Spring / May Intake in Canada 2025-2026 for Indian Students

Planning to study in Canada? Canada welcomes more Indian students like you! However, you should note that universities in Canada accept students in three intakes: September / Fall intake, January / Winter intake, and May / Spring / Summer intake.

Spring intake in Canada is the least preferred intake compared to fall and winter. As Spring marks the last semester of the academic year, it is considered the third most popular study intake. According to Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the May intake accounts for approximately 10–15% of the total international student enrollment in Canada each year.

The spring semester offers certain specific programs, including short-term courses, diplomas and certifications, compared to other canada intakes. However, it can be a great option for students seeking faster admission decisions and smaller class sizes. Campus life in spring intake is relatively quiet, with a smaller student community, actively working teaching staff, good scholarships, and internship prospects.  

This article includes timeline, universities, programs, and financial aspects for students planning their application for the Spring intake 2025 in Canada, distinguishing the Spring intake from the Fall and Winter intake.

What is Spring intake in Canada?

Spring intake in Canada is the third most popular intake after September and January intakes among prospective students. Spring intake is also known as Summer intake or May intake in Canada. It lasts from May to August. The application process for the May intake typically begins between October and December of the previous calendar year. Universities offer a limited number of seats and programs during this spring semester in Canada. Mostly, short-term courses, diplomas or certifications, and summer vocational programs are available in this intake.

Spring admission offers a smooth transition for many international students, including those from India. It provides limited financial aid and accommodation options due to fewer program offerings and lower enrollment compared to other intakes. The spring semester season allows students to experience pleasant climate conditions compared to extremely cold winters. Only a small percentage of students target Spring intake in Canada, majorily by international students with applications postponed due to delayed results or any personal reasons. Due to less competition, the acceptance rate for Canada summer intake is high, and students can easily get into top Canadian universities.  

Canada May / Spring Intake Application Timeline 2025-2026 

Many foreign students prefer the May intake as a backup option, as around only 10-15% of courses remain available. It is best suited for those who may have deferred their admission or missed the earlier intakes. Early birds would ideally start their application process one year in advance to avoid any unforeseen delays in their journey. The detailed May/Summer/Spring intake application timeline in Canada for cohorts for the year 2026 is given below. Check it out before you start with your application process.

April 2025 - May 2025: Research Universities and Courses

• This is the first and foremost step students take when planning for studying abroad. Students must explore top-tier universities and courses that guarantee good return on investment (ROI).
• Shortlist 8-12 colleges to make strategic application decisions. Make sure the universities align with your interests and have high acceptance rates.
• Familiarize yourself with various bank loan options and college scholarships (public and private) based on affordability and low interest rates.
• Download the admission brochures and go through their offerings and facilities. It will be available more than a year earlier.
• If you're confident with the university you've selected, consider applying through Early Decision. If you're still unsure, you should consider applying through the Regular Decision.

May 2025 -August 2025: Prepare for Standardized Tests and English Language Proficiency Exams

• Register for the GMAT/GRE exam (as per university requirements) by June or three months prior to the test date as it provides sufficient time for preparation.
• Register for TOEFL/IELTS/PTE at least a month before the test date to select your desired test date and time. 
• Register for LSAT and MCAT a month in advance for law and medicine courses respectively.
• Check the test-taking process, before taking the test. Have a cushion period in case you need to retake the test. Ensure you check the re-exam process and guidelines.
• Prepare for the basics of the GMAT and GRE beforehand.

September 2025 - December 2025: Submission of application forms and documents

• Fill out the respective application forms of the universities you’re applying for well before the deadline.
• Contact your professors and direct managers for 2 – 3 reference letters. 
• Draft your statement of purpose (SOP) and essays, highlighting your strengths and uniqueness. Take a month for structuring and proofreading these documents. 
• Submit your updated resume, SOP, letter of recommendations (LOR) and other documents before the deadline.

January 2026 to March 2026: Reply to college emails and responses

• By mid-December or January, you will receive emails from universities you've applied for. 
• Check your inbox daily.
• Reply to college e-mails as soon as possible to create a positive impression. Do not wait till the last minute.
• Appear for personal (one-on-one) or video interviews. These are scheduled for around January to March 2026. It generally takes 4 to 12 weeks to receive a response regarding admission or acceptance from universities.
• Acknowledge the acceptance letter sent by the university to help them gauge engagement. 
• Pay a non-refundable deposit to confirm your admission. 

March 2026 - April 2026: Settle your finances and apply for a Canada student visa

• Apply for education loans to cover your tuition, travel and accommodation expenses.
• Complete the paperwork for your Canada student visa. Check visa requirements well before March 2026. 
• Visa slots are expected to open sometime in late February or early March for Spring 2025 admissions.
• Apply for the student visa in time. Be aware of the visa processing time. 

April 2026 - May 2026: Pre-Departure

• Book airline tickets. 
• Arrange for an International Debit/Credit card.
• Look for student housing and accommodation options in Canada. 
• Utilize social media and university housing portals to connect with potential roommates. Also, identify various on-campus and off-campus housing options.
• Collect all the documents and their photocopies. 
• Check out your Pre-Departure checklist!

This timeline suits Indian academic schedules and global opportunities well.

It's time to check the top universities in Canada, including popular courses, acceptance rates, application deadlines, and more. You’ll find all this essential information in the next section.

Top universities & Popular Programs for Spring Intake in Canada 2026 

For the Spring intake in Canada, only a limited number of top universities open admissions in diverse fields of study, including business, healthcare, engineering and computer science. Thereby, fewer Indian students develop a mild preference for this intake, often considering it only if their desired program is available at May intake colleges in Canada. 
    
Check out some of the top universities, popular courses offered, and deadlines below to get admitted to this summer intake in Canada.

Universities offering Spring (Summer or May) Intake admissions 2026
University Name & QS Rankings 2025	Popular Programs offered	Application Deadlines	Acceptance rate
University of Toronto, #25	Bachelor of science in Computer Science Master’s in Computer Science Master’s in Data Science	Early action deadline: November 7, 2025 Regular action deadlines: January 15, 2026	43%
University of Waterloo, #115	Master’s in Computer Science Master’s in Data Science B.Eng., B.Sc. in Bio Chemistry	Rolling admissions	53%
Vancouver Community College, #6327	Post degree diploma in Global supply chain Management Diploma in Cyber security Diploma in Health Science	April 1, 2026	60-75%
Northern College, #1201	Business Management Diploma in Civil Engineering Technology Computer Programming	Rolling admissions	56%
Centennial College, #=362	Advanced Diploma in Business Administration PG Diploma in Computer Systems Software Engineering	January to February 2026	67%
University of Fraser Valley	Bachelor’s in Agricultural science PG diploma in AI & Machine Learning Bachelor of Computer Science	Rolling admissions; apply early	62-75%

Got a solid academic track record? Give yourself a head start—consider Restrictive Early Action to boost your chances for the Spring intake 2026!

Note: Students thinking about deferring entry should be aware that deferral is not always possible. So, we recommend you check with your course department first.

To apply for the above mentioned May intake universities in Canada, check the necessary documents required in the following section.

What are the Documents required for May intake in Canada 2026?

Check out the documents required for the Summer / Spring / May intake admission 2026 mentioned below:

1. English Language Proficiency Test Score: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo test scores are required if English is not your first language.
2. Standardized Test Scores: Submit SAT/ACT test scores for freshman and GRE/GMAT test scores for PG and Doctoral programs.
3. Statement of Purpose (SOP): A well-written statement of purpose (SOP) is required for showcase your goals and academic interests.
4. Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Request 2–3 LORs from professors or managers, at least a month early.
5. Admission Essays: Answer university-specific essays clearly and directly.
6. Updated Resume or CV: Highlight academic background, work experience, and achievements.
7. Academic Transcripts and Certificates: Include Class 10, 12, and graduation transcripts and certificates.
8. Valid Passport: A valid passport is required as proof of identity.
9. Passport-Sized Photographs: You'll need to provide two recent passport-sized photographs.
10. Application Fee Receipt: Proof of fee payment may be required for your application to be processed.
11. Proof of Funds / Bank Statements: Financial proof is required to show your ability to afford tuition and living expenses.
12. Work Experience Certificates (if applicable): You’ll need work experience certificates, especially for MBA or master’s programs that require professional experience.
13. Medium of Instruction Certificate (MOI): A letter is required from your school or college stating that your entire education was in English; accepted by some universities in place of IELTS/TOEFL.

Once your documents are ready, the next step is to plan your finances smartly for summer intake in Canada. Learn about budgeting, funding options, and managing expenses in the upcoming section.

How to Plan Financially for Spring Intake in Canada 2025-2026? 

Worried about expenses for studying in Canada this Summer/Spring 2026? Plan your finances early with the below simple checklist. So, you can focus on your studies without the financial stress.

1. Estimate Costs & Create Your Budget (Do This Immediately!)

Calculate all expenses: List tuition, housing (compare on/off-campus), living, food, books, travel, fees and personal spending to estimate your total cost of studying in canada.
Research Location Costs: Compare cost of living across cities—choosing a budget-friendly location helps cut expenses. Use student budget calculators for estimates.
Create Budget: Prioritize essentials (tuition, housing); track your spending; know needs vs. wants.
Budget for Currency: Keep a buffer for potential INR to CAD currency fluctuations.

2. Secure Funding

Secure GIC: Arrange Guaranteed Investment Certificate (CAD $20,635 + tuition) for visa approval.
Apply for Scholarships:  Research & apply for university-specific (merit-based included), organizational, and government scholarships /grants in Canada. Check deadlines.
Explore Loans: Compare government and private bank education loan options (interest rates, terms). Apply early as processing takes time.
Check Employer Sponsorship: If working, see if your employer offers tuition sponsorship or reimbursement.
Research Assistantships (Grads): For graduate students, research Teaching or Research Assistantships (TA/RA) which offer stipends/tuition waivers.

3. Plan Earning & Saving in Canada

On-Campus Jobs: Look for part-time job opportunities available at your university upon arrival.
Off-Campus Work Opportunities: International students in Canada can work off-campus for up to 24 hours per week during academic sessions. Make sure to understand IRCC rules and get the right permit before starting any job. 
Arrange Health Insurance: Ensure you have mandatory provincial or university health insurance arranged for your entire stay.
Save Money Daily: Buy used books, cook at home, use public transport & avail student discounts.

4. Manage Money Effectively in Canada

Open Canadian Bank Account: Do this after arrival to manage your finances, pay bills and to avoid foreign transaction fees. 
Use Uni Financial Workshops: Attend university workshops on budgeting and financial management.
Build Credit Carefully: Pay bills on time. Consider a student credit card later if needed and manageable.

Plan early, be prepared, and manage your money smartly to make your Canada Admission Intake journey for Spring 2026 stress-free and successful.

2025 Updates on Canada University Admissions 

Casual social media posts are no longer overlooked. Below are the key updates affecting international students planning to study in Canada for Summer Intake 2026

• Study Permit Cap for 2025: The Canadian government has limited the number of study permits to 437,000 for 2025 to reduce pressure on public services like housing and healthcare.
• Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) Requirement: From January 22, 2025, all graduate-level study permit applicants must submit a PAL issued by their province to comply with the new national student cap.
• Field-of-Study Restriction Removed for PGWP: International college graduates are now eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) regardless of their study program, offering greater flexibility and job opportunities after graduation.

Want to study abroad at a Canadian University? Connect with our Kanan Study Abroad Counsellors and get personalized guidance. We’ll help you with university admissions, test preparation, and everything in between. Start your application today and take the next big step in your academic journey!

Frequently Asked Questions on Spring Intake in Canada 2026

1. When to apply for summer intake in Canada?

May intake is also called Summer intake in Canada. To enroll for the May intake, students have to submit their applications to colleges between October and December of the previous year. Most of the colleges that offer summer intake for 2025 set their deadlines between October and February. It is advisable to check the university website frequently to be well-informed about the May intake deadlines in Canada and to apply before the due date.

2. What are the application deadlines for May intake in Canada? 

The application deadlines for the May intake in Canada usually fall between January and February. However, deadlines may vary depending on the university and program availability. It’s advisable for students to check the official university websites and apply early to increase their chances of admission.

3. Do Canadian universities accept gap year students in Summer Intake? 

Yes, Canadian universities do accept gap year students for the Summer (May) intake, provided they can justify the gap with valid reasons such as work experience, internships, or skill development. Applicants should submit supporting documents and meet the program’s academic and admission requirements.

4. What if I miss the deadline for Canada May Intake 2025? 

If you miss the deadline for the May intake 2025, you can apply for the next intake, such as Winter 2026 or Fall 2026. Some universities may allow late applications with additional fees or limited program options. Contact the university's admissions department for further guidance on your options.

5. Can I switch my intake after receiving an admission offer? 

Yes, many universities allow students to switch their intake after receiving an admission offer, but it depends on the university's policy. If you change your intake or program, you may need a new letter of acceptance and, for Canada, a new or extended study permit reflecting the updated intake. Always inform the university and immigration authorities promptly to avoid visa issues.

6. Can I re-apply to the same college for Fall 2025 if I get rejected in Spring Intake? 

Yes, you can re-apply to the same college for Fall 2025 if you get rejected in the Spring intake. However, it’s important to review the reasons for rejection and address any weaknesses in your application, such as improving your documents or preparing better for interviews. 

7. Is it harder to find part-time jobs if I arrive in the spring intake in Canada? 

It is not necessarily harder to find part-time jobs if you arrive in the Spring intake in Canada. While job openings may be slightly lower compared to the Fall intake, opportunities are still available, especially on campus or in sectors like retail, hospitality, tutoring, research assistant roles, and customer service. Employers hire year-round, and international students can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during study periods. It’s important to start looking early and network with fellow students.

8. Can I get admission to Canadian universities with a GPA below 3.0? 

Getting admission to Canadian universities with a GPA below 3.0 can be challenging, but it is not impossible. Some universities may have flexible admission policies or consider other factors like work experience, extracurricular activities, personal statements, or strong recommendation letters. You can also explore pathway programs or conditional offers that allow you to improve your GPA during initial semesters. 

9. What is the CGPA requirement for the University of Prince Edward Island? 

To gain admission to the University of Prince Edward Island as an international undergraduate student, applicants must meet the general entry criteria and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 1.7, particularly in the required major subject areas.

10. Is Conestoga College in Canada a good option for international students? 

Conestoga College is a well-regarded choice for international students in Canada, offering a diverse range of programs and strong academic standards. It provides good student support services, modern campus facilities, and affordable tuition. However, students should evaluate the program offerings, location, living costs, and available scholarships before applying.

11. Which Canadian universities are accepting Spring 2025 applications for freshman (first-year) students? 

​Several Canadian universities are accepting Spring 2025 applications for first-year students. Notable institutions include the University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, McGill University, York University, University of Alberta, University of Calgary, and Simon Fraser University. Application deadlines vary, so it's essential to check each university's official website for specific dates and program availability.

12.  How to acquaint yourself with students abroad? 

If you're an introvert or nervous talking to others, well, many are in the same boat as you. Some of the best ways to acquaint yourself with students are:

• Strike up a conversation with small talk like, what’s your name, where you’re from, what your major is, etc. 
• Join uni’s sporting teams or clubs. You will make friends there for life. 
• Do group assignments, labs, chat casually, grab a coffee and debrief on a lecture.
• Try street food and new cuisines with new friends. Don’t hesitate to ask native students for recommendations. 
• Be intentional. Don’t waste time on people who aren’t putting in the same effort.

13. How to plan financially for Spring intake in Canada 2026 as a middle class student? 

To plan financially for the upcoming spring intake in Canada 2026  as a middle-class student, start by estimating your total expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, food, travel, and emergency funds. Apply for scholarships and bursaries offered by Canadian universities, as well as Indian government schemes. Consider taking an education loan from a reliable bank or financial institution to cover initial costs. Look for affordable or shared housing options near your campus to reduce living expenses. Additionally, explore part-time job opportunities permitted under your study permit to support your monthly expenses and gain local experience.