These educational institutions are called designated learning institutions (DLIs) and they exist to help international students learn in Canada and stay in the country after graduation. The list of DLIs that are authorized by IRCC is constantly growing. Ontario and Quebec are Canada’s largest provinces by population, and hence, they host the greatest number of DLIs in the country. As there’s large number of DLIs across Canada, you are very likely to find an educational program that meets your needs.

Universities across Canada offer comparable levels of high-quality education. Canada promotes equity within its education system, meaning that it strives to ensure all students get the best possible education possible, irrespective of which institution that they go to. Canada also has large number of community colleges which also offer good quality education whereas universities specialize in providing theoretical knowledge and career training in certain professions (e.g., medicine, engineering, law), community colleges offer more applied training to help students quickly integrate into the labour market. College programs are more practical, with the knowledge provided to students meant to help them find work within their area of study.

Universities, colleges across Canada tend to offer similar levels of education. International students should take comfort at studying at a Canadian college, since the credential that they gain will support their professional and immigration ambitions upon graduation.

After completing your education in Canada, you can gain Canadian work experience by obtaining a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) which, depending on your Canadian academic program, may enable you to work in Canada for up to three years. Your education in Canada may put you at an advantage when it comes to pursuing Canadian permanent residence. Many federal and provincial immigration programs value candidates with Canadian education and work experience.

If your course duration is less than six months, you will only need a visitor visa to come to Canada. However, if you plan to study for more than six months, you will need to apply for a student visa or study permit.