If you’re a student and planning to apply for Canada. It’s important to understand, What are the major intakes are there in Canada for International students?
When you know what are the best intakes in Canada and When to apply?
This will help you to significantly reduce the risk of missing deadlines, allow you enough time to streamline your admission and visa processes, and avoid any last minute rushes for any required documentation.
Understanding the best intake to apply for in Canada and application deadlines for each intake can help you to effectively plan and prepare for your studies abroad.
In this Blog – How Many Intake in Canada?
Answer is,
There are 3 Major Intakes in Canada for International students.
- Fall Intake
- Winter Intake
- Spring Intake
We’ll cover in detail, What are the best intakes to study in Canada and which are the best times to apply for each intake.
So, let’s get started.
What are the Major Intake in Canada for International Student
Let’s talk about intakes.
Intakes are basically at different times throughout the year universities and colleges in Canada accept the students.
There are 3 Major Intakes in Canada are as follows:
| Intake | Application Begin | Application Deadline | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall (September) | September – November (Previous Year) | January 1st – March 1st (Current Year) | Most popular intake, competitive, wider program & scholarship options. |
| Winter (January) | May – July (Previous Year) | September – November (Previous Year) | Less competitive, fewer program options. |
| Summer (May) | January – March (Current Year) | April – May (Current Year) | Limited universities & programs, ideal for shorter studies or fast-tracking. |
1. Fall Intake
Fall Intake usually begins in September and is the most popular intake among international students. Fall intake offers a wider course selection and is competitive due to its popularity.
Universities and Colleges in Canada accept applications for students from September to early January.
You should begin preparing well in advance, and Gather all necessary documents at least 3-4 months before the application begins for fall intake to ensure a smooth application process.
Documents required to apply:
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Essay (if applicable)
- Minimum 3 LORs (from School or College)
- Marksheet and Transcript (from School or College)
- High school or degree certificates
- Standardized test scores (GRE, GMAT, TOEFL, IELTS, PTE)
- CV/resume
- Your completed application form (signed, if paper application)
- Application fee (Approx. $40 to $150)
When Should I Apply For Fall Intake or September Intake in Canada 2024?
If you’re applying for bachelor’s or master’s studies in Canada, here’s the complete timeline and action plan you need to consider for a smooth admission process.
| Essential Steps | Timeline | Action Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Shortlist the Canadian Universities and Colleges | February 2024 | • Find Out Courses and Universities that align with your career path • Check out the course curriculum, application deadline, requirements, and fees on their official website. • Make sure you also consider the financial part before applying. Scholarship, loan, GIC, and other financial documents such as CA report, affidavit of support/ sponsor letter, etc. |
| Prepare and Crack the Exams | January – March 2024 | • Take standardized exams such as IELTS/TOEFL or SAT, GRE/GMAT according to the program admission requirements. • Take the test date early, in case you need to retest. • Start collecting or preparing required documents such as SOPs, LORs, Degree certificates, transcripts, and mark sheets. (WES, if applicable) |
| Fill Out the Application Form and Submit it | February to March 2024 | • Create an account from the university portal • Fill out your application form more precisely to avoid delay or rejection • Submit all the required documents carefully as per the instructions. • Pay the application fee if applicable. |
| Acceptance/Offer Letter | April to May 2024 | • College/University will respond to your application (acceptance letter) through email. • Make sure you don’t delay and confirm your acceptance before the deadline. • Pay the tuition fee and GIC to confirm your admission for fall intake. |
| Apply for a Student Visa | May to July 2024 | • Create a GC Key account, complete the application, and wait for a decision. • In Case if rejected you can justify and re-apply again |
| Get Ready to Fly | July to August 2024 | • Get ready with your pre-departure checklist. • Fly to Canada before the fall intake begins to familiarize yourself with the new environment. |
Universities for Fall/ September Intake Canada
Here’s some Canadian universities and colleges you can apply for Fall Intake are;
2. Winter Intake
Winter Intake takes place in January. If you missed the chance to apply for fall intake still you can have a chance to apply for winter intake but, make sure winter or January intake has lesser course or program options as compared to fall or September intake.
Universities and Colleges in Canada accept applications for students from May to early November.
When Should I Apply For Winter Intake or January Intake in Canada 2024?
If you’re applying for bachelor’s or master’s studies in Canada, here’s the complete timeline and action plan you need to consider for a smooth admission process.
| Essential Steps | Timeline | Action Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Shortlist the Canadian Universities and Colleges | May 2024 | • Find Out Courses and Universities that align with your career path • Check out the course curriculum, application deadline, requirements, and fees on their official website. • Make sure you also consider the financial part before applying. Scholarship, loan, GIC, and other financial documents such as CA report, affidavit of support/ sponsor letter, etc. |
| Prepare and Crack the Exams | July to August 2024 | • Take standardized exams such as IELTS/TOEFL or SAT, GRE/GMAT according to the program admission requirements. • Take the test date early, in case you need to retest. • Start collecting or preparing required documents such as SOPs, LORs, Degree certificates, transcripts, and mark sheets. (WES, if applicable) |
| Fill Out the Application Form and Submit it | August to September 2024 | • Create an account from the university portal • Fill out your application form more precisely to avoid delay or rejection • Submit all the required documents carefully as per the instructions. • Pay the application fee if applicable. |
| Acceptance/Offer Letter | September to October 2024 | • College/University will respond to your application (acceptance letter) through email. • Make sure you don’t delay and confirm your acceptance before the deadline. • Pay the tuition fee and GIC to confirm your admission for fall intake. |
| Apply for a Student Visa | October to November 2024 | • Create a GC Key account, complete the application, and wait for a decision. • In Case if rejected you can justify and re-apply again |
| Get Ready to Fly | November to December 2024 | • Get ready with your pre-departure checklist. • Fly to Canada before the fall intake begins to familiarize yourself with the new environment. |
Universities for Spring/ January Intake Canada
Here’s some Canadian universities and colleges you can apply for Spring Intake are;
3. Summer Intake
Summer Intake takes place in May or June in Canada. This intake has few course options to select as compared to Winter and Fall Intake.
The summer intake presents several drawbacks, and I wouldn’t recommend anyone to opt for the May intake.
Universities for Summer/ May Intake Canada
Here’s some Canadian universities and colleges you can apply for Summer Intake are;
Which Intake is Best for you to study in Canada
If I’ll be at your place then I’ll choose either Spring (January) Intake or Fall (September) Intake.
Simply check out this post: How much a student can earn in Canada? to know the reason why I’m telling you.
FAQs: How Many Intake in Canada
How Many Months is Intake in Canada?
Intakes in Canada typically occur twice a year: in September for the fall semester and in January for the winter semester. Some institutions may also offer additional intakes in May or during the summer months, but these are less common.
Which is Better September Intake or January Intake in Canada?
The September intake is more popular as it aligns with the start of the academic year, offering a wider range of courses and opportunities for students. However, the January intake can be advantageous for those who need more time to prepare or have missed the September deadline.
Is May Intake Fall or Spring in Canada?
In Canada, the May intake is typically considered part of the spring semester, and September Intake is Known as Fall Intake in Canada.
When Should I apply for September Intake in Canada 2024?
For the September intake in Canada 2024, it’s generally recommended to start the application process well in advance, typically around 6 to 12 months before the start of the semester.
Can I change my Intake in Canada?
Yes, changing your intake in Canada is possible depending on the institution’s policies. However, it’s essential to communicate with the admissions office and follow their procedures for intake changes.
