How I searched for university in Canada..

Hello Guys,

I'm writing this post inspired by someone who contacted me couple of days ago and asked me how to search or apply for Canadian Universities/Colleges. I'm not any immigration lawyer, but yes I can share the tips which I used when looking to search for Canada.

1. My main goal to look for a university was based on the province where in I can be safe for a little while until my husband can find a job here. My grandparents were there in Ottawa, and as a matter of fact for my own financial security, I chose Ottawa as a place where I would like to go and study.

2. The second thing I checked was that what type of study - Masters/Graduate certificate, should I apply for? Now this decision was made as per my long term goal of PGWP duration and PNP conditions which I had checked to make sure I satisfy all conditions so that once I'm graduate, I can apply for my PR ASAP.

After going through all the research, Masters degree was a better option for me. The only reason - three years of PGWP and job security as Canadian market prefer master graduates more than a graduate certificate applicants.

Also, Ontario PNP had a pilot project for Masters Student, although in realty I went to Alberta and applied my PR through AINP. But Ontario PNP was the only thing that influenced my decision at the time I was applying.

3. How soon can I finish my degree? I did some research and was very confused regarding the credit and grading system in Canada. I did some research and found out that I can take as many credits I want (if I'm capable of completing those study and that depends on my time management skills), I can complete my studies in 1.5 yrs than 2-3 yrs, which I actually did. I took a load on me so that I can save $6000 for a semester by completing my studies in just 1.5yrs.

So, in short the main things that helped in my research was the fact that I had already decided which province and city I wanted to go and university was decided based on the course I wanted to go in.

If you are not lucky like me- then I would advise you to look for a province where you can get part time jobs easily while studying. I'm not favouring any province, because that depends on your preference. But yes, you need to decide some goals or important points before you just start looking for courses in Canada.

Canada is a great country, but again you must know it comes with a lot of struggle too. It's better to be prepared than getting a shock once you arrive here.

Best of luck!

Shruti