Overview

Seneca College is a community institution in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It was established in 1967 and has since evolved to become one of Canada’s largest colleges, with over 100,000 alumni. Seneca has over 300 full-time and part-time programmes, 500 career choices via 19 degrees, 42 graduate certificates, 30 advanced diplomas, 71 diplomas, and 20 certificates. Full-time classes are available in the following disciplines:

• Health & Wellness
• Hospitality & Tourism
• Information Technology
• Law, Administration & Public Safety
• Liberal Arts & University Transfers
• Media & Communications
• Science ● Aviation
• Business
• Creative Art
• Animation & Design
• Education
• Community & Social Service
• Engineering Technology
• Fashion & Esthetics

Seneca College has campuses in the Greater Toronto Area, including Markham,

Newnham, King, and Peterborough. The college has a diverse student body, of over 7,000 international students from over 150 nations. The college also has an excellent Indian population with an Indian Students Association that organises cultural activities and assists fellow students.

Seneca College is well-known for its emphasis on experiential learning, with co-op programmes, internships, and other work-integrated learning options providing students with hands-on training and real-world experience. In addition, the college has collaborations with different industry leaders and organisations to provide students with the most up-to-date industry-relevant skills and knowledge.

Acceptance Rate

Seneca College’s acceptance rate varies based on the programme and level of study. Each year, the college gets a large number of applications, and admission to some of the more competitive programmes can be quite selective. However, Seneca College has had an overall acceptance rate of around 85% in recent years, indicating that most applicants are accepted.

History

In May 1965, then provincial Minister of Education William Davis introduced Bill 153 which created the province’s community college system to provide a post-secondary education alternative for those not wanting or able to attend university. Colleges were to be independent of existing systems, community-based and fulfil the needs of business and industry. In August 1966, Seneca College was officially established at its first Board of Governors meeting. On September 6, 1967, Seneca opened its doors with founding President William Newnham. That first year had 852 full-time and 1,067 part-time students enrolled in 20 diploma and certificate programs. Classes were offered at a number of sites including the North York Board of Education, a Woolworth Store at Sheppard Avenue and Yonge Street, the Lewis Beattie Secondary School and a renovated factory at 43 Sheppard Avenue East.

Ranking & Achievements

Seneca College Ranking for 2024

Seneca College is ranked as one of Canada’s top colleges, with a strong reputation for educational quality,  innovative programmes, and  dedication to student achievement. It does not have a particular rating by organisations such as QS World University Rankings, Times Higher Education, or US News & World Report because these rankings are typically focused on universities rather than colleges. However, Seneca College’s School of Creative Arts & Animation is known very highly for its creative arts infrastructure and was rated fifth in the world and third in Canada by the Animation Career Review in 2020.

In regard to Seneca College’s ranking, it has earned recognition and accolades from a variety of organisations for its programmes and initiatives. Seneca College, for example, was awarded the Best College in Canada for International Students by the Canadian Bureau for International Education in 2021. Seneca has also been recognised as a leader in applied research, earning Colleges and Institutes Canada’s Gold Level Applied Research and Innovation Excellence Award.

Faculties

• Health & Wellness
• Hospitality & Tourism
• Information Technology
• Law, Administration & Public Safety
• Liberal Arts & University Transfers
• Media & Communications
• Science
• Aviation
• Business
• Creative Art
• Animation & Design
• Education
• Community & Social Service
• Engineering Technology
• Fashion & Esthetics

Seneca College Courses

Student Statistics

20,855 full-time students (Fall 2011)

Approximately 70,000 continuing education registrations annually

More than 3,500 international students from 113 countries (Fall 2011)

More than 4,400 full and part-time employees (2011)

More than a quarter of Seneca students are the first in their family to pursue postsecondary education

43% of Seneca’s full-time students have a different first language than English

15% of Seneca’s full-time students and 42% of Continuing Education students have previously studied at university.

More than 3,000 students have been advised on degree transfer opportunities.

Facilities & Services

Seneca College’s facilities provide a wealth of modern resources to aid student learning, research, and personal growth. Among the many amenities, those accessible to students include:

• Libraries: Seneca College has several libraries on each of its sites, each with a diverse collection of print and electronic resources, such as books, journals, magazines, and online databases.
• Computer labs: The college has a number of computer labs that are outfitted with the most up-to-date software and hardware, enabling students to complete coursework and research projects.
• Student lounges: On college campuses, there are various lounges and common areas where students can rest, socialise, and study.
• Athletics centres: Seneca College has a variety of athletic facilities available to students for recreation and wellness, including fitness centres, swimming pools, gymnasiums, and sports grounds.
• Student services: Academic advising, job counselling, disability services, and mental health support are all available at the college.
• Research facilities: Seneca College has a number of research centres and institutes that focus on different areas of study, such as health sciences, environmental science, and technology.

Fees & Scholarship

Seneca College Scholarship

Seneca College provides a variety of educational scholarships to international students enrolled at the college. Seneca College provides the following scholarships:

• Campaign for Students Bursary for International Students
• Consolidated Credit Financial Empowerment Award
• Excellence Scholarship
• Henry Zhang Scholarship for International Students
• International Student Achievement Award
• International Student Levy
• Peter N. Ross Scholarships
• SABE Scholarship
• SSF International Student Award
• SSF International Student Bursaries
• Bala and Karnika Krishnan Endowed Award

International students must complete the online application form and submit all necessary paperwork to be considered for these scholarships and bursaries. The deadline for applying varies based on the scholarship or bursary. At UniScholars, you can search for numerous scholarships, grants and bursaries. Once you’ve found what you’re looking for, UniScholars can walk you through the application process, making it simple and stress-free.

Finances

Seneca College has no in-house foreign student loan programme. International students may be qualified for loans from a variety of external lenders. Here are some possibilities:

Loans from the Canadian government: International students studying in Canada may be qualified for loans from the Canadian government under the Canada Student Loans Programme. However, in order to be qualified, the student must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and have a Canadian co-signer.

International student loan providers: Several international student loan providers specialise in lending to foreign students studying in Canada. These lenders may provide loans without requiring a co-signer, but interest rates may be expensive.

It can be difficult to find the right education loan. However, UniCreds can help you find a student loan plan that works for you and possibly comes with low-interest rates. They offer guided consultation and simple application processes to make funding your studies as simple as possible.

Student Life

Campus Life and Facilities

• Campuses: Seneca has multiple campuses, each with its own unique atmosphere and facilities, including libraries, study spaces, fitness centers, and cafeterias.
• Accommodation: On-campus housing options are available, providing a convenient living environment for students, along with various off-campus housing resources.

Clubs and Organizations

• Student Clubs: There are numerous student-run clubs and organizations that cover interests such as academics, culture, sports, and hobbies.
• Student Federation: The Seneca Student Federation (SSF) represents student interests and organizes events, activities, and services that enhance the student experience.

Support Services

• Academic Support: Tutoring services, writing centers, and academic advising help students succeed academically.
• Mental Health and Wellness: Counseling services, health services, and wellness programs support students’ mental and physical health.
• Career Services: Career counseling, job fairs, and co-op programs help students prepare for their future careers.

International Student Support

• Orientation Programs: Special orientation sessions are designed to help international students acclimate to life in Canada and at Seneca.
• Language Support: English language programs and resources are available for students who need to improve their language skills.

Accommodation

Seneca College provides students with a variety of housing choices, including on-campus residences, off-campus housing, and homestays. Here are some specifics on each option:

• On-campus residences: Seneca College has four on-campus residence buildings situated on the campuses of Newnham, Seneca@York, King, and Markham. The suites are completely furnished and include kitchenettes, private bathrooms, and Wi-Fi. The expense of living in residence differs according to campus and suite type. Students can register for residence at Seneca Residence via the website.
• Off-campus: Seneca College has a collaboration with Places4Students, an online database of rental properties in the surrounding region, for off-campus housing. Students can use this tool to find available apartments, rooms, and shared accommodations close to campus. Students can view the database by creating a free account.
• Homestays: Seneca College also has a homestay programme where students can live with a Canadian foster family. This choice allows you to learn about Canadian culture while also practising your English. A private bedroom, meals, and laundry amenities are included in homestays. The cost of a homestay varies based on the length of stay and the host family’s location.

When it comes to finding student housing, UniAcco makes it easy. There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to finding an apartment or house near a university. Whatever your budget, UniAcco has the perfect apartment for you.

Cost of Living

Toronto, located in the province of Ontario, is an excellent city for students, offering a range of benefits that make it an ideal place to study. Toronto is also a cosmopolitan city, with a range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, making it an enjoyable place to live and study. The cost of living for students at Seneca College will depend on various factors, such as their choice of accommodation, lifestyle, and programme of study. Here are some estimated costs for international students:

Seneca College Entry Requirements

International students who desire to study at Seneca College in Canada must meet both general admission and programme requirements. Seneca College’s entry requirements for international students are as follows:

• Application form: International students are required to fill out an application form and submit an application fee.
• English language proficiency: International students must show English language fluency by passing one of the following tests: TOEFL, IELTS, CAEL, PTE, or MELAB. The minimum required score varies by programme.
• Academic credentials: All academic transcripts, diplomas, or degrees obtained by international students must be certified.
• Financial support: While studying in Canada, international students must provide proof of financial support to pay tuition and living costs. This is an important factor for visa qualification.
• Programme-specific requirements: Some programmes may require portfolios, tryouts, or interviews as part of the admissions process.

English Language Requirements

The following are the minimum scores required for different English tests accepted by Seneca College for some of its popular programmes:

It is essential to note that acceptance rates can vary significantly depending on the programme and level of study, so it is recommended that you research the particular admission requirements and processes for the programme of your interest.

Seneca College Fees

Seneca College tuition for international students varies based on the programme of study and level of study. (i.e. undergraduate, graduate, or diploma). International students generally pay higher tuition fees than domestic students because they do not receive government funding to mitigate the cost of their education.

As of the 2022-2023 academic year, the estimated range of Seneca College fees for international students are as follows:

• Diploma programmes: $16,373 – $24,161 CAD per year
• Graduate certificate programmes: $17,239 – $25,424 CAD per year
• Bachelor’s degree programmes: $25,675 – $33,745 CAD per year

Here is a breakdown of the annual fee at Seneca College for some of its popular programmes:

• UG Diploma – $15,000 – 19,930 CAD
• PG Certification – $15,000 – 25,750 CAD
• UG Certification – $12,820 CAD
• E/B. Tech – $19,560 – 76,000 CAD
• Com – $19,490 CAD

These tuition fees are estimates only and do not include additional fees, such as health insurance, textbooks, or housing. International students may also be required to pay a non-refundable deposit upon acceptance to secure their spot in the programme.

Placements at Seneca College

Seneca College placements team has a strong reputation for providing students with hands-on learning through co-op placements, internships, and work-integrated learning. These opportunities enable students to apply classroom knowledge and skills to real-world situations, earning practical exposure and valuable industry connections.

The college has over 6,000 partnerships with employers from different industries, giving students access to a diverse range of placement possibilities. Students in some programmes, such as co-op, alternate between academic and work terms, allowing them to acquire up to one year of work experience before graduation. A few companies to name who hire heavily from Seneca are Sheraton Hotels, Holiday Inn, Thomas Cook, Royal Caribbean, and American Express.

Seneca College has a dedicated Career Development department that helps students thrive in their job hunt after graduation by providing career counselling, job search assistance, and networking opportunities. According to the most recent Key Performance Indicators report from Seneca College, 87% of Seneca graduates found work within six months of graduation.

Transport

Seneca College in Canada offers various transportation options to help students commute to and from its campuses. Here’s a detailed overview of the transportation options available:

Public Transit

• Toronto Transit Commission (TTC): Seneca’s Newnham and York campuses are well-served by TTC buses and subway lines. Students can access the TTC’s extensive network to travel within Toronto.
• York Region Transit (YRT): For campuses located in York Region, such as King Campus and Markham Campus, the YRT provides bus services. It connects with TTC and other regional transit services.
• Viva Bus Rapid Transit (BRT): Operates within York Region, offering fast and frequent service to and from Seneca’s campuses in the area.
• GO Transit: This regional public transit service connects the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA). It’s useful for students commuting from further distances to Seneca campuses.

Seneca Shuttle Bus

• Inter-Campus Shuttle: Seneca provides a free shuttle bus service that connects the Newnham, Markham, King, and Seneca@York campuses. This service is particularly convenient for students who need to travel between campuses for classes or other activities.

Cycling

• Bike Racks: Seneca campuses are equipped with bike racks, encouraging students to cycle to campus.
• Bike Share Programs: In areas like Toronto, bike share programs such as Bike Share Toronto can be a convenient option for students who prefer cycling.

• Carpooling Services: Seneca supports carpooling through services like Smart Commute, which connects students and staff looking to share rides. This is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option.

5. Parking Facilities

• On-Campus Parking: For those who drive, Seneca offers parking facilities at all its campuses. Parking permits can be purchased for a semester or the entire academic year.
• Visitor Parking: There are designated parking spots for visitors, which can be utilized by students’ friends and family when visiting the campus.

6. Ride-Hailing Services

• Uber and Lyft: Ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in the Greater Toronto Area, offering flexible transportation options for students.
• Taxi Services: Traditional taxi services are also available and can be a convenient option for students in need of a ride.

7. Walking

• Proximity to Amenities: Many of Seneca’s campuses are situated in areas with nearby amenities, making walking a viable and pleasant option for local errands and commuting for students who live nearby.

8. Accessibility

• Accessible Transit: All public transit services in the Greater Toronto Area, including TTC, YRT, and GO Transit, offer accessible options for students with disabilities.
• Campus Accessibility: Seneca campuses are designed to be accessible, with ramps, elevators, and other facilities to assist students with mobility challenges.

Transportation Discounts and Passes

• Student Metropass: Full-time students can purchase a discounted monthly TTC pass known as the Student Metropass.
• GO Transit Student ID: Full-time students can get a GO Transit Student ID, which provides a discount on GO Transit fares.

Location

Seneca College is a multi-campus public college located in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) of Ontario, Canada. Here are the main campuses along with their key details:

1. Newnham Campus

• Address: 1750 Finch Avenue East, Toronto, ON M2J 2X5
• Overview: Newnham is one of the largest college campuses in Canada. It offers a wide range of programs including business, engineering, fashion, and liberal arts.
• Facilities: Includes state-of-the-art labs, libraries, and athletic facilities.

2. York Campus (Seneca@York)

• Address: 70 The Pond Road, Toronto, ON M3J 3M6
• Overview: Located on the grounds of York University, this campus provides programs in creative arts, information technology, and media.
• Facilities: Shared resources with York University, including libraries and recreational facilities.

3. King Campus

• Address: 13990 Dufferin Street, King City, ON L7B 1B3
• Overview: Known for its natural setting and focus on environmental and community services programs.
• Facilities: Features outdoor learning spaces, athletic fields, and residence facilities.

4. Markham Campus

• Address: 8 The Seneca Way, Markham, ON L3R 5Y1
• Overview: Specializes in business and IT programs. It’s located in a major business district, offering students unique industry connections.
• Facilities: Modern classrooms, labs, and conference facilities.

5. Peterborough Campus

• Address: 925 Airport Road, Peterborough, ON K9J 6X6
• Overview: Houses the Peterborough Aviation Campus, which focuses on aviation and flight technology programs.
• Facilities: Features advanced flight simulators and aircraft hangars.

6. Jane Campus

• Address: 21 Beverly Hills Drive, Toronto, ON M3L 1A2
• Overview: Known for programs in health sciences and community services.
• Facilities: Includes modern healthcare simulation labs and specialized learning spaces.

7. Seneca Downtown

• Address: 18 King Street East, Toronto, ON M5C 1C4
• Overview: Provides executive training and professional development programs.
• Facilities: Located in the heart of Toronto’s financial district, offering easy access to corporate and industry leaders.

8. Yorkgate Campus

• Address: 1 York Gate Blvd, North York, ON M3N 3A1
• Overview: Focuses on community-focused education and support programs.
• Facilities: Includes accessible classrooms and student support services.

Each campus is strategically located to provide easy access to a variety of academic and practical resources, catering to a wide range of academic programs and student needs.

FAQ’s

Q: How do I apply to Seneca College?

• A: You can apply to Seneca College through the Ontario Colleges Application Service (OCAS) at ontariocolleges.ca.

Q: What are the admission requirements?

• A: Admission requirements vary by program but generally include a high school diploma or equivalent. Some programs may require specific courses, grades, or additional requirements like portfolios or auditions.

Q: When are the application deadlines?

• A: Deadlines vary by program and intake. Generally, the application deadline for the fall term is February 1st, but it’s best to check specific program details on Seneca’s website.

Programs

Q: What programs does Seneca College offer?

• A: Seneca offers a wide range of programs including certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas, graduate certificates, and degrees in areas such as business, health sciences, technology, arts, and community services.

Q: Can I study part-time?

• A: Yes, many programs at Seneca offer part-time study options to accommodate students’ varying schedules.

Q: Does Seneca College offer online programs?

• A: Yes, Seneca offers a variety of online programs and courses, providing flexibility for students who need to balance other commitments.

Financial Aid

Q: What financial aid options are available?

• A: Seneca College offers various financial aid options including scholarships, bursaries, and grants. Students can also apply for government financial aid programs like OSAP (Ontario Student Assistance Program).

Q: How do I apply for scholarships and bursaries?

• A: You can apply for scholarships and bursaries through the Seneca Student Home portal. The application process and deadlines are detailed on Seneca’s financial aid webpage.

Student Services

Q: What support services are available for students?

• A: Seneca provides a range of support services including academic advising, counseling, health services, tutoring, career services, and accessibility services for students with disabilities.

Q: Is there a student orientation?

• A: Yes, Seneca offers orientation sessions for new students at the beginning of each semester to help them transition into college life.

Q: What is the student-to-faculty ratio?

• A: The student-to-faculty ratio varies by program, but Seneca prides itself on offering small class sizes to ensure personalized attention and support for students.

Q: How can I contact Seneca College for more information?

• A: You can contact Seneca College through their website’s contact page, by phone, or by visiting any of their campuses. The main contact number is +1 416-491-5050.

These FAQs cover many of the common questions prospective and current students might have about Seneca College. For more detailed information, it’s always best to visit the official Seneca College website or contact the college directly.