Steps to Study in Alberta - Step 2: Choosing a Program

Please note that the admission application process can take considerable time, and that you should start at least one year in advance to compile the necessary information and documentation.

Making Your Decision

When selecting a program, there are many factors to consider, including:

• Costs
• Program length
• Program flexibility
• Methods of instruction
• Equipment
• Workload
• Entrance requirements
• English language requirements

When selecting an institution, you should again consider:

• Costs
• Academic standards
• Entry dates
• Location
• Size
• Facilities

After deciding which institution(s) you want to apply to, you should contact the institution(s) directly and ask for detailed application information and forms.

• You may apply to as many institutions as you like, however, there are fees associated with the application process, so you may want to limit your number of applications.

Each university and college in Alberta sets its own admission requirements and its own criteria for recognizing academic qualifications obtained abroad.

• You are strongly encouraged to check directly with the institution(s) of interest to you for their specific admissions requirements.

Some general requirements that you can expect are:

• Official academic transcripts translated into English as requested by the Canadian institution. Some institutions may require notarized official transcripts.
  
  
• Completion of the equivalent of Canadian secondary or high school.
  
  
• Some schools may require students to take pre-requisite courses to ensure that they have the appropriate academic background.
  
  
• Proof of strong proficiency in English.

A Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is required for most institutions, minimum score required ranges from 500-600. Some institutions accept equivalent tests such as International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL). Some institutions have other forms of language assessment; they may offer their own language proficiency test or, may admit students to academic programs on the basis of having successfully completed that institution's language program.

• Students are usually a minimum of 18 years of age.

Some schools that may accept applications with differing qualifications from mature students (see institution for information on their mature student policy).

You should submit your application package to your institution(s) of choice once you have assembled:

• Proper documentation
• Completed application package
• Application fee payment

Once you have applied, the response time can vary, depending on the time of year and the number of applications the institution has received.

If you receive an official acceptance letter from your institution of choice, you can then apply for your study permit.

• Educational Programs (EDinfo)
  A resource in helping you to choose a program or institution.
• Alberta Post-Secondary Institutions
  Quick links to home pages. Here you will find a list of Alberta universities, publicly funded colleges, private colleges accredited to grant degrees, technical institutes and more.
• Alberta Transfer Guide
  Access information on course and program transfer agreements between many of Alberta's post-secondary institutions. Learn about the types of accreditation offered by Alberta institutions.
• Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training
  Trade Secrets - Supporting your bright future in the trades. Resources for employers, employees and apprentices. Offers information about training, certification, scholarships, financial assistance and more.