Colleges, Universities and Institutes

Post-secondary education is delivered in Ontario by universities,colleges of applied arts and technology (also called community colleges) and private vocational schools and institutes.

How do I apply for post-secondary education?
All universities require a secondary school diploma (or equivalent). Most colleges have the same requirement. If you completed studies outside of Canada, you will need to have your educational documents (e.g. diplomas and transcripts) evaluated before you can apply to a college or university.

What is the difference between Colleges and Universities?
Colleges of applied arts and technology offer full and part-time diploma and certificate programs. Universities are degree-granting educational institutions.

How do I choose the best post-secondary institution for me?
While there are no real rules about how to choose a school and a program, the following are general guidelines that can help make the process easier. It is important to do your research, especially when your money is involved.

What language assessment do I need to enter university or college?
If you are planning to study at a college or university or enter a licensed profession or trade, you may have to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). The test evaluates the ability level in English of individuals who do not speak English as their first language.

How can I attend university or college as a mature student?
Adults can apply to attend colleges or universities as mature students. Applications by mature students are evaluated differently from the application of a student who has just finished high school.

How can I take courses on the Internet?
More and more accredited educational institutions are offering courses and entire degree or certificate programs on the Internet or online. Like any other product or service, it is important to be a smart consumer when choosing the institution where you take your courses.

How do I apply for OSAP - Student Loan?
To apply for assistance through OSAP, you must meet certain requirements: You must be a Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident of Canada (landed immigrant). VISA students are not eligible for OSAP. You must also meet some Ontario residency requirements.

Can I get financial help to go to school?
The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) is the main source of financial assistance for post-secondary students in Ontario. OSAP is delivered primarily in the form of loans. Scholarships and bursaries are additional sources of funding.

What information is available for Foreign Students?
At larger universities and colleges, students will find ethnocultural student groups, faith groups and counselling services that can help them to cope with the challenges of adapting to a new school and a new country.

Settlement.Org Guide to Studying in Canada
Foreign students must apply for student authorization abroad in order to study in Canada. Before this can be obtained certain criteria needs to be met.

What are Private Career Colleges and Institutes?
Vocational schools and institutes focus exclusively on preparing students for employment in a specific trade or occupation. Scheduling is often flexible so that students can attend courses and work at the same time.

Where can I get my educational documents evaluated?
Before beginning any studies in Canada, you will need to have your academic documents (e.g. diplomas, transcripts) evaluated. The process for assessing foreign educational credentials varies from school to school.

Colleges, Universities and Institutes

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