September University Admissions in Canada

Written by Taru Medha

Canada is one of the most popular study abroad destinations in the world and universities welcome students in two main intakes: the September and the January intakes. Sometimes universities offer a third intake known as the May or summer intake. These are for specific short-term courses such as Diploma courses or vocational programmes.

The September intake is the more popular so we’ve put together an application timeline with the key dates and deadlines for you.

If you’d rather start your course in the winter, you can apply for the January intake. Read our guide on the January intake for more information.

Key features of September intake in Canada
Application start time	August (the year before your course starts)
Application end time	December to March
Acceptance letters	April
Term dates	September start

The September intake

The September intake is the more popular of the two main intakes and applications can open as early as August the year before your course starts. There are a greater variety of courses available this time of the year and almost all Canadian universities are likely to accept students.

The application window often runs into the following year. Depending on your university, applications can end anytime between December (the year before your course starts) to March (the year of your course).

The September intake timeline

Even though applications are open for a large part of the year, we’d recommend applying to a Canadian university as early as possible. A good time to apply for the September intake is between October/November (the year before your course starts). Early applications are prioritised by the admissions team and gives you enough time to get your student visa and flights sorted.

We’ve put together a rough application timeline to help you get started but you’ll want to adjust timings for each step depending on when you choose to submit your application.

Step #1 – April/May (the year before your course starts) – Start shortlisting courses

It is never too early to start exploring what’s on offer, especially if you’re aiming to be the first through the door when applications open. Start by shortlisting courses you’re interested in and make a note of entry requirements and deadlines.

Step#2 – July/August – Start preparing for standardised tests

The GRE or GMAT test scores are common requirements for postgraduate courses in Canada. These are standardised tests that you can take any time in the year. Even though you’ll get your score within two weeks, it’s a good idea to start preparing in advance which allows you time to retake the test if required.

This is also a good time to take your English or French language test (depending on your university) which is often an entry requirement if they are is not your native languages.

Step #3 – August/September – Get your supporting documents ready

Once you have your basics ready, you can start pulling together the documents you need to make your application. Canadian universities commonly require you to submit a personal statement, references, a CV and transcripts from previous degree(s) along with the scores from the tests you took earlier.

Step #4 – September/October – Explore your funding options

Even though postgraduate fees in Canada are cheaper than countries like the UK and US, it’s always a good idea to have some funding options ready. These could be in the form of scholarships from governments, universities or even independent funding providers.

Depending on your funding option, you can either apply at this stage or you might have to wait until you have your place confirmed at a university.

Step #5 – October/November to March – Apply to your chosen university

Even though you have plenty of time to apply, it is a good idea to get your application in as soon as possible! Around October/November (the year before your course starts) is a good time to apply.

You’re likely to hear back with a decision on your application around April.

Step #6 – May/June/July – Apply for your student visa and accommodation

Canadian student permit processing times vary depending on where you’re applying from. If you’re applying from outside Canada, wait times can be as long as seven weeks – so it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible after accepting your offer.

This is also a good time to start looking at where you want to live. You can either go for university dormitories or privately rented accommodation. University halls are usually high in demand, so it is a good idea to get your application in as soon as possible.

Step #7 – August/September – Get ready to fly!

Classes usually start in September, but it is a good idea to arrive a few days/weeks early so you can get settled in!

Why students choose the September intake

Most students in Canada opt for the September intake. Here are some reasons to consider it:

There are a greater variety of courses available in the September intake.
There are more opportunities to apply for an on-campus job or join a society.
You don’t have to wait too long between finishing your undergraduate degree and starting your postgraduate.
You can enjoy nice autumn (fall) weather when you start which gives you time to prepare for the Canadian winter.

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Taru Medha

Taru joined FindAMasters as a Content Writer in 2022. She creates well-researched, thorough content for our guides and blogs, as well as short video content for our social profiles. She has a Bachelors degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from Bennett University in India and completed a Masters degree in Global Journalism from the University of Sheffield in 2021, giving her personal experience with postgraduate study as an international student.