Canada is a great choice for international students, providing top-notch education, a vibrant culture, and a friendly atmosphere. Before studying in Canada, it is important to understand the different intake dates or start times. The main admissions take place during the autumn and winter seasons. On the other hand, there are institutions that provide specialized programs with spring intakes. Choose the intake that goes well with your academic objectives and personal timetable, as each has its own advantages.
In this article, we will cover all the necessary information about these intakes to help you in choosing the most suitable option for your needs.
It's challenging to understand the best intake for studying in Canada due to the various academic semesters across the country. Nevertheless, the September or autumn intake is commonly selected. The largest intake in Canada, known as the fall intake, begins in September. January marks the beginning of the second most popular intake: winter. Students who choose specialized programs have the option to apply to certain universities during the May intake, also known as the spring intake.
The following paragraphs offer details on different options available for international students wishing to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate education in Canada.
Intake | Starting Month | Duration | Deadlines | Nature |
Fall | September | September to December | December-March | Biggest Intake |
Winter | January | January to April | September-November | Second Biggest Intake |
Spring | May | May to August | October-February | Most Limited Intake |
The fall semester is frequently the top choice for international applicants seeking admission to universities in Canada. Practically every university offers the highest number of seats when compared to the other two intakes. This semester, seats for the most sought-after programs at the leading universities in Canada are available. Most students in Canada prefer starting their studies in the fall intake because it gives them enough time to focus on their academics and environment.
Here is a summarized chart of all the information you need for the September intake:
Category | Information |
Universities | All Canadian universities offer September intake |
Programs Offered | Varies by the university but typically includes UG and PG programs across all disciplines |
Application Deadline | Between December and March |
Classes Start | Last week of September (Depending on the university) |
English Language Requirements | IELTS (Overall 6.5 with no band score less than 6.0) TOEFL (Overall 79 with 21 in written) |
Cost of Living | Approx. INR 85,000 per year |
Winter intake is the second most favored term in Canadian schools. Nevertheless, the institutions provide limited course offerings, employment choices, financial aid, and experiential learning opportunities. This intake is designed for students who did not apply for admission during the fall intake. These students can return to their studies without needing to wait an entire year. Winter intake students will need to adapt to the institute's environment more quickly than fall intake students.
Here is a summarized chart of all the information you need for the winter intake:
Category | Information |
Universities | Almost all Canadian universities offer January intake |
Programs Offered | Fewer programs are offered, which typically include UG and PG programs across all disciplines |
Application Deadline | Between September and November |
Classes Start | Last week of January (Depending on the university) |
English Language Requirements | IELTS (Overall 6.5 with no band score less than 6.0) TOEFL (Overall 79 with 21 in written) |
Cost of Living | Approx. INR 85,000 per year |
The spring intake, also known as the May, is the final intake session of the academic year at Canadian institutions. Only a few colleges provide this intake for a few programs. Admission to diploma certificates and vocational programs is offered throughout the May intake.
Here is a summarized chart of all the information you need for the May intake:
Category | Information |
Universities | Limited Canadian universities offer admissions |
Programs Offered | Very limited programs are offered, which typically include specialized add-on programs |
Application Deadline | Between October and February |
Classes Start | Last week of May (Depending on the university) |
English Language Requirements | IELTS (Overall 6.5 with no band score less than 6.0) TOEFL (Overall 79 with 21 in written) |
Cost of Living | Approx. INR 75,000 per year |
When planning to study in Canada, it's crucial to consider the availability of programs across different intake periods.
Intake | % of programs available | Nature |
September | 100% | Biggest Intake |
January | 30% | Second Biggest Intake |
May | 10% | Most Limited Intake |
We hope this blog post has provided you with a one-stop solution for all your doubts regarding Canadian intakes and their opportunities. Do you also want to study in Canada but are stuck on how to start the application process? Let us take care of your complete application. We make sure that every part of your application is consistent, coherent, and perfectly crafted, as the committee would expect in the case of their ideal candidate.
Even if your profile is impressive, a different perspective can make you look better than most applicants. We believe this perspective exists for every applicant, including you. Let's find that perspective for your case and craft an exceptional application specific to your profile.