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Canadian application process

We make applying to a Canadian university as simple as possible for international students who want to study abroad in Canada. 

How to apply

  1. Complete an application form

    Submit your application and supporting documents today, or save your application and return to it later.

  2. Get your application reviewed

    Kaplan will review your documents and work with you to get them ready — then Kaplan will submit your application to the university.

  3. Receive an admission decision

    Receive a letter of acceptance from the university to which you applied.

  4. Accept your offer and apply for a study permit

    Choose to accept your offer, then pay your deposit to confirm your intent to enrol. Use your university’s letter of acceptance to apply for a Canadian study permit.

  5. Apply for housing and register for classes

    Apply for on-campus housing. You can then take care of any outstanding pre-arrival tasks.

Start your application today

Application deadlines for Canadian universities

Application deadlines vary by university and program. Some universities may have flexible deadlines for international students — you can see the application dates for the university you’re interested in by clicking on an option below. 

How we can help you apply to a Canadian university

We believe the application process should not be stressful on you or your family. You can count on our friendly team to help you find the right study option for you!  

Document checklist

To complete your application, you’ll need to upload some documents along with your form. Specific required documents may vary by degree program. Typical required documents may include: 

  • Academic transcript(s), both your original and a translated version if your original transcript isn’t in English

  • Proof of English language proficiency

  • Copy of your passport

  • Circle with a checkmark in the centre

    Supplemental documents may be required for certain undergraduate and graduate programs at Canadian universities, including:

  • Personal statement
  • Statement of intent
  • Curriculum vitae (CV) or résumé
  • Graduate admission test scores
  • Impact statement
  • Letters of reference
  • Portfolio

If you’d like some extra support with this process in your home country, we can recommend a trusted local Education Agent.

If you’d like some extra support with this process in your home country, Kaplan can help — get in touch today.

Additional support

For students with a medical condition or disability

During the application process, it’s important to let us know about any medical condition or disability you may have, so we can help you get the application support you need.

Canadian university admission decisions

Here are some answers to common questions about Canadian university admission decisions.    

When will I receive an admission decision?

This can vary, depending on when you apply and the University/program you apply to. Typical decision times for most Canadian universities range from 10 days to three months after your application is considered complete by the University. 


What does “unconditional admission” mean?

Getting an unconditional offer means you have no additional conditions you need to meet. That said, you may still need to send financial documents as part of the Canadian study permit process. 


What do I need to do if I have a conditional offer of admission?

If you need to improve your English proficiency, you will be conditionally admitted to a degree or pathway program. You must then submit a qualifying language score or join a degree preparation program before you start your academic program. 

If you received a conditional offer for a graduate degree program, you may be required to complete certain prerequisites to be admitted. 


What happens if my application is unsuccessful?

If your application is not successful, we will support you in considering alternative or more suitable study options for you, based on your qualifications and circumstances. 

Important application dates

Our Canadian university partners have multiple intakes per year. We always recommend applying as early as possible, so that you have enough time to request your Canadian study permit. 

University of Victoria — September 2024 Start 

Application deadlineProgram
Deadline to be announced Bachelor’s degrees 
Varies by program Master’s degrees 

University of Victoria — September 2024 Start

Start dateStudy permit application deadline Program 
September start AprilAll undergraduate and graduate degree programs 
January startAugustAll undergraduate and graduate degree programs 
June startJanuaryAll undergraduate and graduate degree programs 
* The Canadian government recommends applying for your Canadian study permit as soon as you receive your letter acceptance (LOA) from a Canadian university, but no later than 5 months prior to your anticipated start date. 

University of Alberta – January start 

Application deadlineProgram
Rolling applications Year One Foundation Program Winter term 

University of Alberta – July start 

Application deadlineProgram
Rolling applications Year One Foundation Program Winter term 

University of Alberta – September start 

Application deadlineProgram
Rolling applications Year One Foundation Program Winter term