Interested in studying in Canada? Don’t miss out on Saskatchewan’s colleges and universities. From large research-based institutions in Canada’s prestigious U15 group to future-facing programs at smaller colleges, there’s an academic fit for every student. Plus, Saskatchewan offers a more affordable cost of living, access to public health care services, and life in the sunniest province in Canada.
Each of these colleges and universities offer programs and services which fit the needs of international students. Plus, most programs have work-integrated learning experiences, setting you up to launch your career!
Because all these institutions are on Canada’s Designated Learning Institution (DLI) list, international graduates are eligible for the Post Graduation Work Permit program (PGWP). This program allows new grads to stay and work in Canada after graduation; depending on the length of your study program, you may stay for eight months to three years.
Did you know that in 2020, 98% of students who applied for a post-graduate work permit were granted one? Learn more about the PGWP program on ApplyInsights.
Image Courtesy: Saskatchewan Polytechnic
Saskatchewan Polytechnic
Saskatchewan Polytechnic offers over 65 certificate, diploma, and degree programs across its four campuses in Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Regina, and Saskatoon. Its programs use applied research to teach you how to assess sector needs and test new products to prepare them for market.
At Saskatchewan Polytechnic, fields of study range from automotive services to artificial intelligence; from software development to supply chain management. You’ll also gain hands-on experience, as around 66% of programs offer co-ops or other work-integrated learning opportunities. Plus, a graduate employment rate of 96% means that employers are impressed by what you’ll learn at Saskatchewan’s largest polytechnic institute, too.
We take a closer look at what it’s like to study in Saskatchewan on our blog.
Image Credit: daryl_mitchell, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
University of Regina
The University of Regina (U of R) is one of Canada’s top-15 comprehensive universities. Its welcoming and inclusive learning environment, academic focus, and access to high-impact research will help you learn, grow, and thrive.
Students from over 100 countries study at U of R, drawn to the heart of Canada by exceptional research opportunities. U of R also offers the Co-op Work Experience Program, which was the first co-op program to be offered in Western Canada. Dedicated scholarships for international students and custom services for international students help ease your transition. You’ll also benefit from a student to faculty ratio of 22:1 (which means more direct interaction with your instructors), and enjoy a safe and affordable student experience with state-of-the-art facilities on a modern campus.
Image Credit: Kyla Duhamel from Saskatoon, Canada, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
University of Saskatchewan
The University of Saskatchewan (USask), located in the city of Saskatoon, offers international students from 130 countries one of Canada’s widest ranges of academic and professional study programs. Choose from over 120 programs at a main campus recognized as one of the most beautiful in Canada. Tall stone buildings, sprawling libraries, tree-lined paths: the light academia vibes are strong.
It’s more than a pretty space to study, though—the University of Saskatchewan is part of the pioneering U15 group of Canadian research universities. USask is especially renowned for its science programs, ranging from food and water security to vaccine and infectious disease research. The university has a 1:17 faculty-to-student ratio, enabling interactive classes and lively discussions.
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The Saskatchewan Colleges Group
In the 2022-23 academic year, Southeast and North West Colleges joined Cumberland, Great Plains, and Parkland Colleges to collectively promote their colleges worldwide as Saskatchewan Colleges. Each college in the group is independently run, but working together to boost international students’ awareness.
As Dr. Eli Ahlquist, president and CEO of North West College noted to SaskToday: “The partnership has the potential to truly benefit our local economies and enrich the experiences of all learners. Collaborating under the Saskatchewan College partnership will … ensure we can offer the best quality experience to our future students.”
ApplyBoard is proud to work with four of the colleges in this partnership. Read on to learn more about what they offer international students!
Cumberland College
With three campuses in the rural communities of Melfort, Nipawin, and Tisdale, Cumberland College provides learning opportunities that prepare students for the careers of tomorrow. Campuses are small—Nipawin has a student body of around 379—so students looking for a quieter but very well-connected academic experience will thrive.
Cumberland offers certificates, diplomas, and university transfer courses in fields ranging from business and occupational health and safety to agricultural science. It also enjoys partnerships with the University of Saskatchewan, the University of Regina, and Saskatchewan Polytechnic. Many Cumberland students go on to further studies at these institutions.
Great Plains College
With a 96% recommendation rate, this Saskatchewan college with campuses in Kindersley, Swift Current, and Warman comes highly recommended by the people who know it best: current Great Plains College students! The college’s strong scholarship program, active social events and a pioneering student health and dental plan also make it easy for you to feel at home.
Great Plains College programs focus on practical, career-focused learning that meets the needs of local employers and communities. Students can earn certificates in fields like administration, continuing care, early childhood education, and business management.
Health science grads are some of the most highly-sought-after in Canada. Could studying health science be right for you? Find out on our blog!
North West College
Serving communities that stretch across 44,000 kilometers in northwestern Saskatchewan, North West College (NWC) offers career, vocational, and academic programs. International students are eligible for NWC’s certificate programs in early childhood education, continuing care, and business. And, they may choose to study at either the Battlefords or the Meadow Lake campus. A business management diploma, accredited by Saskatchewan Polytechnic and transferable to a bachelor of commerce at most Canadian universities, is also available.
Because the NWC student body is smaller, you’ll have more time to connect with your instructors and learn actively. Plus, an international student services team will help you adjust to life in Canada. Rural life also means that your cost of living will be lower than in larger communities.
Parkland College
Parkland College offers quality education opportunities with strong connections to local industry, enabling student practicums and post-graduation employment opportunities. Budding entrepreneurs will excel in a range of business programs, and Parkland’s college certificate programs train agricultural equipment and heavy equipment (truck and transport) technicians.
Parkland College opened in 1973, and has supported its community for over 45 years. In July of 2023, it starts a new chapter, as it merges with Cumberland College to become Suncrest College. (So, don’t be surprised if names don’t quite match up for a while! All of these names are correct and real, but it can take time to change everything.)
Is there a Saskatchewan college or university that has caught your eye? The Land of the Living Skies has lots to offer every international student. It might be the perfect destination for your study abroad journey, whether you’re in undergrad or pursuing a doctoral degree.
Saskatchewan is calling your name!
Ready to start your study abroad journey? Check out the ApplyBoard platform! Our team supports you from application to arrival.
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