[Video] Guide to Canadian Master’s Degree Applications

Overview of Higher Education in Canada

There are more than 90 universities in Canada, but actually, 17 of them are private universities. Similar to other countries, Canadian universities offer three levels of degrees: a bachelor's degree (usually completed in four years), a master's degree (requiring an extra year or two after the bachelor's degree), and a doctorate (generally requiring an extra three years in addition to a bachelor's degree and a master's degree). Among them, a total of 26 Canadian universities entered the 2016-2017 QS World University Rankings, 3 of which were in the top 50 in the world. These universities are McGill University (ranked 30th), the University of Toronto (ranked 32nd) and the University of British Columbia (45th).
Combining a unique natural environment, a stable social environment, a diverse population, and a relatively generous immigration policy, Canada has become one of the world's top study-abroad destinations. According to the UtoCanada’s Report on Chinese Students Studying in Canada in 2017, 22% of international students studying in Canada for their graduate studies are Chinese.

Ranking of All Canadian Universities Offering Master's Degrees

Canada has a unique natural landscape, and it welcomes about 16 million visitors every year. Many tourist cities have naturally become&nbspthe most popular cities for graduate students. Other schools offering master's degrees are:

McGill University (ranked 1st in Canada, ranked 30th in the world)
&nbspToronto Universities (ranked 2nd in Canada, ranked 32nd in the world)
University of British Columbia (ranked 3rd in Canada, ranked 45th in the world)
University of Alberta (ranked 4th in Canada, ranked 94th in the world)
University of Montreal (ranked 5th in Canada, ranked 126th in the world)
McMaster University (ranked 6th in Canada, ranked 149th in the world)
&nbspUniversity of Waterloo (ranked 7th in Canada, ranked 152nd in the world)
University of Calgary (ranked 8th in Canada, ranked 196th in the world)
Western University (ranked 9th in Canada, ranked 198th in the world)
Queens University (ranked 10th in Canada, ranked 223rd in the world)
Simon Fraser University (ranked 11th in Canada, ranked 226th in the world)
Dalhousie University (ranked 12th in Canada, ranked 283rd in the world)
University of Ottawa (ranked 13th in Canada, ranked 291st in the world)
Victoria University (ranked 14th in Canada, ranked 325th in the world)
Laval University (ranked 15th in Canada, ranked 372nd in the world)
York University (ranked 16th in Canada, ranked 451-460th in the world)
Concordia University (ranked 17th in Canada, ranked 461-470th in the world)
University of Saskatchewan (ranked 18th in Canada, ranked 471-480th in the world)
University of Quebec (ranked 19th in Canada, ranked 501-550th in the world)
University of Guelph (ranked 20th in Canada, ranked 501-550th in the world)
University of Manitoba (ranked 21st in Canada, ranked 501-550th in the world)
Carleton University (ranked 22nd in Canada, ranked 551-600th in the world)
University of Sherbrooke (ranked 23rd in Canada, ranked 601-650th in the world)
Memorial University of Newfoundland (ranked 24th in Canada, ranked 651-700th in the world)
University of Windsor (ranked 25th in Canada, ranked 651-700th in the world)
Ryerson University (ranked 26th in Canada, ranked 701+ in the world)

Who is currently applying for a master's degree?

As a brief overview of the status quo, what kind of people will choose to apply for a Canadian graduate student?

• The first category consists of people who want to pursue further education.For example, after obtaining a bachelor's degree, the applicant has either just graduated or worked for some time. They find that they lack knowledge in certain areas of their own field. Those who want to acquire a more in-depth professional understanding to prepare for future employment would get a master's degree for better job opportunities.
• The second category is applicants who intend to immigrate, especially in the Masters Graduate Stream of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP).OINP is one of the most sought-after Canadian immigration programs in recent years. For the program’s advantages, requirements, and some small application tips, you can refer to our previous videos about the&nbspOntario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP).的视频。

If you belong to our first category, you have many choices after completing graduate school (staying for employment, returning to China for development, furthering your studies in the United States, etc.) Because Canadian education is recognized all over the world, there are many options. If you belong to our second category, OINP does provide immigration shortcuts for graduate students in Ontario. It seems that no matter what type of category you belong to, the Canadian graduate degree has great value. https://youtu.be/fVLRxpwxImk

Tuition and Living Expenses for Graduate Students in Canada

Like in many other countries, international students studying in Canada pay higher tuition fees than local Canadian students. Specific fees will vary by province, institution and program. Postgraduate fees are:
Program tuition is approximately $6,500 to $33,000 CAD (approximately $4,860 to $24,680 USD) per year.
Living expenses, including food, transportation, and accommodation, are approximately $10,000-15,000 CAD per year (approximately $7,480-$11,220 USD). If you are frugal or live in a small town, these expenses can be greatly reduced.
You also need to account for course supplies and books; social, sporting and cultural activities or courses to your budget; plus, compulsory health insurance costs of about $1,000-$2,000 CAD per year. If you also want to drive around, you will need to spend an extra $150-$250 per month for gas and $100-$300 on car insurance.

What is the difference between graduate taught and graduate research?

Many Canadian master's degree programs can be divided into two types:course-based and thesis-based. The two are very different in terms of course setting, study duration, application conditions, and development direction.

• Course-based： The duration of study is 1 to 2 years. When applying, the school will select candidates according to the student's performance results, language and other conditions while also considering whether the student is suitable for the program. Generally, scholarships are not provided. There are many courses to choose from, with a wide range of disciplines, but the depth of study is shallow; completing the required courses and examinations is the only requirement for graduation. There is no need to write a graduation thesis. Taught masters are generally employment-oriented, and the courses are more practical so graduates can get more extensive opportunities for employment.
• Thesis-based masters: They have a study duration of two years or more. Most students will choose a continuous master and doctoral program after completion. When applying, students need to select a tutor in a similar research direction according to the students' undergraduate specialization. The tutor will provide students with scholarships that can cover tuition fees and some living expenses. Although there are fewer courses, students will be able to learn more in-depth. Often times, they will do research projects and write dissertations with their mentors. Thesis-based masters are generally research-oriented, and most graduates will choose to continue their studies for a doctoral degree or to enter a scientific research unit.

What is the difference between a Canadian graduate certificate and a master's degree?

In Canada, both master’s degrees and graduate diplomas are offered. This causes a lot of confusion about the difference between the two. Let’s compare the two:

A master's degree is for students who have a bachelor's degree as a prerequisite, and are taking master’s courses in a university. The admission requirements are high. Undergraduate grades usually need to be above 80%. The duration of study is 1 to 2 years. Students will obtain a degree diploma and a certificate after graduation. Masters students who graduated from Ontario can immigrate to Canada through the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program.

The Graduate Certificate or Diploma is usually a diploma course offered by a college, which can be applied for by students who have obtained their bachelor’s degree or college diploma. The duration of study is 8 months. After graduation, a certificate of completion is issued. There is no degree certificate, nor is it possible to immigrate through the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program.

3 Steps to Apply to Graduate School in Canada

In short, the primary steps to studying in Canada are:
1) Select schools and programs;
2）Submit graduate applications
3）Apply for a visa with the graduate school offer
There are three steps to studying in Canada, and every step is just as important as the next.

Step 1: How should I choose a school and program?

Choosing the right program and school is directly related to your future employment, so you need to choose carefully. In general, the factors that international students consider when choosing a school are:

• Program Rankings: Although many universities do not have a high general ranking, some of their programs are outstanding. For example, according to the&nbsp2018 University Rankings published by Canadian magazine, MacLean’s, University of Windsor is ranked 14th in the list of "comprehensive universities." However,University of Windsor's Automotive Engineering&nbspis among the best. It is the only university in Canada that can award bachelor, master, and doctorate degrees in automotive engineering.
• University Rankings: Chinese students and parents think highly of rankings. The most well-known Canadian university rankings are published by the Canadian MacLean’s Magazine.
• Popularity of graduate school professors: Anyone who understands North American PhD applications knows that the letter of recommendation from a graduate school professor is the best stepping stone to applying for a doctoral degree in a prestigious university. Therefore, many international students look for mentors with a good reputation in the field.
• Climate and the natural environment: The northern provinces of Canada are extremely cold, and many people consider climate as a huge factor.
• Course-based or thesis-based: If you want to pursue graduate studies after graduation, thesis-based programs are the more common choice.

Choosing a school and major is a personal matter in itself. Everyone's plans, interests, and personal circumstances are different. When you make a decision, you need to consider the school’s features with your own preferences.
 

Step 2: Prepare to apply for Canadian graduate schools

After choosing 2-3 schools of your choice, you can officially apply for admissions.

Whether you want to apply for an undergraduate or graduate degree in Canada, Canadian universities have two fundamental requirements for international students: academic performance and language skills. English and French are the official languages of Canada. If your English or French is not your first language, you may need to submit proof of language proficiency (such as results from the IELTS or TOEFL test). Your academic performance is mainly reflected in your university transcript.

The documents you need to prepare are:

• A four-year bachelor's degree from a university (required for both degree and diploma):：Canadian graduate programs require applicants to have a regular four-year bachelor's degree from a regular university. When reviewing the application, the school checks to identify the formality of the institution and the authenticity of academic credentials. In addition, Canadian master's programs usually require applicants to have an education background in the same or relevant field. However, some schools have MBA, Master of Education (MEd), and other individual programs that does not strictly require the applicant to have undergraduate background related to the masters program they are applying to.
• GPA Transcript (transcript): GPAGrade Point Average, is the average of your 4-year undergraduate grades. Generally, Canadian master's programs require that applicants have a GPA of at least 3.0 (75%) in the last two years or final year. Many "medical science" universities (such as the University of Toronto, McMaster University) and "comprehensive universities" (such as the University of Waterloo, York University) have higher GPA requirements for applicants (above 3.3 or 80%). In addition, for applicants with a bachelor's degree from China, the value of Chinese undergraduate transcripts is not as high as that of Canadian undergraduate transcripts. The transcripts of China's Project 211 and 985 institutions (top universities) will be more convincing than the less popular universities. If you are an undergraduate student in China, do not worry. As long as you make efforts to improve your GPA, the success rate of your Canadian master's application will be higher.
• Language scores (such as the IELTS or TOEFL): Applicants to Canadian master's degree programs need TOEFL, academic IELTS or other standardized English test scores. Generally speaking, the minimum requirements for these languages results are TOEFL (iBT) 80-100, IELTS Band 6.5 or 7.0 (a minimum of 6.0 in listening and speaking). If you fail to satisfy the minimum TOEFL/IELTS requirements, some schools offer language preparatory programs. For applicants with a minimum of IELTS Band 5.5, these programs will prepare them for the master's program.
• GRE / GMAT: In addition to TOEFL or IELTS, some Canadian universities will require applicants to pass the GRE or GMAT, but not all. Although many MSc programs in science and engineering do not require GRE scores (or may recommend applicants to have GRE scores), applicants who have good GRE or GMAT results are more competitive. Therefore, they may receive acceptance first. GMAT is also required for most MBA applications in "brand-name" universities. Therefore, before applying, you must first understand the requirements of the application school and be targeted.
• Graduate application documents (personal statement and resume): The application documents include a resume and a personal statement. A high GPA and IELTS score does not guarantee admission. The personal statement and resume are as important as the applicant's GPA. Applicants need to briefly describe: their educational background, work experience, how their experience is helpful preparing them for the master's program, what makes them competitive, and how they can relate to the research direction of the selected mentor, and much more. These polished statements can sometimes impress the professors who review the applications. We have had of applicants whose GPAs did not reach the cut-off line of the master's programs, but because they had remarkable work experience, and the application documents were written strikingly and frankly, they were able to receive offers with our help. Of course, this example is given to show the importance of your documents in the application process. Students still have to work hard to reach the GPA requirements for admission to the master's program of their choice.
• 2 ~ 3 Recommendation / Reference Letters: Recommendation letters written by your university professor or your employer/superior

In a nutshell, these are the basic requirements for applying to graduate students in Canada: a four-year bachelor's degree, a GPA that meets the minimum requirements, undergraduate transcripts, qualifying language proficiency scores, graduate application documents, and 2-3 recommendation letters. Also, the GRE (or GMAT) is a bonus for some schools.
With these materials in your application package, you can submit it through the school's official website. Just find “Graduate Admissions,” fill in your information, step by step, according to the instructions on the website, and upload the official required documents. You can then wait for a notification.
According to&nbsp2018’s latest updates on the four application methods for applying for a Canadian student visa, the methods are:the University Category andthe General Category. The application for a Canadian student visa may be the biggest obstacle to your journey abroad. There are many mistakes to avoid during the application process. Therefore, UtoCanada has specially compiled the "Your First Application for the Student Visa in Canada (The Most Comprehensive Guide on the Internet)", Please feel free to take a look.

Step 3: Apply for the Entry Visa

Imagine the school that you worked really hard to apply to has finally sent you a letter of acceptance. Your next step would be to apply for an entry visa to Canada. An entry visa, commonly known as a "small visa" in Chinese, determines whether you can legally enter Canadian grounds. You can only apply for the entry visa after receiving an admission offer from the school.
It is worth mentioning that another extremely important document is the Canadian Study Permit, orstudent visa. Student visas are also commonly known as the "big visa,"which will be issued to you by the customs officers when you first land in Canada.The validity of the study permit is generally determined by your graduation date.If you are already in Canada, applying for a study permit requires a different application process.。

Application Requirements for Canadian Study Permits

• Graduate Programs: Assuming that you have successfully received an admission letter from the university as mentioned in Step 2…
• Letter of Intent: This letter should describe the purpose and plan of your studies in Canada. It is vital for the success of your student visa application, and it is also an important piece of evidence to the immigration officer to examine whether you have intentions to immigrate. The focus of writing about your study intentions is to convince the immigration offers that you will not stay in Canada after graduation.
• Proof of sufficient funds: We mentioned earlier the approximate cost of studying in Canada. Generally speaking, the amount you need to prepare in your bank should theoretically be enough to cover all your expenses during your period of study. In addition, proof of property ownership, stock certificates, and business equity can be used to prove that you have sufficient funds.
• Visa Application Forms: These forms can be downloaded from the&nbspEmbassy of Canada in China’s website. The current system allows for forms to be filled in and submitted online.
• Medical Examination Certificate: Get a medical exam at a hospital designated by the Canadian Embassy. This medical examination is to protect the health of the Canadian public from infectious diseases being brought to Canada. Also, it is to reduce the burden that international students place on the Canadian healthcare system.

When you prepare these materials, you take caution in completing them. If there is uncertainty, search the Internet or consulta reliable Canadian education consulting agency.都是不错的选择。
It should be noted that for many people, obtaining a graduate school acceptance letter is often not the most challenging part. As long as you are willing to accept different schools, and do not give up on your applications, you will be able to receive an acceptance letter. Many people actually get stuck at the visa application stage. If your entry visa application is rejected the first time, you will receive an official rejection letter from the embassy. This is not a time for frustration, let alone give up. The rejection letter will clearly list the reasons for your rejection. At this time, what you need is the right solution. After unravelling these problems one by one, you can arrange the documents and submit them again.

Notes on Canadian Graduate Applications

1.Prepare early to avoid peak periods in May
Applying for a Canadian study permit requires early preparation. First, if the application is refused for some reason, you can take remedial measures in time to avoid missing deadlines on your Canadian university offer. Second, you can avoid the peak period of May, which has the highest number of visas applications for studying abroad, so the visa approval will take longer. With the delays, your Canadian school term might have already begun by the time your visa is obtained.
2.Proof of sufficient funds to support the cost of studying abroad
Sometimes, students' families have strong financial backgrounds but are unable to provide documented evidence. For example, parents who work in companies that pay in cash every month do not have tax bills, social security certificates, payslips, etc.
To increase the chances of obtaining a Canadian study permit, the parents of the applicant should reserve enough time to prepare the required documents. That means, they must not suddenly deposit a large sum of money into their bank accounts before the visa application, because they need to provide a 12-month transaction history.
3.Having an IELTS score above 5.5 will increase your chances
Providing proof of language proficiency is helpful in applying for a visa. If your IELTS score is 5.5, you can go through the Student Partnership Program (SPP); and with an IELTS 6.0, you can go through the Student Direct Stream(SDS). These are the "green lanes" for Canadian visas, and the approval rate is much higher than the average visa application processes.
4.Reasons for choosing a school and career
Some students hope to change their majors when going abroad. For example, a Chinese medical student might want to go to Canada to study a computer major. If there is no reasonable explanation, visa officers will naturally doubt the purpose of the application. Therefore, the students need to organize their explanations in advance and clearly explain to the visa officer why they have decided to change their majors.
5.Don’t take a break from school for longer than half a year
Students should not take a long break from their studies to prepare for the IELTS/TOEFL in China. Reasons for having a "gap period" (referring to the period when they were away from school or work) that is too long will be difficult to explain.
The visa officer will feel that the time spent on test preparations is too long, and they will doubt the student's learning abilities. It is recommended that students with a poor foundation in English apply directly to come to Canada to study the language first, and avoid gaps of more than half a year.
It can be seen that the requirements for a master’s program abroad are strict in terms of language proficiency as well as the undergraduate grades. When going to study in Canada, students should still prepare as early as possible to ensure success.

Summary

Canadian graduate programs are often quite competitive, and there might be hundreds of applicants fighting for one spot in some popular programs. In the process of applying for an  entry visa, you are prone to encounter various problems. Consider finding an education agent to help with your application for a Canadian entry visa. Those who are considering applying for graduate school must prepare in advance. If you have any questions, please leave us a comment below.

Recommended Timeline for Graduate Applications

Allow yourself plenty of time to prepare, not only to give yourself room to deal with emergencies but also to make the entire application process smoother. Although everyone has unique circumstances, based on our many years of experience, the timeline we recommend here will help you in your application process.

• 1st year (January to March): decide whether to study abroad, prepare materials, write English proficiency tests
• 1st year (March to June): provide us with personal resumes and other Chinese materials to start drafting of documents
• 1st year (June to October): confirm application schools, gather documents
• 1st year (October to February of the next year): submit online applications, mail application documents
• 2nd year (March to May): wait for admission results
• 2nd year (June to August): prepare visa application, get medical examination, apply for school accommodation;
• Finally, obtain a visa and go to Canada to study.