:

• Valid passport
• Proficiency in either English or French (with proof of passing prescribed language tests)
• Academic transcripts

Step 2: Choose Your Course and Institution

Begin by ascertaining whether the institution you’re interested in is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Only DLIs can admit foreign students. You can find a list of DLIs on the official Canadian government website.

Step 3: Take the Language Proficiency Test

To gain entry into Canada, international students must prove proficiency in English or French. While IELTS is the preferred test for English proficiency, some institutions also accept scores from the Cambridge English: Advanced or TOEFL exams. Additionally, a few Canadian universities recognize English certificates from the Ethiopian Ministry of Education, confirming English as the medium of instruction in secondary schools in Ethiopia. To widen your options, consider taking English proficiency tests. 

Step 4: Apply to Universities

Once you’ve confirmed your interest, submit your documents and pay the application fee. The university will then send an acceptance letter, which plays a significant role in the subsequent formalities.

Step 5: Apply for a Study Permit

With an institution ready to admit you, it’s time to apply for the Canada Study Permit. You can apply online or visit your local visa application center. If applying online, ensure you have a valid credit or debit card for payment.

Step 6: Travel Time

Once your application has been processed, an immigration officer will decide on your study permit application. If accepted, start planning your travel to Canada. Your permit will have a start date, and you won’t be allowed to enter Canada before that date. Plan your travel accordingly. 🌟

Study permit application documents and other essential details:

Study Permit Application Documents

1. Acceptance Letter from Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Canada

   • You’ll need an acceptance letter from the Canadian educational institution where you plan to study.

2. Valid Passport or Travel Document

   • Online applicants should upload a copy of the information page of their passport during the application process.
   • Once approved, you’ll need to send your original passport.

3. Two Recent Passport-Size Photos

   • Write the name and date of birth of the applicant on the back of each photo.

4. Proof of Financial Support

   • You must demonstrate that you can support yourself and any accompanying family members while in Canada.
   • Acceptable forms of proof include:
     • Proof of a student or education loan from a bank (if applicable)
     • Bank statements for the past 4 months
     • A bank draft that can be converted to Canadian dollars
     • Evidence of tuition and housing fee payments
   • The minimum funds required to support yourself as a student are $10,000 CAD plus your first-year tuition fee.
   • You can also provide additional documents related to assets in Ethiopia, such as a vehicle registration certificate.

5. Letter of Explanation/Study Plan/Motivation Letter

   • This letter helps the visa officer understand your goals and why you want to study in Canada. It also confirms your understanding of your responsibilities as a student.

6. Police Clearance Certificate

   • This certificate shows whether you have any criminal record.

7. Medical Certificate

   • You can undergo the medical exam either before or after applying for a student permit.
   • The examination ensures you are not inadmissible for medical reasons.
   • The physical examination should be carried out at the following institution in Addis Ababa:
     • IOM Addis Ababa
     • Address: Bole Kefle Ketema, Woreda 03/05, Meseret Defar Road, Behind Millennium Hall.

Associated Costs

• Study Permit Application Fee: $150 CAD
• Biometric Fee: $80 CAD
  • You may also need to pay third-party fees, such as medical check fees and police clearance fees.

Study Permit Details

• A study permit allows foreign nationals to study at DLIs in Canada.
• Note that a study permit is not a visa; it does not grant entry into Canada.
• You may also require a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA).
• If your study permit is approved, an eTA will be issued along with it.
• Typically, a study permit is valid for the duration of your study program, plus an additional 90 days. Use these 90 days to prepare to leave Canada or apply for an extension if needed. 

🔘 International students can work 20 hours a week during school semesters and full time during school breaks.

🔘 As stated on your study permit holder, you may be able to work on-campus or off-campus without getting a work permit.

🔘 You can work off-campus if:

• You are enrolled in a designated learning institute.
• You have started your study program.
• Your study program leads to a degree.
• You have applied for a social insurance number.

NB: Working more than 20 hours per week during study time is a violation of your study permit conditions. Doing so can result in losing your student status and may affect your eligibility for future study or work permits. You might also have to leave the country.

Available part-time student jobs in Canada include:

• Bookkeeper
• Customer service assistant
• Office assistant
• Restaurant staff
• During summer breaks, you can find temporary jobs at festivals, camps, concerts, holiday venues, and even explore online tutoring, market research participation, proofreading, social media management, data entry, and freelance writing.

Earnings:

• The average part-time student salary in Canada is $35,100 per year or $18 per hour.
• Entry-level positions start at $29,250 per year, while experienced workers can earn up to $68,250 per year.

Working after completing your study program:

• If you’ve already applied for a work permit, you can work full-time if you meet these requirements:
  • You were already able to work off-campus during your studies.
  • You applied for a work permit or post-graduation work permit (PGWP) before your study permit expired.
  • You’re waiting for a decision on your work permit application. ✔️

Accommodation

Student Dormitory

Most dormitories come furnished and provide an excellent opportunity to engage in campus activities and connect with fellow students. The average cost of residence or dormitory rooms ranges from $3,000 to $7,500 CDN per school year.

Apartments

Many newcomers opt to rent apartments on a monthly basis. Rental costs vary across cities and regions in Canada. Generally, apartments outside large cities are more affordable. Here’s an approximate breakdown:

• Renting a room: At least $350 per month
• Renting a larger apartment or house: At least $2,000 per month Consider seeking assistance from immigrant-serving organizations in your chosen settlement area to find housing that fits your budget.

Buying Property

If you’re interested in buying a house, you’ll likely need a mortgage. Banks and lending institutions assess your income, assets, and credit rating. Most banks require you to contribute at least 10% of the house cost from your own funds.

Health Insurance

Health insurance for international students in Canada varies by location and insurance provider. On average, yearly premiums for health insurance range from $600 to $900 CAD.

Basic Expenses

Food

Food expenses depend on family size. If you frequently dine out or buy specialty items, costs can increase. On average, a person spends around CAD 200 per month on meals and groceries.

Clothing

Clothing expenses typically account for less than 10% of your take-home pay. Consider checking out second-hand shops, where you can find used clothing and furniture at very affordable prices.

Transportation

Getting around Canada depends on the distance you’re traveling:

• Local Travel:
  • Buses, subways, taxis, bicycles, and walking are common modes of local transportation.
  • Public transport is cost-effective compared to private options.
  • Expect to spend approximately $80 CAD per month on public transportation.

Remember to plan ahead and explore the best options based on your location and needs. Safe travels!