How Much Percentage is Required to Study in Canada? Canada Study Percentage Requirement

Aspiring to study in Canada? If you are studying in Canada, you should know about the minimum percentage requirement and other academic requirements. Canada is one of the most popular places for foreign aspirants due to its quality education, cultural diversity, and abundance of opportunities after graduation.

This article has a detailed analysis of the percentage needed to obtain a Canada visa, eligibility through academics, documents needed, and other possibilities for students who don’t have a good percentage. If you wish to study in Canada after class 12th or complete a master’s degree in Canada, this article will assist you in filling out the visa form and gaining entry into one of the top schools in Canada.

What is the Minimum Percentage Required for Canada Study?

Minimum percentage needed for Canada education varies with the level of education, university, and individual course of study. The majority of institutions in Canada require a minimum of 65% to 80% in 12th standard for undergraduate studies and a minimum of 70% in a bachelor’s degree for master’s studies.

Still, students who need 60% minimum or who have low percentage, for example, study in Canada with 50%, can also look for alternatives like diploma courses, pathway programs, or community colleges. There are alternative pathways available in many institutions for students to study in Canada after the 12th and develop their academic record before entering a degree course.

How Much Percentage is Required for a Canada Study for Different Programs?

The percentage requisite for Canada study varies based on the study programs and levels of universities. For an undergraduate program in Canada, students need 65% to 80%, although some diploma programs permit study in Canada with a minimum of 50% or even require a minimum of 60%. Postgraduate courses, such as MS in Canada, generally require at least 70% in a bachelor’s degree, whereas a higher percentage is needed for competitive courses and programs of study. Higher the percentage, better the admission prospects, hence, it is vital to know what the minimum percentage should be prior to applying in Canada for further studies.

Undergraduate in Canada After 12th

For those students who want to study undergraduate degrees in Canada, 12th grade academic performance is different based on the university and field of study. Normally, students must have a minimum percentage of between 65% and 80% to get a study visa.

Stream	Minimum Percentage Required for a Canada Student Visa
Humanities	65% and above
Commerce	70% and above
Science	75% to 80% and above

Important Notes:

• A certain percentage may be needed by some institutions in Canada over others.
• If you are to apply for a Canada study permit with lower percentage, you may need to choose diploma programs rather than a direct bachelor’s degree.

Postgraduate in Canada

For students who have completed a bachelor’s degree and are applying for a master’s in Canada, the minimum percentage required for masters varies based on the program and university.

Degree	Minimum Percentage Required for Masters in Canada
Master’s (General)	70% and above
Master’s in Engineering	75% and above
MBA Programs	75% to 80% and above

Some top universities in Canada for international aspirants may require a higher percentage for competitive courses. However, students who have a lower percentage can consider applying for pathway programs or professional diploma in Canada.

What are the Language Proficiency Requirements to Get a Canada Student Visa?

Apart from academic scores, international students in Canada are required to provide proof of English language proficiency.

Students must submit test scores from one of the following exams:

English Language Test	Minimum Score Required
IELTS	6.0 – 6.5 (No band less than 5.5)
TOEFL	80 – 100
PTE	50 – 65

French-speaking universities may require a different language proficiency test, such as TEF Canada.

What are the Documents Required for Canada Study Visa Application?

To obtain a Canada student visa, students who wish to pursue a study program in Canada must submit the following documents:

• Academic transcripts (12th standard certificates for undergraduates and bachelor’s degree for masters in Canada)
• Proof of language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
• Financial proof (bank statements, loan approval, etc.)
• Valid passport
• Study permit approval letter
• Visa application fee receipt

Tip: Many colleges in Canada provide an option for students with a lower percentage to enroll in pathway programs before starting their main course in Canada.

Can You Study Abroad in Canada and Obtain a Visa With a Low Percentage?

If you are unable to secure a Canada study visa because of a low percentage, there are alternative options to continue pursuing higher studies in Canada.

Alternative Study Options for Low-Scoring Students

Students who want to give application for a study visa in Canada with a low percentage can strengthen their profile with relevant work experience, extracurricular activities, or additional certifications.

1. Diploma Programs – Most of the colleges in Canada admit students with lower academic marks.
2. Pathway Programs – Created specifically for students who failed to qualify under the direct entry mode.
3. Community Colleges – Provide easier admissions compared to Canadian universities.
4. Certificate Courses – Short duration professional courses in Canada for international students.

How to Apply for a Canada Study Permit and Visa for Canada?

If you wish to further your studies in Canada, use the following easy steps to get a Canadian study visa. Initially, select an institution where higher percentage is called for or check for alternatives since your scores might be lower.

Second, meet the academic as well as the financial requirements so that you obtain a Canadian study permit since the visa differs from institution to program. It is important to submit a good application for a student visa to Canada, and with proper documents and preparation, you can establish that you are worthy of a visa to study at a prestigious university.

1. Choose Your Preferred Program – Research courses in Canada for international students and check the percentage required for study visa.
2. Apply for a Canadian Study Permit – Fill out the online application and submit the required documents.
3. Obtain a Letter of Acceptance – This is an official offer letter from the institution in Canada you applied to.
4. Pay the Tuition Fee – Students are required to pay the first-year tuition fee before obtaining a study permit.
5. Show Proof of Financial Stability – Canada permits students only if they can show enough funds to cover tuition and living expenses in Canada.
6. Complete the Visa Application Process – Submit biometrics, medical test results, and other necessary documents.
7. Receive Study Permit Approval – If everything is in order, students who have completed the process will get a study visa.

What are the Living Expenses Required to Study in Canada for International Students?

Students who aim to pursue education in Canada must also consider living expenses in Canada. These expenses in Canada vary based on location and lifestyle, and in major cities like Toronto or Vancouver, higher is required to cover accommodation, transportation, and daily necessities.

Expense Type	Approximate Cost per Year (CAD)
Tuition Fees	$15,000 – $40,000
Accommodation	$8,000 – $15,000
Food	$3,000 – $5,000
Transportation	$1,000 – $2,500
Health Insurance	$600 – $1,000
Miscellaneous	$2,000 – $4,000

Note: Costs can vary depending on whether you are studying in a big city like Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal or in a smaller town.

What are Some Popular Courses in Canada for International Students?

International students can pursue a degree in Canada in fields like business, engineering, healthcare, and MS programs in Canada. A higher percentage is required for top programs, but some options allow study in Canada with 50%.

The minimum percentage required to study varies by course, and securing a Canadian student visa depends on meeting academic criteria. Since the Canada study visa can vary depending on the institution, consulting visa consultants can help in obtaining a study visa. Those applying for masters in Canada in 2024 should check updated requirements before obtaining a Canada study visa.

Top Universities and Colleges in Canada With Their Percentage Requirements

Here are some of the top universities in Canada for international students dreaming of studying in Canada, along with their general percentage requirement for study visa:

Sl. No	University	QS World Ranking 2025	Average Annual Tuition Fees (CAD)	Minimum Percentage Required
1.	University of Toronto	25	$15,090 – $69,200	75% and above
2.	McGill University	29	$7,400 – $60,140	75% and above
3.	University of British Columbia	38	$1,813 – $75,801	70% and above
4.	University of Alberta	96	$1,880 – $6,867	70% and above
5.	University of Waterloo	115	$20,512 – $54,589	75% and above
6.	Western University	120	$1,813 – $75,801	70% and above
7.	University of Montreal	159	$21,786	70% and above
8.	McMaster University	176	$11,300 – $25,046	75% and above
9.	University of Ottawa	189	$19,084 – $47,156	70% and above
10.	Queen’s University at Kingston	193	$1,813 – $75,801	75% and above
11.	University of Calgary	204	$1,880 – $6,867	70% and above
12.	Simon Fraser University	318	$1,555 – $71,345	70% and above
13.	University of Guelph	486	$20,512 – $54,589	70% and above
14.	University of Saskatchewan	345	$8,346 – $94,890	70% and above
15.	Concordia University	387	$1,813 – $75,801	70% and above
16.	University of Regina	801-1000	$4,905 – $98,580	70% and above
17.	University of Winnipeg	Not specified	$2,500 – $22,450	70% and above
18.	University of Northern British Columbia	781-790	$5,198 – $23,661	70% and above
19.	Brandon University	Not specified	$10,304 – $13,660	70% and above
20.	University of Prince Edward Island	Not specified	$5,000 – $45,700	70% and above

If you may require a high percentage, check specific course details before applying.

Conclusion

Knowing the minimum percentage required for a study visa in Canada varies depending on the university, program, and competitiveness. Students who aim to apply for a study visa must ensure they meet the minimum percentage requirement for Canada and fulfill all admission requirements.

If you are worried about a lower percentage, you can still obtain a Canada student visa by applying for diploma programs, foundation courses, or community colleges.

By understanding the requirements to study in Canada, planning ahead, and choosing the right program, you can successfully get a Canada study visa in 2024 and take the next step in your study abroad journey.

Do you want to study in Canada? Schedule a call with our experts at Ambitio and give wings to your study abroad dreams!

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