Applying for a Masters in Canada | A Guide for International Students

By Brendan Clugston  Published: May, 24, 2024

Canadian universities are a great destination for international students seeking quality education and diverse cultural experiences.

Canadian universities offer a wide range of programs and research opportunities across diverse fields, ensuring that students have access to cutting-edge knowledge and innovative learning experiences. With a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on learning and state-of-the-art facilities, students can gain valuable skills and insights that are highly sought after in today’s competitive job market.

Additionally, many Canadian universities have strong ties to industry partners, providing students with valuable networking opportunities and potential pathways to internships or employment upon graduation.

Overview of studying in Canada

Canada is known for its high-quality education system, with many universities consistently ranking among the top in the world. Canadian degrees are recognized globally and can open doors to various career opportunities. Canadian society is also noted for its multiculturalism and inclusivity. International students can experience a welcoming and diverse environment, which fosters cultural exchange and understanding.

Canada is considered one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates and political stability. This provides international students with a secure environment conducive to focusing on their studies.

Study Masters in Canada

International students should consider getting their master’s degree in Canada for access to top-tier universities renowned for their academic excellence and diverse research opportunities. Additionally, Canada’s welcoming environment, post-graduation work opportunities and pathways to permanent residency make it an attractive destination for furthering one’s education and career aspirations.

Compared to other popular study destinations like the United States and the United Kingdom, the cost of higher education in Canada, including tuition fees and living expenses, can be more affordable. Additionally, there are various scholarships and financial aid options available for international students.

Canada offers various opportunities for international students to gain work experience both during and after their studies. The country has programs like the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP), which allows students who have graduated from eligible Canadian institutions to obtain an open work permit and gain valuable work experience in Canada.

Canada has immigration pathways designed to attract and retain skilled international graduates. Many international students choose to pursue permanent residency in Canada after completing their studies.

Courses Offered in MBA

A Master in Business Administration is a two-year program in Canada. It is a highly regarded master’s degree that equips individuals with essential business skills, leadership acumen and strategic thinking, opening doors to diverse career opportunities and enhancing one’s earning potential.

University Canada West, with two campuses located in downtown Vancouver, British Columbia, offers a Master of Business Administration program with a range of courses designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of key business concepts and skills. Some of the courses offered in UCW’s MBA program may include: Business Analytics, Strategic Management, Leadership in the Global Context, plus elective areas in Business Analytics, Consulting, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Human Resources Management, Leadership, Marketing, Digital Marketing and Project Management to gain specialized skills and knowledge.

Fees and Financial Aid for International Students

As of May 2024, tuition fees are $2,709 per course for international students at UCW, meaning a full MBA degree would cost $40,635. This does not include additional costs related to textbooks and materials for each course. For up-to-date fees, see UCW’s tuition page.

UCW does offer numerous awards and grants for students, but no full scholarships.

Eligibility Criteria to Study in Canada

To study for a Master’s degree in Canada as an international student, you typically need to meet certain requirements:

1. Academic Qualifications: You must have completed a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognized institution with the required academic background for the specific Master’s program you are applying to. Some programs may have additional prerequisites or specific academic criteria. However, UCW offers an MBA Foundation program for students who do not have the professional or academic qualifications but wish to pursue the MBA program.
2. English/French Proficiency: Most universities in Canada require international students who do not come from English-speaking countries to demonstrate proficiency in either English or French (which are Canada’s two official languages), depending on the language of instruction for the program. This is usually done through standardized language tests such as the IELTS or TOEFL.
3. Financial Support: You will need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses and other associated costs for the duration of your studies in Canada. This may include showing proof of financial support through scholarships, savings or other means.
4. Admission Requirements: Each university and program may have its own admission requirements, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose and possibly an admissions interview.
5. Visa Requirements: International students typically require a study permit to study in Canada for a program longer than six months. You will need to apply for a study permit from the Canadian government, which may have specific requirements and procedures depending on your country of origin. For the most up-to-date study permit requirements, always check the Government of Canada’s website.
6. Provincial Attestation Letter: For students who need to complete a preparatory program prior to entering their master’s program, such as a MBA Foundation or University Access Program, they will require a Provincial Attestation Letter from a province or territory with their study permit application.

Once you have met the necessary requirements and have been accepted into a Master’s program at a Canadian university, you can apply for a study permit to legally study in Canada. It’s essential to research and carefully follow the application procedures and deadlines for both admission to the university and the study permit application.

University Application Process

At UCW, applicants to the MBA program may qualify for admission based on the following requirements:

1. If your first language is not English, submit an IELTS score of at least 6.5 (minimum 6.0 in the writing band) or equivalent (TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo etc.) OR successful completion of UCW’s University Access Program (UAP) with a Grade Point Average of at least 70%. If your first language is English and you can demonstrate that you graduated from a recognized degree program in an English-speaking country, the English IELTS score or equivalent requirement is waived.
2. A cumulative GPA of 3.00 (on a 4.33 scale) or better in a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university OR successful completion of UCW’s MBA Foundation (MBAF) with a GPA of 3.00.

1. One of the following:

• A suitable score on a Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) that has been written in the last five (5) years.
• A relevant Canadian professional designation or equivalent international designation (e.g., CPA, CA, CGA, CMA, CHRP or P.Eng).
• Bachelor degree in business (e.g., Business Administration [BBA] degree or Bachelor Commerce [BCom] from a recognized university).
• A minimum of three (3) years documented professional or management experience with evidence of career progression and relevant education and/or training.

Student Visa Process

The student visa process in Canada, officially known as a study permit, involves several steps and requirements. Here’s an overview of the process:

1. Admission to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI): The first step is to apply and gain admission to a Canadian educational institution that is designated by the government to host international students. This institution could be a university, college or other accredited educational establishment.
2. Receive Acceptance Letter: Once accepted by a DLI, you will receive an acceptance letter from the institution. This letter is a crucial document required for your study permit application.
3. Gather Required Documents: Before applying for a study permit, you’ll need to gather the necessary documents, which typically include:
   • Valid passport
   • Acceptance letter from the DLI
   • Proof of financial support to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation
   • Passport-sized photographs
   • Proof of language proficiency (English or French)
   • Any additional documents requested by the Canadian visa office or immigration authorities
4. Apply for the Study Permit: With your acceptance letter and supporting documents in hand, you can proceed to apply for a study permit through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or at a Canadian visa office in your country of residence. You may also need to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photograph) as part of the application process.
5. Pay Application Fees: There is a non-refundable application fee for the study permit, which you’ll need to pay when submitting your application. Fees may vary depending on your country of origin and the specific visa office you apply through.
6. Wait for Processing: After submitting your study permit application, you’ll need to wait for it to be processed. Processing times vary depending on the volume of applications and your country of residence. You can check the status of your application online through the IRCC website.
7. Receive Study Permit: If your application is approved, you’ll receive a letter of introduction and a study permit. The study permit will outline any conditions you must adhere to while studying in Canada, such as maintaining full-time enrollment and staying in good academic standing.
8. Travel to Canada: With your study permit in hand, you can now make plans to travel to Canada. Make sure to carry all relevant documents with you when you travel, including your passport, study permit and acceptance letter.

It’s essential to start the study permit application process well in advance of your intended start date, as processing times can vary. Additionally, be sure to carefully review all requirements and instructions provided by the Canadian visa office or IRCC to ensure a smooth application process.

Student Life in Canada

At UCW, all students receive New Student Orientation and are provided information to help new settle into their new city and their new university. UCW has a Student Orientation Handbook which covers Academic Standards, tips for success and resources for students. UCW’s Vancouver Guide covers tips for getting around the city, restaurants near campus as well other resources to help our students get familiar with Vancouver.

Conclusion

Overall, international students are welcomed and encouraged to pursue master’s degrees in Canada, contributing to the rich cultural and academic tapestry of universities. Studying in Canada offers international students not only a top-notch education, but also a supportive and enriching environment that prepares them for success in their future endeavours.