Study in Canada from Bangladesh

You can apply to Canadian universities through several methods. For undergraduate programs, you may apply via an authorized agent like NHP Education Consultants, through OUAC (Ontario Universities' Application Centre) for universities in Ontario, ApplyAlberta for institutions in Alberta, or directly through the university’s official website. For postgraduate programs, applications can also be submitted through an authorized agent, OUAC (if applicable), or directly to the university. The required documents typically include academic transcripts, English language proficiency test scores such as IELTS, a personal statement or Statement of Purpose (SOP), and academic or professional reference letters. Once you receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) and a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)—if required—you can proceed to apply for your Study Permit Visa through the IRCC portal.

It is highly recommended to begin your application process 6 to 12 months in advance to ensure sufficient time for admissions, visa approval, and travel preparation.

To study at a Canadian university, you typically need to meet several key entry requirements. First, you must have completed the equivalent of Canadian secondary education (for undergraduate programs) or hold a relevant undergraduate degree (for postgraduate programs). Academic transcripts and certificates are required to demonstrate your qualifications. You will also need to prove your English language proficiency, usually through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE, unless your previous education was in English. Some universities may have specific minimum score requirements. Finally, you must provide a valid passport and meet any additional requirements set by the university or the province where the institution is located.

It’s best to start the application process at least 8–12 months before your intended start date. For most undergraduate programs starting in September, applications usually open in the previous October–January, while postgraduate programs may have rolling admissions. Starting early gives you enough time to prepare documents, meet language requirements, and apply for scholarships or a study permit.

If you're applying through an authorized agent like NHP Education Consultants, they can help you meet all due dates and ensure a smooth, timely application process.

A study plan is a document required for your Canadian study permit application that explains why you want to study in Canada, your chosen program, and your career goals. To write one, include your academic background, reasons for choosing Canada, details about your program and university, future career plans, ties to your home country, and financial preparedness. Keep it clear, honest, and personalized to show you are a genuine student.

Yes, you can apply to multiple Canadian universities at the same time. However, each university has a separate application process, so you must submit individual applications to each institution and pay their respective application fees. This allows you to increase your chances of admission while choosing the program and university that best fits your goals.

Applying to multiple universities increases your chances of getting accepted and receiving scholarships.

You generally need academic transcripts, proof of English or French proficiency, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and your passport. Some programs may also require a CV or portfolio, depending on the course.

Some courses may also require a portfolio, entrance exam results, or an interview. Always check the specific requirements of each university.

Yes, most Canadian universities require a personal statement as part of your application. It should explain why you want to study your chosen program, your academic background, relevant skills or experiences, and your career goals. You can also include extracurricular activities, achievements, and personal qualities that make you a strong candidate. Keep it clear, honest, and tailored to each university.

Deadlines for applying to Canadian universities vary by institution, program, and intake. However, here’s a general guideline:

Major Intakes in Canada

• Fall Intake (September) - Most popular and widely available
  • Application Timeline: October to March (the year before intake)
  • Deadlines: Often between January and March
  • Some competitive programs may close earlier (as early as December)
• Winter Intake (January) - Fewer programs available
  • Application Period: May to September (the previous year)
  • Deadlines: Typically August to October
• Spring/Summer Intake (May) - Limited programs and institutions
  • Application Window: October to January
  • Deadlines: Typically January to March

Each university sets its own application timeline, so always check the official website of the institution or apply through a trusted consultant like NHP Education Consultants for up-to-date guidance.

Most Canadian universities accept IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and sometimes the Duolingo English Test. Some programs may also accept Cambridge English exams. Requirements and minimum scores vary by university and program, so always check the specific criteria before applying. If you have previously studied in English (for example, O/A Levels or English-medium instruction), some universities may waive the language requirement upon request. Always confirm the requirements with your chosen university or program.

To apply for a Canada Study Permit, you must first be accepted by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), and most DLIs require proof of English language proficiency - commonly through the IELTS Academic test.

While Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) does not set a specific IELTS score for the study permit itself, you must meet the minimum language requirement of your chosen institution, which in turn affects your eligibility for a visa.

Important: It is always recommended to have an overall IELTS score of 6.0 to 6.5, with no band less than 6.0, to strengthen your chances of getting a Canadian study permit visa.

Yes, most Canadian universities and colleges accept TOEFL iBT and PTE Academic as alternatives to IELTS. For university admission, always check the specific score requirements on the institution’s website, as they can vary by program. For a study permit, IRCC recognizes both tests, but the scores must come from an in-person test and meet the university’s language requirements.

Yes, both Duolingo & OIETC are accepted by many Canadian colleges and universities for admission purposes, especially at the undergraduate and diploma levels. It gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic due to its convenience and online format.

• However,
  • Not all institutions accept Duolingo, especially for postgraduate programs.
  • IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) does NOT accept Duolingo or OIETC for Study Permit

Many Canadian universities now accept online versions of IELTS, PTE Academic, and TOEFL, but acceptance varies by institution and program. Some universities may still require in-person tests. Always check the official English language requirements on the university’s website before applying to ensure your test format is accepted.

IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) does NOT accept online versions of these tests. For visa purposes, you may need to take an in-person test at an approved center.

Yes, it is possible to study in Canada without IELTS. Some universities accept alternative English tests such as TOEFL, PTE Academic, Duolingo English Test, or Cambridge English exams. Additionally, if you have previous education in English (for example, O/A Levels or an English-medium degree), some universities may waive the English language requirement. Always check the specific language requirements of your chosen university and program.

Tuition Fees (per year)

• Diploma/Adv Diploma: Generally range from C$16,500 to C$20,000
• Undergraduate programs: Generally range from C$15,500 to C$65,000
• Postgraduate (Master’s): Full-funded to C$75,000
• MBA or high-profile programs: Can be much higher—ranging from C$48,000 to nearly C$120,000 depending on the institution

Living Expenses (per year)

• In Toronto & Victoria: Expect C$1,000 - C$2,000/month, which adds up to approximately C$12,000 – C$24,000/year
• Other cities: Typically C$1,000 - C$1,500/month, or C$12,000 – C$18,000/year
• Official estimates (for visa & sponsorship purposes) indicate around C$22,895

Visa & Health Insurance

• Student visa application fee: C$235
• Health Insurance - Expect C$1000 +/- per year

Additional Insights

Tuition depends on university, course, and level of study, with STEM, business, and medical fields typically costing more. Living costs vary by city and lifestyle, so your actual expenses may differ

In 2026, tuition fees for international students in Canada vary by program and institution. Diploma and Advanced Diploma programs typically cost between C$16,500 and C$20,000 per year, while undergraduate programs range from C$15,000 to C$65,000 per year. Postgraduate (Master’s) programs are often fully funded or can cost up to C$75,000, and MBA or other high-profile programs may range from C$48,000 to nearly C$120,000 depending on the university. PhD programs are generally fully funded, with tuition around C$40,000. These figures highlight the wide variation in costs depending on the level of study and the institution.

Bangladeshi students aspiring to study in Canada can apply for a wide range of scholarships at various levels, from undergraduate to doctoral programs. Some notable options include the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS), the Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP), the Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS), as well as university-specific graduate funding and undergraduate entrance scholarships. Most of these scholarships are merit-based and often require a confirmed university offer. Since application closing date vary, it is important to apply early to maximize your chances of receiving funding.

First, research scholarships like Vanier, OGS, CSFP, or university-specific awards. Check eligibility, prepare transcripts, a personal statement, and recommendation letters, and submit your application online before the time frame. Starting early improves your chances.

To apply for a Canadian student visa from Bangladesh, you must show enough funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and return travel. Currently, the minimum living cost for one student is CAD 22,895 per year (excluding tuition). Acceptable proof includes bank statements, FDRs, or other liquid assets, and you should also explain the source of funds. Funds should be maintained for at least 4 - 6 months, and you must show a reliable income source for future years of study.

The processing time for a Canada Study Permit visa from Bangladesh typically depends on the type of application and the time of year, but here are the general timelines:

Standard Study Permit

• Processing Time: 6 to 12 weeks
• Average: Around 8 weeks, but delays can happen due to incomplete documentation or high application volumes.

Apply 3-6 months before your start date to allow for processing and possible delays.

International students in Canada can work up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks (such as summer or winter holidays). To work, you must be a full-time student at a recognized institution and have a valid study permit.

Always check the official IRCC website for the most recent updates, as work eligibility rules and temporary policies may change.

The monthly cost of living for a student in Canada varies depending on the city and lifestyle. In big cities, students typically spend between C$1,300 and C$2,000 per month on accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses. In other cities, costs are lower, ranging from C$800 to C$1,500 per month. Main expenses include housing, meals, transportation, and personal items, and overall costs can fluctuate based on individual choices and city of residence.

Yes, your spouse or common-law partner can apply for an open work permit, and your dependent children can get a study permit to attend school in Canada. You must be a full-time student at a recognized institution and show sufficient funds to support your family. Approval is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Yes, you can apply for a Master's degree in Canada after completing your Bachelor's degree, including if your Bachelor's was completed in Bangladesh or another country.

Yes. After completing a program in Canada, international students can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This allows you to work in Canada for up to 3 years, depending on the length of your study program. The PGWP gives you the opportunity to gain valuable Canadian work experience, which can also help if you plan to apply for permanent residency in the future.

NHP Education Consultants is widely recognized as one of the best, most trusted, and reputable study abroad consultancies in Bangladesh. Their team of counselors is extensively trained and certified by respected organizations such as the British Council, ICEF, PIER QEAC, the Saskatchewan Government, and Seneca Polytechnic, ensuring high-quality and reliable guidance. Each student’s application is personally reviewed and managed by a British law graduate, which guarantees accuracy and full compliance with the requirements of Canadian universities and visa authorities.

NHP offers expert support in preparing Study Plans and Visa Application Documents, helping students approach their applications with confidence. As an authorized representative of numerous Canadian universities, NHP provides comprehensive A-to-Z assistance throughout the entire study abroad journey, from initial counseling to pre-departure support.