Post-Secondary

Frequently Asked Questions

• What home address do I use for my applications to Canada?
  Tricky question! You can use your current US home address or your "Station Forces" mailing address in Belleville. Using the "Station Forces" address may not be as timely. Your citizenship determines your fees, and having a US address will not make you an international student paying an international rate. Speaking with a person in the admissions office is recommended to ensure the student's application is processed correctly. 
   

  If a Canadian address is required to maintain or set up any financial accounts, the following address is available to CAF members and families for post-secondary applications. 

  • CANELEMNORAD
    SN, RANK, INITIALS, NAME
    CFSU(CS) – (SPECIFY DET LOCATION)
    PO BOX 5233 STN FORCES 
    BELLEVILLE, ON K8N 5W6
    
    CDLS (Washington)
    SN, RANK, INITIALS, NAME
    CDLS (WASHINGTON)
    PO BOX 5277 STN FORCES 
    BELLEVILLE, ON K8N 5W6
    
    PO Box Not Accepted?
    SN, RANK, INITIALS, NAME
    CDLS(W) or CFSU(CS)
    15 WESTWIN AVE, BLDG 348
    QUINTE WEST, ON K8V 5P8
• Should I write the ACT and/or SAT?
  ACT (American College Test) | SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)
  Some universities may require ACT and/or SAT test scores as part of their admission requirements. If you know which schools you want to apply to, it is advisable to research their specific requirements. If you are undecided about your school choices, it is best to take both tests in case they are required for admission. ACT or SAT scores can be useful in the admissions process when applying to Canadian universities, as they are standardized and easily interpreted.
• Do I need to get my US transcript transferred to Canadian standards?
  Maybe. Some post-secondary institutions will require a credit/credential assessment for a student graduating with a foreign transcript. 
  
  Credit/Credential Assessment Companies:
  Canada Wide: www.icascanada.ca 
  US & Canada Wide: www.wes.org/ca/
• Are test or transcript costs reimbursable?
  If the ACT, SAT, or transcript assessments are required by the post-secondary institution for admission, the associated expenses may be eligible for reimbursement. Please contact Children's Education Management (CEM) or your Orderly Room (OR) for more information.
• Who or what department do I contact if I want more information about a specific college/university?
  The majority of post-secondary schools employ recruitment representatives whose purpose is to help answer questions from those interested in their institution. Please check out the websites of individual institutions, look at national and provincial lists/rankings, and request information packages or arrange a tour of potential institutions of choice.
• Is there anyone that can help answer my questions about Canadian post-secondary education?

  Yes! For information regarding post-secondary institutions and the application process, you can contact the MFS Education Team. The MFS Education Team offers military families valuable knowledge, coaching, and tools for educational transitions. Whether you're planning to apply to college, university, or trade schools, considering a gap year, exploring military service, or entering the workforce, they can help tailor your post-secondary timeline.

  Reach out via email today at education@cfmws.com.

• Am I eligible for scholarships/grants if applying from the US?
  Yes. There are some specific scholarships and grants for CAF members and their families. Please remember to use a Canadian home address (see the “Station Forces” mailing address in Belleville) when required for scholarship and grant applications. Using your home address in the US may disqualify you. 
  
  Visit our Scholarships and Grants page for a list applicable to CAF families. 
  
  Additional Resources:
  Scholarships Do's & Don'ts - Military Child Education Coalition (US Resource | English Only)
• What do I do if the university thinks I am an international student?
  It is recommended to phone the registrar or admissions office of the institution and explain your situation. You may be asked to provide proof of citizenship (passport, birth certificate, etc.).
• What medical/dental insurance coverage do I have while in Canada?
  ... while your family is still posted to the US
  
  Full time students under the age of 25 who are enrolled in a Canadian post-secondary institution will have Canada Life health and dental coverage. The student will also have to enroll in a provincial/territorial health insurance plan after arrival in Canada as this is required for any dependent residing in Canada for more than three months.
• Is there funding available to help assist my university student while our family is OUTCAN?
  Yes. See the Foreign Service Directives (FSD 34 Education Allowances, FSD 35 Education Travel, and FSD 51 Family Reunion) for specifics. It is also recommended to talk to Children's Education Management (CEM) or your local OR regarding your personal situation.
• Do I have to pay the international fee for healthcare at my university?
  No. You will not be an international student for any classification and will not be required to pay international healthcare coverage.