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Summer Intake in Canada: Universities, Admissions & Deadlines

Updated on 15 March, 2024

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad abroad Editorial Team

The summer intake in Canada is one of the least popular sessions to apply as far as international students are concerned. It is because fewer universities offer courses and admissions in this period. Canada usually witnesses a deluge of applications in its fall semester and the winter intake. However, the summer intake is popular among those considering certificate, short-term and other diploma courses. 

 

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Knowing more about summer intake in Canada

Fewer colleges and universities provide the summer intake in Canada. There are fewer courses available. Most programs are short-term, diploma, or certification types. People looking for these avenues in Canada will prefer applying in the summer intake. A limited number of people apply for universities at this time, lowering overall competition and making it easier to get into your chosen institution. 

The summer semester is not compulsory in Canada, and many universities usually offer language courses for non-native English students. 

Recommended Read: BBA in Canada

Merits and demerits of the Canadian summer intake

There are several merits and demerits worth keeping in mind. Here’s taking a closer look at the same. 

Merits: 

● There is lower competition for applying at universities and colleges. 

● Students have a higher chance of getting admission into their chosen courses and institutions. 

Demerits: 

● There are fewer summer intake universities in Canada and limited course availability. 

● Least preferred intake for applications, meaning that many added funding options, student initiatives, etc., may be unavailable. Timeline for Canadian summer intake 

The summer intake spans the entire stretch between May and August. With regard to deadlines for this intake, it usually comes around the January and February periods. It is vital to understand that the actual deadline may vary across institutions in Canada. At the same time, each applicant should have documents ready while applying to several courses in this intake. 

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Step by step guide for summer intake applications 

The admission procedure and application forms for summer intakes usually begin early. The whole procedure starts almost one year before submitting the original application form. If you are desirous of studying in Canada at the time of the summer intake, then you should commence the procedure as quickly as you can. 

Here is a step-by-step guide that you should keep in mind: 

April to August

You should first find out the universities that offer summer intake options and finalize your choices. Shortlist a minimum of four-five institutions, and note down their application deadlines and other submissions requirements. It automatically ensures a smoother procedure for your applications. 

September to December

Standardized tests may be needed at various universities. If your university needs the scores in these tests, you should start appearing for examinations like GMAT, SAT, GRE, ACT, and others at this time. Scores in tests such as IELTS or TOEFL are also needed at many institutions. 

January to February

This is the time to start applying to all the universities that you have finalized. You can directly apply through the official websites and attach all the required documents. 

February to March

It is the time when you will start getting responses from the colleges/universities you applied to. They usually need a few weeks before replying. Submit all the other important information that the institution may ask for. 

April to May

Once you have an offer letter from your university, you can start applying for the study visa, along with arranging for your finances. You can apply for an education loan and complete all the formalities within this period if you need the same. Multiple scholarships are also offered to applicants by several universities in Canada. You should note all the available scholarships and apply for the same in advance. About the visa, keep a buffer period of three-five weeks for processing. 

Recommended Read: Exams required to study in Canada for international students

Necessary Documents 

Here are the documents that you will need: 

● Attested official academic transcripts. 

GMAT or GRE scores. 

IELTS or TOEFL scores. 

● Two or three LORs (Letters of Recommendation). 

● SOP or Statement of Purpose. 

● Latest passport-sized photograph. 

● A valid passport. 

● Certificates showing extra-curricular activities. 

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Universities offering summer intake admissions in Canada

Quite a few universities offer admissions to students during the summer intake. Some of the top names include the following: 

University of Manitoba

University of Ottawa 

● University of Waterloo

University of Calgary

Carleton University

Ryerson University

University of Alberta

● The University of British Columbia

Trent University

University Canada West 

Some of the top courses available during the summer intake include fashion design, business, architecture, engineering, computer science, hospitality, economics, accounting, psychology, law, medicine, and more. 

Recommended Read: Difference between SDS and Non-SDS visa applications

Deadlines for applying in the summer intake 

The actual deadline for applying is February at the most. Most institutions may ask for applications to be submitted by mid-January for admissions during the summer intake.

Conclusion 

Now that you have all the information about the summer intake in Canada, you can go ahead and prepare your application strategy. Check whether your chosen university offers the summer intake, whether you are eligible, and whether you will get the course you desire. If all your requirements are met, you should apply without any hesitation. It is because you will find it easier to get admission into your chosen institution since the overall number of students applying at this time is on the lower side. 

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FAQs

Is summer intake good in Canada?

The summer or spring intake, or the May intake, as it is also known, is good for specific purposes. It will benefit those looking to complete certificates, diplomas, and other short-term courses in Canada. Institutions majorly offer these types of courses at this time. It is also the least preferred application timeline for most students since a limited number of institutions offer this intake, and the course options are also limited. At the same time, the May-August intake means lesser competition and more chances of getting admission into your chosen educational institution.

Which colleges are open for May 2022 intake in Canada?

There are many universities offering admissions during the summer intake in Canada. Some of them include the University of Waterloo, University of Calgary, Ryerson University, Trent University, University of Alberta, University of Ottawa, University of Manitoba, University of British Columbia, and many others. Keep checking the official websites for updated information. Admission details and deadlines are subject to change.

In Canada, the May intake has less chance of getting admission. Is this true?

The May intake or summer intake in Canada is usually a period that students do not prefer. Very few institutions offer courses in this intake, and the options are also limited. This intake covers the entire duration between May and August. Getting admission may seem tougher with a lower volume of institutions and courses. However, from another perspective, it is possible to get admission more easily into your chosen courses in Canada during the summer intake. Overall competition is substantially lower, and not many students apply. From this point of view, it gives you a higher chance of admission!

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad abroad Editorial Team

We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education process for all. Our diverse experience as journalists, content writers, editors, content strategists, and marketers helps create the most relevant and authentic blogs for our readers.

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