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How to Apply to an Institution for Undergraduate Study 

Applying to study in Canada is an exciting opportunity, offering a world-class education and a vibrant multicultural environment. However, the process can be complex, requiring careful preparation and adherence to specific requirements. This guide provides step-by-step instructions to help students from Liberia and other African countries successfully navigate the undergraduate application process in Canada.

1. Recognizing Schools and Avoiding Scams

  1. tep 1: Ensure the institution is recognized by visiting the official Canadian government website for accredited institutions. You can verify this at. (https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada.html)

2. Use the “Designated Learning Institutions List” on the website to search for the school's name and verify its status as a recognized institution.

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3. If you cannot find the institution, contact the relevant provincial or territorial ministry of education to verify its status.

Look for the (.ca) in the Website

Canadian educational institutions typically have a ".ca" domain at the end of their website URL (e.g., https://www.utoronto.ca/ for the University of Toronto). This is a strong indicator of a legitimate Canadian school.

Be Careful of Scammers

  • Beware of unsolicited offers of admission or demands for large sums of money upfront. Legitimate institutions will require a formal application process.

  • Ensure that the website you are dealing with matches the official URL listed on the accreditation websites mentioned above.

2. Application Fee

  • Application fees vary by institution. Some schools may waive the fee for students from low-income countries, while others require payment. Be cautious of schools that demand unusually high fees upfront.

  • You should only pay application fees through official channels provided by the institution on their verified website.

3. Academic Transcripts

  • Submit official transcripts from your high school, detailing your academic performance over the last three to four years.

  • Why It’s Important: Canadian universities use these transcripts to assess your academic readiness for university-level education.

  • Where to Get It: Request your transcripts from your high school’s registrar or guidance counselor.

4. Standardized Test Scores (SAT or ACT, and WASSCE)

  • Applicants are asked to submit scores from standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, and WASSCE. 

  • Some schools don’t require that students submit these tests scores, but it’s important, as some departments require these reports as a prerequisite for certain classes.

  • Where can I register for the SAT test? You can for the SAT test at the official website of the College Board (https://www.collegeboard.org/). 

  • These tests provide a standardized measure of your academic abilities, helping U.S. institutions compare applicants from different educational systems. 

5. English Proficiency Test Scores (TOEFL and PTE Academic)

  • You would need to submit a proof that you have taken and passed English proficiency tests like TOEFL.

  • Why: If English is not your first language, U.K. institutions require evidence that you can communicate effectively in English. It is important to note that most UK schools require that you submit a score whether or not you are from an English speaking country. 

  • Note: Ask your institution if they accept Doulingo English Test. If they do, we recommend Duolingo, because it’s cheaper and can be taken online. However, you can do whatever is best for you and what your school wants. 

 6. Tips for Writing a Strong Personal Statement

  • What You Need: A compelling personal statement or essay that outlines your academic goals, experiences, and reasons for choosing the specific Canadian institution.

  • Why It’s Important: This essay helps Canadian institutions understand your motivations and distinguish you from other applicants.

7. Admission Essay Tips

  • Be Authentic: Share real stories about yourself. Talk about your experiences, challenges, and what makes you unique. Admissions officers want to know the real you. Genuine stories help them connect with you.

  • Adding Your Vision and Unique Story

  1. Share Your Vision: Describe your future goals and how the education you receive will help you achieve them. Example: "I want to become a renewable energy engineer to help my community become more sustainable." 

  2. Unique Story: Reflect on a significant experience from your life or high school journey. Example: "In high school, I organized a community clean-up with friends, which brought together over 50 volunteers. It showed me the power of teamwork."

  3. ● Connect the Two: Link your story to your vision. Example: "This experience sparked my passion for environmental advocacy and solidified my goal of studying environmental science.": 

  • Be Specific:

  1. Explain why you chose this school. Mention specific programs or opportunities that interest you. 

  2. What It Means: Showing that you’ve researched the school demonstrates your commitment and helps them see you as a good fit. 

  1. Discuss ways you have volunteered or positively impacted your community or country. 

  2. What It Means: Schools appreciate students who contribute to their communities. It shows you care about others and are willing to take action.

  • Highlight Your Community Impact and any Award

  • Show Growth: Share how you have overcome challenges or learned from experiences.
    What It Means: Schools look for resilience. They want to see that you can handle difficulties and grow from them.

  • Express Your Passion: Talk about what excites you about your chosen field of study and your future goals. Passionate students often succeed. Showing enthusiasm for your interests helps demonstrate your dedication.

  • Seek Feedback: Have teachers, family, or friends read your essay and give you feedback before you submit it. Fresh eyes can help you spot mistakes or unclear sections. Feedback can improve your writing and make your essay stronger.

8. Letters of Recommendation

  1. You need 2-3 recommendation letters. Ths can come from teachers, school administrators, or other professionals who know you well.

  2. These letters provide insight into your academic abilities, character, and potential for success in college.

  3. Request letters from teachers who have taught you in subjects relevant to your intended major. Provide them with your resume and personal statement to help them write a strong letter.a

9. Financial Documentation for Visa Application

After receiving admission, Canadian institutions may require you to submit financial documentation proving you have sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses.

Common Financial Documents Needed:

  1. Bank Statement: A recent statement showing sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses as requested by the school.

  2. Affidavit of Support: A signed document from a sponsor (like a family member) confirming they will support your education financially.

  3. Scholarship Letters: If you have any scholarships, include official letters that outline theamount awarded in the scholarship.

10. Applying for the Study Permit

Complete the study permit application form, pay the necessary fees, and schedule an appointment at a Canadian Visa Application Centre.

11. International Student Employment

On-Campus Employment

  • Limitations: International students in Canada can work up to 20 hours per week during academic semesters and full-time during scheduled breaks without a work permit.

  • Importance: On-campus employment is an excellent way to earn money and gain experience while studying.

Off-Campus Work Permit

  • What You Need: International students may be eligible to work off-campus for up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during breaks, depending on their study permit conditions.z

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

  • Eligibility: After completing your degree, you may be eligible for a PGWP, allowing you to work in Canada for up to three years.

  • Importance: This permit provides valuable work experience and can be a pathway to permanent residency.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information and should not be taken as legal advice. Admission requirements and visa regulations may change, so always community with the school designated immigration officer to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.

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