What’s Unique About Applying to the Canadian University System?

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1. Academics Are the Main Focus

• Admissions are mostly based on academic performance—especially your final two years of high school (grades 11 and 12).

• There’s usually less emphasis on essays, extracurriculars, or recommendation letters—unless you're applying to competitive programs (e.g., business, engineering, or scholarships).

2. Program-Specific Entry

• Like the UK and Australia, students apply directly to a specific program (e.g., Life Sciences, Engineering, or Commerce), not just to the university.

• You’re expected to have taken certain high school courses that match the program (e.g., math, chemistry, physics).

3. Centralized vs. Direct Applications

• Some provinces use centralized systems, like:

  • OUAC (Ontario Universities' Application Centre)

  • ApplyAlberta

• In other provinces, or for international students, you may apply directly to the university through their website.

4. Rolling and Early Offers

• Applications are generally open from October to January/February.

• Many universities make early offers based on predicted or mid-year grades.

• Offers can be conditional, depending on your final marks.

5. Cost and Scholarships

• Tuition for international students is less expensive than the U.S., but more than for domestic students.

• There are merit-based scholarships, and some universities offer automatic entrance awards based on grades.

• A few universities (like UBC and University of Toronto) offer need-based or full-ride scholarships for international students.

6. Bilingual and Regional Options

• Canada has both English and French-language universities. Some, like University of Ottawa or McGill, offer bilingual programs.

• There’s a wide geographic spread—from big-city campuses (like Toronto or Vancouver) to smaller university towns.

7. Work Opportunities

• International students can work part-time while studying and may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)—a pathway to permanent residency for many students.