Dhiraj Kandel
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Quick answer
The essentials at a glance
Canada has three intakes: September (Fall), January (Winter) and May (Spring/Summer). September is the largest, with the most programs and scholarships. January is the second-largest, and May has the fewest programs.
For September, apply to schools between October and February and for your study permit by May or June. Start about 12 to 15 months ahead.
Key takeaways
Main points from this page
- Canada has three intakes: September, January and May.
- September has the most programs and scholarships, so it fills up first.
- January suits students who miss September or need more time for IELTS or funds.
- For September, apply to schools from October to February and for your study permit by May or June.
- Always check your school's own deadline, because popular programs close early.
Canada is an unending hub for students looking for quality education at an affordable cost. To study in Canada from Nepal, multiple Canadian universities offer a wide range of courses. Here are some guides to upcoming intakes to study in Canada.
Intakes are periods when universities start accepting applications for admission. The number of intakes varies from university to university. Most offer September and January intakes, and many also offer May. If you track dates in the Nepali calendar, use our Nepali date converter to match each deadline to B.S.
The number of intakes may also vary depending on the course you wish to pursue. Hence, it’s essential to know about all the major and minor intakes while applying to Canada. By doing this, it will help you to prepare a plan early before your trip accordingly.
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What Are the Major Intakes in Canada?
Canada has three intakes: September (Fall), January (Winter) and May (Spring/Summer). September is the largest. Not every program at Canadian colleges and universities in Canada runs in January or May. Students need to know about these intakes to help them plan their applications accordingly.
The biggest advantage of having multiple intakes is that students can reapply if they miss out on a chance or are not accepted the first time. For example, if you are not selected for January, you can apply again for September.
| Intake | Starts From | Duration | Pros and Cons |
| Fall | September | 4 months (September to December) | This is the primary intake in Canada, and most students looking to apply in Canada do so in this intake. Since almost everyone applies for this intake, there is a very tough competition for acceptance and scholarship. However, if you have a good academic record, then you stand a very good chance of getting admission. |
| Winter | January | 4 months (January to April) | This is the second-largest intake. Many colleges and some universities run the same programs as in September, often with slightly less competition. Fewer scholarships are usually left by this round. The competition for acceptance and getting scholarship for Nepalese students in Canada is relatively low during this intake. |
| Spring | May | 4 months (May to August) | The May intake is the least preferred by most of the students, who prefer to work or travel during this time. Most students either choose to work or go back home during this time, leaving the campuses almost empty. |
January or Winter Intakes In Canada
January (Winter) is the second-largest of Canada’s three intakes. Many colleges and several universities start the same programs in January as in September, so it is a good option if you miss September or need more time for IELTS or funds.
Competition is often a little lower than in September, but fewer scholarships are usually left. You will also arrive in the coldest part of the year, so plan for winter clothing and housing before you land.
When Should I Apply For January Intake?
The January intake gives students another chance to apply to various universities in Canada if they miss the May or June deadlines. If you’ve been unable to get your applications processed by other universities due to various reasons, this may be the right time for you, too.
You can start preparing beforehand to be ready with all your documents when it comes time to apply. A student must have all their documents prepared by starting their application process as no university will accept incomplete applications.
Duration
The winter intake lasts for four months – January, February, March, and April.
Deadline For January Intake In Canada
Most schools close January applications between August and November, and popular programs fill earlier. Aim to apply by September so you have time for the PAL/TAL and the study permit. Always check your school’s own deadline.
List Of Colleges In Canada For January Intake
The majority of Canadian universities and colleges offer admissions in January. There are a number of popular colleges and universities among them, including Humber Polytechnic, Centennial College, Algonquin College, St. Lawrence College, Red Deer Polytechnic, University of Waterloo, University of Calgary, and University of Alberta.
Steps To Study In January / Winter Intake
For January, start about 9 to 12 months ahead. Places are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so apply early.
- March to April: shortlist colleges and programs.
- April to May: take IELTS or PTE. Results take a few days to two weeks.
- May to September: apply to schools with your SOP and documents.
- By August or September: receive your LOA, pay your deposit and get your PAL/TAL.
- By September or October: apply for your study permit.
- After approval: book flights and housing.
See the full application process to study in Canada.
May or Spring Intakes In Canada
May or Spring intake in Canada is the least preferred intake option. This is the time when most of the students go for a spring break to spend time with their families and the campus premises are almost empty. It is for the same reason that very few universities in Canada offer courses for this intake.
Generally, the courses that are available during this time are not so popular ones; and so, the students are forced to choose a program that they may not like. Weather-wise, it’s probably the best time to start your academic journey in Canada.
When Should I Apply For May Intake?
We recommend that you apply to the session by October. Students who apply early are more likely to receive desirable offers and scholarships. Apply between October and December so you can review your options before making a final decision.
The sooner you apply, the higher the likelihood that you will receive better placement and scholarship offers.
Duration
The spring session lasts for a period of four months – May, June, July, and August.
Deadline For May Intake In Canada
The deadline for May intake in Canada is December. However, it is strongly advised that you check the university guidelines, as different universities may offer different guidelines. In the case of a few, the last date happens to be in October itself.
List Of Colleges In Canada For May Intake
The list of colleges in Canada for May intake is quite short compared to other intakes. You can choose from Mount Saint Vincent University, Brock University, University of the Fraser Valley, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Capilano University, New York Institute of Technology, and Lakehead University, for instance.
Steps To Study In May / Spring Intake
The first thing you need is do is to make the list of colleges and universities that might be ideal for your education. It’s crucial to keep the deadline in mind and work accordingly. Remember early application always gives you time. So, follow the steps below and complete your application process.
- Research about the universities in this intake. Start Early as soon as possible to make your processing simple and faster.
- October is the month for you to appear for tests like IELTS, GRE, GMAT, along with the others. Keep in mind that it might take up to two weeks for you to receive your test results.
- Ready your credentials documents, like Statement of Purpose (SOP), Recommendations, and other supporting documents in the month of October.
- As soon as you have the credentials ready, start applying to the universities. Provided that you’re able to apply within the month of October, you should get your acceptance letter by early November.
- January and February is the time when you should apply for VISA, and student loan if needed.
- Once the process is complete, all that you need to do is book your flight tickets, and you’re good to go.
Related more about: Best Colleges & Universities to Study MBA in Canada
September or Fall Intakes In Canada
The September or fall intake in Canada is the most popular intake option in Canadian universities. In this intake every student from world will apply as this intake provides the best scholarships with other facilities.
If you are accepted for this intake, you could finish your studies for the year with ease and comfort. There will be adequate amount of time in your hands to complete your study.
This is because there is a great deal of time available to begin your studies before the end of the year. The weather at this time of year is generally pleasant.
September is the main intake for international applicants to enroll in Canadian universities. Since there are a limited number of spots available for programs and courses, competition is fierce. It’s also the time when universities have the strongest international student support and co-ordination.
When Should I Apply For September Intake
Start about 12 to 15 months before September. Most schools open applications around October of the year before, and many Ontario colleges give equal consideration to applications received by 1 February. Popular programs can close even earlier.
Duration: the Fall term runs for about four months, from September to December.
Deadline For September Intake In Canada
Deadlines for September usually fall between January and March, but popular programs can close as early as the previous autumn. September is the busiest intake, so apply as early as you can and check your school’s own deadline.
List Of Colleges In Canada For September Intake
All the universities in Canada offer admissions in September intake. The list of colleges in Canada for September intake is quite huge.
Some of them include Douglas College, Sheridan College, Mohawk College, George Brown Polytechnic, Fanshawe College, Western University, University of Ottawa, University of Montreal, and so on.
Related Content: – Cheapest Universities In Canada For International Students
Steps To Study In September / Fall Intake
September is the main intake, so competition for places and scholarships is highest. Follow this timeline:
- June to August (year before): shortlist schools and take IELTS or PTE.
- October to February: apply to schools with your SOP, transcripts and references.
- January to April: receive your LOA, pay your deposit and get your PAL/TAL.
- By May or June: apply for your study permit.
- After approval: book flights and housing, and join a pre-departure briefing.
If you are planning to study in Canada from Nepal, Goreto can guide you through every step, from choosing a program to your visa. See the full application process to study in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Canada has three intakes: September (Fall), January (Winter) and May (Spring/Summer). September is the largest, January is second, and May has the fewest programs.
September or fall intake is indeed the most preferred semester for international students in Canada. It aligns with the beginning of the academic year, and many top Canadian universities and colleges offer a wide range of programs and courses during this intake. While the September intake is the most popular, some institutions also offer intakes in January (winter) and May (spring/summer), which can be suitable for students with specific preferences or academic needs.
Goreto’s own student visa approval rate is 94%. The national approval rate for Nepali applicants is lower and changes each year. See our Canada visa success rate guide for the latest figures.
The acceptance of a gap year or gap period when applying to study in Canada can vary depending on the educational institution and the specific program you are interested in. In general, moderate gaps in your education history are often accepted and not necessarily a hindrance to your application.
It’s essential to check the specific admission requirements of the Canadian institutions you are interested in, as each university or college may have its own policies regarding gap years. If you have a significant gap in your education, you may want to address it in your application by explaining how the experiences during that time have prepared you for your chosen program.
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Important guidance note
This page provides general guidance about studying abroad. Requirements, fees and policies can change. For advice about your situation, speak with a Goreto counsellor before applying.
