Centennial College is Ontario’s first public college, established in 1966, with five major campuses across Toronto. It is a world-class institution known for its focus on innovation, inclusion, and hands-on learning, serving over 7,000 international students. Offering more than 200 full-time programs in areas like Engineering, Business, and Health, Centennial provides a robust pathway for international students to gain industry-relevant skills and qualify for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) opportunities.
Quick Highlights / Snapshot
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Institution Type | Public College |
| Location | Toronto, Ontario, Canada |
| Established | 1966 |
| Campuses | Progress, Ashton bee, Morningside, Downsview, Pickering |
| Intakes | September (Fall), January (Winter), May (Summer) |
| Tuition Range | CAD 16,164 – 21,716 per year (varies by program) |
| PGWP Eligible | Yes (Select programs based on 2026 field of study list) |
About Centennial College
Centennial College is recognized as one of the most culturally diverse post-secondary institutions in Canada. With a strong emphasis on “practical, career-ready learning,” the college maintains extensive partnerships with industry leaders to ensure its curriculum meets the demands of the modern workforce.
Why Choose Centennial College ?
- Global Recognition: Consistently ranked as a top choice for international students in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
- Applied Research: Leads in Canada for paid research internships, offering students unique opportunities to work on real-world problems.
- Flexible Intakes: Offers year-round admission opportunities to accommodate international student timelines.
- Pathway Excellence: Provides numerous outbound academic pathways for students looking to transfer to universities.
Programs Offered
Undergraduate (Certificates & Diplomas)
- Engineering & IT: Software Engineering Technician, Cybersecurity, Aviation Technology.
- Business: Accounting, Marketing, International Business Administration.
- Health & Wellness: Nursing (Collaborative BScN), Personal Support Worker, Massage Therapy.
- Media & Design: Graphic Design, Game Development, Animation.
Graduate Certificates (PG Programs)
- Strategic Management (Accounting Specialization).
- Construction Project Management.
- Cybersecurity (Online and On-campus).
- Mobile Applications Development.
Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements:
- Diplomas/Certificates: High school graduation with transcripts assessed by WES or ICAS for non-Canadian credentials.
- Degree/Graduate Programs: University degree or three-year college diploma in a related field. Fast-track options may consider a two-year diploma plus work experience.
English Language Requirement (2026):
- Standard Proficiency: Accepts IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and Duolingo.
- Fast-Track/Degrees: Higher scores are typically required compared to standard diploma programs.
Required Documents:
- Official transcripts and graduation certificates.
- Copy of valid passport.
- Program-specific requirements (portfolios, resumes, or interviews).
Non-refundable application fee of CAD 125 (waived for students already in Canada with a valid study permit)
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
- Average Tuition: CAD 16,164 – 18,254 for most Diplomas; Degrees can range from CAD 20,470 – 21,716 per year.
- Scholarships: New international students starting in 2026/2027 are eligible for Entrance Scholarships ranging from CAD 2,000 to $5,000 based on program length.
- International Mobility Scholarship: A new award valued at CAD 4,000 (distributed over two years) is available for eligible applicants with a minimum average of 70%.
- Living Costs: Living in Toronto is estimated to require an additional budget of approximately CAD 1,500 – 2,000 per month.
Career Opportunities & PGWP
- Co-op Experience: Many programs feature optional co-op terms, allowing students to gain paid Canadian work experience during their studies.
- 2026 PGWP Policy: Centennial is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). For 2026, students in diploma programs must ensure their specific CIP code is on the eligible field of study list (e.g., Healthcare, STEM, Trades) to qualify for a permit.
- PR Pathways: Work experience gained in Ontario through a PGWP can facilitate permanent residency applications via Express Entry or the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP).
Campus Life & Student Support
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International Education Centres: Located at every campus, providing expert advice on immigration, health insurance, and work-study permits.
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Streamlined Legal Support: A unique partnership with BorderPass provides students with access to trusted immigration lawyers and legal services.
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Housing Services: Dedicated support for both the Centennial Place residence and identifying safe off-campus housing in Toronto.
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Career & Co-op Education: Experience Centennial is a portal for jobs, internships, and career mentorship that remains available even after graduation.
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Inclusive Environment: Offers specialized support for diverse groups through Indigenous student spaces and year-round cultural events at all five campuses.
