Cannoga College
International students at Cannoga College Ottawa

International Students

Practical guidance for your journey to Ottawa, Ontario, Canada and Cannoga College.

Purpose of This Guide

This section provides international degree and exchange students with practical guidance on what to do after admission and after arrival in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. It covers study permits, housing, transportation, health coverage, and settling into your new community.

Why Study in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada?

Ottawa is Canada's capital — a bilingual, safe, and cosmopolitan city that consistently ranks among the best places in the world to live and study. With a thriving tech sector, world-class research institutions, and a welcoming multicultural community, Ottawa offers international students an unparalleled experience.

The Canadian education system is internationally recognized for its high quality, student-centered approach, and strong focus on research and innovation.

Cannoga College operates in the heart of Ottawa with strong ties to Canada's public service, tech industry, and research community.

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Why Study at Cannoga College in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
“The mix of innovation, nature, and culture in Ottawa is something special. I felt welcome from day one — the city and college community really made this an amazing experience.”
Grace Kapuadi from DR Congo, Practical Nursing Diploma

Practical Things to Do After Admission

Study Permit & Financial Support

Apply for your Canadian study permit through IRCC as soon as you receive your Letter of Acceptance (LOA) and Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL). Starting September 1, 2026, a single international study permit applicant outside Quebec must show CAD $23,448 for one year of living expenses (plus tuition & travel costs).
IRCC Proof of Funds Guide

Housing

Arrange accommodation before arrival. Ottawa student housing providers and private rentals should be booked early, especially for August/September intake.
Housing Guide

Health Insurance

All residents in Canada are entitled to public healthcare through provincial health insurance (OHIP in Ontario). International students may need private insurance for the first 3 months until eligible for provincial coverage. Cannoga partners with local clinics for walk-in care.
OHIP Info

Tuition & Scholarships

International tuition fees apply. Check our merit scholarship opportunities — awards of up to 50% tuition waiver are available.
Tuition Info

After Moving to Ottawa

Getting Around

Ottawa's public transport is operated by OC Transpo, offering bus, light rail, and paratransit services. Students qualify for discounted fares with a valid student card.

OC Transpo Student Tickets

Registering with Authorities

All international students must register their address with ServiceOntario after arrival.

Canadian citizens and permanent residents must carry valid identification; international students apply for a study permit through IRCC.

Open a Canadian bank account early — RBC, TD, Scotiabank, and others offer student accounts with low fees.

Full Arrival Guide

Post-Arrival Checklist

  • 1
    Collect keys and move into your accommodation
  • 2
    Register at college and activate your Cannoga student card
  • 3
    Register your address with ServiceOntario
  • 4
    Apply for a study permit through IRCC (if applicable)
  • 5
    Get your PRESTO card for public transit discounts
  • 6
    Open a Canadian bank account
  • 7
    Attend mandatory orientation week
  • 8
    Join the Cannoga student community platform

Living in Ottawa

Students enjoying life in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

STUDENT HEALTH CARE & UHIP

All international students in Ontario are covered by the University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP) for 100% medical, clinic, and hospital care, plus on-campus counseling and nursing triage.

LOCAL CULTURE

Ottawa is bilingual (English & French), diverse, and welcoming. It’s one of the world’s safest cities with a vibrant arts scene, national museums, and four distinct seasons.

WORKING WHILE STUDYING

Your Canadian study permit allows you to work up to 30 hours/week during term time (full-time during holidays). Many local employers actively recruit Cannoga students.

LANGUAGE & CAREERS

Cannoga’s Career Centre offers job boards, resume workshops, internships, and networking events with Ottawa’s tech, government, and business sectors.

Support Services

Peer Advice

Connect with current international students for practical tips on student life, housing, and finding your feet in Ottawa.

International Student Office

Guidance on study permits, enrollment, academic procedures, and immigration compliance throughout your studies.

Career & Settlement

Dedicated career support to help you plan your professional future and integrate into Ottawa's vibrant job market.

After Graduation

After graduating as an international student at Cannoga College in Ontario, you can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to live, find a job, and gain valuable work experience in Canada.

1

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

Cannoga College students can obtain a post-graduation work permit if they have continuously studied full-time in Canada and have completed an eligible program (such as an Advanced Diploma, Bachelor’s Degree, or qualifying credential).

PGWP Application Guide 2025 (PDF)

What it is: An open work permit that allows you to work for almost any employer in Canada without needing a job offer beforehand.

Duration: Valid for 8 months up to 3 years, depending on the length of your study program. Programs of 2 years or longer generally qualify for a full 3-year work permit.

Deadline: You must apply within 180 days of receiving your final transcript and an official completion letter confirming your graduation.

Working while waiting: If you apply before your study permit expires, you can work full-time in Canada while waiting for a decision on your PGWP.

Please visit International Student Services or the IRCC Website for more information.

2

Gain Canadian Work Experience

Working on a PGWP allows you to build a professional network and earn Canadian work experience. This work experience is essential if you want to apply to stay in Canada permanently.

3

Permanent Residency (PR)

Some students choose to apply for permanent residency (PR) so they can remain in Canada permanently as immigrants. Refer to the following resources as a starting point:

How to Immigrate to Canada

Official Government of Canada guide for economic immigration, qualification tools, and requirements.

Express Entry Program (Canadian Experience Class)

After completing at least 1 year of skilled work experience in Canada, you can apply through Express Entry where Canadian education gives higher ranking points.

Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)

Ontario has specific streams under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program for international students with job offers, Advanced Diplomas, or in-demand skills.

Immigration Advising: We regularly offer immigration workshops each semester to guide students on work permits and pathways to permanent residency.

Updated: June 2026 | Cannoga College International Student Services

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