If you are planning on studying in Canada, you need to make sure that you are well-prepared. There are many things to consider, from the cost of living in the country to private student loans. As an international student, you can also look for scholarship opportunities. These will help you finance your studies in Canada.
Scholarships
Scholarships are crucial financial aid for international students planning to study in Canada. There are many different kinds of scholarships available. The most common are merit-based. These are for academically gifted students, community service, and entrepreneurial endeavors.
Some universities also offer scholarships. Some of these are part-funded and vary by source. The most considerable scholarship is the longest-spanning one that can cover your tuition and fees for up to four years.
Aside from the standard merit-based scholarships, some government-funded and privately funded scholarships are specially designed to attract international students. These are more likely to target underrepresented groups, such as minority groups.
The best way to find scholarships in your area is to explore the funding options available at your college. You can also contact your home country’s government and ask for assistance.
Canadian Scholarships for International Students are designed to promote cross-cultural understanding and foster leadership in the nation. They are open to both Canadian and international students studying at Canadian universities. Some require a written test, interview, and outstanding academic achievement.
The University of Ottawa has the most significant scholarships available to international students. The U of O Scholarships include undergraduate and graduate programs.
Similarly, the University of Calgary has a fully-funded International Entrance Scholarship. This includes a one-time payment of $15,000 and a non-renewable payment of $60,000.
The University of Alberta offers a Gold Standard Scholarship that is available to the top 5% of student applicants in each faculty. It is the oldest and largest scholarship program in the country.
The Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship is offered to international students in the natural and social sciences. This is a handy resource for those who are studying health research.
In addition, the University of British Columbia has its scholarship program, the UBC Graduate Scholarships, which are worth CAD$50,000 a year for a doctoral degree. The university also has a graduate support initiative, which provides opportunities to work with a mentor in an academic discipline.
Private Student Loans
Whether you are looking for financing for your education abroad or want to pay off some personal debt, private student loans are a good option for international students. While many American students may need a cosigner to get approved for a private loan, international students can often find financing independently.
Before applying for a private loan, meet the lender’s eligibility requirements. Most lenders require you to be a US citizen or permanent resident, have a high credit score, and have been living in the US for at least two years. The cost of college, transportation, and health insurance is also essential.
Some private lenders have limits on the amount of money they will give you. It would be best if you shopped around to find the best rates. A loan should be your school’s total cost of attendance. If unsure, you should speak with your school’s financial aid office.
You can take advantage of lower interest rates and other benefits if you have good credit. Getting a loan with a cosigner can help you build up your credit.
Some private student loan options include loans from MPOWER Financing and Sallie Mae. These lenders do not require a cosigner and are available to undergraduate and graduate students. The interest rate is based on your credit history. The payments are automatically deferred while you are in school and total principal and interest payments begin six months after you leave school.
Discover Financial Services offers loans to international students. The application is easy, and you do not need a Social Security number to apply. However, your cosigner must be a US citizen or permanent resident.
Citizens, One offers low-interest rates and a 0.25% discount for graduate students for AutoPay. They also provide a variety of professional loans and medical residency loans.
Earnest is another excellent choice. They offer loans, refinancing, and credit cards for international students. Their online platform lets you compare several lenders at once. They also do not charge an origination fee. In addition, their Skip a Payment feature allows you to skip one payment every 12 months.
Off Campus Options
If you are an international student going to Canada, you have many off-campus options. Luckily, the process is less overwhelming than it might seem. After all, you want accommodation that fits your needs and budget.
One of the initial steps you should take is to learn about the different living options available. The best place to start is with your school. Some institutions have a housing committee or referral agency to help you find accommodations. You can also seek an outside placement agent if your school still needs to.
Off-campus options are more affordable than on-campus alternatives. This is because the costs associated with renting a room at a dorm or an apartment are much lower. However, it would be best if you considered your options before deciding. Choosing the best place to live is vital in planning your life in Canada.
You can search online if you are in a hurry to find a home. You can even check out local rental listings to see what is available in your area. It is an extraordinary method for getting a feel for the city before settling into your new life.
Another option for off-campus housing is to stay with a Canadian family. This can give you a real sense of home while also letting you experience Canadian culture. These are also less expensive than your typical off-campus rentals.
Most importantly, your best bet for off-campus housing is to look for an apartment. This is the most common type of off-campus rental. When looking for an apartment, you should only send money to the landlord after you see the apartment. You should pay a security deposit and may be required to pay the first month’s rent.
Another popular option is to rent a house. This is an excellent choice for post-graduate students because it allows them to find a more suitable location. But remember that the cost of living can vary significantly in larger cities.
Cost of living to study in Canada
The cost of living to study in Canada as an international student can vary greatly depending on the location and city of choice. However, a general estimate for international students is about $200 to 600 CAD per month.
Students may need to budget for extra expenses, such as miscellaneous costs, including cell phone plans, entertainment, and personal care items. Also, students should set aside enough money for meal plans, groceries, and other living expenses.
Most Canadian universities offer on-campus accommodation. This is cheaper than off-campus housing. In addition, on-campus accommodation is usually close to the school’s campus. It’s also more convenient for students.
International students can choose between on-campus and off-campus housing. Students can often find a shared apartment or homestay, which is more affordable. This allows them to meet new people while reducing their expenses.
Off-campus housing can be expensive, especially in larger cities like Toronto and Vancouver. You will need to pay for utilities and other personal expenses if you rent. It is essential to check with your landlord to determine your costs.
Health insurance is another part of the cost of living to study in Canada. Some provinces automatically cover international students under their public health insurance systems. Others require you to purchase private insurance. This can be a substantial expense, especially in provinces that do not offer international healthcare.
Transportation is another cost. There are several options to get around, including public transit. A monthly train pass can range from $80 to $110. Biking is a good option for commuting. If you’re not a biker, taxis are another affordable option.
Meals are a significant part of the cost of living to study in Canada. The average price for a meal at a restaurant in Canada can be between $10 to $15. In addition, a movie ticket can be $12 to $14.
A yearly rental for a two-bedroom apartment in Canada can average over $1,500. Whether you live on or off campus, you must budget for food, groceries, and other personal expenses.