Seneca Polytechnic is one of the best colleges in Toronto and it’s easy to see why. With a strong focus on career success, Seneca offers hands-on, industry-driven programs that prepare you for today’s job market. Many of its programs are PGWP-eligible, giving international students the opportunity to work in Canada after graduation.
From day one, students gain practical experience through co-ops and work placements, helping them build valuable skills, grow their network, and boost their résumé—before they even graduate.
Why Seneca?
Seneca Polytechnic in Toronto is one of Canada’s largest public colleges and a top choice for international students. Its location offers access to job opportunities, cultural diversity, and one of the country’s most energetic cities. Seneca’s programs help students get ready for the real world by focusing on hands-on learning and strong industry connections.
The college offers entrance scholarships and awards specifically for international students, making quality education more affordable. It also provides services like academic advising, career support, and tutoring programs to help students adapt and succeed both in and out of the classroom.
Seneca is also a leader in applied research, with strengths in areas like life sciences, data science, and engineering. These innovative programs, along with a supportive community, make Seneca one of the top colleges in Toronto for international students who want to build a strong academic and professional future.
Flexible Study Options at Seneca
Seneca gives students the freedom to learn in a way that suits their goals and schedule. The college offers four main learning formats, each designed to meet different needs while still maintaining the same high-quality education.
- Online Learning
Students can complete their studies remotely, without going to campus. Classes may be live or prerecorded, depending on the program. - In-Person Learning
Courses are fully on campus. Students attend classes in person and benefit from face-to-face interaction with instructors and peers. - Hybrid Learning
This format combines online and in-person learning. Students must be on campus for at least 50% of the course. The rest can be done online. - Flexible Learning
Using special technology, instructors teach both in person and online at the same time. Students can choose to attend in the classroom or join online.
Important Note for International Students:
If you plan to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), you must attend flexible learning courses in person. Choosing the online option may make you ineligible for the PGWP.
Tuition & Financial Aid at Seneca Polytechnic
Planning your studies means knowing the full cost of your education—and understanding how to manage it wisely. At Seneca Polytechnic, international students benefit from affordable tuition and strong financial support. Here are a few ways the college assists you throughout your studies:
Financial Aid
- Awards, Scholarships & Bursaries: Seneca offers millions in financial awards each year. Some are open to all students, while others are program-specific. (Scroll down to learn more about international scholarships.)
- Work-Study Program: If you’re a full-time student with financial need, you may qualify to work part-time on campus while studying.
Health & Wellness
- Health & Dental Plan: All full-time students are automatically enrolled in an affordable health and dental plan that covers essential services.
- Counseling Services: Need someone to talk to? Seneca offers free counseling to help students manage stress and challenges.
- Seneca Soup Program: No student should go hungry. Enjoy free, fresh soup on campus each day. Just sign up—no cost involved.
Resources for Academic Success
- Free Software & Tech Access: Get Microsoft Office 365, Adobe software, and over 400 apps at no extra cost.
- Tutoring & Learning Support: The Learning Centre offers free help with writing, English, study strategies, and academic assignments.
- Career Services with Seneca Works: Get help with your résumé, prepare for interviews, attend career fairs, and apply to jobs.
- Library Resources: Get access to textbooks, thousands of online materials, and rent professional tools like cameras and 3D printers.
International Student Work Experience at Seneca
Every year, Seneca welcomes thousands of international students. With over 160 programs leading to more than 500 career pathways, students have countless options to achieve their academic and professional goals.
PGWP-Eligible Programs
Many of Seneca’s programs are eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), giving international students the opportunity to stay and work in Canada after graduation. This work experience opens doors to future job opportunities.
Co-op, Work Terms & Field Placements
Seneca emphasizes real-world experience through co-op programs, work terms, and field placements. These opportunities help students apply what they’ve learned in class and prepare for their careers.
- Co-ops and Work Terms: Many programs include optional or mandatory work terms. These allow you to gain paid experience related to your field of study.
- Field Placements: Some programs offer short-term, unpaid placements that give students hands-on experience in their specific field.
On-Campus Job Opportunities
International students studying full-time can apply for part-time jobs through Seneca’s Work Study Program. If you show financial need, you may qualify to work on campus during your studies to help cover expenses.
Scholarships for International Students at Seneca
Seneca offers financial support through entrance scholarships and merit-based awards for international students. These scholarships recognize academic performance and help lower tuition costs.
1. Diploma-to-Degree Scholarship
A one-time $2,500 award for diploma graduates who continue their studies in a Seneca degree program.
2. Renewable Degree Scholarships
Available to students entering full-time degree programs:
- 70% GPA or higher: $2,000 total ($500/year)
- 75% GPA or higher: $3,000 total ($750/year)
- 80% GPA or higher: $4,000 total ($1,000/year)
Students must maintain full-time status and minimum GPA to renew their scholarship yearly.
3. Renewable Entrance Scholarship of Merit
For international students entering diploma or graduate certificate programs:
- 3.0 GPA+: $500 per year
- 3.3 GPA+: $750 per year
- 3.6 GPA+: $1,000 per year
From PGWP-eligible programs to co-ops, scholarships, and on-campus support, Seneca Polytechnic makes it easier for international students to succeed in Canada.
Ready to study at Seneca?
Looking to gain real-world experience, stay in Canada after graduation, or earn a scholarship? Seneca Polytechnic has you covered and with UniApplyNow, applying has never been easier. Get direct access to top programs, personalized support, and a faster, stress-free application experience.
Your future starts here—apply to Seneca Polytechnic today and take the next bold step toward your global success! 🌍📚
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