Canada is a well known destination for Pakistani students seeking higher education abroad. Currently it has 642,000 international students and is positioned as 3rd in the world for foreign attraction.
Canada has some of the best universities and colleges with diverse cultures providing a welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds.
Why Canada Represents a Golden Opportunity for Pakistani Students?
As a multicultural country, Canada has a strong Pakistani diaspora that celebrates diversity from any background. Pakistani students prefer Canada as it has beyond the typical reasons of quality education or cultural diversity.
Canada’s education system, immigration policies, and industry connections make it particularly attractive for students from Pakistan looking for personal and professional growth. Below are some reasons why Canada stands as top choice for Pakistani students”
1. Clear Pathways to Work and Immigration
Canada offers a clear and structured path from studying to even continuing your professional career. Pakistani students can apply for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows them to work in Canada for up to three years after graduation.
This pathway can lead to permanent residency (PR) through Canada Express Entry System or Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
2. Scholarships and Financial Support
Canadian universities offer scholarships and financial aid for developing countries like Pakistan. There are awards like the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships to university-specific scholarships to reduce financial burden on international students.
This financial support is not only based on academic merit but also on regional focus, giving Pakistani students an added advantage
3. Stable Economy with High Job Demand
Canada’s economy is recorded to remain steady even during global uncertainties. As there is a consistent demand for skilled workers, especially in fields like STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Pakistani students with qualifications in areas like IT, healthcare, engineering, and finance are likely to get better career opportunities than countries compared to the UK and Australia.
Canada’s immigration policies are also designed to retain talent, making it easier for students to switch from student to work permit.
Study options in Canada for Pakistani Students
In Canada, the education system is managed at provincial level instead of federal level. However, the education duration for study programs is similar across Canada.
Here’s a breakdown of the study options and important details to help you decide which path suits you best:
| Program Type | Duration | Entry Requirements | Estimated Tuition (CAD) | Popular Fields |
| Undergraduate Programs | 3 to 4 years | High school diploma, IELTS 6.0+ | 15,000 – 35,000 | Engineering, Business, Computer Science |
| Graduate Programs (Master’s) | 1 to 2 years | Bachelor’s degree, IELTS 6.5+, GRE/GMAT (for some programs) | 13,000 – 30,000 | Data Science, Engineering, Management |
| Diploma & Certificate | 1 to 2 years | High school/Bachelor’s, IELTS 6.0+ | 10,000 – 20,000 | Hospitality, IT, Trades |
| Doctoral Programs (PhD) | 3 to 5 years | Master’s degree, IELTS 7.0+, research proposal | 7,000 – 20,000 | Life Sciences, Engineering, Social Sciences |
| Pathway Programs | Varies | Basic English proficiency | 5,000 – 15,000 | English improvement for academic readiness |
Top Courses to Study in Canada for Pakistani Students
Canadian universities offer a wide range of courses for international students. While every course has its benefits, there are certain courses that stand out due to strong industry demand, job prospects and global reputation of Canadian universities. Below are some of the top courses that are recommended for international students:
- Accounting and Finance
- Health Sciences
- Journalism and Media
- Business Management
- Hospitality and Tourism Management
You can start post-secondary studies in universities and colleges after successfully completing secondary school except Quebec. The CEGEP system in Quebec works differently; the secondary school is until grade seven.
Once student completes secondary school, they have to study pre-university program (CEGEP) that is of 2 years before starting 3-year Bachelor Degree.
Cost of Studying in Canada For Pakistani Students
The cost of study in Canada varies depending on your chosen program and location. There are various scholarship programs offered for international students as well to accommodate students with low budgets. Below is the clear breakdown of cost of studying in Canada:
Undergraduate Degrees
Colleges in Canada offer certificates and diplomas at affordable rates, typically ranging from 15,000 CAD to 19,000 CAD per year. Some colleges even offer complete degree programs at a lower cost compared to universities.
The tuition fees differ based on the province and the specific program. Provinces like Newfoundland have lower tuition costs, while Ontario and British Columbia are among the more expensive regions.
On average, a Bachelor’s degree in fields such as Arts, Design, Computing, Science, and Engineering ranges from 21,000 CAD to 35,000 CAD per year.
Postgraduate Degrees
The tuition fees for a Master’s degree can range from 21,000 CAD to 45,000 CAD per year depending on the university and the chosen field of study.
- Engineering: Programs like Master of Applied Sciences in Mechanical Engineering cost around 22,995 CAD per year.
- Business and Management: Master of Management or MBA can range from 30,000 CAD to 45,000 CAD annually, depending on the university.
- Health Sciences: Master of Public Health or Nursing fall between 27,000 CAD to 40,000 CAD per year.
- Computer Science and IT: Master’s in Computer Science is typically between 25,000 CAD to 35,000 CAD per year.
- Social Sciences and Humanities: Fields like Psychology, Sociology, or Education can range between 21,000 CAD to 30,000 CAD per year.
Work Opportunities in Canada For Pakistani Students
After finishing their studies, international students can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This permit allows graduates to work in Canada for up to three years.
Canada has multiple pathways for international students to transition to permanent residency (PR) after graduation. Two popular options are:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): This program is for individuals with Canadian work experience.
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Various provinces offer nomination programs that can help students settle in Canada based on their skills and work experience.
Canada is known for its focus on research and innovation. Students have the chance to participate in cutting-edge research projects, which can be especially beneficial for those pursuing research-based degrees.
FAQs
1. What is the fee for the Canadian Study Permit?
To apply for the Canadian Study Permit, you will need to pay a fee of 150 CAD. You can pay this fee online, at a visa application center in Pakistan, or through a bank transfer. Additionally, you must pay 85 CAD for the biometrics collection.
2. What are the top universities in Canada for Pakistani students?
Some of the top universities include:
- McGill University
- University of Alberta
- University of Ottawa
- University of Waterloo
- Western University
2. What documents are required for the student visa?
One of the most important documents is proof of funds to show you can support yourself during your studies. You will need to demonstrate:
- 833 CAD per month, or
- 1,095 CAD per month if studying in Quebec.
3. Can Pakistani students get admission to Canadian universities without IELTS?
Yes, some Canadian universities accept Pakistani students without IELTS scores, depending on the program and university.
4. What is the visa processing time for Pakistani students?
The processing time for a Canadian student visa from Pakistan typically ranges from 4 to 16 weeks.