How to Apply as an International Student
Get information about admission requirements, important documents, English language proficiency and study permits so you can apply in advance.
Fall 2023 applications
Applications for fall and summer 2023 are now open. Before you apply make sure you review each step before submitting your application.
Apply nowWhen to apply
SAIT's programs in advanced technology are popular, and classes tend to fill up quickly. We recommend students apply well in advance. Applications will be accepted starting on the following dates:
| Term | Applications open | Applications close* |
|---|---|---|
| Winter 2023 (January - April) |
March 31, 2022 | Sept. 27, 2022 |
| Spring 2023 (May - August) |
June 13, 2022 | Jan. 23, 2023 |
| Fall 2023 (September - December) |
Oct. 5, 2022 | May 23, 2023 |
*The closing dates are tentative and might be changed if IRCC Study Permit processing times change. The closing dates do not apply to English Language Foundations, Academic Upgrading or Open Studies.
You may apply to more than one program but a separate application and fee are required for each when applying to programs in the Winter and Spring 2022 terms. Beginning in the Summer 2022 term you have the option to choose two programs on one application and pay one application fee.
It is the student’s responsibility to ensure SAIT has updated contact information. Failure to respond to our communications may result in the application being cancelled.
Do you meet the admission requirements?
All full-time programs have specific admission requirements that you must meet to qualify for admission. Also, all applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency, including students educated in Canada.
Early admission
Some programs offer early admission to applicants who have achieved or will achieve, higher grades in specific admission requirements. The timeline and the course percentage(s) required for early admission are listed on the program's admission and selection page, if applicable.
Selection criteria
To determine program suitability, some programs may require supplementary documentation or additional information to be submitted after you apply — this could include a career investigation report, aptitude test, resumé, essay, interview, etc. Specific programs will also use academic ranking as part of the selection process.
If you do not meet the admission requirements
- Consider the Academic Upgrading program for all core academic subjects.
- See the English Language Foundations program if English is an additional language.
- Learn more about admission testing for admission to SAIT programs.
Application process
Step 1: Apply online
First, use the How to Apply Checklist to make sure you're ready to apply.
Choose a program and apply online. Each online application and document assessment fee is $150 CAD.
Step 2: Submit your educational documents
If you were educated outside of Canada, you will require an international document assessment to ensure you've met the admission requirements for your program.
SAIT also accepts external assessments from IQAS, WES, and others.
SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions. Find more information here.
Submit your documents for assessment
Step 3: Demonstrate English language proficiency
All applicants to SAIT must demonstrate English language proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada. English language proficiency is a requirement for all SAIT programs.
If you do not meet the English language proficiency requirement, consider the English Language Foundations program.
Step 4: Check your application status online
Within a week of submitting your application online, you will receive an email acknowledging that SAIT has received your application. The email will include your SAIT ID number and instructions on how to log in to mySAIT.
Within six weeks, your application will be updated to one of the statuses below. When you submit updated documentation or progress through the competitive entry process, your application decision will be updated. Monitor your application status online on mySAIT.
Step 5: Apply for a study permit
International students who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada require a study permit issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to study in a program that is longer than six months.
Once you have received your SAIT confirmation/acceptance letter and accompanying documentation for IRCC, you can start the application process for your study permit.
Most students will also require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) in order to enter the country. Please check the IRCC website to see if you require a TRV or eTA.
Step 6: Pay your tuition and fees
Approximately six weeks before your program begins, you will register for your classes. At this time, you'll see your tuition amount in your account summary on mySAIT under the myStudent tab.
Payment of these tuition fees confirms your attendance in your program. Tuition for the semester will be due on the first business day of the month before classes begin (see important dates).
Also, be sure to check out the Next Steps to help you prepare to begin your academic journey at SAIT.