Maybe you'll remember some threads I made last year about studying physics in Leipzig and possible funding opportunities for graduate study abroad. TakerUK mentioned that Canadian MSc programs are funded, which was news to me.

I didn't realize this at the time, but after checking it would appear that one would need a Diplom in order to apply for a master's at a Canadian university. At least, that's what UofT and York say.
It's weird, because Diplom degrees are being phased out in favor of the B.Sc and M.Sc, due to the Bologna process. In fact, there aren't many Diplom degrees remaining now. And what's weirder is that in the "equivalency chart", UofT says that a master's (under bologna process) is required to apply for their PhD but for the MSc, they specify the Diplom.
Do you know anything about this? Should I just e-mail the physics/applied math/earth science departments (just things I am interested in now) of Canadian universities to find out?
This may sound somewhat premature but I would need to know *now* as if I do go to Leipzig, I would have barely enough money to cover my expenses for 5 years. And things almost always end up costing more than one projects. Ideally, the last 2 years would be funded. As in that (ideal) case, I would have some money left after I graduate. I would hate to find myself in a position where I have no job and have completely used up my college fund.
If I do have to pay my way for another 2 years in Germany, almost all of the money coming from my parents would be used up. Half of that money is expected to come from a small plot of land that they are selling (to a relative, actually; deal is pretty much done). Irrespective of what they say (i.e, we love you and we'll do what we can), I would really prefer to avoid this outcome. My folks are getting old (60s) and ideally, I would like it if they have that money to keep for themselves. I would be very uncomfortable "taking" that from them.
I will end this post before it turns into a Mexican soap opera.
Thanks guys.
/post