Guide to Canadian university admission requirements for international students

Navigating the admissions process for Canadian universities as an international student can seem daunting, but with a clear understanding of the requirements and a bit of preparation, it can be a smooth experience! This guide will provide an in-depth breakdown of everything you need to know to apply to Canadian universities: 

1. Let’s start with the basics

Canadian universities typically require the following from international applicants:

• • A completed application form: Most universities have online application portals where you can fill out and submit your application.
  • Your academic transcripts: Official transcripts from your undergraduate studies or previous educational institutions are required. These should be translated into English if they’re in another language.
  • Proof of language proficiency: If English or French is not your first language, you will need to provide proof of language proficiency. Commonly accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL for English, and TEF or TCF for French. Check out our tips for non-native English speakers studying in Canada.

2. Program-specific requirements

In addition to the general university application outlined above, different academic programs might have specific requirements. Here’s an example of what those requirements might look like: 

• • Prerequisite courses: Some programs, especially in fields like engineering, science or business, may require you to have completed and passed certain courses during your undergraduate program.
  • Additional materials: Depending on your planned course of study, you might be asked to upload a portfolio (for art or design programs) or to answer specific essay questions (for liberal arts, business or law programs). 

3. Application deadlines

Make sure you know the application deadlines! These deadlines can vary a lot from one university to the next, so it’s a good idea to add them to your calendar so you don’t forget. 

In general, application deadlines for programs that start in September range from January to April of the same year. Remember – it’s always a good idea to submit your applications early to avoid the stress of missing deadlines!

4. Financial planning

It’s no secret that studying abroad can be costly. Make sure you account for tuition and other travel and living costs when you’re applying to your dream schools – and have a plan in mind for how you’ll fund your studies! Keep in mind that schools will require you to show proof you have enough funds to pay for your program in Canada. For many students, international scholarships and student loans are a great way to fund their education. Learn more about MPOWER Financing’s no-cosigner student loans and check if you’re eligible for any of our scholarships.

5. Study permits

When you receive an acceptance letter from a Canadian university, it might feel like time to celebrate! And while you should feel proud of your achievement, there’s still one more important element of studying abroad in Canada to get sorted – your study permit. 

You can apply for your study permit directly with the Canadian government. The process isn’t as complicated as the U.S. immigration process, but you should still plan ahead as Canadian study permits can take up to three months to be approved. You’ll need your school’s acceptance letter, as well as other required documents like a valid passport to apply. If you elect to use a Canadian Immigration Advisor to assist you, they must be licensed by the Canadian government.

If you’re an international student looking to meet the Canadian government’s Student Direct Stream Program (“the SDS Program”), the TD International Student Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) Program can help you meet the requirements for an expedited study permit.*

Prepare yourself for a smooth education in Canada

Applying to Canadian universities can be a time consuming process, but with preparation and a clear understanding of your school and program requirements, you’ll be on your way to studying in Canada in no time! If you’re unsure where to apply and want to learn more about schools that support MPOWER student loans, check MPOWER-eligible schools page. Make sure to research specific program requirements, mark down important deadlines, secure financing, and apply for your study permit ahead of time.

* TD Bank is an official partner of MPOWER Financing.

 

Navigating language barriers: tips for non-native English speakers studying in Canada

Studying abroad is an exciting and enriching experience, but it also brings some challenges – particularly when it comes to language barriers. For non-native English speakers studying in Canada, overcoming these language barriers is key to succeeding in school, learning about the local culture, and meeting new friends. But don’t panic! We’ve collected some tips and strategies to help you navigate language barriers while studying abroad in Canada. 

1. Know what to expect

The first thing to know about studying in Canada is that Canada has two official languages – English and French. Although English will likely be the primary language of your academic studies, students who speak French will be able to communicate throughout most of the country too. But even students who speak French will benefit from improving their English skills in Canada as these skills will come in handy academically, professionally and when looking for a job. 

2. Take advantage of your school’s language resources

Many universities in Canada provide language support services, so be sure to ask about these resources with your school’s international student office. These resources are one of your best options when it comes to improving your English skills on campus. Most schools will offer a combination of one-on-one tutoring, workshops and even classes to enhance your language skills and build confidence. If you’re struggling with your English coursework, don’t be afraid to reach out to your professors for additional support.

3. Engage with your classmates

Participating in social activities, like joining campus clubs or sports teams provides a great opportunity to organically improve your language skills. In these settings, you’ll become familiar with slang, idioms, accents and other nuances within the language that you wouldn’t learn by reading a textbook. Connecting with your Canadian classmates on campus is another great way to learn English – your new friends might even offer to help you improve!

4. Use technology for extra support

Language learning apps like Duolingo, Babbel and Rosetta Stone are a great way to expand on the English skills you’re learning on campus. Ask your school’s international student office if they offer student subscriptions or discounts to these platforms.

5. Find products catered to your needs

While you’re working to improve your English skills, it’s good to find reliable products and services that are accommodating to non-English speakers, especially when managing your finances. Many international students find it helpful to open a local bank account while studying in Canada. TD Bank* is a great option for non-native English speakers, as their advisors collectively speak over 80 languages, which many students find valuable when managing finances.

6. Practice and be patient!

Learning a new language is a gradual process requiring patience and persistence. It’s normal to make mistakes, so be patient with yourself! The most important thing is that you practice your new English skills whenever you have the chance – in class, with friends and even when engaging in your local community. Listen to music in English, read the news in English, and watch your favorite movies and TV shows in English! Before you know it, you’ll be communicating with confidence.  

Final thoughts

Studying in Canada and speaking English as a second language can be challenging for international students. But with persistence and regular practice, you’ll see your English skills improve significantly in no time.

If you’re just starting your journey abroad and considering studying in Canada, explore MPOWER-eligible schools where MPOWER Financing can help cover your tuition.

 * TD Bank is an official partner of MPOWER Financing.

Studying abroad in Canada: Your essential pre-departure checklist

In 2023, more than one million international students chose to study abroad in Canada, according to data from International Consultants for Education and Fairs (ICEF). That’s a record high! If you’re preparing to pursue your studies in Canada, you have a lot to be excited about  – from excellent universities and a booming job market to beautiful natural scenery and a welcoming culture. But there’s also a lot to prepare for! That’s why we created this essential pre-departure checklist for international students heading to Canada. 

Read on to make sure you’re on track for your international studies. 

Secure your Canadian study permit

While the immigration process to study abroad in Canada is typically simpler than that of the United States, most international students will still be required to have a Canadian study permit to pursue their academic program. The study permit is a document issued to foreign nationals who wish to study at designated learning institutions in Canada. Don’t worry – all primary and secondary schools in Canada are designated learning institutions! 

How do you apply for your study permit? You’ll need a specific set of documents to apply, including an acceptance letter from your school. You can learn more about how to apply for your study permit on the Canadian government’s website. Approvals for study permits typically take around three months, so plan accordingly. 

For some students, it’s also possible to expedite the process of obtaining your study permit. Students from specific countries may be eligible for the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program, which speeds up the permit approval process! Initiatives like TD Bank’s* International Student Guaranteed Investment Certificate Program can help ensure you meet the requirements of the SDS program.

Confirm housing arrangements

It might sound like common sense, but make sure to confirm your housing arrangements in Canada before you go abroad. While many schools will offer on-campus housing  (included in your tuition payments) it’s not uncommon for international students to live off campus in a house, apartment or homestay. On-campus housing is typically dormitory style, and you’ll be living with a roommate. Off-campus housing may afford you the opportunity to live alone, or with multiple roommates to cut down on your rent payments. Homestays, in which you live with a host family close to your school, also offer an interesting option for students who want to enmesh themselves in the local culture and make connections to real Canadian families while abroad. All these housing options have their own pros and cons, so make sure you pick one that best suits your needs.

Find student loans and scholarships

Student loans and scholarships to study in Canada are great ways to offset the high cost of tuition. If you haven’t already secured funding for your academic program, look into student loans that cater specifically to international students. Our no-collateral student loans at MPOWER Financing, for example, don’t require a cosigner or a credit history.

Learn more

 

Scholarships are another great way to fund your education in Canada. There are countless partial and full scholarship options available for international students – but keep in mind that scholarships are usually very competitive. Check out MPOWER’s international student scholarships to see if you qualify for any of ours. 

Prepare for travel and other expenses

Of course, to travel to Canada from your home country, you’ll need a plane ticket. Make sure to book your flight ahead of time to ensure you get the best deal. Explore deals on sites like StudentUniverse, which offer exclusive travel discounts for college students. 

In addition, prepare for upcoming and unexpected expenses when you arrive in Canada. Things like textbooks, food and even furniture can catch students by surprise and add up. The more you can anticipate these expenses, the better prepared you’ll be when you arrive on campus. 

Sign up for a Canadian bank account

Finally, one often overlooked element of studying abroad is banking. You probably already have a bank account in your home country, but it’s a good idea to sign up for one in Canada too. Why? Doing so ensures you’ll be able to make purchases easily in Canada, use ATMs to access your money, and avoid extensive foreign transfer fees. Plus, many banks offer exclusive deals and savings for international students. For example, TD Bank offers an International Student Banking Package with unlimited transactions and no transfer or transaction fees. 

Final thoughts: getting ready for Canada

There’s so much to do when preparing to study abroad in Canada! But with a little bit of hard work and advanced planning, you’ll be ready to start your education journey with confidence. With your study permit, housing, funding, travel plans and bank account in place, you can start the most important part of your preparation: getting excited to study in Canada!

*TD is a partner of MPOWER Financing

U.S. Visa 101 with Immigration Experts

Join our discussion with expert immigration guests to learn about visas, study permits, and other documents. We’ll answer common questions about immigration, visa interviews, financing, and the overall U.S. visa process.

Study Abroad with MPOWER Financing

Join MPOWER Financing’s exclusive live session on studying in the U.S.A. or Canada and turn your international education dreams into reality. Discover how we empower students globally, explore our comprehensive support for your success, and get expert answers to your questions in our Q&A session. Plus, enjoy insights from a special guest.

Q&A: How an MBA in the U.S. helped me achieve a career transition

Note: This interview was adapted from a blog post previously appearing on WeChat. It was conducted in Chinese and translated into English.

Student: Sunny Zhang

Home: Shanghai, China

School and program: University of Michigan, MBA

Q: Why did you decide to study abroad?

Sunny: The desire to change careers led me to study abroad, and I chose to pursue an MBA in the U.S. for career path and self-improvement. Before going abroad, I had already worked at HSBC Bank for four years and gradually felt that the room for advancement was becoming limited. That’s when the idea of a career switch emerged.

Q: Why did you choose an MBA in the U.S. as your path for a career change?

Sunny: Whether in China or abroad, changing fields directly is quite challenging. An MBA is a good opportunity to facilitate such a transition. My undergraduate degree wasn’t in business, so the MBA allowed me to acquire the systematic business knowledge I had always lacked. Another reason was to see the world and understand what other countries are like.

Q: How did you decide on studying in the U.S. instead of other countries?

Sunny: After comparing several major study abroad destinations, I chose the U.S. In the U.K., only MBS (Manchester Business School) is comparable to top U.S. schools. The choice felt too limited, and MBS seemed too finance-focused. In the U.S. all the top 16 schools are generally good. My school, the University of Michigan, ranks around 10th in the U.S. Although the MBA programs in the U.S. are also employment-oriented, you get a more comprehensive overall experience. 

Q: What was your school application process like?

Sunny: I applied to five schools and got interviews at all of them but only received an offer from the University of Michigan. The cost of attendance was not a main factor for me, as MBAs are generally priced similarly. The strengths and suitability of each program, along with the culture and atmosphere of the schools, mattered more. My program’s tuition was about US$120,000. Including living expenses, the total cost for two years was around US$200,000.

Q: How did you fund your studies?

Sunny: Before deciding to apply, I had already considered how to fund my studies. Many lenders don’t accept loan applications from international students, so my options were limited. In my first year, I used a cosigner-required loan service with a U.S. green card holder, a friend of my father’s, as my cosigner. He withdrew his cosign in the second year, so I had to look for no-cosigner loans. The support from my parents also gave me the confidence to apply for a (no-cosigner) loan through MPOWER Financing.

Q: How did you manage your living expenses?

Sunny: I lived frugally but didn’t hesitate to spend on necessary things. I shared a two-bedroom apartment with another Chinese student, each having our own room but sharing the bathroom, living room and kitchen. Our monthly rent was US$1,700, split equally. It was an old building but clean and chosen mainly for its proximity to our college – just a six-minute walk.

Q: How did the MBA program support your career transition?

Sunny: MBA programs are designed with a “buff,” offering numerous resources to enhance students’ future careers. Almost everyone in the top 16 MBA programs in the U.S. can secure a good internship during their studies with a return offer. Our program had over 400 students, with about 30 from China. The high tuition of an MBA is justified. Although it doesn’t guarantee a specific job, it provides ample support and resources. Many large corporations are willing to recruit from these schools, often visiting multiple times.

Q: What was your job-hunting experience like during your MBA?

Sunny: While applying for the loan, I was doing a paid internship at Amazon and received a return offer. Classes were held in the morning, with afternoons free after 3 p.m. for company info sessions or networking events. Fridays were class-free, with many companies hosting forums and activities. For my Amazon interview, Chinese seniors who had interned there helped me with mock interviews.

Q: How do you feel about your decision to pursue an MBA in the U.S. now?

Sunny: I can clearly feel my growth on a daily basis, and I’m grateful I chose to pursue an MBA in the U.S. For me, pursuing an MBA for a career change was a wise choice.

Final thoughts: Consider an MBA abroad to help with a career transition

Transitioning from one field of study to another is challenging, and getting an MBA might be the solution to bridge that gap. While the benefits of an MBA are great, the costs of tuition, fees and living expenses are also substantial. International students under financial pressure might consider applying for a no-cosigner private loan to cover costs.

If you’re considering pursuing an MBA or postgraduate degree, learn about financing your education as an international student abroad. MPOWER Financing offers no-collateral and no-cosigner loans for master’s students studying in over 500 universities in the U.S. and Canada, without restrictions on majors.

To take the next steps, start an application and check your eligibility in less than a minute.

 

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Want to know more about our loan product, application, or customer benefits? Sign up for our Application Walkthrough! We’ll discuss each step of the application, what to expect, and frequently asked questions. Plus, you’ll be able to ask us anything about international study abroad.Plus, you’ll be able to ask us anything about international study abroad.

Time management as an international student in the U.S.

Starting your postgraduate journey in the U.S. is an exciting time, filled with countless opportunities for growth. However, you’ll also face challenges, such as adjusting to a new culture and balancing your studies with your social life. The key to thriving in your new college setting is effective time management as an international student. With the right strategies, you can schedule your time efficiently and make the most of your postgraduate experience. Here are some tips to help you stay organized, reduce stress and achieve your goals as an international student. 

1. Get on a regular sleep schedule

Living in a new country can be disorienting, especially as you’re adjusting to a new time zone. That’s why your first order of business is getting on a regular sleep schedule. 

Set a consistent bedtime and wake-up time to reset your body’s internal clock. To boost your sleep quality, try to create a relaxing wind-down routine at the end of the day and limit your exposure to screens at least an hour before you want to sleep. 

Limit how much coffee you drink throughout the day, too, as caffeine can keep you up at night. Getting quality sleep is crucial to your mental and physical health. By making it a priority off the bat, you’ll be better able to concentrate on your studies and deal with the challenges of postgraduate life. 

2. Make a daily to-do list 

Making a to-do list each day is a great way to stay on track with your various commitments. You’ll be a lot less likely to forget important tasks and deadlines by writing everything down, from papers you need to write to club meetings you want to attend. 

Once you have your to-do list written down, figure out which tasks are the highest priority. Consider tackling your high-priority tasks first, so you can start your day with momentum and a sense of accomplishment. 

Be realistic about how much you can get done in a single day. If your lists are getting too long, consider which tasks you can shift to a different day in the week. 

3. Use a planner 

A planner is an invaluable tool in creating your schedule as a postgraduate student in the U.S. You could use a physical notebook or an online tool, such as Google Calendar. 

Set aside some time at the beginning of each week to write down your tasks, appointments and goals. Set aside dedicated time for studying, research and schoolwork throughout the week. 

Don’t forget to schedule in time for self-care, socializing and relaxing, as well. With a planner, you’ll be able to visualize your schedule, keep track of deadlines and find a balance between your academic and personal life. 

4. Practice time blocking 

Time blocking is another time management technique that can make it easier to structure your day. It involves dividing your day into distinct blocks of time and designating each block to a specific task. 

For example, you might set aside two hours in the morning for writing a paper, three hours in the afternoon for studying and an hour and a half in the evening for dinner with friends. 

As you fill out your time blocks, consider which tasks are the most urgent and important. Set clear goals and outcomes for each time block so you know whether you’re staying on track. 

Be realistic about how much time you set aside for certain tasks, too. Although it might be tempting to set aside only an hour to write a paper, it could be more realistic to designate three to four hours to the process. 

You also want to consider your energy levels as you prioritize your task. If you’re a morning person, schedule your more intensive tasks in the morning. If you’re a night owl, you might prefer the opposite approach.

5. Consider your environment 

When it comes to studying, you may need to seek out a space that helps you focus. Some students work best at their desk in their room, while others need the quiet of a library or the background noise of a cafe. 

Consider your learning style and what type of environment best suits it. Seek out the best environment for your study time to reduce distractions and optimize your learning. 

6. Be flexible and take breaks 

Although you might feel overwhelmed with work and deadlines at times, it’s important to take breaks every once in a while. Pushing through can lead to burnout, which makes it impossible to focus and be productive. 

One approach to studying and work is the Pomodoro technique. This strategy involves focusing on tasks in 25-minute blocks, separated by short breaks. Scheduling in breaks can give your brain time to relax so you can better focus when you return to studying. 

Keep in mind that you’ll probably have unexpected events turn up in your day, too. Rather than stressing out about a schedule disruption, look over your planner to see how you can rearrange your time. 

7. Seek out school resources 

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, your school likely has some services that could help. Many colleges offer free tutoring, for instance, if you need assistance in a challenging subject. 

They also have mental health services that offer one-on-one or group counseling. Your counselor could help you manage homesickness, deal with stress or hone your time management skills. 

You might also have an advisor who can suggest courses to take or internships to pursue as you earn your degree. Plus, your school’s career services office could help you clarify your future career goals and write a resume. 

Earning your postgraduate degree is challenging, especially when you’re in a new country far away from friends and family. Don’t hesitate to use your school’s international student services office and other resources for assistance along the way. 

Final thoughts: How to manage your time as an international student

Studying overseas in the U.S. as a postgraduate student is filled with adjustments and challenges, and learning how to create a schedule and manage your time can help. A few time management tips and self-care can go a long way toward easing your transition and setting you up for success. 

How to create a budget for studying in the U.S.

Studying abroad in the United States can be a life-changing adventure, but you’ll have many different types of expenses to manage. Creating and following a budget will streamline the process and help you make the most of your international experience.

By tracking your income and expenses, you’ll gain control over your finances and avoid spending beyond your means. Here are some tips for how to budget as an international student. 

1. Add up all your income 

Your first step in creating a budget as an international student is reviewing your income. You might be getting money from various sources, such as: 

• • A part-time job, internship or assistantship 
  • Savings 
  • Contributions from parents 
  • Grants
  • Scholarships 
  • Student loans 

Figure out how much money you have coming in on a monthly basis. If your part-time job pays you every two weeks, for instance, then multiply your paycheck by two to get the monthly total. If, on the other hand, your student loan amount covers your full academic year, then divide that sum by the number of months you’re in school to get a monthly average. 

Add up the full amount so you have a clear sense of your total monthly income. 

2. Make a list of your expenses 

Once you’ve added up your income, it’s time to make a list of your monthly expenses. Expenses typically fall into two categories: 

• • Fixed expenses: These stay the same each month and may include rent, utilities and insurance. Your tuition bill may also be fixed and often covers a semester at a time.
  • Variable expenses: These can fluctuate and may include groceries, clothing and entertainment. You can estimate your variable expenses for the full year and divide by the number of months you’re in school to get a monthly average. 

Once you have a list of your monthly expenses, subtract the total from your monthly income. If your expenses exceed your income, you’ll need to cut back on spending or make more money to get out of the red. If you break even, you may still want to adjust your budget so you have some money to put into savings from month to month. 

3. Track your earning and spending 

Once you have a clear sense of your monthly income and expenses, it’s time to put your budget into action. This means tracking your earnings and spending to make sure you’re staying within your means. 

You could use a simple spreadsheet to stick to your budget each month. Here’s a college budget example that could help, but feel free to adjust it to fit your individual needs. 

 

Monthly income	Amount
Wages from a job, internship or assistantship
Savings or contributions from family
Financial aid, such as grants, scholarships and student loans
Other sources of income
Total	$0
Fixed expenses (monthly)	Amount
Rent
Utilities
Phone bill
Health insurance
Transportation
Minimum student loan payments
Other
Total spent on fixed expenses	$0
Variable expenses (monthly)	Amount
Groceries and restaurants
Clothing
Entertainment
Gym membership
Travel and vacations
Streaming services
Other
Total spent on variable expenses	$0
Total expenses	$0
Income remaining (total income minus total expenses)	$0

 

There are also many budget-tracking apps that simplify the process in student budgeting, such as Mint, YNAB and PocketGuard.

4. Find the right budgeting strategy 

Tracking your income and expenses is only one piece of the budgeting puzzle – you’ll also need discipline to spend less than you earn. There are a few budgeting strategies that can help, such as: 

• • 50/30/20 rule of budgeting: This approach has you put 50% of your income toward needs, 30% toward wants and 20% toward savings and extra debt payments.
  • Zero-based budgeting: With this framework, you designate a purpose for every dollar in your budget, whether it goes toward rent, a concert ticket or savings. 

You might have to experiment with different strategies along the way to find one that works for you. Some months are going to be more expensive than others, so make sure to adjust your budget as you go along. 

5. Funnel money into an emergency fund 

If you’re spending all your money each month, you could be left struggling if you run into an unexpected expense. If possible, set aside some money into an emergency fund each month so you have some savings to fall back on. 

Consider opening a high-yield savings account so you’re earning interest on your balance, and explore other tips for saving money. By prioritizing saving money, you’ll be financially prepared if you run into an emergency. 

Bonus tip: Look for ways to save 

As a student, you’re probably living on a pretty tight budget. Fortunately, there are various ways to reduce your spending and boost your savings. Here are some tips for saving money on a daily basis: 

• • Make the most of student discounts: As a student, you might qualify for discounts from major retailers like Amazon and Apple, as well as local stores and restaurants.
  • Opt for meal planning over eating out: Dining out at restaurants and ordering takeout can get expensive fast. By meal planning and grocery shopping, you could significantly reduce the amount you spend on food each month.
  • Buy or rent your books secondhand: New textbooks can also be pricey, so consider shopping second-hand or renting your books with sites like Perlego, eCampus, Chegg, CampusBooks.com and eBay.
  • Live with a roommate or two: Sharing your living space with roommates means you can split the cost of rent, utilities and internet rather than having to pay all the expenses on your own.
  • Seek out free activities in your area: Sign up for a local newsletter to stay updated about free events where you live. If the weather allows, you could also opt for exercising outside so you can skip a pricey gym membership.
  • Limit spending splurges: Finally, try to keep your splurges and impulse buying to a minimum so you’re not breaking your budget. If you tend to shop when you’re stressed out or tired, look for other ways to make yourself feel better that don’t involve spending money. 

Final thoughts: Create a budget for studying in the U.S. to give you peace and guidance

You probably don’t have a ton of wiggle room in your budget studying overseas as an international student, so getting clear on your finances will give you direction. Following a budget and finding ways to save money will give you peace of mind and help you meet your financial goals as you work toward your degree.

For more advice on getting ready, check out these five tips for preparing to study in the U.S. 

How to prepare for international postgraduate study abroad this fall

Planning for international postgraduate study involves more than just academic preparation; it includes financial planning, understanding visa requirements, adapting to a new culture and so much more. Proper preparation can help alleviate potential stress and allow you to focus more on your studies and personal growth. 

Below, you’ll find essential tips to support you through each stage of the process to make your transition as smooth as possible.

Research and choose the right program

Finding a program that fits your academic and career goals is the first step. It’s important to consider not just the reputation of the university, but how the curriculum and faculty expertise align with your interests.

Here are some aspects to consider in choosing the right academic program:

• • Curriculum: Are the courses offered relevant to your career aspirations?
  • Faculty expertise: Do the faculty members hold expertise in your areas of interest?
  • Reputation and ranking: How well is the university recognized in your field?
  • Location: How do the culture, climate and cost of living of the country match your preferences?

Financial planning and budgeting

Next, you’ll need a solid financial plan. Understanding the total cost of studying abroad and funding options will help you manage your finances better. Planning your funding early can save you from the stress of last-minute preparations.

Estimate costs: Calculate everything from tuition fees to daily living expenses. It’s important to note that the cost of living can vary significantly depending on the state you choose. Living in an expensive state like California or New York will demand a higher budget for accommodation, utilities and daily expenses compared to more affordable states like Texas or Ohio. Take these differences into account when crafting your budget.

Scholarships and grants: Scholarships and grants are essential tools for easing your financial burden. Scholarships are typically merit-based or need-based awards that provide financial assistance without the need for repayment, while grants are often need-based and aimed at supporting students who require financial help. Some of the benefits of scholarships and grants: 

• • Reduce financial strain: Scholarships and grants can significantly lower the cost of education by covering tuition fees, books or living expenses.
  • Encourage academic excellence: Merit-based scholarships reward students for their high academic performance, motivating them to maintain or improve their grades.
  • Increase accessibility: Need-based scholarships and grants make education more accessible to students from all economic backgrounds.

By thoroughly researching and applying for relevant scholarships and grants, you can substantially decrease the financial challenges associated with studying abroad.

Student loans: MPOWER Financing offers fixed-rate, no-collateral loans between US$2,001 to US$100,000 total. MPOWER doesn’t ask you to back your loan with collateral and doesn’t require a cosigner, allowing you to take out the loan in your name alone. 

In order to meet the student loan eligibility requirements for an MPOWER Financing loan, you’ll need to be: 

• • Admitted to or attending an eligible school (There are more than 500 MPOWER-eligible schools in the U.S. and Canada).
  • A graduate student currently in or about to start a one or two-year program.
  • An international student, DACA recipient, U.S. citizen, refugee or asylum seeker.

If you meet the above criteria, apply now using the button below! 

 

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Visa and immigration requirements 

Securing your visa and meeting immigration requirements is another hurdle to consider as a potential international student and will require you to plan early. The process often involves gathering a lot of documents and meeting strict deadlines. If you take out a loan with MPOWER Financing, you’re eligible to receive free visa support throughout our Path2Success Program! We help students understand and navigate elements of the F-1 visa process, including their visa interview.

Our visa support services include:

• • A free visa support letter demonstrating students are financially supported for school.
  • A free visa essentials course, so students are fully prepared for their visa interview.

Accommodations 

Your living situation can significantly affect your study experience. It’s important to choose accommodations that meet your needs and budget by researching your area of interest ahead of time.

Common living accommodation options available for international students:

• • University housing: Usually geographically convenient and may include utilities and meal plans.
  • Private rentals: Offers greater independence but can be more complex to arrange.
  • Homestays: Allow for cultural immersion and may be more affordable.

Health care and insurance

Having proper health care coverage is essential to avoid high medical fees. Ensure you select a plan that covers your medical needs while complying with university requirements. Most common health insurance requirements can include:

• • Mandatory enrollment: Many universities require students to enroll in their own health insurance plans.

• • Coverage levels: Policies might specify minimum coverage levels for certain types of care, such as inpatient and outpatient services, mental health care and prescription drugs.

• • Provider network: Some universities require that the insurance plan include access to a network of local healthcare providers.

• • Compliance with visa requirements: For international students, the health insurance must comply with visa-related health insurance requirements.

• • Exemptions and waivers: Universities may allow exemptions or waivers if a student can prove they have equivalent coverage from another plan.

Understanding and meeting these health insurance requirements is beneficial to make sure you have adequate coverage and to avoid any financial penalties or gaps in your insurance. Always review your institute’s specific policies and make sure you are in compliance.

Academic preparation

Getting a head start academically can set you up for success. Familiarize yourself with the academic environment and expectations of your host university.

Academic-strengthening steps to consider:

• • Contact professors and classmates: Use online forums or social media groups to make connections. Establishing a network before you arrive can provide valuable support. Professors can offer guidance on what to expect from their courses and might share supplementary materials. Classmates can share notes, recommend resources and help you integrate into social and academic life more smoothly.
  • Review the curriculum: Familiarize yourself with suggested readings and course structures. Many universities publish syllabi or reading lists in advance. Reviewing these materials can help you get a head start on your studies, identify areas where you might need extra preparation and plan your study schedule effectively. Understanding the course structure in advance ensures you can balance your academic workload with other activities.
  • Understand expectations: Learn about the grading system and unique academic requirements of your host university. Different universities have varying grading systems, assignment structures, attendance policies and participation requirements. Some schools may emphasize original research, while others might focus more on exams and practical applications. Knowing these expectations ahead of time allows you to adjust your study habits and ensures you meet all academic requirements successfully.

Final thoughts: Planning for international postgraduate study goes a long way

Preparing for international postgraduate study abroad involves careful and comprehensive planning. Along with financial, academic and cultural preparations, it’s important to understand the host country’s educational system, secure visas and arrange health insurance. By thoroughly preparing, students can ensure a smooth transition and fully enjoy their international postgraduate study experience.