University of Saskatchewan

Why the University of Saskatchewan is Popular Among Indian Students

The University of Saskatchewan (USask), located in the vibrant city of Saskatoon, is a top choice for Indian students aspiring to study abroad in Canada. Renowned for its research-intensive environment, affordable education, and strong support systems for international students, USask offers a welcoming gateway to Canadian higher education. With a focus on innovation in fields like agriculture, engineering, and health sciences, the university attracts over 3,000 international students annually, including a growing number from India. For the upcoming intake (Fall 2024 or Winter 2025), USask provides seamless pathways for Indian applicants, including dedicated visa guidance and scholarships tailored to emerging economies like India. Its emphasis on practical learning and post-graduation work opportunities aligns perfectly with the aspirations of Indian students seeking global careers and potential pathways to Canadian permanent residency (PR).

Popular Academic Programs for Indian Students

USask is particularly popular for its diverse, high-quality programs that blend theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. Indian students, who often prioritize STEM and business fields for their employability, find USask's offerings ideal. The university's programs are accredited and ranked highly in Canada, with many leading to co-op placements and industry partnerships.

• Agriculture and Environmental Sciences: As Canada's agricultural heartland hub, USask's College of Agriculture and Bioresources is world-famous. Programs like B.Sc. in Agricultural Biology or M.Sc. in Plant Sciences are hotspots for Indian students interested in sustainable farming and food security—key areas back home. With Saskatchewan's vast farmlands, students gain real-world exposure through field research.
• Engineering and Technology: The College of Engineering excels in programs such as Biomedical Engineering, Civil Engineering, and Computer Science. These are in high demand among Indian applicants due to Canada's tech boom and PR-friendly occupations. USask's co-op program allows paid internships, helping students offset costs while building Canadian work experience.
• Business and Management: The Edwards School of Business offers popular degrees like B.Comm. in Finance or MBA with specializations in Agribusiness. Indian students appreciate the focus on entrepreneurship and global trade, with case studies on emerging markets like India. The school's accreditation by AACSB ensures international recognition.
• Health Sciences and Medicine: Programs in Nursing, Pharmacy, and Public Health draw Indian students passionate about healthcare. The Western College of Veterinary Medicine is a unique draw for those eyeing animal health careers. With Canada's aging population, these fields offer excellent job prospects post-graduation.
• Indigenous and Cultural Studies: For a holistic education, USask's programs in Indigenous Studies resonate with Indian students from diverse cultural backgrounds, promoting cross-cultural understanding in a multicultural Canadian setting.

Most undergraduate and graduate programs accept applications for the next intake, with deadlines typically in January for Fall and September for Winter. Indian students can leverage USask's streamlined online application process, requiring IELTS/TOEFL scores and academic transcripts.

Research Opportunities and Innovation

USask is a powerhouse in research, consistently ranking among Canada's top 15 research universities. It's home to the Canadian Light Source synchrotron, a cutting-edge facility for scientific breakthroughs. Indian students are drawn to the university's 13 Canada Research Chairs and funding for international collaborations.

Key research areas popular among Indians include:

• Sustainable energy and climate change, aligning with India's green initiatives.
• Biotechnology and vaccine development, relevant to global health challenges like those faced during COVID-19.
• Agricultural innovation, with projects on crop resilience that can be applied to India's farming sector.

Graduate students can access paid research assistantships, and undergrads participate in the USask Research Experience Program. This hands-on research not only enhances resumes but also boosts eligibility for Canada's Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), a major incentive for Indian students aiming for long-term stays.

Campus Life and Support for International Students

Saskatoon's safe, affordable lifestyle—often cheaper than Toronto or Vancouver—makes USask appealing for budget-conscious Indian families. The campus, spanning 2,000 acres, features modern residences, Indian grocery stores nearby, and festivals celebrating Diwali and Holi through the Indian Students' Association (ISA).

USask's International Student and Study Abroad Centre (ISSAC) provides tailored support:

The diverse student body (over 100 nationalities) fosters a sense of community, with clubs like the South Asian Society organizing events. Winters are cold, but indoor facilities and winter sports keep campus life engaging.

Affordability, Scholarships, and Next Intake Incentives

Tuition at USask is competitive: CAD 20,000–30,000 per year for undergraduates and CAD 10,000–25,000 for graduates—lower than many Ontario universities. Living costs in Saskatoon average CAD 12,000 annually, including shared housing and meals.

Scholarships specifically for Indian students include:

• International Baccalaureate Scholarship: Up to CAD 20,000 for high-achieving undergrads.
• Graduate Excellence Awards: CAD 10,000–18,000 for master's/PhD students from India.
• Entrance Scholarships: Automatic consideration for GPA 85%+ applicants, covering up to 50% of first-year tuition.

For the next intake, USask offers extended application windows for Indians under the SDS program, ensuring quicker visa approvals (as little as 20 days). With Saskatchewan's Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), graduates in in-demand fields like engineering and health can fast-track PR.

In summary, the University of Saskatchewan stands out for its academic excellence, research prowess, and student-centric approach, making it a smart, popular choice for Indian students pursuing dreams in Canada. Apply now to secure your spot and embark on a transformative journey!