Joel Castelli, Author at 老九品茶 老九品茶: Study Abroad Wed, 03 Sep 2025 15:06:56 +0000 en-CA hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6 /wp-content/uploads/2020/09/favicon-2-50x50.png Joel Castelli, Author at 老九品茶 32 32 Why Choose Canada as an International Student /blog/why-choose-canada-as-an-international-student?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=why-choose-canada-as-an-international-student Tue, 15 Jul 2025 13:00:18 +0000 /?p=17357 If you鈥檙e thinking about studying abroad, one of the biggest decisions you need to make is where you want to study. There are many factors that may guide which destinations you consider: affordability, program quality, post-graduation work opportunities, career alignment, and more. Canada is high on many students’ list of top study abroad destinations. Why? […]

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If you鈥檙e thinking about studying abroad, one of the biggest decisions you need to make is where you want to study. There are many factors that may guide which destinations you consider: affordability, program quality, post-graduation work opportunities, career alignment, and more.

Canada is high on many students’ list of top study abroad destinations. Why? Well, there are many great reasons to choose Canada for your international education!

Canada is home to several of the world鈥檚 . These innovative institutions blend classes taught by dedicated professors with co-op terms where you can build practical career skills. Plus, Canada offers flexible work-while-studying policies, strong post-graduation work opportunities, and the ability to bring your family with you.

Let鈥檚 take a closer look at why you should study in Canada in 2025 and beyond.

老九品茶 can help you find the right Canadian study program, organize your documents, and prepare you to arrive in Canada, all on one platform.


An illustration of a gold trophy.

Canadian Universities and Colleges Are World Class

Canada is home to some of the world鈥檚 top post-secondary institutions. In fact, in Times Higher Education鈥檚 World University Rankings 2025, ! It鈥檚 no wonder there were nearly in 2024.

Whether you鈥檙e enrolling at a polytechnic where you can build hands-on skills for success in the skilled trades, are upskilling to pursue , or are applying for a master鈥檚 program, 颁补苍补诲补鈥檚 diverse education sector offers options to suit every student. While different kinds of Canadian institutions offer varied learning experiences, they have a shared goal of providing high-quality education to domestic and international students.

If you鈥檙e planning to study in Canada, check out our guide on everything you need to know about applying for a Canadian study permit.

An illustration of a Canadian school.

Education in Canada Offers Unique, Hands-On Learning

Studying at a college or university in Canada will look different for every student. However, a common thread across many programs is the opportunity to build your career-related skills in a work-integrated learning opportunity. Whether it鈥檚 a co-op term, practicum, or internship, these (usually) paid positions let you mix classroom studies with hands-on experience at local workplaces. It can be a fantastic way to learn where you鈥檇 like to be after graduation鈥攐r learn which work environments don鈥檛 suit your goals or personality.

Canadian universities are pioneers and innovators in the co-op term system. And while the co-op system started in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math), you鈥檒l find programs with co-ops across Canada in fields from arts to health care.
An illustration of a lightbulb.

Canadian Institutions Drive Innovation

Canada is known for its strong history of research and development, rooted in ground-breaking studies conducted at Canadian institutions. In fact, in 2024, Canada ranked in the top fifteen countries worldwide on the ! Students who study in Canada benefit from access to cutting-edge facilities, world-renowned faculty, and research funding opportunities that can turn ideas into inventions.

Many of 颁补苍补诲补鈥檚 top universities are part of the of research-intensive universities, which hold over 80% of all Canadian university patents. Thanks to professors and students at these and other Canadian universities, Canada is recognized as a hub of technological, scientific, social, and medical advancements. In recent years, Canada has led the way on the development of , ,, , , and much more.

If you鈥檙e looking for a Canadian program that can lead to an in-demand career, be sure to use the 鈥淗igh Job Demand鈥 program tag filter on the 老九品茶 platform!

Two hands with their palms upraised holding a cartoon pink heart

Canada Provides a Balance of Study, Work, and Family

Working while studying is part of many students鈥 realities. We get it: over half of our most recent survey respondents said that they鈥檒l need to work while studying abroad. The good news is that Canada has flexible work-while-studying policies.

Since November 2024, international students have been able to work off-campus for up to 24 hours per week in Canada. That allowance ties with Australia for the most generous work-while-studying timing among the 鈥楤ig Four鈥 English-language destinations (Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States). Plus, international students don鈥檛 have to wait a minimum amount of time before applying for work, and they may work on- or off-campus while following the conditions of their Canadian student visa.

Scholarships can also help provide financial support for your Canadian study abroad journey. Learn more about how 老九品茶 can help you find eligible scholarships.

Canada also continues to welcome students鈥 families. International students at all levels can apply to bring dependents (partners and unmarried minor children) with them to Canada. And, the partners of students in post-graduate studies and select professional degrees (like a Bachelor鈥檚 of Education, Engineering, Law, or Nursing) are eligible for open Canadian work permits. This is more permissive than the UK or US. In the US, dependents鈥 ability to work is limited (dependent F-2 and M-2 visa holders may not work). In the UK, generally only postgraduate research students may bring dependents.

Canadian Post-Study Opportunities are Unparalleled

颁补苍补诲补鈥檚 is one of the most attainable after-graduation work opportunities for international students. Students who graduate from eligible programs that are as short as eight months long may qualify. Additionally, PGWP doesn鈥檛 have an age cap, so post-secondary graduates at any stage in life can benefit from gaining Canadian work experience.

One of PGWP鈥檚 strengths is its flexibility. Participants . Not every job works out, and the PGWP program lets grads find a company that suits them better, or a role which is a better use of their skills.

Another advantage of PGWP is its duration: graduates from postgraduate programs and select undergraduate programs may be . This may be the case even if their study program was only two years long (or, with accelerated master鈥檚 programs, sometimes even shorter).

Before starting your journey to Canada, ensure you鈥檙e up-to-date on 颁补苍补诲补鈥檚 PGWP requirements. Since November 2024, PGWP entrance criteria (study program eligibility and language proficiency) have changed. For example, non-degree college graduates need to have studied in a field that aligns with 颁补苍补诲补鈥檚 labour market needs to be PGWP-eligible.

Great news for international students thinking of studying in Canada: the Canadian government recently added nearly 120 new fields of study that are eligible for PGWP, starting July 4, 2025.


Canadian flag (a red maple leaf on a white field, framed by a red bar on either side)

From cutting-edge programs to excellent post-graduation work opportunities, there are lots of reasons to choose Canada as your study destination. It’s a welcoming country where international students like you can build your skills both in the classroom and in work-integrated learning. We wish you best of luck in your study abroad journey!

Ready to start? Find a Canadian study program that suits your goals on the free 老九品茶 platform.

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Trophy school-canada lightbulb Hands_Heart (2) work permit Canada
Canada University Checklist: 10 Items International Students Need /blog/canada-university-checklist-10-items-international-students-need?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=canada-university-checklist-10-items-international-students-need Tue, 08 Jul 2025 15:45:50 +0000 https://new1.applyboard.com/?p=3355 The first year of living and studying abroad is often the hardest for international students. Not only are you living far from home, you need to deal with a lot of paperwork and arrangements. And that鈥檚 before you even start your first class! Every situation is different, but there are some important things every international […]

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The first year of living and studying abroad is often the hardest for international students. Not only are you living far from home, you need to deal with a lot of paperwork and arrangements. And that鈥檚 before you even start your first class!

Every situation is different, but there are some important things every international student needs to remember to include in their packing list for Canada. Bring the 10 items on our university study abroad checklist below, and you鈥檒l be set up for an awesome first year of studies.

Try 老九品茶’s free-to-use platform to find a study program that fits your needs.

Watch our University Checklist video!

An illustration of two hands with a gold coin in the middle, symbolizing funds in the blog's study abroad checklist

10. Funds for Living Expenses

Having accommodations secured before you land in Canada is essential. For one thing, you don鈥檛 want to be scrambling to find a place to live after your classes start. More importantly, border officers will ask you about where you’ll be living, and can turn you away if you don鈥檛 have housing arranged. So, it鈥檚 important you have your full accommodation information ready, including the address, when entering Canada.

You鈥檒l also need to prove you can support yourself financially while you study. As of January 1, 2024, all international students living in Canada must prove they have access to a minimum amount of C$20,635 for their living expenses. This is in addition to being able to pay for your tuition fees.

The minimum financial requirement amount is set in line with the cost of living, and is updated regularly听by the Government of Canada. It鈥檚听听on September 1, 2025.

An illustration of a credit card and three gold coins, as part of the packing list for Canada.

9. Funds for Tuition

As mentioned above, you鈥檒l need to prove to the Canadian government that you can pay the tuition fees for your study program. At the post-secondary level, at the undergrad level can cost from C$15,000 to over C$60,000 a year.

If you鈥檇 like to pay for your tuition from outside of Canada, bank drafts or money orders (in Canadian dollars) are accepted by most universities and colleges.

Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs) can strengthen your study permit application by proving your financial means. Find out more about GICs for international students.

An illustration of a clothes hanger with an article of clothing folder over it, symbolizing essential clothing in the blog's study abroad checklist.

8. Winter Clothes

You鈥檝e likely heard that Canada gets really cold in the winters! In Toronto, which is actually one of 颁补苍补诲补鈥檚 warmer cities in the winter, the average temperature in January is about -5.5掳C (22掳F). It鈥檚 not uncommon to see the temperature drop to -20掳C or even colder.

A winter coat, warm boots, winter hats like a tuque, and insulated gloves are important, as they can help you stay warm in the cooler months. However, if buying winter clothes is trickier in your home country, you can wait to buy these things until you’re in Canada.

If you live in southern British Columbia, you might not need to buy as many winter clothes, as this region doesn鈥檛 get as cold as the rest of Canada. However, if you鈥檙e studying anywhere else, you鈥檒l need to bundle up!

An illustration of a yellow-brick bank building.

7. Canadian Bank Account

One of the first things you should do after you arrive in Canada is open a Canadian bank account. Doing so will help you manage your money, and make it easier to collect income if you end up working in Canada while you’re studying. Opening an account may seem overwhelming at first, but it鈥檚 fairly easy to do.

We recommend looking for student banking plans, and ideally opening a no-fee chequing account. You may also want to find a bank that offers services in your first language if you鈥檙e still learning English or French.

Check out our step-by-step guide to opening a student bank account in Canada.

An illustration of a cell phone, as part of the packing list for Canada.

6. Tech and Gadgets

The most important piece of technology you鈥檒l want to own while studying in Canada is a smartphone. Whether you bring a phone from home or purchase one once you arrive, you鈥檒l need to get a phone plan from a Canadian phone company during your stay. Canadians pay some of the highest mobile fees in the world, but there are many great deals available to students, especially in the fall as classes start. We recommend shopping around to find one that fits your budget. Laptops can be a great investment, and are helpful for writing papers or assignments and taking notes.

If you鈥檙e bringing any electronics from home, make sure they’re compatible with Canadian outlets (Types A and B) and voltage (120 V). If not, you鈥檒l also need adapters so you can use your electronics safely.

An illustration of a person's profile information on a laptop.

5. Emergency Contact List

Studying abroad will be the first time many international students live away from home. For this reason, we’ve included emergency contacts in our study abroad checklist. It’s a good idea to share your list of emergency contacts with a trusted friend, and your roommates, if you have them. This list should include your parents or guardians, and any responsible siblings. It can also include a people you know and trust who live locally and can help out if you have an emergency.

Make sure you have both听physical and digital copies (email the list to yourself) to avoid losing it.

Check out our four ideas to help you conquer homesickness when studying abroad.

An illustration of a passport with a blue cover, a scantron test sheet, and a yellow manila envelope, symbolizing government ID in the blog's study abroad checklist.

4. Government ID

Next on our study abroad checklist is government ID. Your passport isn鈥檛 the only proof of identity you鈥檒l need as an international student. While your passport will let you travel internationally, it鈥檚 a good idea to include听every piece of official ID you can, like a driver鈥檚 license and birth certificate, in your packing list for Canada.

Make copies of all of these documents before you leave your home country, and leave them with your parents or guardians or in another secure location.

Also, you鈥檒l want to ensure your passport is valid for at least six months past your date of arrival. In fact, it’s ideal if your passport is valid for the full duration of your study period.

An illustration of a heart with a red medical cross in the middle of it.

3. Insurance

All international students in Canada must have Canadian health insurance. Health insurance could save your finances (and your life) in the event of a medical emergency.

In some provinces and territories, international students may be eligible for provincial health care programs, where in others, you’ll need to buy private insurance. So, check with your institution to find out what’s required.

Looking for more general student life advice 补蹿迟别谤听you land in Canada? Check out our helpful arrival guide.

An illustration of a first-aid kit and bottle of peroxide, as part of the packing list for Canada.

2. Medical Records and Prescriptions

Before you get insurance, make sure your medical records and prescriptions are in order. Your college or university will outline which documents you鈥檒l need to bring, which may include your medical, dental, or vaccination records.

Depending on where you鈥檙e moving from, you may need to pass a medical exam before you’re allowed to enter Canada.听Making sure your vaccinations are up-to-date (by Canadian standards) is also essential.

If you have any prescriptions, ensure you have enough to cover you when you first arrive in Canada. There is a chance your exact medication won鈥檛 be available in Canada, so check with your doctor or specialist about generic or alternate options. Always research in advance to see what your options are, but in many cases, it should be quick and easy to renew your prescriptions.

 

A spot illustration of a hand holding an acceptance letter, as part of the packing list for Canada.

1. Letter of Acceptance and Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter

The final items on our study abroad checklist are your letter of acceptance (LOA) and provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL). Your letter of acceptance is more than just your confirmation of enrolment at a Canadian school; it’s required to get your study permit.

As of 2024, most international students must also include a with their study permit application. The PAL or TAL certifies that you’ve been assigned one of the available spaces to study in that province or territory.

To attain your study permit, you鈥檒l need to present your original acceptance letter and PAL or TAL (unless you’re PAL-exempt) with your application, and again as you first enter Canada. In other words, you’ll need a printed copy of your original acceptance letter and your PAL or TAL when you arrive in Canada. Don鈥檛 forget them!

For more information on documents you’ll need for a Canadian student visa, read our guide on what you’ll need to study in Canada.


A female student with curly brown hair and a pink sweater standing on a school campus waves.

We hope this study abroad checklist helps you prepare for your first year as an international student. Best of luck!

Ready to start your study abroad journey? Create your free 老九品茶 account today!

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Canada Checklist: 10 Items International Students Need These 10 key items听on our study abroad checklist for Canada can help set you up for an awesome year of studies abroad. Canada,International Students,Student Life,Travel Tips,study abroad checklist Hands Money 02 Money 01 clohtes Bank_2 Phone a-person’s-profile-on-laptop Application Package with Passport, Test, and Envelope 4-medical-heart medical Certificate_of_Completion Students on Campus
The Future Arrives at Top Recruiters Workshop (TRW) Global 2024 /blog/trw-global-2024?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=trw-global-2024 Wed, 19 Jun 2024 17:43:24 +0000 /?p=19278 That鈥檚 a wrap on TRW Global 2024! After a hugely successful 2023 event, this year’s Top Recruiters Workshop (TRW) Global was another one for the record books. Over three jam-packed days at the Leela Ambience Convention Hotel in Delhi, India, over 1,000 attendees from around the globe joined 老九品茶 to immerse themselves in the new […]

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That鈥檚 a wrap on TRW Global 2024!

After a hugely successful 2023 event, this year’s Top Recruiters Workshop (TRW) Global was another one for the record books. Over three jam-packed days at the in Delhi, India, over 1,000 attendees from around the globe joined 老九品茶 to immerse themselves in the new world of digital transformation and student mobility.

The marquee global edition of TRW was crammed with panel discussions, networking opportunities, exclusive reveals, and informative sessions led by 老九品茶 leaders and institutional partner reps, focused on breaking down barriers to education.

Attendees had the opportunity to:

  • Learn the latest trends and forces shaping the sector, alongside behind-the-scenes insights from leading educational institutions.
  • Adapt their businesses for the future according to leading information and technology solutions.
  • Thrive among fellow top recruiters as part of a collaborative exchange of knowledge and opportunity.

If you missed attending the event yourself, keep reading to learn some听of the biggest international education sector takeaways from TRW Global.


老九品茶 CEO & Co-Founder, Meti Basiri, revealing that 老九品茶 has helped over 1 million students since 2015.

老九品茶 CEO & Co-Founder, Meti Basiri, revealing that 老九品茶 has helped over 1 million students since 2015.

One Million Students Helped

It’s official: 老九品茶 has helped over a million students.

In his inspiring opening address, Global Access to a Global Education, CEO & Co-Founder Meti Basiri shared that 老九品茶 has helped more than one million students on their study abroad journeys. That鈥檚 one million students who’ve been given the potential to chase their study dreams, change their lives, and make an impact on our world.

As we think ahead to the next million students we’ll help, Meti shared how their expectations will continue to shift in the years ahead. More than ever before, students will:

  • Choose between many competing destinations
  • Demand study abroad programs with clear career outcomes
  • Expect end-to-end service, personalization, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) tech

One thing鈥檚 for sure: you can expect that 老九品茶 will continue to meet our students where they need us, and will enable our partners with the tools and technology to do the same.

老九品茶 Co-Founder & President, Massi Basiri, and Chief Recruitment Officer, Scott Harper, revealing Abbie on stage at TRW with a few examples of the questions Abbie can answer.

老九品茶 Co-Founder & President, Massi Basiri, and Chief Recruitment Officer, Scott Harper, revealing Abbie on stage at TRW with a few examples of the questions Abbie can answer.

Introducing Abbie

At this year’s TRW event, 老九品茶’s product team was thrilled to reveal Abbie: an all-in-one AI advisor for studying abroad, offering personalized expert guidance and instant support along every step of the journey for recruitment partners and their students.

Abbie: The Fastest and Easiest Way to Navigate the Student Journey

Abbie reflects 老九品茶’s vision to reimagine the study abroad experience.听Here are just a few ways Abbie is a game-changer:

  • Personalized Expertise: Custom, specific program and application guidance based on a student profile, for any need.
  • All-in-One Advisor: From growth opportunities based on real market insights to student advice from application to arrival, Abbie knows it all.
  • Instant Support: Available anytime, on the 老九品茶 platform, with instant responses to questions (and in multiple languages).

Over the years, TRW has been the ideal launchpad for the latest 老九品茶 technology that makes our partners鈥 work faster, easier, and more successful. We were thrilled to share Abbie with a group so passionate about finding new and innovative solutions to help their students along their study abroad journeys. Currently, Abbie is only available by request to qualifying 老九品茶 recruitment partners. Direct access is currently limited as we continue to update and improve Abbie to become the absolute best it can be.

Program Tags and Search Reimagined

Abbie wasn鈥檛 the only innovative solution we shone a spotlight on at TRW. Attendees also had the chance to dive into our dynamic new Program Tags feature. Program Tags are designed not only to help students find the program most suitable for them but also to match them with programs that set them up for success in entering the workforce in high-demand jobs.

Learn more about how Program Tags take the guesswork out of the study abroad search process.

We also shared how the new 老九品茶 search, Search Reimagined, helps RPs and their students find the perfect program and institutional fit in just minutes through the 老九品茶 platform.

Actor and philanthropist Sonu Sood sits on stage at TRW with 老九品茶 CEO Meti Basiri.

Actor and philanthropist Sonu Sood sits on stage at TRW with 老九品茶 CEO Meti Basiri.

Sonu Sood Announced as 老九品茶鈥檚 First Brand Ambassador

TRW Global鈥檚 Gala Night had a little extra star power as we were joined by renowned actor and philanthropist Sonu Sood. Sood was on hand not only to chat with Meti about how his foundation is transforming lives, but also to make a very special announcement.

We were beyond thrilled to share that Sonu Sood is 老九品茶鈥檚 very first official brand ambassador! Our multi-year collaboration with Sood will dismantle barriers and unlock potential for students around the world. The partnership will encompass a multitude of initiatives, including:

  • Raising awareness
  • Empowering resources
  • Scholarship opportunities

Sonu also graciously helped us to recognize the efforts of some of our most dedicated and passionate partners during the 老九品茶 Awards. We couldn鈥檛 think of a better way to close out TRW Global 2024.

A colourful slide on-stage at TRW with the simple words: 老九品茶. Unlock Potential.

There鈥檚 More TRW to Come

We鈥檙e not done just yet! There are regional TRW events to come, beginning in Toronto on Friday, July 19. While they may be smaller in scale than TRW Global, they promise to be just as big on impact.

Thank you to all of 老九品茶’s partners, and to everyone who attended, for helping to make TRW Global such an unforgettable event. lt sparked meaningful conversations, and made an impact that will go on to help unlock the potential of the next million students and beyond!

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Meti – TRW Screenshot 2024-06-14 at 3.04.15鈥疨M sonu-sood-meti 4
Find High-Job-Demand Study Options with Program Tags /blog/program-tags?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=program-tags Wed, 06 Mar 2024 21:11:35 +0000 /?p=18607 International students and recruitment partners all around the globe use 老九品茶鈥檚 intuitive, AI-powered search engine to easily find study programs, research, compare, and apply. This helps them find the right program fit to best match their unique study abroad dreams. Today, we鈥檙e pleased to introduce a new and important feature that supports students in finding […]

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International students and recruitment partners all around the globe use 老九品茶鈥檚 intuitive, AI-powered search engine to easily find study programs, research, compare, and apply. This helps them find the right program fit to best match their unique study abroad dreams.

Today, we鈥檙e pleased to introduce a new and important feature that supports students in finding the most suitable programs. And maximizes student potential by matching them to fields experiencing labour shortages.

We鈥檙e proud to share our latest search feature: Program Tags, now live on 老九品茶. Keep reading to learn more about this exciting new update.

An illustration of a laptop with blue and red circles around it interconnected by lines, demonstrating its various online connections and access points.

Program Tags Revolutionize the Search Experience

With new Program Tags, we鈥檙e empowering students to get it right from the start.

These visually distinct tags appear on each program card in 老九品茶 search results, making it easy for users to find the right information and programs in seconds. All it takes is a glance.

A GIF showing how new Program Tags work in the 老九品茶 platform search engine.

Now, students can kickstart their application journey by choosing from tailored program suggestions right away, without hours of time-consuming research.

  • No more choosing programs without understanding job demand鈥the new High Job Demand tag helps students quickly find fields of study with higher-than-average job availability in Canada. No other platform makes this information easily accessible to students, meaning this feature alone is one of massive importance.
  • No more risk of missing out or applying blindly鈥our new Program Tags help students find and choose the study program that aligns best with their study and post-graduation goals.
  • No more unpleasant last-minute surprises鈥our tags help minimize risk by providing clarity upfront, ensuring a smoother application process.

For example: the No Visa Cap tag only appears on programs which aren鈥檛 affected by 颁补苍补诲补鈥檚 recently announced study permit cap.

The Top tag shows off programs from highly-ranked institutions, based on both 老九品茶 data and external data points.

And, for the first time ever, 老九品茶 users can quickly find fields of study with higher-than-average job availability in Canada, thanks to the High Job Demand tag (based on data sourced from the ).

This is important data that students want and need to know. 老九品茶鈥檚 goal is to make information as clear and accessible as possible to students so they can make the most informed decisions possible for themselves and their families.

Have you used our search engine yet? Learn more about the 老九品茶 platform’s AI-powered Student Search.

An illustration of blue, yellow, and pink gears.

Use These Program Tags to Guide Your Search

As of March 6, 2024, these Program Tags have been integrated into the 老九品茶 search engine. Look out for more updates in the near future, including additional tags coming to our platform soon.

  • High Job Demand: programs related to industries which may have higher-than-average job availability in Canada, based on data sourced from the (COPS).
  • Popular: popular programs, based on the most recent three years of application history. For the best chance of success, users can check the success prediction score before applying.
  • Top: programs from a high-quality or highly-ranked institution, based on both 老九品茶 data and external data points.
  • Prime: programs that are exclusively available to 老九品茶 partners, or which may be partially exclusive.
  • Loans: programs which may be eligible for a student loan through 老九品茶 loan partners.
  • Incentivized: programs which may provide application discounts or special offers.
  • No Visa Cap: programs which are unaffected by 颁补苍补诲补鈥檚 study permit cap or provincial attestation letter requirement.

By paying attention to these tags, students and recruitment partners can gain immediate insight into a program, helping them select the right program from the start.

Users can even use Advanced Filters to select multiple tag options, customizing their search results to show only the programs matching their desired criteria.

These features empower both our recruitment partners and students throughout their application journey. By equipping them with the necessary tools, we enable informed decision-making backed by real, up-to-date data.


 

We believe students shouldn’t have to settle when it comes to their dreams. This exciting update, part of our commitment to constant product improvement, helps ensure we can most effectively match students with the programs that will best prepare them for future success.

Ready to get started with 老九品茶? Register for your free student account, or explore our search right here (no profile needed).

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How Far is Your College or University from Toronto? /blog/how-far-is-your-college-or-university-from-toronto?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=how-far-is-your-college-or-university-from-toronto Tue, 30 Jan 2024 20:12:20 +0000 /?p=18410 Toronto, Canada is known for its vibrant culture, diverse communities, and bustling urban life, attracting students from across the globe. Whether you鈥檙e traveling from Sault Ste. Marie (Algoma University to Toronto), or from Conestoga College in Waterloo, you鈥檙e in the right place! Find out how far your college or university is from downtown Toronto in […]

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Toronto, Canada is known for its vibrant culture, diverse communities, and bustling urban life, attracting students from across the globe. Whether you鈥檙e traveling from Sault Ste. Marie (Algoma University to Toronto), or from Conestoga College in Waterloo, you鈥檙e in the right place! Find out how far your college or university is from downtown Toronto in this blog.


Some important notes before we dive in:

  • The times listed below are for one-way trips. You’ll want to double the transit time for a return trip. This might help you gauge if going to Toronto for a day trip makes sense, or if a weekend trip works better.
  • Distances are measured from campus location to Toronto City Hall. Toronto is a large city, so getting to different parts of the city may take more or less time.
  • Travel times vary in different weather conditions (like snow) or at different times of day. Generally, travel is longer during rush hours ().

If you want to study in Canada, 老九品茶 can help make it happen. Try our free platform today!


Featured Colleges and Universities

Algoma University 鈥 Brampton, Sault Ste. Marie

Cambrian College 鈥 Sudbury

Conestoga College 鈥 Brantford, Cambridge, Guelph, Waterloo Region, Milton, Stratford听

Georgian College 鈥 Barrie, Orangeville, Collingwood, Owen Sound, Midland, Orillia

Ontario Tech University 鈥 North Oshawa, Downtown Oshawa

Sheridan College 鈥 Brampton, Mississauga, Oakville, Fort Erie

University of Waterloo 鈥 Waterloo Region, Stratford

Wilfrid Laurier University 鈥 Brantford, Waterloo Region


An illustration of a university building representing Algoma University, representing the distance from Algoma University to Toronto.Algoma University to Toronto

Brampton Campus

Studying at the Brampton campus of Algoma University? If so, you鈥檙e a quick trip away from TO! Depending on your choice of vehicle, the ride from Algoma University to Toronto is around 45 kilometers (km) away, or:听

  • 45 minutes by car
  • One hour and 15 minutes using public transit听

Sault Ste. Marie Campus

If you鈥檙e studying at Algoma’s Sault Ste. Marie campus, Algoma University to Toronto is a longer trip: more specifically, around 700 km. To get there, you can travel:

  • Eight to nine hours by car
  • One hour and 20 minutes by plane
  • 13 hours using public transportation

An illustration of a folded travel map with a marker pointing to your destination.

Cambrian College to Toronto

Attending Cambrian College in Sudbury? If so, Toronto is around 410 km away. You have a few options:

  • Four to five hours by car
  • One hour by plane听
  • Five to six hours using public transportation

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Conestoga College to Toronto

Brantford, Cambridge, Guelph, or Waterloo Campuses

If you鈥檙e attending Conestoga College at the Brantford, Cambridge, Guelph, Kitchener, or Waterloo campuses, Toronto ranges from 95鈥115 km away.听 The journey from these campuses to Toronto is approximately:

  • One hour and 30 minutes by car
  • One to two hours using public transportation

Milton Campus

Traveling to Toronto from Milton? If so, the distance from Conestoga College’s Milton campus to Toronto is around 60 km. Travel options include:

  • One hour by car
  • One to two hours using public transportation听

Stratford Campus

The distance from 颁辞苍别蝉迟辞驳补鈥檚 Stratford campus to Toronto is around 150 km. Here are some average travel times:

  • Two hours by car听
  • Two to three hours using public transportation

An illustration of the Canadian flag.

Georgian College to Toronto

Barrie or Orangeville Campuses

Georgian College’s campuses in Barrie and Orangeville are around 150 km from Toronto. Here are some average travel times:

  • One hour and thirty minutes by car
  • Two to three hours using public transportation听

Collingwood or Owen Sound Campuses

Attending Georgian College in Collingwood or Owen Sound? The distance from your campus to Toronto is around 160 km from Collingwood, or 190 km from Owen Sound It’s usually:

  • Two to three hours by car
  • Four to five hours using public transportation

Midland or Orillia Campuses

The distance from the Midland Georgian College campus to Toronto is about 160 km. Orillia’s Georgian College campus is around 140 km from Toronto. If you want to go to Toronto, here鈥檚 how long you can expect your travel to take:

  • One to two hours by car
  • Three to four hours using public transportation

Find out if your favourite Canadian celebrity studied at the same institution as you on our blog.

Tall buildings framed by five gold stars, representing Toronto.

Ontario Tech University to Toronto

North or Downtown Oshawa Campuses

Both North Oshawa and Downtown Oshawa’s Ontario Tech University campuses are fairly close to each other, as they are a 15-minute drive apart. To go to Toronto from either of these campuses, you鈥檒l have to travel around 60鈥70 km. Here are some average travel times to Toronto:

  • 50 minutes to one hour by car
  • One to two hours using public transportation

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Sheridan College to Toronto

Brampton, Mississauga, or Oakville Campuses

If you鈥檙e attending Sheridan College at the Brampton, Mississauga, or Oakville campuses, you鈥檙e in luck! The city of Toronto is only about 30-40 km away. (You’re already in the Greater Toronto Area.) The travel time from these campuses to Toronto is approximately:

  • 30鈥40 minutes by car
  • 30 minutes to an hour using public transportation

Fort Erie Campus

Attending Sheridan鈥檚 Fort Erie campus? Toronto is around 150 km away. Below are some approximate travel times to Toronto:

  • Two hours by car
  • Four to five hours using public transportation

Illustration of a blue airplane flying through the sky from a view underneath.

 

University of Waterloo to Toronto

The University of Waterloo is around 120 km away from Toronto. Luckily, you have options to make traveling to Toronto easier for you. Here are some average travel times to Toronto:

  • One hour and twenty minutes by car
  • Two to three hours using public transportation

An illustration of four colourful puzzle pieces fitting together into a square.

Wilfrid Laurier University to Toronto

Brantford or Waterloo Campuses

If you鈥檙e attending Wilfrid Laurier University’s Brantford or Waterloo campuses, Toronto is roughly 100鈥115 km away. The travel time from these campuses to Toronto is approximately:

  • One hour and twenty minutes by car
  • One to two hours using public transportation

Check out our list of hard/technical skills that are in demand for 2024.



Whether you鈥檙e deciding on an institution, or already attending one of the colleges or universities we鈥檝e listed, we hope this blog helps shed some light on your options when traveling to Toronto. Best of luck on your study abroad journey!

Want to take it a step further? 老九品茶 can help you find the best program that matches your needs, organizes your application, and offers student support, all on one platform.

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Canada Temporarily Caps Study Permits by 35% /blog/canada-temporarily-caps-study-permits?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=canada-temporarily-caps-study-permits Mon, 22 Jan 2024 21:52:23 +0000 /?p=18370 On January 22, 2024, the Canadian government announced a temporary two-year cap on Canadian study permits. This study permit cap means the number of approved study permits (also sometimes referred to as Canada student visas) in 2024 will be limited to around 360,000, to be allocated by province. Master鈥檚, PhD, and K-12 students, current study […]

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On January 22, 2024, the Canadian government on Canadian study permits. This study permit cap means the number of approved study permits (also sometimes referred to as Canada student visas) in 2024 will be limited to around 360,000, to be allocated by province.

Master鈥檚, PhD, and K-12 students, current study permit holders, and those looking to extend their studies are fully exempt from this cap, meaning this will primarily affect those seeking an undergraduate or college education in Canada.

The news from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is a significant shift in policy from the previous decade, and is meant to help stabilize regional population growth, helping to ensure the success and well-being of all current and future international students in Canada.

Keep reading for more details on this Canada student visa news, and what these changes mean for students, recruitment professionals, and academic institutions.

Quick Summary

  • This temporary two-year cap will reduce accepted study permits by 35% in 2024.
  • Master鈥檚, PhD, K-12 students, and current study permit holders will not be affected.
  • Study permits will be allocated based on each province鈥檚 population.听
  • Update: Starting May 15, students who begin their studies at public-private partnership institutions will no longer be able to access post-graduation work permits after graduating.听

An illustration of a rolled up document with a gold star seal, representing an attestation letter, now required per the latest Canada student visa news.

Canada Student Visas Now Require an Attestation Letter

For prospective international students, this Canada student visa news may be the most immediately important. As of January 22, 2024, affected students must as part of their study permit application. Applications missing an attestation letter will be returned to the applicant.

Students heading to Quebec may use their Certificat d鈥橝cceptation du Qu茅bec/Qu茅bec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) as a PAL, as long as it includes the following sentence: 鈥淭his attestation letter confirms that the applicant has a place in Quebec鈥檚 share of the distribution of study permit applications or is exempt from it.鈥

All 10 provinces听. Most provinces are issuing PALs directly to universities and colleges; the institutions will then pass PALs on to students at their discretion.

Important: Master鈥檚, PhD, and K-12 students are fully exempt from the study permit cap and do not need to provide an attestation letter. The cap also does not apply to current study permit holders or those looking to extend their studies.

An illustrated map of Canada with an icon of the Canadian flag, representing the provinces affected by the new study permit cap.

The Study Permit Cap Will Affect Each Province Differently

Study permits will be allocated based on each province鈥檚 population.

As : “In the spirit of fairness, individual provincial and territorial caps have been established, weighted by population, which will result in much more significant decreases in provinces where the international student population has seen the most unsustainable growth.”

This means that applying to diverse locations within Canada will be more important than ever before.听The cap is more likely to affect students heading to Ontario, British Columbia, or Nova Scotia.

At the end of 2024, IRCC will re-assess the cap and define the number of new study permit applications to be accepted in 2025. 老九品茶 will continue to follow and report on the latest Canada student visa news as it develops.

An illustration of blue, yellow, and pink gears, representing the post-graduation work permit rule changes following the latest Canada student visa news.

The PGWP Rules Have Changed

Starting May 15, 2024, international students who begin a study program that is part of a curriculum licensing arrangement (public-private partnership) will no longer be eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) upon graduation. As part of these curriculum licensing arrangements, private colleges are engaged and licensed to teach the curriculum of an associated public institution.

Note: Although this change was originally announced as coming into effect on September 1, 2024, IRCC

Students who hope to work in Canada after graduating should pay close attention to these new PGWP qualification rules.

However, there is good news for certain students too: graduates of short master鈥檚 programs are This change ensures that graduate students applying for PGWPs are not penalized by a short program length.

Canada recently changed minimum financial requirements for international students as well. Read more on our blog.

Spousal and Partner Work Permits Are Now Limited

Update (March 2024): As of March 19, 2024,

Now, spouses and common-law partners of students with valid study permits may only get an open work permit if the student is enrolled in certain programs. Eligible programs include either a master鈥檚 or doctoral degree program at a university or polytechnic institution, or one of these professional degree programs at a university:

  • Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS, DMD)
  • Bachelor of Law or Juris Doctor (LLB, JD, BCL)
  • Doctor of Medicine (MD)
  • Doctor of Optometry (OD)
  • Pharmacy (PharmD, BS, BSc, BPharm)
  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN, BSN, BNSc)
  • Bachelor of Education (B. Ed.)
  • Bachelor of Engineering (B. Eng., BE, BASc)

Undergraduate and college students who are planning to bring their spouse or common-law partner to Canada should be aware of this change, as their partners will no longer be eligible to work if the student is not studying in one of the above-listed programs.

 


These changes are significant, and will have a considerable effect on the movement of international students to Canada. 老九品茶 will continue to post updates and findings as these new policies take effect and more Canada student visa news is shared by IRCC.

Ultimately, these changes may benefit international students, ensuring the quality of their educational opportunities, and should have positive long-term effects for those students who do come to Canada and find success there. 老九品茶 partners can rest assured that qualified students will continue to achieve their Canadian study dreams with the help of our platform.

As always, for the most up-to-date information, please

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Canada Updates Financial Proof Requirement and Extends Work Rights for International Students /blog/financial-requirement-and-work-rights?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=financial-requirement-and-work-rights Fri, 08 Dec 2023 00:02:41 +0000 /?p=18173 On December 7, 2023, Minister Marc Miller of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced several important updates affecting international students coming to (or already studying in) Canada. These policies will help protect international students against an increased cost of living and recent housing challenges.听 As of January 1, 2024, the minimum financial requirement that […]

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On December 7, 2023, Minister Marc Miller of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) affecting international students coming to (or already studying in) Canada. These policies will help protect international students against an increased cost of living and recent housing challenges.听

As of January 1, 2024, the minimum financial requirement that students must show as part of their study permit application will rise from C$10,000 (where it has sat for nearly two decades) to C$20,635 to reflect the rising cost of living.

In addition, the current waiver on working hour limits for international students, which was set to expire as of December 31, has now been extended to April 30, 2024. This enables students to continue working off campus for more than 20 hours per week during the winter semester. Minister Miller also provided updates on some temporary measures related to post-graduation work permits, which are detailed below.听

Keep reading for more details and insight into how these updates may affect you as an international student, advisor, or recruitment partner.听

Did you know: .

An illustrated map of Canada with an icon of the Canadian flag.

Higher Cost-of-Living Financial Minimum for Students

Perhaps the biggest news in this package of announcements involves 颁补苍补诲补鈥檚 revised expectations for proof of financial support as required on a student鈥檚 study permit application.听

When international students apply for their Canadian study permit (often referred to as a student visa), they鈥檙e required to show their access to a set amount of savings, thus proving they鈥檙e financially prepared to live and study in Canada. For the past several years, this amount was set at C$10,000 (plus travel costs and the cost of tuition for one year) for a single applicant. However, rising costs of living have made this an unrealistically low number for students to plan around.听

From now on, IRCC will raise this financial requirement on an annual basis, based on the latest low-income cut-off as reported by Statistics Canada. In 2024, a single applicant will be required to show they have access to C$20,635, as well as enough funds to cover their travel expenses and the cost of their first full year of tuition.听

This new minimum amount will come into effect for all new study permit applications as of January 1, 2024. This change also applied to those applying through 颁补苍补诲补鈥檚 before November 8, 2024, which听requires students to show their proof of financial support through a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC). GIC amounts will now need to be at least C$20,635 instead of the previous C$10,000 minimum.听

GICs are an excellent way for any international student applying for their Canadian study permit to prove their financial preparedness. Learn more about GICs on the 老九品茶 blog.听

An illustration of blue, yellow, and pink gears.

Working Hours Limit Waiver Extended to April

Although Minister Miller鈥檚 announcement was primarily focused on the higher financial requirement, he also provided some timely updates on a few other temporary student-facing measures.听

Back in the fall of 2022, IRCC announced that as of November 15, 2022, and continuing throughout 2023, international students with off-campus work authorization on their study permit would be able to work off-campus for more than the standard 20 hours per week during their studies.听

This temporary waiver was expected to expire on December 31, 2023, but is now being extended until April 30, 2024. This extension applies to international students already in Canada, as well as incoming applicants who have submitted their study permit application as of December 7, 2023.

This work-hours waiver has benefitted international students in many ways. They now have greater flexibility to choose their working hours, can graduate with more work experience, and can earn more income to support their studies.听

Although the extension only lasts until the end of April, notably, Minister Miller did not close the door on permanently raising the working hours limit to 30 hours per week. As states:听

鈥淲e continue to examine options for this policy in the future, such as expanding off-campus work hours for international students to 30 hours per week while class is in session.鈥

Learn more about working hours for international students in Canada on our blog.

An illustration of an international student wearing a graduate cap.

A Few Post-Graduation Work Permit Updates听

Over the past few years, due to the significant changes and restrictions in mobility caused by the global COVID-19 pandemic, the Canadian government made temporary changes to its popular .听

One of these measures allowed international students to study remotely online instead of in Canada, while still counting that study time toward a future PGWP (up to a maximum of 50% of the program of study). Today, IRCC announced this measure remains in effect for any students who begin a Canadian study program before September 1, 2024鈥攖he final cut-off date for students to benefit from this unique rule.听听

Also due to the pandemic, Canada previously announced extensions for qualifying PGWP holders who were unable to take full advantage of their PGWP after graduating. An additional work permit enabled these PGWP holders to gain work experience in Canada. Today, Minister Miller confirmed that those with PGWPs expiring before the end of 2023 are still eligible for the extension, but that this policy will not be extended any further.听

As recently announced, IRCC is set to assess and make further adjustments to the PGWP Program in 2024 to address 颁补苍补诲补鈥檚 labour shortage.

 



These updates from 颁补苍补诲补鈥檚 IRCC help to ensure that international students are set up for success when studying, working, and living in Canada. 老九品茶 is glad to see the Canadian government taking steps to address many of the recently highlighted issues faced by international students.听

In 2024, we hope to see even more measures taken to properly support and facilitate the well-being of international students in Canada.

As always, for the most up-to-date information, please .

Stay tuned to the 老九品茶 blog for more important news and insights from the world of international education.

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What You Need to Apply for a Student Visa in Canada /blog/student-visa-canada?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=student-visa-canada Thu, 07 Dec 2023 16:15:45 +0000 https://applyboard.wpengine.com/?p=2821 Are you planning to study abroad in Canada? If so, you’ll need to apply for your study permit, also known as a student visa. A Canadian student visa allows someone to enter Canada as a student. Your study permit itself will be issued on arrival, allowing you to study full-time at a designated learning institution […]

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Are you planning to study abroad in Canada? If so, you’ll need to apply for your study permit, also known as a student visa. A Canadian student visa allows someone to enter Canada as a student. Your study permit itself will be issued on arrival, allowing you to study full-time at a designated learning institution (or DLI) in Canada. To be eligible, you must be enrolled in a study program listed on the Canadian government鈥檚 (DLI) list. You must apply for a student visa before travelling to Canada, and you must have all the essential documents gathered (and translated, if needed!), like a Statement of Purpose and proof of funds, before applying.

Below, we’ll break down study permit application requirements and go over what Canadian border services officers (who issue your student visa) check for. Depending on where you travel from, your requirements may vary. Also, study permit guidelines and requirements are subject to change.

Stay up to date by checking the . The Government of Canada’s website is the official source of information for students who want to study in Canada.

Note: In addition to your study permit, you must also obtain a temporary resident visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA). Thankfully, this is incorporated into the application process, so you’ll most likely receive one automatically just by applying for your study permit.


A passport and envelope with application documents, such as a statement of purpose and proof of funds for Canada student visa.

Letter of Acceptance (LOA) and Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter

If you still have to choose your program and institution, it鈥檚 time to do that. Once you have selected your program, your college or university will send you an official letter of acceptance (LOA) if you’re accepted into the program. You must include the original LOA with your student visa application.

Students who will study in Qu茅bec must also apply for a Certificat d鈥檃cceptation du Qu茅bec (Certificate of Acceptance to Qu茅bec, or CAQ). Most temporary foreign workers and students who intend to live in Qu茅bec require a CAQ.

Starting in 2024, most international students must also include a with their study permit application. It certifies that the student has been assigned one of the available spaces to study in that province or territory.

An illustration of a red passport, signifying what Canadian visa officers check for.

Proof of Identity for Canada Student Visa

You must submit a valid passport or travel document, as well as two recent passport-size photos. Please include your name and date of birth on the back of both photos. Also, you should have a minimum of one blank page in your passport for your student visa to go on.

If you have听family members travelling to Canada with you, each member is also required to submit their own application. If possible, we recommend applying for your visas together, to prevent delays. Adults and children may have different requirements. These documents must allow you and your family to return to your home country.

Illustration of a blue pencil case.

Purpose of Visit

This is your opportunity to share why you wish you come to Canada: to enhance your education. You may need to share certain details or supporting documents within this step, such as your past education credentials, work experience, career plans and progression, and a language proficiency test. Commonly accepted language proficiency tests include IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE.

Hands with a gold coin above it, illustrating proof of funds for a Canada student visa.

Proof of Funds for a Canadian Student Visa

You must have the financial capacity to support yourself, and your family members if applicable. This may also be referred to as proof of funds for Canada student visa, or proof of financial support. Learn more about how to assemble your proof of financial support on our blog.

You can prove you have the financial capacity to afford your international studies in Canada with:

  • A letter of support from your parents, other family members, or your school
  • Current bank statements (requirements vary, but from within the last six months are best)
  • Balance certificates
  • Proof of a Canadian bank account in your name
  • Documentation of a student loan and/or scholarships
  • Proof of tuition and housing payments
  • Sources of income of your financial sponsor, if applicable.

Note that the increased in September 2025. You’ll need to show you have access to at least C$22,895, in addition to your travel costs and first year of tuition, in order to receive your study permit.

In fact, the minimum financial requirement amount is set in line with the cost of living, and is updated regularly by the Government of Canada.

Want to strengthen your proof of funds? 老九品茶 partners with the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) and TD Bank to offer GIC services which can strengthen your study permit application. Apply now!

A hand holding a pen writing on a piece of lined paper, representing a statement of purpose for a Canadian visa.

Letter of Explanation or Statement of Purpose

Part of what Canadian visa officers check for when deciding to grant you a Canadian student visa is your letter of explanation or statement of purpose. This letter must help the person reading your application understand why you’re coming to Canada. It鈥檚 an opportunity to explain why you want to study in Canada, and what makes you a great candidate for your program.

It鈥檚 important to acknowledge the responsibilities of an international student as well. If you have a gap in your studies, low grades, or have chosen a different field than your previous area of education, the statement of purpose included in your Canadian study permit application is where you can explain your rationale.听

 

An illustration of a yellow map.

Ties to Your Home Country

Though you won’t need to attach a separate document, you’ll need to fill out this section in the study permit application. Here, you must show your economical and emotional incentive to return to your home country after graduation. Think of things like your family, any property you own or rent, investments, or similar ties.

An illustration of travel documents, including proof of funds for a Canada student visa, as an example of what Canadian visa officers check for.

Personal Documents

You may need to include additional documents, depending on the requirements of your country. :

  • Biometrics
  • Police clearance certificate
  • Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume
  • Birth Certificate
  • Marriage Certificate (if applicable)

Important Note: Are any of your required documents not written in English? You’ll need to include a full translation of those documents, as well as the name and contact information of your translator.


All information is sourced from the .

Ready to start your study abroad journey?听Contact the team at 老九品茶! We鈥檙e here to help.

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Canada’s IRCC Announces Measures to Safeguard International Student Admissions /blog/ircc-safeguard-international-student-admissions?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=ircc-safeguard-international-student-admissions Fri, 27 Oct 2023 21:03:39 +0000 /?p=17970 On October 27, 2023, 颁补苍补诲补鈥檚 Immigration Minister, Marc Miller, announced a series of planned measures intended to protect international students coming to Canada.听 This news addresses recent incidents of international students receiving fraudulent letters of admission from false agents and not receiving sufficient support amidst the current housing crisis.听 老九品茶 is thrilled to see Immigration, […]

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On October 27, 2023, 颁补苍补诲补鈥檚 Immigration Minister, Marc Miller, intended to protect international students coming to Canada.听

This news addresses recent incidents of international students receiving fraudulent letters of admission from false agents and not receiving sufficient support amidst the current housing crisis.听

老九品茶 is thrilled to see Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) taking action to address these challenges, protect the wellbeing of international students, and maintain the integrity of 颁补苍补诲补鈥檚 international student program. Keep reading for a summary of what we know about the newly announced measures.

An illustrated map of Canada with an icon of the Canadian flag.

IRCC Introduces 3 Impactful New Measures听

The three major changes planned are designed to bolster 颁补苍补诲补鈥檚 International Student Program and help protect international students from becoming victims of fraud.听

The measures are:听

  • The launch of a new verification process for letters of acceptance (LOAs). Beginning December 1, 2023, all post-secondary designated learning institutions (DLIs) will be required to confirm the legitimacy of LOAs directly with IRCC.
  • The introduction of an official 鈥渞ecognized institution framework,鈥 designed to incentivize DLIs to provide better international student support and outcomes. This new system, to be implemented by Fall 2024, will likely result in faster study permit processing for institutions that meet the criteria.  
  • A planned assessment of the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Program, followed by potential program reforms to better address 颁补苍补诲补鈥檚 labour shortage and regional immigration goals.听

As part of the same announcement, Minister Miller also dismissed the recent suggestions of an international student cap, observing that the lived experience of students is too complex for such a simple formula. As part of an answer to a later question, Minister Miller noted that he doesn鈥檛 see a scenario in which Canada reduces its international student numbers.听

More details are still to be released about each specific measure and its rollout. In the sections below, we鈥檝e summarized what we do know and what is likely to happen.

A spot illustration of a hand holding an acceptance letter, signifying the importance of a pre-screened high quality application.

颁补苍补诲补鈥檚 New LOA Verification Process听

Following a high-profile case from earlier this year in which hundreds of international student victims were found to have been given falsified letters of acceptance, IRCC is implementing a new reporting process for all designated learning institutions.听

The enhanced system, which comes into effect on December 1, 2023, will require institutions to authenticate their LOAs directly with IRCC before a corresponding study permit is processed and issued. More specific details have yet to be announced.听

Seamless Automation with ApplyProof听

This effort to safeguard students from fraud is a very positive development, and a necessary one. However, it does put an increased burden on Canadian institutions themselves, adding an additional manual and time-consuming step into the student admissions process.听

That鈥檚 where our sector-leading solution comes in.

ApplyProof enables Canadian institutions to securely track and maintain data on several documents key to an international student application, including LOAs. We鈥檙e pleased to report that the ApplyProof portal integrates well with the new IRCC process, and can empower institutions to meet the government鈥檚 requirement in seconds鈥攕ecurely, efficiently, and with privacy protection by design.听

ApplyProof enables institutions to:

  • Automate the new IRCC reporting process听
  • Make documents verifiable and portable at no cost to students听
  • Maintain an efficient dashboard to track records of proof of acceptance documents

Thanks to ApplyProof, document authentication already comes built-in with 老九品茶 application submissions to most Canadian institutions. We鈥檙e pleased to see the Canadian government taking similar steps to authenticate LOAs, mitigate fraud, and protect students.听

Learn more about how ApplyProof provides document verification and mitigates application fraud.

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Study Permit Fast-Tracking for Trusted Institutions

Minister Miller also officially announced the implementation of a new Recognized Institution Framework, which will reportedly be put into place before the Fall 2024 semester begins.听

Under this new framework, IRCC intends to reward or punish DLIs based on how well they鈥檙e supporting international students. Institutions that provide positive outcomes for international students will benefit from faster study permit processing, whereas those that do not will be identified and held accountable.听

To qualify for benefits like study permit prioritization, colleges and universities will be required to demonstrate their ability to:听

  • Provide sufficient housing for international students
  • Sustainably grow their international student enrollment听
  • Offer adequate student support services
  • Foster equity and diversity听

As part of his announcement, Minister Miller also emphasized the role of provincial governments in ensuring that each DLI adheres to current best practices, and communicated the importance of keeping students themselves at the heart of every decision-making process.听

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Post-Graduation Work Permit Program Reforms

Finally, as part of this new package of reforms, IRCC also signalled their intention to review and update the popular . This program enables eligible international student graduates to stay and work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies, and is considered an important potential pathway to permanent residency and citizenship.听

Minister Miller clarified that in order for Canada to grow responsibly, programs such as this must incentivize participants to pursue work in high-demand fields like the trades. 颁补苍补诲补鈥檚 current labour shortage cannot be filled domestically, making international students and immigrants vital for 颁补苍补诲补鈥檚 future.听

The exact changes to be made to the PGWP program are still unclear, but are likely to focus on specific high-demand fields. IRCC鈥檚 intention is to adapt the program to


 

At 老九品茶, we鈥檙e committed to putting the needs of students first, and we鈥檙e glad to see the Canadian government doing the same. We hope these new measures will lead to positive change in the sector鈥攁nd we look forward to working with IRCC and our partners to create trust, transparency, and accountability throughout the international student recruitment and admissions process.听

Our team will continue to follow and report on these policy updates as they develop. For the most up-to-date information, .

Stay tuned to the 老九品茶 blog for more important news and insights from the world of international education.

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What International Students Need to Know About Canadian U15 Universities /blog/u15-universities?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=u15-universities Thu, 05 Oct 2023 18:27:18 +0000 /?p=17838 Are you an international student who wants to pursue an academic or research-centric career? Canada’s U15 Group of Canadian Research Universities (also known as U15 Group, or U15 for short) could be a great pathway to reach your academic goals. U15 has been around for just over a decade, but some of its universities are […]

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Are you an international student who wants to pursue an academic or research-centric career? Canada’s (also known as U15 Group, or U15 for short) could be a great pathway to reach your academic goals.

U15 has been around for just over a decade, but some of its universities are over 200 years old! Over that time, these universities have built a strong reputation for cutting-edge research. 81% of Canadian university patents are held by U15 universities, so studying at a U15 institution can contribute to research that’s .

Read on to learn more about U15鈥攑lus, how to make your study application stand out.

Serious about studying abroad? Use the 老九品茶 platform today!

An illustration of a university building representing a Canadian U15 university.

Which Universities Are In the U15 Group?

U15 Group universities stretch across Canada, from the University of British Columbia (UBC) on Canada’s western coast to Dalhousie University (representing Nova Scotia) on the east coast.

Here鈥檚 an overview of all 15 universities and where they鈥檙e located:

Central Canada

In line with overall population density鈥斺攎ost of the U15s are in central Canada.

Western Canada

In Western Canada, the provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba are represented in U15.

Atlantic Canada

U15 features Dalhousie University from 颁补苍补诲补鈥檚 maritimes as part of their prestigious list. The institution is located in the heart of Halifax, Nova Scotia, and is one of the world鈥檚 top international centres for ocean research.

An illustration of the Canadian flag.

What Is Studying at a U15 University Like?

Wonder what you鈥檒l be in for by studying at a U15 University? Below we鈥檝e broken down the locations, programs, tuition, and living costs from three U15 institutions.

Queen鈥檚 University

Location: Located in the heart of Kingston, Ontario, Queen’s University offers a prime location just a short stroll from the vibrant downtown scene. Students can easily drive to Toronto, Montreal, New York State, and Ottawa.

Programs: Queen鈥檚 offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including:

Average (Gross) Tuition: C$53,221 / Year
Average Cost of Living: C$13,213 / Year

University of Saskatchewan

Location: The University of Saskatchewan is located in the lively city of Saskatoon, on Treaty Six territory and the traditional homeland of the M茅tis, offering students a culturally rich environment.

Programs: University of Saskatchewan delivers one of 颁补苍补诲补鈥檚 widest arrays of academic and professional programs, including:

Average (Gross) Tuition: C$24,651 / Year
Average Cost of Living: C$12,960 / Year

University of Waterloo

Location: The University of Waterloo is located in the tech hub of Waterloo, Ontario. Waterloo is a vibrant and multicultural community, an hour outside of Toronto, with amenities like restaurants, boutique stores, parks, and hiking trails for students to enjoy.

Programs: The university offers programs in business, engineering, health, humanities and social sciences, the environment, math, and science, including:

Average (Gross) Tuition: C$44,599 / Year
Average Cost of Living: C$13,213 / Year

Want a more detailed look at a U15 university? Check out our Partner School Spotlight on Western University.

An illustration of an international student sitting at a desk with a laptop, studying.

Is a U15 University Right for Me?

While U15 universities have a strong reputation for research, it鈥檚 best to think about your own goals and whether or not it makes sense to attend one. If academic research isn鈥檛 a primary goal of yours, you may want to explore study abroad options outside of the U15 group as well.

Before applying to a U15 university, answer these questions for yourself:

  • What are your academic interests and goals? Settling on your most important academic goals will help you decide if a U15 university is the best fit for your educational and research aspirations.
  • What is the return on investment (ROI) of attending a U15 university? Consider how your education at a U15 institution can open doors and create a pathway to success in your chosen field.
  • What are your financial aid options? Always look into different financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans that may be available for international students.
  • What size of learning environment suits you? Would you learn best in a small classroom, or a larger lecture hall?.
  • Are you open to a flexible academic journey? If you want to attend a U15 university, but prefer the learning environment of a different institution, you can get the best of both worlds by looking into transitional degree options.

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How Can I Make My U15 University Application Stand Out?

Using 老九品茶 to submit your study abroad application will ensure no important requirements get missed, and can help boost your chances of acceptance鈥攕o, consider registering for a free account.

Otherwise, to help your application stand out to U15 universities, try using the following strategies:

  • Research different programs you鈥檙e interested in. Every program has its own admission requirements. Look into the competitiveness of your field in advance to help you tailor your application accordingly.
  • Apply to more than one program. Given how competitive U15 universities can be, it鈥檚 a good idea to apply to more than one program or institution.
  • Highlight non-academic achievements. Along with your academic accomplishments, try to show off your non-academic achievements as well, whether it鈥檚 volunteer experience or extracurricular activities you鈥檝e taken part in.

If you want to study in Canada, take a look at our undergraduate or postgraduate Canadian application process guides.


 

Whether you’re passionate about scientific innovation, the arts, or any other field of study, consider the U15 Group as a possible gateway to reach your academic goals. We wish you the best of luck on your journey!

Explore Canadian U15 Universities on the 老九品茶 Platform Now!

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