Introduction
Studying abroad can open up tremendous opportunities for personal and professional growth. For Pakistani students looking to advance their education at an international level, Canada presents an attractive option with its world-class universities and welcoming multicultural environment. In this article, we will explore the process of studying in Canada as an international student from Pakistan and provide tips to help you succeed in your education journey abroad.
Canada Study visa – Your Ticket to Pursue Higher Education Overseas
The first major step is securing a Canada study permit, which is equivalent to a student visa. This authorizes you to legally stay, work on campus part-time during your program, and gain practical work experience post-graduation through the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program. To qualify for a study permit, you need a valid passport, proof of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI), evidence of sufficient funds, and an established reason to leave Canada upon completing your studies.
The application process takes place online through the IRCC portal. Along with the application form, you will need to submit required documents including proof of identity, educational credentials, English/French test scores if required, letter of acceptance and documents showing you can financially support yourself. Biometrics like fingerprints and photo may also be required. Processing usually takes 8-12 weeks so apply well in advance of your program start date. Having complete documentation and meeting all eligibility criteria greatly enhances your chances of approval.
Popular Fields of Study for International Students
Some popular fields pursued by Pakistani students in Canada include:
- Business and Commerce: Programs like an MBA, accounting, finance or marketing open up global career opportunities in various industries. Renowned business schools include Schulich, Ivey, Sauder and Queen’s.
- Engineering: Disciplines like computer, software, electrical, civil and mechanical engineering are in high demand. Top engineering schools include University of Toronto, McGill, Waterloo and British Columbia.
- Health Sciences: Pursuing medicine, dentistry or pharmacy in Canada is competitive but prestigious. Some top options are the University of Toronto, McMaster, Western, Alberta and British Columbia.
- IT and Computer Science: In-demand fields with growing prospects worldwide. Standout programs are at University of Waterloo, University of Toronto, McMaster and British Columbia.
- Arts and Humanities: Popular options include psychology, economics, international relations and more. Well-regarded universities include University of Toronto, McGill, British Columbia and Alberta.
Mbbs in Canada After 12– An Aspiring Option
Many Pakistani students who complete their FSc or equivalent 12th grade aspire to pursue MBBS or Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery in Canada. While studying medicine abroad right after grade 12 is challenging due to academic prerequisites, it is still possible through certain alternative routes:
- Complete a 2-year pre-medical program at a Canadian university to fulfill first year biology, chemistry, physics and English requirements for medical colleges.
- Apply to 5-6 year MD programs at universities like Memorial, Saskatchewan and Manitoba which allow international students to enroll directly after grade 12.
- Consider MBBS equivalency or bridging programs at universities that allow international students to complete pre-med courses and then integrate into the MD program.
- Take a “foundation” or “bridging” course at a college that prepares international students to meet medical admission standards. This could be a 1-2 year undertaking.
- Write the MCAT medical college admission test after completing prerequisite courses through the above paths. Scoring highly enhances MBBS candidacy.
With focused preparation and good grades, it is feasible to pursue MBBS in Canada even after completing just grade 12 in Pakistan. Researching different university and college options is key before initiating this journey.
Apply for Mbbs in Canada – Follow the Step-by-Step Process
Once you meet the eligibility criteria of having completed the necessary prerequisites with high grades, here are the core steps to apply for MBBS or MD programs in Canada:
- Research universities and colleges offering the MD program and visit their websites to analyze the profiles of past admitted students, program details and cost. Shortlist 2-3 suitable options.
- Prepare all required application material like transcripts, educational documents, resume, MCAT scores (if required by college), letters of recommendation and personal statement well in advance.
- Register online and fill out the application form provided by the institutions’ central application service SDS/OUAC/AACPMAS by their deadlines.
- Complete any mandatory modules or interviews conducted by admission committees of shortlisted medical schools.
- Wait for interview invitations/acceptance letters from maximum shortlisted universities between January-April.
- Compare acceptance packages from successful applications and accept the offer by May 15th deadline for the fall intake.
- Apply for a Canadian Study Permit after receiving admission to formally pursue MBBS in the country.
- Prepare all travel and living documents before flying to Canada in summer to begin your medical education journey.
Complying with all procedures, meeting deadlines and presenting your candidature in the strongest light improves your chances with Canadian MD programs. Thorough research plays a key role in making an informed decision.
Expenses and Financial Aid Options
One concern for many international students is managing the costs of higher education abroad. Here is a breakdown of typical expenses you may incur per year studying medicine or at the undergraduate level in Canada:
- Tuition fees for medicine: Around CA$18,000 – $30,000 per year
- Tuition for other programs: $8,000 – $15,000 annually
- Living expenses: $12,000 – $18,000 including housing, food, transportation
- Books and supplies: $1,500 – $3,000
- Health insurance: $600 – $1,000 mandatory coverage
This amounts to a total budget between $32,000 – $50,000 per academic year depending on your program and location within Canada. To overcome this financial barrier, Canadian universities provide the following options:
- International student scholarships based on academic merit starting from $1,000 – $5,000 annually.
- Bursaries and needs-based financial aid for students in financial hardship up to $3,000 – $6,000 per year.
- Tuition fee installments and deferred payment plans offered by universities.
- Federal and provincial student loans for eligible Canadian students also pursuing international studies.
- Work permits allowing students to work on/off campus during studies to contribute to costs.
Proper research of these financial resources is advised before seeking admission to realistically manage education finances in Canada.
Post-Graduation Job Prospects in Canada
Canada offers one of the most attractive transition paths globally for international students to secure precious work experience post-graduation. Some key ways this can be achieved are:
- Post-Graduation Work Permit Program: Recent graduates from DLI programs in Canada receive an open work permit for 3 years, allowing graduates to gain Canadian work experience.
- Express Entry drawn from multiple immigration categories including Canadian Experience Class that awards additional points to applicants with work experience.
- Provincial nominee programs that facilitate immigration to certain Canadian provinces for in-demand skills and experience.
- Entrepreneur options like the Start-Up Visa to set up new businesses that create jobs and investment opportunities for permanent residency.
- Sector-specific pathways to permanent residency for students educated in fields like technology, health and skilled trades facing critical labor needs.
- Possibility of employer-sponsored work permits and subsequent immigration through LMIA job offers.
Canada actively recruits and retains international talent to address its demographic and economic goals. Graduating from credible institutions here substantially strengthens your chances of professionally establishing in this welcoming country on a long-term basis.
Conclusion
Canada has proven to be a preferred overseas education destination with positive outcomes that enhance career prospects worldwide. For Pakistani students passionate about their future progress, taking the first step to research Canadian university programs, navigate the application processes, gain acceptance and immerse in campus life will lead to immensely rewarding academic and personal experiences. Careful planning and dedication are required, but the returns of Canadian higher education and its bridges to permanent residency are well worth the investment in oneself. I hope this article has provided useful information and guidance on successfully pursuing your dream of study abroad in Canada.
Get in Touch
Are you ready to take the first step toward your medical career abroad? Contact Dunya Consultants today and let us help you achieve your dreams.
- Email: query@teamdunya.com
- Phone: +92 332 8014855
- Website: https://dunyaconsultants.com/contact/
