THE CANADIAN EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM
Canada is one of the most popular destinations for international students, particularly Tunisians. Every year, 2,000 to 3,000 of them opt to pursue their higher education in Canada.
In addition to its high quality of life index, Canada is also a world-renowned destination for the quality of its education, with 100 of its higher education institutions ranked among the best universities in the world (QS World University Rankings 2023). Montreal (Quebec), Toronto (Ontario) and Vancouver (British Columbia) are the three best university cities in the country (QS Best Student Cities 2023).
The Canadian educational system
OverviewIn addition to its general education programs, Canada places great emphasis on vocational education. This is particularly the case with the Cégeps in Quebec. Taking all provinces together, these institutions award four types of diploma:
- The DEC: Diplôme d’Énseignement Collégial (Diploma of College Studies), awarded on completion of the Cégep, only in Quebec, the equivalent of a Tunisian Bac+2.
- Bachelor’s degree: equivalent to Tunisian Bac+3 or 4.
- Doctorate: 3 to 5 years.
Offered fields of study
Except for medical studies, which are not open to international students, Canada offers a number of sought-after disciplines: Engineering – Information Technology – Management and Business Administration.
Special features
The Quebec Educational System
Regardless of the type of Quebec institution (CEGEP (public), college (private), or university (public or private)) offering internationally recognized degrees, teaching takes place in English or French.
College Education
After secondary school, Quebec provides specific training in Cégeps: Collège d’enseignement général et professionnel (General and Vocational College) and colleges. These institutions offer 2-year pre-university programs leading to a DEC Diplôme d’enseignement collégial (Diploma of College Studies).
The most popular disciplines among international students include business, paramedical studies, and engineering.
Academic Year Calendar for CEGEPs (public) and Colleges (private) and Admissions
- 2 Sessions: Autumn (August to December) with admissions in March and Winter (January to May) with admissions in November.
First Cycle
The Bachelor’s degree corresponds to a Tunisian Bac+3 and consists of three terms:
- Autumn Term: September to December
- Winter Term: January to April
- Summer Term: May to August
Popular university disciplines include Engineering, Information Technology, Business Management, Pharmacy Preparation, and Hotel Management.
Second Cycle
- Master’s Degree: Equivalent to a Master’s degree in Tunisia, lasting two years.
- DESS: Accessible to holders of a Tunisian Bac+2, lasting one year.
Third Cycle
- Doctorate: Lasting four years.
- Continuing Doctorate: Specifically for the field of psychology.
Higher Education in Ontario
Higher education institutions in this province generally accept foreign secondary school graduates, typically holders of a Tunisian Baccalaureate or equivalent. However, applications for admission are possible from the age of 19 without a diploma. Please note that each college or university sets its own admission requirements.Visa procedures
Once you have received your letter of acceptance, you will need to apply for a Study Permit (student visa). It can take up to 12 weeks for the visa to be issued, from the time the application is submitted by the applicant.
Language of instruction
Depending on the province, courses are delivered in English or French.
Our role
Thanks to the expertise of its academic teams and the resources it deploys, in particular its network of local service providers, EDUWORLD is well equipped to offer you personalized assistance and services that match your aspirations.
Don’t hesitate to contact us – at EDUWORLD, the first consultation is free!
