While universities and licencing bodies have the sole authority to recognize foreign programs and degrees, in some provinces, credential evaluation services have been established to provide expert opinion regarding the value of foreign credentials. It is important to apply early for admission to graduate programs, since it can take time to ensure that you are matched with the right faculty advisor. In most cases, fees charged to international students are higher than those for Canadian citizens and permanent residents. However, in some instances, international students may qualify for tuition fee waivers or they may be eligible to pay the same fees as those charged to Canadian students. This is usually the case for students who are studying in Canada under the sponsorship of the Canadian International Development Agency or under bilateral agreements between provincial and foreign governments.
Many universities have sizable international student populations.
Special services for international students, including orientation programs, counselling, and international student clubs, are common. For more information aimed especially at international students, please turn to page xx in this Directory, 'A word to international students'. Fees, finances and student aid Graduate tuition fees vary from university to university and from program to program. Financial aid is provided through graduate scholarships, bursaries, grants, research assistantships and fellowships, and teaching assistantships. Competition for university graduate scholarships is often keen and is generally based on the strength of your admissions average.