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蘑菇视频
Updated On 08 January 2026 & Read Time 5 minutes
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Canada is often one of the top choices for students who want to study abroad on a budget. The country is known for offering high-quality education along with excellent career opportunities for international students. Without a doubt, the academic standards and global exposure provided by Canadian universities make studying in Canada worth the investment.
Canada offers three main intakes for international students: January (Winter), May (Summer), and September (Fall). Among these, the September (Fall) intake is the most popular. Almost all top universities and colleges in Canada accept international students during this intake, making it the preferred choice for most applicants.
With high competition and limited seats, many students often wonder how to secure admission to Canadian universities. Proper planning, timely applications, and meeting eligibility requirements play a key role in getting accepted.
In this blog, we will discuss the application timeline and eligibility criteria for enrolling in Canadian universities for the September 2026 intake, helping you plan your study-abroad journey with confidence.
Table of Contents
Let’s learn some amazing facts about the Fall intake in Canada:
The September intake is quite a popular intake among international students. Universities receive a large number of applications during intake. So to increase the chances of getting an offer letter, you must submit your application as soon as possible.
Since it is a primary intake, universities accept applications for all their programs. So if you are planning to pursue courses that are not popular or common, applying in this intake is likely to be your only option.
During September, the country has quite comfortable and mesmerising weather. So, as an international, applying in the September intake would be a good decision, as you can enjoy the beautiful weather.
The highest number of seats is available during this intake. This increases the chances of getting an offer letter from Canadian universities.
Now you must be wondering when to start your application process. So, let’s check the timeline for the Fall 2026 intake:
|
Stage / Milestone |
Typical Period / Dates |
Details |
|
Applications Open |
Sep – Oct 2025 |
Most universities start accepting applications around this time; some open earlier or later. Early preparation is recommended. |
|
Recommended Early Application Deadline |
Dec 2025 – Jan 15, 2026 |
Top universities often encourage submissions by mid-January. |
|
Standard Final Deadlines |
Jan – Mar 2026 |
Many programs’ final deadlines fall within this range; deadlines vary by university & program. |
|
Last Possible Deadlines |
Apr 2026 (some programs) |
Less competitive programs may accept later into the spring. Check specific program deadlines. |
|
Offer Letters Issued |
Feb – May 2026 |
Admissions decisions begin rolling out; early applicants typically hear sooner. |
|
Visa & Pre-Departure Prep |
May – Aug 2026 |
After acceptance, apply for a study permit/visa and prepare for travel. |
|
Classes Start |
August – September 2026 |
Most September intake programs begin late August or early September. |
Embark and excel in your study abroad journey with our expert team!
Beginning your educational journey in a different country is a whole new experience. The course curriculum that is being followed over there is quite different from ours. So, to get enrolled in Canadian universities, you may require the following eligibility criteria.
English proficiency test score (minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5 with no band less than 6 or equivalent score in other proficiency tests that the university accepts).
A minimum overall score of 60% in 12th grade.
English proficiency test score (minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5 with no band less than 6 or equivalent score in other proficiency tests that the university accepts).
A minimum overall score of 70% in 12th grade.
Course-relevant subjects as majors in 12th grade.
English proficiency test score (minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5 with no band less than 6 or equivalent score in other proficiency tests that the university accepts).
4 years of bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution with a minimum overall score of 65 % - 70%.
Standardise admission test scores if required by the university (like GMAT, GRE).
Field-relevant work experience of a minimum of 3 to 5 years.
NOTE: The above-mentioned criteria are just basic criteria. The exact criteria may differ from course to course and from university to university.
Q: When should I apply for the September intake in Canada 2026?
A: Typically, the application process for September intake in Canadian universities begins in the fall or winter of the previous year, and deadlines vary depending on the institution and program. It is recommended to submit your application well before the deadline. Most universities close their applications in January or February.
Q: How long does the university take to evaluate the application?
A: The length of time that Canadian universities take to evaluate an international student’s profile depends upon various factors, like study program, level of study, and the number of applications they have received. However, universities generally take around 1 to 2 months for evaluation.
Q: What is the deadline for the September intake in Canada?
A: The application deadline varies from university to university. However, most universities close their applications in January or February.
If you are still unsure or would like to get deeper insight, we encourage you to have a word with our team of expert counsellors at 蘑菇视频 Education Consultants (MOEC). If you are unable to travel to our offices, we offer online counseling services via our website. Our dedicated counsellors will provide you with the best guidance regarding your application to study in Canada. Don’t hesitate to contact us at application02@meridean.org or call us at 1800-1230-00011.
Contact MOEC Experts for Study Abroad Guidance!
Contact MOEC Experts for Study Abroad Guidance!
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