Step 2 of 5
Complete Your Application
Strong applications are complete, accurate and on time. Here's which documents each kind of institution expects from international students.
Application steps
Make sure you're eligible
Admission requirements are determined by your educational background and the program(s) you are applying to.
- Verify deadline dates
- Check your admission requirements
- Learn how your academic record is reviewed
- See the prerequisites for your program
- Review previous entering-grade ranges
Prepare your documents
Gather the documents required for your program and make sure they are translated into English or French, if needed.
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Language test scores
- Statement of Purpose or personal statement
- Letters of recommendation, if required
- Resume or CV for some programs
Submit documents and keep in touch
After submitting your application and paying the application fee, verify your application checklist, upload required documents, and check your application status.
Wait for the Offer Letter
After reviewing your application, the institution will send a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) if you meet their criteria, plus a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) if required.
Important: Admission, immigration, and study/work permit requirements can change. Always confirm current requirements before making final decisions.
Intakes & deadlines
Fall
Starts September
The widest choice of programs and the most scholarships.
Apply ~8–12 months ahead
Winter
Starts January
A good range of programs at most colleges and universities.
Apply ~6–9 months ahead
Spring / Summer
Starts May
Fewer programs, offered mostly at colleges.
Apply ~6–8 months ahead
Language tests
Scores can often be submitted after applying, and conditional admission is common when the rest of the file is strong.
Application Documents by Institution
High Schools
- Completed application form
- Academic transcripts (last 2–3 years)
- Proof of English / French proficiency (or school assessment)
- Letter of recommendation (if requested)
- Copy of passport
- Custodian declaration if under 18
Colleges
- Completed application (often via a central system, e.g. OCAS in Ontario)
- Secondary school transcripts / diploma (plus post-secondary transcripts for PG programs)
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS / TOEFL / Duolingo)
- Program-specific documents (portfolio, resume) if required
- Copy of passport
- Application fee (varies by institution)
Universities
- Completed application (often via a central system, e.g. OUAC in Ontario)
- Official transcripts (plus a WES / ICAS evaluation if required)
- Proof of English proficiency
- Statement of Purpose / personal statement
- Letters of recommendation (2–3 for graduate programs)
- Resume / CV; GRE or GMAT for some graduate programs
- Copy of passport and application fee
This is a general guide — exact documents vary by institution and program, so always confirm on the official program page.
Not sure how to complete your application?
Get free counselling from our team of Canadian Education Counsellors and talk through your documents, deadlines, school requirements, and next steps in Canada.
Speak with a counsellor before submitting applications.
Related Links
Review related guides and tools before making decisions or moving forward.