For every international student, Canada stands out as the top choice for abroad education. The nation is known for its welcoming atmosphere, diverse culture, and excellent education. However, if you wish to study in Canada, you must know about its various intakes. The primary intakes in Canada are the winter and fall intakes. You will also find several universities/colleges offering the summer intake. The application deadline for the Fall Intake begins from December till March.
Study in Canada Intakes: An Overview
| Number of Intakes in Canada | 3 (Fall, Winter, and Spring or Summer) |
| Best Universities for Fall Intake | University of Alberta, University of Waterloo, University of British Columbia, and McGill University |
| Popular Courses for Various Intakes | Fall Intake: MS, MA, MBA, etc.
Winter Intake: Specialised programs or fields. Summer Intake: Summer programs, internships, certified courses, etc. |
| English Tests | Postgraduate Courses: GMAT and GRE
Undergraduate Courses: ACT or SAT |
| Document for Admission Intakes | Personal statement, English proficiency test results, application fees, letters of recommendation, etc. |
Understanding the Intakes to Study in Canada
In Canada, students will encounter three intakes: summer/spring, fall, and winter.
The Fall Intake
This is a popular option for international students who wish to study in Canada. The fall intake offers a diverse range of institutions and courses compared to the summer and winter intakes. The fall intake commences in September. The intake application deadline falls between December and March. Students who wish to begin their education in September 2025 should start with the application work in December 2024.
The fall intake is the most popular in Canada. It is typically the largest intake of the year, with the widest range of courses and programs available. Students also get a longer summer break before starting the second semester or year. Another reason for its popularity is that the fall weather in Canada is typically mild. This allows students to acclimatize to the harsh weather conditions of the winter months.
Top Universities/Colleges for Fall Intake:
| Names of Institutions | Location or Province |
| University of Waterloo | Waterloo, Ontario |
| University of Toronto | Toronto, Ontario |
| University of British Columbia | Vancouver, British Columbia |
| University of Alberta | Edmonton, Alberta |
| McGill University | Montreal, Quebec |
The Winter Intake
Winter intakes are the second most popular option for international students. They begin in January. All students who wish to get admission in January 2025 must begin the application process in April or May 2024.
Top Universities/Colleges for Winter Intake:
| Names of Institutions | Location or Province |
| University of Ottawa | Ottawa, Ontario |
| University of Toronto | Toronto, Ontario |
| McGill University | Montreal, Quebec |
| University of Waterloo | Waterloo, Ontario |
| University of Alberta | Edmonton, Alberta |
The Summer Intake
The Spring/Summer intake is less popular and offers fewer programs in Canada. Students may face limited options, but some institutions provide unique summer internships or short courses unavailable in fall and winter intakes.
Top Universities/Colleges for Summer Intake:
| Names of Institutions | Location or Province |
| Seneca College | Toronto, Ontario |
| Brock University | St.Catherines, Ontario |
| Lakehead University | Thunder Bay, Ontario |
| University of British Columbia | Vancouver, British Columbia |
| Trent University | Peterborough, Ontario |
How to Apply for Admission Intakes in Canada?
Whichever term you choose, try to apply as soon as possible. This is because most universities in Canada operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Early applications are more likely to be accepted, especially for the Fall session.
Prepare for the standardised tests required to apply to your preferred program at a preferred university in Canada. Generally, undergraduate programs require SAT or ACT scores. GRE or GMAT scores may be required for graduate programs.
Intakes and Deadlines of Top Universities in Canada
Given below are the intakes and deadlines for the top universities in Canada.
| University | Intakes | Deadlines |
| University of Waterloo | Fall, Winter, Summer | ● Most programs: January 31, 2025 |
| University of Toronto | Fall, Summer | ● Most programs: January 15
● Recommended early application date for most programs: November 7 |
| University of Ottawa | Fall, Winter | ● Fall: March 1 or April 1 for most programs.
● Winter: October 18 for most programs |
| University of British Columbia | Winter, Summer | ● Most programs: January 15 |
Documents Required for Admission Intakes in Canada
The eligibility criteria and supporting documentation for intakes in Canada vary greatly depending on the universities and programs chosen. The following are the supporting documents for international students applying to Canada’s Top Universities:
- Completed Application forms
- Application fees
- Standardised test scores
- English proficiency test results
- Transcripts of academic work
- CV/resume
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Personal statement
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
- Evidence of financial capability
- Health coverage (if required)
- Student permit or visa based on your program of study
- Immigration papers
In addition to the general requirements, graduate programs require a competitive GPA, standardised test scores such as the GRE or GMAT, work experience, and professional LOR(s).
How Much Does it Cost to Study in Canada?
Studying in Canada has significant costs that differ greatly according to the degree level, program, and university. However, you might be wondering, “How much does it cost to study in Canada for all Indian students?”
On average, students will need roughly INR 18,24,000 to INR 36,48,000 to cover the Guarantee Investment Certificate, tuition, fees for student visas, and other expenses. Apart from that, you can also opt for scholarships provided by many Canadian institutions to all meritorious students.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When should students apply to a university/college in Canada?
The best time students must apply to institutions to study in Canada will depend on the intake they opt for. The fall intake is the perfect choice for all students as the majority of the programs are available in this intake.
What are the best courses available for Indian students in Canada?
Law, Business Management, Engineering, Information Technology, Computer, Medicine, and Healthcare are ideal for Indian students.
Is it possible for all international students to apply for all the intakes?
In short, yes. International students can apply for all the intakes. However, students must check with their respective institutions to see whether or not they’re accepting the applications for the intake they’re interested in.
Are all students allowed to change their intake after they apply?
This will rely heavily on their institution’s policies. Several Canadian colleges/universities will let students defer their admission for a different intake, but others might not do so.
Is it challenging to get admission to a specific intake in Canada?
It depends on the intake and program. Some intakes can be more competitive due to high demand and limited seats.
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