Conestoga College, located in Ontario, is one of Canada’s fastest-growing public colleges and a leader in polytechnic education. Established in 1967, it offers over 300 career-focused programs, including degrees, diplomas, graduate certificates, and apprenticeship training. Known for its strong emphasis on applied learning, co-op opportunities, and employer partnerships, Conestoga equips students with the skills required for today’s competitive global job market.
The college has multiple campuses across the Greater Toronto Area, including Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, and Brantford, all of which are hubs for technology, business, and manufacturing.
College Overview
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Location: Kitchener, Ontario (GTA region), Canada
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Established: 1967
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Student Population: 30,000+ full-time (including continuing education)
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International Students: 10,000+ from 80+ countries
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Language of Instruction: English
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Affiliation: CICan, Polytechnics Canada
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Recognition: Top-ranked college in Ontario for employer satisfaction (7 years in a row)
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Focus Areas: Engineering, IT, Business, Health, Skilled Trades, Community Services
Faculties & Schools
Conestoga delivers programs through multiple specialized academic schools:
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School of Engineering & Technology
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School of Business
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School of Health & Life Sciences
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School of Creative Industries
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School of Applied Computer Science & IT
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School of Community Services
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School of Trades & Apprenticeship
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School of Interdisciplinary Studies
Intakes
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Fall Intake: September (Main)
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Winter Intake: January
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Spring Intake: May (Limited programs)
📌 Apply 8–12 months early for competitive programs and scholarships.
Admission Requirements
| Program Level | Academic Requirements | IELTS | TOEFL iBT | Duolingo |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diploma/Certificate | High school with minimum 60–70% average | 6.0 (no band < 5.5) | 80+ | 105+ |
| Postgraduate Certificate | Bachelor’s degree with 2.6+ GPA | 6.5 (no band < 6.0) | 88+ | 115+ |
| Degree (Bachelor) | High school with strong academic performance | 6.5+ | 84+ | 115+ |
Additional Requirements:
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Resume & SOP (for PG programs)
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Portfolio (for design-related programs)
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Application Fee: CAD $100
Top Programs at Conestoga College
💻 Technology & Engineering
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Software Engineering Technician
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Information Technology Innovation
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Applied Manufacturing Management (PG)
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Mechanical Technician – CNC
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Robotics and Automation
💼 Business & Management
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Global Business Management (PG)
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Project Management (PG)
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Business Administration – Accounting
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Supply Chain & Operations Management
🏥 Health & Community Studies
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Practical Nursing
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Early Childhood Education
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Social Service Worker
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Food Processing Technician
🎨 Creative & Design
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Graphic Design
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Broadcast – Radio & Television
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Interior Decorating
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Game Design & Development
Tuition Fees
| Program Level | Estimated Tuition (CAD/year) | USD Equivalent (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Diploma/Certificate | CAD $15,500 – $17,000 | $11,600 – $12,800 |
| Postgraduate Certificate | CAD $16,500 – $18,000 | $12,300 – $13,500 |
| Degree Programs | CAD $18,000 – $20,000 | $13,500 – $15,000 |
Scholarships & Financial Aid
🎓 Conestoga International Student Scholarships
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Entrance Scholarships (CAD $1,000 – $1,500)
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Regional Incentive Awards
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Academic Excellence Awards
🎓 External Scholarships
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EduCanada Scholarships
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Canadian Commonwealth Scholarships
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Country-specific funding (Bangladesh, India, Vietnam, etc.)
Why Choose Conestoga College?
✅ One of Ontario’s most employer-trusted colleges
✅ Strong focus on practical learning and co-op
✅ Wide range of postgraduate and work-oriented diplomas
✅ Located in the tech and manufacturing hub of Ontario
✅ Multiple campuses near Toronto with great transport access
✅ Excellent PGWP and PR pathway for international students
✅ Affordable tuition and strong job placement rate
Work Opportunities for Students
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Part-Time Work: Up to 20 hours/week during sessions
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Full-Time Work: During scheduled breaks
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Co-op Programs: Available in most programs with paid placements
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PGWP Eligibility: Up to 3 years after graduation
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Employer Connections: Through Conestoga’s Career Services and job fairs
Conclusion
Conestoga College is an excellent choice for international students looking for hands-on training, strong industry ties, and post-study work opportunities. Its affordable tuition, campus diversity, and proximity to major Canadian cities make it a top destination for career-oriented education in Canada.