Spring intake in Canada 2026: Universities, courses, requirements, and deadlines

Time is running out! Secure your spot for the September intake—apply today!

“Spring is the time of plans and projects.” - Leo Tolstoy.    

The spring intake in Canada, also known as the May or summer intake, is an excellent option for international students who missed the fall or winter admissions. Starting around May, this intake offers selected undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across Canadian universities and colleges, with comparatively lower competition and flexible entry opportunities.

This article serves as a complete guide to the spring intake in Canada. We'll discuss the application timeline, deadline, top universities to apply to, popular courses in spring, the benefits of registering in spring, and some frequently asked questions.

May/Spring intake in Canada 2026 timeline and deadline

Do you intend to join the Spring intake train? It's essential to know the deadline and timeline for the application. Start preparing about a year before the academic session to meet the deadlines. Generally, the May intake application starts around September or October of the previous year and January or February of the intake year.

However, this is only a general timeline. Canadian universities' deadlines for spring vary, so you must research the deadline for your desired institution and course. We have prepared an ideal timeline for the spring intake in Canada:

Spring intake vs Fall and Winter intakes in Canada

• Fall intake (September): Most popular, widest program availability
• Winter intake (January): Moderate program options, slightly less competition
• Spring intake (May): Limited programs, lower competition, faster entry

Also read: Best part-time jobs in Canada

How to prepare for the spring intake in Canada 2026

Applying for the May intake 2026 in Canada starts way before the application date. You must prepare all the necessary documents for your application to succeed. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to do so: 

Step 1: Research Universities and courses (April - June 2024)

• Research universities that offer spring intake in Canada. 
• Shortlist universities based on your interest
• Check the course list and select one. 
• Check the eligibility criteria for your preferred schools and download the admission brochure.

Step 2: Prepare and appear for standardised tests and English proficiency tests (July - September 2024)

• Find out the tests related to your course, like GMAT, SAT, and GRE.
• Prepare for the required standardised examinations and English proficiency tests (TOEFL and IELTS) at least a month before the date.
• Take all tests between July and September of 2024. Ensure you take them promptly to plan for buffer time if you need to retake the test.

Time is running out! Secure your spot for the September intake—apply today!

Step 3: Fill out the institution’s application form (September 2025 - January 2026)

• Once the application forms are out, head to the website of the institutions you shortlisted among those accepting spring intake in Canada. Fill out the application forms.
• Check the required documents for the application and prepare them before the deadline for submission.
• Request help from your college professors and teachers for letters of recommendation (LOR).

Step 4: Respond to the institution's emails and accept admission (January - February 2026)

• After submitting your application and documents, you will receive several emails from the institution you applied to.
• Ensure you check your emails often and respond promptly. 
• If your application is accepted, the university will send you a letter of acceptance (LOA).
• You will pay a non-refundable confirmation deposit after taking admission. 

Step 5: Prepare your finances and apply for a Canadian student visa (February - April 2026)

1. Once you confirm your admission, you can apply for student loans, scholarships or other funding options. 
2. Search for student accommodation options.
3. Apply for your student visa, considering the processing time.
4. Also, apply for an international debit or credit card.

Study permit and visa timeline for spring intake

After receiving a Letter of Acceptance (LOA), you must apply for a Canadian study permit. For the May 2026 intake, it is recommended to submit the visa application at least 3–4 months before the program start date. You should also check current processing times and ensure all documents are complete to avoid delays.

Popular universities accepting spring intakes in Canada 2026

The Spring intake in Canada is the least preferred, so fewer universities provide admissions. Here is a list of ten popular spring intake universities you should consider:

• Trent University
• University of Fraser Valley
• University of Liverpool
• University of Glasgow
• University Of Sheffield
• Birmingham City University
• University of Hertfordshire
• University of Manitoba
• University of Calgary

Time is running out! Secure your spot for the September intake—apply today!

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Popular courses for spring intake in Canada 2026

"What we learn with pleasure we never forget." - Alfred Mercier.

There are only a few courses available for the Spring intake in Canada, but this doesn’t mean you should go for just anyone. Ensure that any course you choose is one you are interested in. 

1. Architecture
2. Business administration
3. Agricultural and food science 
4. Microbiology
5. Hospitality
6. Creative arts and media
7. Marketing and Finance
8. Interdisciplinary studies
9. Dentistry 
10. Engineering 
11. History
12. Psychology

Document checklist for spring intake in Canada 2026

To apply for the spring intake in Canada, you need to meet the following requirements:

• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
• Standardised tests scoresheet
• Academic transcripts
• Valid passport
• English language proficiency certificate
• Up-to-date CV/resume
• Certificates of extracurricular activities
• Proof of financial support
• Study permit
• Passport photographs

Similar intakes

Why apply for the Canada spring intake 2026?

Deciding whether or not to apply for the spring intake in Canada depends on several factors. These factors will determine if it's the right fit for you. Although spring intake is the least preferred by students, it doesn't mean it's a lesser option. The May intake has some perks that may favour you.

For example, the May intake in Canada is a great choice when you've skipped the fall and winter intake. Other reasons it may be ideal are: 

• Course options: Institutions don’t offer all programs and courses during the spring intake, but some famous and advanced programs are only available during this period. But ensure you check course availability before applying for the May intake program. 
• Longer timeline: Being the last batch allows more preparation time for the application. The spring intake in Canada may be your best bet if the fall and winter intake timeline seems too short. 
• Lesser competition: Lesser students means less competition, so it will be easier to gain admission and access scholarships and financial aid. The smaller class size creates better opportunities to learn better and interact during classes.
• Job opportunities: There are fewer openings than in the fall, but spring intakes also have significant job opportunities. The best part is that there will be less competition, making it easier to land a job after the spring intake in Canada.
• Better weather: If the fall and winter weather don't resonate well with you, you can wait till spring. There's a higher chance of better weather and living conditions in May, especially for international students from warmer climates.

Do you need expert help deciding if the spring intake in Canada is the best option for you? Talk to our Education consultants for more advice.

Joining the spring or May intake in Canada is a great option if you've missed the first two intake seasons for any reason. Not many universities offer spring intake, and few courses are offered in May, unlike during other intakes. So, it's crucial to research the available options before saying yes to spring. Also, ensure you prepare the required documents and apply before the deadline.

Time is running out! Secure your spot for the September intake—apply today!

Frequently asked questions

1. What month is the spring intake in Canada?

Spring intake in Canada means the admission window that is opened in May. It is also known as the May or summer intake, starting in May and till August. Among the three intakes, it is referred to as the tertiary one because it is the least preferred by students and the least popular. May intake starts after fall intake, and not all universities offer it.

2. Is May intake good for Canada?

Yes, the May intake is good for Canada because it offers short-term courses and increases the chances of local and international students getting into top universities due to less competition. Also, the summer weather makes May a great time to study in Canada.

3. Is the May intake available in Canada?

Besides the popular primary fall intake that most universities in Canada offer and the secondary winter intake, Canada also offers a spring or May intake. This application window allows those who missed the first two to apply.

4. When to apply for the spring intake in Canada?

There's no exact time to apply for spring intake in Canada, as the application timeline depends on the university and, sometimes, the program. However, most university application deadlines fall between October and January. To ensure you don't miss out on the application, constantly check the university's website for updates and always apply before the deadline.

5. What is the acceptance rate for a Canadian visa?

The Canadian student visa acceptance rate has always been low; the average acceptance rate was 65% in the past few years. Several factors can lower your chances of acceptance, so it's crucial to know them to improve your chances of acceptance.

6. When does the spring intake semester commence in Canada?

Your course will commence in April; the best is to reach Canada in March. Also, the weather from March to May is pleasing and easy for you to adjust to. You can only fly to Canada a month before your beginning date of the course.

7. Is spring hot or cold in Canada?

Spring in Canada is typically between March and May. During this time, the weather begins to warm and the daylight hours become longer. The rising temperatures cause snow to melt, creating run-off that sometimes floods nearby rivers and lakes.

8. What does spring intake mean?

Spring intake means the admission window that is opened in May. It is also known as the May or summer intake, starting in May and till August.