St. Catherine Academy Pathway Program Overview

St. Catherine Academy offers pathway programs designed to support international students in meeting language and academic requirements for their main study programs. These programs provide students with the necessary foundation, especially for those who may not initially meet the language or academic prerequisites for direct entry into their main courses of study.

Pathway Programs: An Overview

Pathway programs are typically divided into two stages:

Stage 1: Language or Academic Upgrading Course (Pathway Program) - This course helps students fulfill language or academic requirements, allowing them to transition smoothly into their main study program.

Stage 2: Main Study Program - This is usually a college diploma course, bachelor’s degree, or another primary educational track following the completion of the pathway stage.

Types of Pathway Programs

Standard Pathway Program: Students enroll in a language course with preparation for recognized language exams, such as IELTS or TOEFL. Upon passing the language test, students fulfill language proficiency requirements for their main study program.

Seamless Pathway Program: Certain institutions, including St. Catherine Academy’s partner schools, accept students directly upon successful completion of a designated language course, without requiring additional language test results.

Academic Upgrading Program: If a student’s prior education does not meet Canadian standards or if they lack prerequisite courses, they may complete an academic upgrading course to meet entry requirements for their main study program.

Pathway Programs and Study Permits

Study Permit Requirements:

If the pathway program lasts more than six months, students need a Canadian study permit.

For programs shorter than six months, a study permit is not required, but a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) may be necessary.

Permit Transition:

After completing the pathway program, students must apply for a new study permit for their main study program.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a pathway program, and how does it help international students?

Pathway programs offer students a way to meet language or academic requirements needed to enter a main study program in Canada, such as a diploma or degree program.

What is the difference between a standard and a seamless pathway program?

In a standard program, students take a language test at the end of their course (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), while a seamless program allows students to transfer directly to the main program without a test if they complete a pre-approved language course.

Do I need a study permit to attend a pathway program?

If your pathway program is more than six months, a study permit is required. For programs shorter than six months, a study permit isn’t necessary, but you may need a TRV or eTA.

What happens after I complete the pathway program?

Upon completing the pathway program, you will need to apply for a new study permit to begin your main study program in Canada.

Are there specific application deadlines for pathway programs at St. Catherine Academy?

Application deadlines are open, allowing flexibility for international students to apply year-round.

Can St. Catherine Academy help me with academic upgrading if my previous education does not meet Canadian standards?

Yes, St. Catherine Academy offers academic upgrading courses as part of our pathway programs to help students meet the prerequisites for their chosen study program.

How can I find out if I need a TRV or an eTA to study in Canada?

To determine if you need a TRV or an eTA, you can consult the Government of Canada’s official resources, accessible through St. Catherine Academy’s admissions page.

Overview & FAQ