As one of the top destinations for international students, Canada is a country with great potential for education quality. Canada is also one of the top three countries in the world in terms of per capita investment in post-secondary education, according to data from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

The article below will mention the outstanding features of the education system in Canada, as well as detailed information for each study program, and all intakes for those who are planning to study in Canada.

1. Overview of the Canadian education system

Canada is the only country that does not have a federal ministry of education to manage the education system. With the decentralization of power by the government, the government in each province will be responsible for developing curriculum, making educational policies as well and allocating funding to schools.

That's the reason why Canada doesn't have a uniform system of education regulations. However, the quality of education across the country will not vary too much in terms of class size or the duration of each course at each level.

The Canada education system is divided into 3 main educational levels, including:

  • Elementary (Elementary)

  • High school

  • Post-Secondary (College, University, and Graduate)

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Canada also has two popular forms of education: public education and private education. From Primary to College programs, students can choose to study at private and public schools. However, most universities in Canada are public schools, which ensure the best quality of education.

2. Levels in the Canadian education system

2.1. Primary School Program

In Canada, the law requires all children to attend school at a mandatory age. This includes homeschooling. Depending on different regulations in each province and territory, children can start elementary school at age 4 and complete secondary school at age 18.

The school year usually begins around the end of August or early September and ends in mid to late June. School hours range from Monday to Friday throughout the school year (except holidays). Most teaching programs in Canada are taught in English or French, children can study both languages depending on the program and region.

2.2. High School Program

Unlike Vietnam, high school in Canada is not divided into middle and high school. Students will study from grade 7 until graduating from grade 12 or 13 depending on the province. Particularly in Quebec City, students will attend high school from grades 7 to 12.

After completing the High School program, you will receive a diploma from the provincial government and attend College or University depending on ability and need.

2.3. College - Institute of Technology

After completing the high school education system in Canada, students can pursue post-secondary and college programs. In Canada, there are many types of Colleges and Institutes recognized by the provinces and territories, including:

  • Colleges

  • Community colleges

  • College of Applied Arts or Applied Technology

  • Institute of Technology or Science

  • Collèges d’enseignement général et professionnel (CEGEPs) in the province of Quebec

  • Vocational colleges

College programs in Canada focus on teaching students with practical skills to join the highly qualified workforce in this country. The schools also maintain close relationships with business and industry in all the related fields including: Business, Journalism, Hotel management, Design, Information technology, Engineering, Environment, Art ...

International students can also choose the University Transfer Program. To study a transfer program, you need to make sure you have enough credits to meet the requirements for your first year at the university.

2.4. Undergraduate - Postgraduate

Although the cost of studying in Canada may be higher than in some other countries, compared to the US and European countries, the cost in Canada is very reasonable. Besides, students can receive a lot of financial support, scholarships from universities in Canada.

For those who choose to pursue a Canadian master's degree, you can register to study in the Graduate Certificate program with moderate entry conditions for graduate level, with no experience required. This program attracts students thanks to the reasonable fee and the opportunity to stay and work for up to 3 years and 18 months after graduation.

3. Advantages of the Canadian education system

To be ranked among the countries with the world's leading education, Canada always focuses on building a friendly learning environment and unique teaching methods. Besides, Education system of Canada also has strengths such as:

3.1. Encourage creativity, do not impose scores

Instead of expressing lessons according to a pre-existing format, all students are always encouraged to choose subjects based on their strengths and interests. In addition to evaluating using a grading scale, teachers will evaluate each student's ability through their developmental thinking ability, ability to absorb lessons in class and criticize during group work hours.

This not only encourages students to develop their creative skills, but also brings out their own talents

3.2. Combine theory and practice

In addition to theoretical lectures in class, teachers always try to help students absorb all knowledge more easily and interestingly through practical lessons in class or extracurricular activities and field trips

For those studying at the College, University - Postgraduate level, you will be able to participate in the Co-op Education Program - allowing students to combine classroom theory and real-life work experience at businesses linking with the school during the study period.

3.3. The government is ready to create all conditions for learning

The Canadian government always creates good conditions for domestic and international students to develop their strengths in the fields of study and research. In addition, international students can also hunt for scholarships from the government, Universities, and Colleges in Canada.

An advantage point for Canada is the monthly cost of studying and living; as these fees are quite reasonable compared to other countries around the world.

4. Study intakes in Canada

Intake in Canada includes three main intakes which are applied to all universities, colleges and all educational institutions including:

  • Fall intake (September - December): This is the main and most popular intake for Canadian international students.

  • Winter intake (January - April): Although this semester is less popular, this is still an alternative for those who accidentally miss the main semester.

  • Summer intake (starts in May and lasts until August). This is a time when the number of students enrolled is less than the two above intakes. In addition, there will be a limit on courses.

With the advanced educational methods of the Canadian education system and continuous innovation in quality, more and more people are choosing Canada as their study destination and future orientation. Studying abroad in Canada not only brings open opportunities in the future but also allows you to experience the unique culture in this country.

On the other hand, you can join several international education events organized annually by IDP. These events create chances for you to discuss your study options, get more information on scholarships, and get to know more about the application process, accommodation, and much more.

Contact IDP for more advice on studying abroad in Canada!