Humber College (Toronto): a concise guide for students from India

Humber College is a large public polytechnic in Toronto, Canada, known for hands-on teaching, strong employer links, and diverse cohorts. Programs span diplomas, advanced diplomas, honours bachelor’s degrees, and Ontario graduate certificates.

Why it works for Indian students

• Career-focused curricula with labs, studios, simulations, and co-op/placements where offered.

• Multiple intakes (Fall/September, Winter/January, Summer/May for selected programs).

• Big Indian student community, easy access to groceries, temples, and cultural events across the GTA.

Campuses

• North Campus (Etobicoke): engineering/technology, health, business; residence and athletics on site.

• Lakeshore Campus (waterfront west Toronto): media, liberal arts, business, community services; residence and modern studios.
  Shared features: makerspaces, broadcast and UX labs, simulation centres, test kitchens, career and wellness services.

What you can study

• Certificates (1 year) and Diplomas/Advanced Diplomas (2–3 years).

• Honours Bachelor’s Degrees (4 years).

• Ontario Graduate Certificates (8–16 months) for post-degree specialization.

• Academic English/EAP pathways if you need language upgrading.

Admissions (India)

Undergraduate (certificates/diplomas/degrees)

• Class 12 (CBSE/ISC/State board) with required subjects for the program.

• Transcripts/marksheets, secondary-school certificate, passport, and proof of English.

• Some programs need a portfolio/audition/interview (e.g., design, media, music).

Graduate certificates

• Recognized bachelor’s degree in a related field, résumé/statement, transcripts, and English proof; select programs may request a portfolio or interview.

Tip: Apply early for the best course selection and to keep residence options open.

English & SDS considerations

• Humber accepts common academic English tests. Minimum scores vary by credential and may change; aim above the posted minimums to stay SDS-competitive.

• For the Student Direct Stream (SDS) you’ll follow IRCC’s current requirements (accepted tests and minimums, first-year tuition receipt, GIC at the current cost-of-living amount, medicals, biometrics). Keep copies of every receipt and statement.

Costs & budgeting

Tuition depends on program and credential. Budget separately for:

• Health insurance (mandatory for international students) and student fees.

• Books, software, supplies (toolkits, uniforms where applicable).

• Housing (on-campus residence at North/Lakeshore or shared rentals off campus), food, transit, phone.
  Use a personal buffer for Toronto living costs; shared housing and meal planning help.

Work, co-op, careers

• On-/off-campus work is possible under your study-permit conditions. Treat earnings as a supplement, not tuition funding.

• Many programs include co-op or placements with eligibility rules (GPA, prerequisites).

• Career services offer résumé clinics, interview prep, employer fairs, and networking.

After graduation

Full-time programs may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) depending on length and other criteria. Keep transcripts, enrollment letters, and co-op confirmations organized for future immigration applications.

Arrival steps for Indian students

1. Accept offer and pay the deposit/first-year tuition per instructions.

2. Complete SDS/non-SDS visa requirements (GIC, medicals, biometrics, proof of funds).

3. Arrange housing; book airport pickup or plan transit to campus.

4. After landing: get your study permit at the border, obtain SIN for work, open a bank account (activate GIC), buy a PRESTO transit card, and finalize health insurance enrollment.

5. Attend orientation; register for classes; meet your advisor and career team.

Quick checklist

• Choose program intake; note prerequisites and any portfolio/audition.

• Collect marksheets, certificates, passport, résumé/statement, and English test.

• Apply early; submit scholarship/award applications where available.

• Prepare SDS documents (tuition receipt, GIC, medicals, biometrics).

• Secure housing and budget for supplies and Toronto living.

• On arrival: orientation, SIN, banking, phone plan, transit, and career services signup.

Note: Program availability, fees, English thresholds, and immigration rules are updated regularly—build some time into your plan to verify the latest details for your intake.