Dalhousie University at a Glance
Popular Programs at Dalhousie University
Why Study in Canada?
- ✓Earn globally recognized degrees from top-tier institutions
- ✓Eligible for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) up to 3 years
- ✓Diverse and inclusive multicultural cities ranked highly for safety
- ✓Abundant scholarship and funding options for academic achievers
- ✓Direct pathways to Permanent Residency (PR) via Express Entry streams
Education System in Canada
Canada's post-secondary education includes colleges, institutes, and universities. Colleges focus on career-oriented practical training, while universities focus on academic degrees.
| Program Level | Average Duration |
|---|---|
| Diploma & Advanced Diploma | 1 - 3 Years |
| Bachelor's Degree | 3 - 4 Years |
| Master's Degree | 1 - 2 Years |
| MBA | 1 - 2 Years |
| PhD | 3 - 5 Years |
Admission Requirements
General Canada university requirements — confirm the exact criteria for Dalhousie University with a MENTISGO advisor.
English Language Requirements
Application Intakes & Timelines
Fall Intake
Starts September (Apply by Jan-March)
Winter Intake
Starts January (Apply by June-August)
Summer Intake
Starts May (Limited options, Apply by Nov)
Tuition Fees in Canada
Country-wide average ranges by level of study — actual fees at Dalhousie University vary by program. Confirm the current figure with a MENTISGO advisor.
| Level of Study | Estimated Fee Range |
|---|---|
| Diploma / Certificate | CAD 12,000 - CAD 18,000 / Year |
| Bachelor's Degree | CAD 18,000 - CAD 35,000 / Year |
| Master's Degree | CAD 15,000 - CAD 30,000 / Year |
| MBA | CAD 25,000 - CAD 55,000 / Year |
| PhD | CAD 8,000 - CAD 18,000 / Year |
Cost of Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia
| Expense Item | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (Shared) | CAD 600 - CAD 1,000 / Month |
| Food & Groceries | CAD 300 - CAD 400 / Month |
| Public Transportation | CAD 100 - CAD 150 / Month |
| Utilities & Internet | CAD 150 - CAD 200 / Month |
| Health Insurance | CAD 50 - CAD 100 / Month |
Scholarships & Funding Options
Lester B. Pearson Scholarships
University of TorontoFull tuition, books, and living stipend (Undergraduate)
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Government of CanadaCAD 50,000 per year for 3 years (Doctoral)
Entrance Scholarships
Individual UniversitiesCAD 2,000 - CAD 10,000 automatic merit awards
Student Visa Process
- Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
- Passport with 6+ months validity
- GIC certificate of CAD 20,635
- Proof of paid tuition fees (1st Year)
- SOP & Academic Transcripts
Work Rights While Studying
Post-Study Work & PR Pathways
Accommodation & Healthcare
Student Life & Career Outcomes
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is a GIC for Canada?
A Guaranteed Investment Certificate is a mandatory deposit of CAD 20,635 in a Canadian bank to prove you have living funds.
Q. Can I study in Canada without IELTS?
Yes, some universities accept Duolingo or MOI (Medium of Instruction) from previous degrees, but IELTS is highly recommended for visas.
Q. Can my spouse accompany me to Canada?
Yes, spouse open work permits are available for spouses of students enrolled in qualifying masters or doctoral courses.
Q. What is the processing time for Canada visa from Pakistan?
It generally takes between 6 to 12 weeks depending on the application pool.
Q. How much bank balance must I show?
You need to show paid first-year tuition plus CAD 20,635 living funds.
Q. What is the SDS program for Canada student visa from Pakistan?
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) was an expedited visa processing pathway for certain countries including Pakistan, requiring upfront payment of 1st-year tuition, a GIC of CAD 20,635, and IELTS academic score of 6.0 in each band. *Note: Canada IRCC updates pathways regularly; verify current SDS/non-SDS status before applying.*
Q. Are there cheap universities in Canada for Pakistani students?
While tuition varies, institutions like Memorial University of Newfoundland, University of Prince Edward Island, and Brandon University offer relatively affordable tuition fees starting around CAD 12,000 to CAD 18,000 per year.
Q. Can I work off-campus while studying in Canada?
Yes, international students with a valid study permit can work up to 20 hours per week off-campus during regular academic semesters, and full-time during scheduled breaks like summer and winter holidays.