Canada Short-Term Courses: Eligibility, Admission Process & Fees

Updated on 24 September, 2024

Rakhee Talukdar

Rakhee Talukdar

Global Education Expert

Canada is one of the most popular study-abroad destinations, hosting around 1 million international students in  2023 from around the world. Canada’s short-term courses are popular amongst students as they are a quick and cost-effective way to gain valuable credentials and skills.

The Canadian education system is characterized by high quality and inclusiveness, with colleges and vocational schools offering hands-on practical learning. In Canada, education is compulsory for children, starting from six years of age till they are 18 years old. Children start elementary school and gradually progress to university-level education.

The most popular Canadian short-term courses include diplomas and certificates. Read more to find the eligibility criteria, admission requirements, fees, and advantages of short-term courses in Canada for international students.

Reasons for Pursuing Short-Term Courses in Canada

Here are some reasons why pursuing short-term courses in Canada may be worthwhile for students. 

  • Skill development opportunities:  Short-term courses in Canada for international students are intensive and usually designed in collaboration with industry experts to enable experiential learning for students. Thus, they can help you learn skills that are directly related to your profession and enhance your employability. 
  • Get ready for the workforce faster: Since there are several 6 months short-term courses in Canada for international students, you can gain the requisite knowledge and skills in a short period of time. 
  • Save on your education costs: The typical cost of a short-term course in Canada ranges from CAD3,297–CAD18,430. On the other hand, a bachelor’s degree can cost you around CAD60,510. Thus, Canada’s short-term courses can significantly save your expenditure on education. 

Popular Subjects and Fields for Short-Term Courses

Short-term courses in Canada span across a wide range of subjects, meeting the needs of various industries. Some of the popular fields include : 

  • Accounting
  • Education 
  • Healthcare
  • Information Technology
  • Finance
  • Law
  • Project Management

Additionally, courses in emerging areas such as Data Science, AI, and Sustainable Energy are gaining traction, reflecting current global trends and industry advancements.

Types of Short-Term Courses Available

Short-term courses are available in different formats in Canada, including Certificate Courses in Canada, foundation programs, diploma courses, professional development workshops, and online or blended education. 

They are provided by universities, colleges, and vocational schools, which allows international students to select from a large pool of options based on their career aspirations and preferred learning curve.

Top Institutions Offering Short-Term Courses in Canada

There are numerous short-term courses available in Canada for international students. Some of the top universities in Canada for short-term courses are: 

University/
College Name
QS WUR 2024 Location Course  Fees  Duration 
Vancouver Island University 1000–1200 Multiple Locations Nursing Unit Assistant Certificate CAD5,290.04 4 months
University of Alberta 111 Edmonton Energy Engineering Science, Business, Health and Safety, Social and Community and other short-term courses  N/A Few weeks to months 
University of Calgary 182 Calgary Certificate in Professional Management CAD4,870 8  months
University of Toronto 21 Toronto  Graduate Diploma in Health Research  CAD15,000 20 months
McGill University 30 Montreal Professional Development Certificate in Project Management CAD5,939 2 years

Short-term Courses in Canada: Eligibility & Admission Requirements 

There are varying eligibility criteria for Canada’s short-term courses across institutions. Some of the general guidelines include the following: 

  • High school or bachelor’s degree 
  • Academic transcripts and CVs/resumes wherever required 
  • Proof of funding or scholarship 
  • Portfolio and samples wherever needed 
  • LOR (letters of recommendation)
  • English language proficiency scores (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE). Usually, universities ask for a minimum score of 6.0 on the IELTS academic and TOEFL CBT score of 80.
  • French language proficiency scores for those applying to study programs taught in French (TEF, DALF, and others)
  • Visa and Passport

Important Articles for Studying in Canada

Visitor Visa in Canada PGWP Canada Education System in Canada
MBBS in Canada Biometric for Canada Visa PR Visa for Canada

Admission Process for Short-Term Courses

The admission process for short-term courses in Canada is:

  • For most universities, students are asked to apply online and submit the completed application with the necessary documents. These include:
  • Application Form
  • Transcripts of previous studies
  • English language proficiency scores
  • Audition video
  • Proof of payment of fees
  • A valid government-issued ID
  • Some colleges and universities may also invite applicants for an interview to assess their suitability for the programs. 
  • Certain institutions may also require students to attempt a computerized placement test in subjects like reading, mathematics, and writing after submitting the application. 
  • Selected candidates are informed via e-mail. 

Duration and Format of Short-Term Courses

Short-term courses in Canada vary greatly in duration and format. Courses can last from a few months to a year. These are offered in full-time, part-time, evening, or online formats to accommodate different schedules and learning styles.

This flexibility allows individuals to continue working or manage other commitments while upgrading their skills or pursuing new interests.

Conclusion

Pursuing a short-term course in Canada can be a good choice for aspirants looking to acquire fresh knowledge, build new competencies in their chosen field, and prepare for the job market with a globally acknowledged qualification/certification. 

FAQs

Are 6-month short-term courses in Canada worth it?

Yes, six months short-term courses in Canada are good options for those seeking to build their resumes in a comparatively affordable manner. These courses have global recognition, helping students better prepare for industry/job-based responsibilities.

Can you pursue short-term courses in Canada without IELTS?

Pursuing short-term courses in Canada without IELTS is possible, although you will have to submit scores in alternative tests like the TOEFL and others. The chosen educational institution will determine the English language proficiency test that you have to appear for.

What are the visa requirements for short-term courses in Canada?

For short-term studies (less than six months), most foreign nationals do not need a study permit, but you might need a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

Are there online short-term courses available from Canadian institutions?

Many Canadian institutions offer online short-term courses in various disciplines such as education, health, and information technology.

What certifications or qualifications do Canadian short-term courses offer?

Short-term courses in Canada can offer certificates, diplomas, or continuing education credits, depending on the program's focus and duration.

Do Canadian short-term courses offer practical training or internships?

Some short-term courses include practical training or internships, particularly those related to technical or vocational training.

Can credits from short-term courses in Canada be transferred to longer degree programs?

Credits from short-term courses may be transferable to longer degree programs, but this depends on the receiving institution's policies.

What industries or fields offer popular short-term courses in Canada?

Popular fields offering short-term courses in Canada include business management, computer science, healthcare, engineering, and hospitality.
 

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Rakhee Talukdar

Global Education Expert

Rakhee Talukdar is an edtech expert with five years of experience in the education technology sector, focusing on K-12 and higher education systems in various countries, including Canada, USA, Finland, France, and Germany. Her background includes founding a startup and working with early-stage educational ventures, giving her a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities within these educational landscapes. Additionally, Rakhee specializes in helping students craft compelling Statements of Purpose (SOPs) for studying abroad, leveraging her insights into different education systems to guide students in articulating their academic and professional goals effectively. Her comprehensive knowledge and strategic approach make her a valuable resource for students navigating their educational journeys and financial planning.

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