Seneca International Student Website Frequently Asked Questions  
 
Study at Seneca
Frequently Asked Questions:

Admissions

What are the admission requirements for an international student?
Admissions requirements vary depending on which program you are applying to, and which education system your academic qualifications are based on. For specific details check the Full-Time Calendar section of this web site.

What are the English Language Requirements for admission?
Minimum TOEFL or IELTS scores are required. For specific details, check the English Language Requirements section of this web site.

Applying to Seneca

I've applied, but I haven't heard from you. How long would I normally have to wait for a response?
If you apply on-line, you will get an automatic response and application number for tracking purposes. The normal response time is approximately 4 weeks from the time you mail your completed (copy) application (with all supporting documentation) until you receive a response from Seneca College.

When can I apply for admission to Seneca College?
Seneca College is on a tri-semester system so we have programs running in September, January and May each year. For specific program semester starts, please consult our full-time calendar on this web site.

Is it possible to apply for Advanced Standing?
Yes, students can apply for advanced standing. You will be admitted to the college and can apply for advanced standing when you arrive at the college. Please consult the Prior Learning Assessment section on this web site.

How do I obtain a student authorization?
To obtain a student authorization, you must contact an immigration official at a Canadian Embassy that serves your country. You must have a Letter of Acceptance to Seneca College in a program of study before applying for the authorization.

Can I work in Canada while I'm attending Seneca College?
You may be allowed to work if you meet one of the following requirements: your employment is part of a course of study (Co-Operative Education Option), you want to work on campus, or you want to work after graduation in a program-related job for up to one year.

Can I work in Canada after I graduate from Seneca College?
Yes you may work after graduation in a program-related job for up to one year.

How do I apply?
You can either apply on-line at this web site or you can request an international brochure be sent to you on this web site.

I'm a mature student. Is the application process different?
No, if you are an international student, even if you are applying as a mature student, you still apply as an international student.

Can I apply on-line?
Yes you can apply on-line at this web site (if you reside Outside of Canada) or you can apply through www.ocas.on.ca (if you currently reside in Canada).

What are your application deadlines?
The general application deadlines are to apply at least 4-6 months prior to the start of the semester you wish to enter. (September, January or May)

How much is the tuition fee at Seneca?
Generally, International students pay $11,000 CDN or $7,100 USD per year (2 semesters) for most undergraduate programs. For specific tuition fee information, please consult the Tuition Fee section of this web site.

Are there scholarships available to international students?
At Seneca, we have concentrated on securing Co-operative Educational experiences for international students, which along with providing financial remuneration, is most important for providing them with a Canadian business reference and vital program-related experience for their resume.

English Requirements

Do I need to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores?
If your first language is not English, you must demonstrate proficiency in English by submitting either TOEFL scores or approved alternative scores: IELTS, MELAB, or CAEL may be substituted. For specific details, check the English Language Requirements section of this web site.

What TOEFL/IELTS score is necessary?
Generally, the UNDERGRADUATE required scores are TOEFL: 550 or 213 - IELTS 6.0 (with no individual score less than 5.5). If you are applying to a POST-GRADUATE program required scores are TOEFL: 580 or 237 - IELTS 6.5 (with no individual score less than 6.0). For specific details, check the English Language Requirements section of this web site.

I've taken English courses in high school/university. Do I have to satisfy the English Language Requirements?
Yes, you must still satisfy the English Language Requirements; an English course in high school/university does not replace the English Language Requirements.

What should I do if my academic documents are not in English?
If your academic documents are not in English, you must provide a notarized English translation.

My English isn't very good. Do you offer English Language courses to help me prepare for college studies?
Our English Language Institute affiliated with Seneca and is located on campus, offers "English For Success" and "English for Academic Success" as preparatory English courses. Normally, these programs are for prospective students who already have a working knowledge of English, but wish to enhance their speaking, listening, reading and writing skills. For more information, visit the English Language Institute section of this web site.

International Costs & Budget at a Glance

How much is the tuition fee at Seneca?
Generally, International students pay $11,000 CDN or $7,100 USD per year (2 semesters) for most undergraduate programs. For specific tuition fee information, please consult the Tuition Fee section of this web site.

How much money will I need for living expenses?
As a general rule, you should budget approximately $1,000 Canadian to cover your living and school expenses for each month you are attending Seneca.

Co-Operative Education

Are co-operative education programs available for international students?
Yes, international students on student visas can apply to and be accepted into co-op programs at Seneca. Please note that there will be a limited number of places available for visa students.

The tuition fee for visa students (in Co-operative Education placements) will be approximately $300 per 4-month school term, plus other costs such as housing, food, and entertainment. Most of our Co-operative Education placements are paid a salary for work performed.

Housing & Living Questions

How much does it cost to live in residence?
Residence costs for a 4-month semester are approximately $2,350.00 Canadian plus a meal plan. For more details on residence at Seneca and exact costs, please refer to the Residence section of this web site.

How much does it cost to live off campus?
Homestays or Room in a House accommodation can cost anywhere between $350 (without meals) and $750 (with meals) Canadian for a single room in a shared house or apartment. This means that you will pay your own rent individually, and the cost is based on a per-room, per-month rate. Depending on the arrangements you make with the landlord, utilities, parking, and/or laundry facilities, etc., may be extra. Please apply for Off Campus Housing, using the Submitted Form on this web site.

How much money will I need for living expenses?
As a general rule, you should budget approximately $1,000 Canadian to cover your living expenses for each month you reside in Canada.

What facilities are provided in the residences?
Each residence at Seneca has its own unique facilities. All the residences have laundry facilities, study lounges, cafeterias, television lounges, games rooms, and access to the Seneca internet and e-mail system.

What types of food is available on-campus?
The Food Services department tries to create a variety of food choices to appeal to all students. There are also many and varied international restaurants located in the plazas near the campus.

Is residence guaranteed for international students?
As an international student, you must apply to our residences as soon as you have decided to study at Seneca. Our residences have their own web site and application form, so please refer to the Residence section on our web site.

Can I get health/medical insurance?
As an international student currently registered full-time at Seneca, you are automatically covered for Health Insurance. This is a FREE service to all our students. The College Health Insurance plan provides for doctor's services, most hospital ward accommodation, and other services. You can get complete details by picking up our medical coverage pamphlet or getting more details on the Medical Insurance section of this web site.