Many educational institutions in Canada offer Vocational Training, institutions such as private and public colleges, institutes, polytechnic schools and schools for applied art and science. These programs are tailored to develop practical and professional skills and to provide necessary knowledge to students as well as to facilitate their job hunting and their career advancement.

Vocational programs include broad range of areas that are vital for society today, areas such as business, accounting, cooking, medicine, beauty care, electronics, mechanics, tourism, design etc. Regarding level of education, these programs are positioned between secondary education and undergraduate studies.

Vocational schools offer different levels of education and qualification, from certificates to diplomas, depending on student’s needs and field of the study. These programs can last from a few months to four years.

Types of Vocational Training programs:

• Certificate
• Diploma
• Advanced diploma
• Co-op programs

Tuition fees for vocational training programs

Vocational Training programs’ tuition fees depend on multiple factors: type of the program, duration of the program, school’s reputation etc. In general, tuition fees for vocational programs are lower than tuition fees for undergraduate studies and they usually range from 8.000 to 16.000CAD annually.

Conditions and benefits of vocational training programs in Canada

• The first condition for enrollment to vocational programs in Canada is completed secondary education.
• The second requirement is English (IELTS, TOEFL, CAEL) or French language test, depending on the province you wish to study in. The average score that is required depends on the language, chosen program and educational institution. Average score of 6.0 on IELTS or 80 on TOEFLIBT test is required for programs in English language
• The main benefit of vocational studies in Canada is developing practical knowledge and professional skills for the profession you like.
• Vocational training programs cost less than undergraduate studies and they last shorter.
• This level of education can provide you with credits and prepare you for undergraduate studies in Canada, which will last shorter due to recognition of particular exams.
• Vocational training diplomas are respected by employers due to the special focus on the development of necessary skills which are demanded on the market, which makes job hunting easier and career advancement guaranteed.
• There are co-op programs that provide students with theoretical knowledge including certain period of time working in a profession in which colleges provide job opportunities.
• Work experience you get with Post-Graduation Work visa after completed studies could help you qualify for permanent stay in Canada.