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Study at SAIT

The Southern Alberta Institute of Technology is a vibrant community of makers, shapers and originals. We’ve always been future-focused — technology is in our name and innovation is in our DNA. We’ve been reimagining the workforce of tomorrow for 100+ years and today that mission feels more important than ever.

*Related pages are only available in English.

About SAIT

We equip students with the essential skills they need for successful careers and we can prove it — 91% of our graduates get hired. If a prospective student is looking to upskill or change careers, we provide both opportunities by enabling a lifetime of learning through relevant and customized education. Due to small class sizes, students are able to get the most out of their academic experience. Applied "hands-on" learning prepares our students to confidently enter the workforce upon graduation. SAIT aligns program offerings to current labour market needs and collaborates with many industry partners.

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Life in Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Live in one of the most beautiful countries in the world while obtaining a high-quality education that will set you on a path to success. Canada is a safe, modern and prosperous country – consistently ranked by the United Nations as one of the best places in the world to live.

The province of Alberta is located in Western Canada and is bordered by the majestic Canadian Rocky Mountains to the west and the vast prairies and badlands to the east. Explore the breathtaking landscapes and connect with our culture, history and people.

Calgary is one of the safest and most multicultural cities in the country, with 120+ different languages spoken. It's also the fourth largest city in Canada, with a population of 1.4 million. Better yet, Calgary is ranked as the third most livable city in the world according to Economist Intelligence Unit's 2022 annual rankings! The living costs in Calgary and sales tax rate are lower than those in big cities like Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal. Calgary is known for the friendliness and hospitality of its people, the natural beauty of its surroundings and its proximity to the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

Read more about living in Calgary*


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Study at a polytechnic

Our programs offer in-depth learning you can immediately put to use in your chosen field. We introduce you to real-world experiences — both inside and outside of the classroom. We’re proud to be pragmatic — any program you complete here at SAIT will give you the theory and technical skills you’ll need for your career.

Get the polytechnic advantage and benefit from:

  • Applied hands-on learning that puts theory into practice in real-life settings.
  • Industry-driven curriculum to ensure you get the most relevant and in-demand skills.
  • Flexible learning pathways to support lifelong learning and career growth.
  • Innovative and collaborative technology-based skills training in state-of-the-art facilities, to help you develop problem-solving skills and deliver real-world business solutions.
  • Work-integrated learning to give you the latest knowledge and practical experience so you are job-ready the moment you graduate.

Work opportunities and immigration

International students are able to work part-time in Canada while they study, provided they are registered as full-time students at SAIT in a designated learning program.

Upon graduation from a SAIT-designated learning program that is a minimum of eight months in length, international students are eligible to apply for a post-graduation work permit. This work permit is an open work permit allowing graduates to work for any employer.

International students with Canadian credentials and Canadian work experience may apply for permanent residency without having to leave Canada. For more information about staying in Canada after completing your studies, please refer to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

Academic programs

As an international student, you can apply to a variety of our bachelor and applied degrees, diploma and certificate programs. Our programs are designed to give you the skills and confidence you need to be successful in your career. Through our state-of-the-art labs, living classrooms, capstone projects and internships, SAIT provides you with a skills-based education and ample exposure to the industries you are training to enter.

Programs open to international students*

English language foundations

The English Language Foundations (ELF) program provides English language upgrading for learners whose first language is not English. Students are placed into the program based on demonstrated proficiency in English, using the Canadian Language Benchmarks Assessment (CLBA) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examination. Most students use the ELF program as entry into SAIT career programs.

English Language Foundations*

Open Studies

In the Open Studies program, students choose from a wide range of credit courses to explore their interests and aptitudes, enabling better-informed program and career choices as they develop strong study skills and earn post-secondary credits. It offers students the flexibility to design their studies around multidisciplinary interests or focus on one discipline area that interests them most. This program builds a well-rounded foundation for further education at SAIT with readily transferable courses.

Open Studies*

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International Centre

SAIT has welcomed international students from more than 140 different countries. We pride ourselves on providing top-quality education, from a stunning campus in Calgary, Canada, which is equipped with world-class facilities, amenities, and a supportive faculty.

Whether you’re a future or current international student, SAIT’s International Centre will provide you with a supportive and inclusive environment from arrival to beyond graduation. From admissions assistance to immigration advising to connecting you with academic supports and on-campus activities, we’re here to help you succeed.

International Centre*
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Interested in applying or have a question for us?

If you're an international applicant, you can meet with one of our Recruitment Advisors in your local time zone and language.

Book meeting*
Students outside the Calgary Central Library

International student support services

International Centre advisors are qualified to best support international students with information through virtual webinars, one-on-one advising sessions, immigration updates, events, and networking-driven programs to connect with other students at SAIT.

Explore services*
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Ready to apply?

Get information about admission requirements, important documents and more.

Get started*