Common pathways to college and university in Canada
There are many different ways to get a post-secondary education in Canada. Find the path that works best for your needs and career goals. No matter which path you choose, you’ll find many opportunities in Canada.
Study opportunities after high school
To study at a college or university in Canada, you’ll need a high school diploma. You can also get your high school equivalency by taking the General Educational Development (GED) tests.
What’s next? Decide on the route you’re going to take to your future career. Studying in Canada is flexible. You’ll typically be able to easily transfer between types and levels of education within Canada.
You have many different options for your post-secondary studies:
University
Canada is an international research leader and has some of the top universities in the world. You can find different types of degrees at universities in Canada.
Depending on the degree you wish to study, you’ll need to have completed certain levels of education:
- For a Bachelor’s degree (3-4 years): high school diploma
- For a Master’s degree (1-2 years): Bachelor’s degree
- For a PhD or doctoral studies (3-5 years): Bachelor’s and Master’s degree
- For a Certificate (1-2 years): high school diploma + other requirements depending on the program
- For a Professional degree (3-4 years): high school diploma + other requirements depending on the program
Transferring between college and university studies in Canada
Choosing between college and university depends on your interests and goals. Some people even choose to attend both! Canadian colleges and universities offer flexibility. If you study at one school and wish to transfer to another you’re typically able to receive academic credit for courses you already completed.
College
Consider college studies if you’re looking for practical training that can lead directly to jobs. Colleges also offer exciting opportunities in applied research. You can find different types of degrees at colleges in Canada.
Depending on the degree you wish to study, you’ll need to have completed certain levels of education:
- Diploma (2 to 3 years): high school diploma
- Certificate (1 to 2 years): high school + other requirements depending on the program
- Professional degree (3 years): high school + other requirements depending on the program
- Applied bachelor’s degrees (3-4 years): high school + other requirements depending on the program
Colleges in Canada may be called:
- Colleges of applied arts and technology
- Community colleges
- Institutes of technology
- Polytechnics
CÉGEPs in Quebec
In Quebec, there are collèges d’enseignement général et professionnel, known as CÉGEPs. CÉGEP studies prepare you to either enter the job market or continue your studies at university. Learn more about what CÉGEPs are from les CÉGEPS du Québec.
Language schools
Many students choose to improve their language skills before applying for college or university in Canada. You can study in English or French at one of Canada’s excellent language schools. Strong language skills can help you continue your studies or compete in the international job market.
Transferring credits to a Canadian college or university
Want to transfer your credits from your home institution to Canada? If you’re still in your home country, ask your current institution if it has a credit recognition agreement with schools in Canada. The international studies office at your school should be able to help you.
Next, ask the Canadian college or university you wish to attend whether they will allow you to transfer some or all of your credits. They’ll likely request a copy of your academic transcripts.
Once you’re in Canada, you can also typically transfer your Canadian credits from one institution to another. Some programs limit the number of credits which can be transferred. Contact the college or university you’re interested in to learn more about transferring your credits.
Learn more:
- Credit transfer and articulation in Canada
- List of transfer organizations in Canada
- Credential Evaluations
Keep exploring
Canadian education system
Learn about the education system in Canada from elementary schools to colleges and universities.
Search colleges and universities
Discover programs across Canada based on your interests and find out what each will cost you.
Find a scholarship
Find out whether you’re eligible for a Canadian scholarship for your studies, research or professional development.
- Date modified:
