University vs College Canada: Difference Between College and University in Canada

Are you curious to know what is the difference between college and university in Canada? If yes, read this article till the end to get the answer.

Students flock to Canada, one of the most famous study abroad locations, when pursuing higher education abroad. Every year, Canada welcomes approximately half a million international students, owing entirely to Canadian institutions’ high quality of education at a reasonable cost.

In Canada, academic institutions are classified into two categories: colleges and universities. Students frequently mistakenly believe that Canadian colleges and universities are comparable to Indian colleges and universities because both words are extensively used in India and South Asia.

So, in this post, we’ll learn how Canadian colleges differ from Canadian universities and what the entry requirements are for studying at each institution. Let’s get started!

The Educational System in Canada

Canada has a strong and well-funded public education system as a whole. In Canada, both public and private educational institutions include the following:

1.  Universities
2. Community colleges and private colleges are two types of colleges.

 1. Universities

Universities in Canada have a research-based approach to provide students with an in-depth understanding of all areas of a field. They have bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. A bachelor’s degree lasts four years, while a master’s and a Ph.D. last two years and five years, respectively.

After completing a degree program, university graduates are qualified to work as researchers, professors, and in other positions that require a broad understanding of the subject area. The following are some of Canada’s top universities:

1. University of Alberta
2. University of Waterloo
3. University of Montreal
4. McGill University
5. University of Toronto
6. University of British Columbia
7. McMaster University

 2. Colleges

In Canada, community colleges and private colleges are well-known for providing practical exposure and hands-on learning opportunities. In a wide range of study topics, these institutions provide UG Diplomas, University Transfer programs, Bachelor’s Degree, and PG Diploma Courses in Canada.

A certificate program is a one-year program at a Canadian college, while a Diploma program and an Advanced Diploma are two-year and three-year programs. A Graduate Certificate is a one-year post-graduate program at a Canadian college, whereas a Graduate Diploma or a PG Diploma is a two-year program.

To excel in the growing corporate sector, Canadian universities want to prepare students for the job market and give them a hands-on learning experience. The following is a list of some of Canada’s best colleges for overseas students:

1. George Brown College
2. Sheridan College
3. Seneca College
4. Durham College
5. Centennial College
6. George Brown College and more.

Requirements for Admission

The admittance requirements for Canadian colleges are varied, but they are rather stringent when it comes to Canadian universities. Take a look!

a. Universities

• Bachelor’s degree: 12 years of full-time study with a minimum of 60% in 12 STDs
• Masters: 16 years of full-time school with a bachelor’s degree with a grade point average of 65 percent or higher.

b. Colleges

• UG diplomas: require 12 years of full-time study with a minimum of 50-55 percent in 12 STDs.
• PG Diplomas: 15 years of full-time education with a bachelor’s degree minimum of 50-55 percent.

Fees for tuition

Compared to other study abroad destinations such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, higher education in Canada is very affordable. College tuition rates range from university tuition fees depending on the degree program. The following is the typical tuition fee bracket:

1. CAD 12K and 25K in college
2. University: Bachelor’s degree: CAD 25-40K, Master’s degree: CAD 25-45K

Work Permit After Graduation

Students who complete a diploma program at a Canadian institution are eligible for a work visa. Students who complete a one-year diploma or certificate program are granted one year of post-study work visa. Still, students who complete a two-year diploma program are granted up to three years of work visa. International students can apply for up to 3 years of post-study work visas at Canadian universities after completing a 4-year bachelor’s and 2-year master’s degree.

Internships and co-ops are two types of internships.

Internships and co-operative program alternatives are common at Canadian colleges, allowing students to gain professional work experience and prepare them for the thriving job market. On the other hand, co-ops are only accessible for a limited number of programs and at a limited number of universities. Internships and co-ops are not offered at Canadian universities; instead, they focus on providing in-depth knowledge about the study topic.