Colleges vs Universities- which one should you choose?
Many international students are confused if they should study in a college or a university in Canada. If you’re one of them, we’re here to help. Here’s what you need to know before making a decision.
Who should go to College?
If you are looking for an easy way to get to Canada and gain permanent residency, you should go to a college. A college education is more career-oriented and provides hands-on training.
Requirements for College
- IELTS/TOEFL
- Academic Transcripts
- Completion of higher-secondary education
Tuition Fees
College tuition fees in Canada range from 12,000 CAD to 25,000 CAD.
Top Colleges
- Seneca College
- George Brown College
- Georgian College
- Centennial College
- Conestoga College
Who should go to University?
If you are interested in academics and are good at studies, then you should opt to study at a university in Canada.
Tuition Fees
The tuition fees for bachelor’s usually ranges from 25,000 CAD to 40,00 CAD, while the tuition fees for masters range from 25,000 CAD to 75,000 CAD.
Requirements for Bachelors
- IELTS score of at least /TOEFL
- Must have completed higher secondary education with at least 70%
Requirements for Masters
- Must have pursued a four years bachelor’s degree in the required field with at least 70%
- IELTS score of at least 6 or 6.5 / TOEFL score of 550 minimum (depends on the course and institution)
Top Universities
- University of Toronto
- University of British Columbia
- McGill University
- University of Alberta
- University of Montreal
FAQs
- Which one is harder to get into?
Universities are harder to get into than colleges. Universities are more academic-oriented and require you to have good grades and meet their requirements. People with good academic track record opt to study in universities. Colleges are more flexible and easier to get into.
- Is a university more expensive than a college?
Yes, the tuition fee of a university is relatively higher than that of a college.
- Can I change my college after getting my visa?
Yes, international students can change their program or their college as long as they possess a valid study permit. But you need to ensure that you meet all the study permit requirements, such as the college should be a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- Can I get into a university after completing my college education?
Yes, you can get into a university after your college education. But you have to meet the requirements for admission set by the university for the program you are interested in.
- Which one is better for international students – college or university?
If an international student’s main focus is on getting permanent residency and a secure job in Canada, then college is the better option. But if their main focus is on academics, then university is the better choice. It all depends on the needs of the individual.
- Is it possible to get a scholarship in Canada?
Yes, you can get a scholarship in Canada. But the scholarships are highly competitive and are mostly given to postgraduate students.
- Is IELTS required to study in a university in Canada?
Yes, IELTS or TOEFL score is mandatory to get admission to a university in Canada. You need to have a band score of at least 6.5 or a minimum TOEFL score of 580 to get into a Canadian university.
- Are colleges and universities in Canada the same?
No, they are both different. Colleges offer diploma programs which are of short duration. Universities offer undergraduate, graduate and Ph.D. programs.
- Which is easier to study – a college diploma or a degree from a university?
While both bring their own challenges, a degree from a university might take more time, while a college diploma is more flexible and has a shorter duration.
Which university is the best university in Canada?
The University of Toronto is the best university in Canada, and it is ranked number 1 in the country and is ranked 26th globally by QS World University Rankings, 2022.