Before you can study in Canada, you must apply for a study permit. It’s a simple process, but it’s important to get it right. Plan sufficient time for this to avoid disappointment.
You may also need a visa after you complete your study permit. It depends on where you are applying and what you will be doing in Canada.
What is a Canadian study permit?
Citizen and Immigration Canada (CIC) issues a study permit and allows you to study at certain educational institutions in Canada. It is similar to a student visa. Required if:
- Your desired study duration is six months or longer, or
- Your training will last less than six months, but you plan to complete a longer program later.
Just like with a visa, there are conditions attached to it. You should:
- Stay enrolled in the course.
- Ensure proper progress in your course.
Once you have received your study permit, you can apply for a visa, visitor visa, or electronic travel authorization (ETA) if necessary.
Read Also: Canada’s Immigration Plan 2023-2025 | Can I Go To Canada In 2024?
Things you need before applying for a Canadian study permit
Do you need:
- An acceptance letter from a recognized education provider.
- A valid passport
- Proof that you can financially support yourself or the family accompanying you during your stay in Canada. This amount includes tuition fees, living expenses, and transportation. In 2020, your stay in Canada was valued at CAD 10,000 per year, plus tuition fees. Tests may include:
- Bank statements from a Canadian or foreign bank account
- A bank check in convertible currency
- A letter from the institution or person providing your financing
- Proof of funding paid for the scholarship
- Documentation of a student loan
- You may be required to provide a police statement to prove that you are a law-abiding citizen.
- Declaration of Intent
You will also likely be required to attend an in-person interview at the Canadian embassy or consulate.
Step-by-step process for study permits
1. Request your acceptance letter from your institution.
Once you have applied to your chosen course and been accepted, you will receive an acceptance letter from your university. This letter is standardized and must come from a recognized supplier.
To achieve this, you must provide your educational institution with:
- Birth certificate
- Passport photos
- PASSPORTS
- High school diplomas or previous diplomas
- Maybe an internship letter
- IELTS certificate
If you are studying in Quebec, you will also need a CAQ, a certificate of acceptance (Certificat d’acceptance du Québec). You can find this online or request it from your university.
2. Connect to the internet and start your study permit application.
It is easier and faster to apply online on the CIC website. Most international students must apply for a study permit, although some can apply directly for an eTA (electronic travel authorization) or visitor visa. The CIC website asks some basic questions to help you determine what to do.
3. Receive your personal checklist code.
If you qualify, you will receive a personal checklist code. This is valid for 60 days. Here you will find, among other things, a manual for your application, the estimated costs, and the documents to be provided.
4. Prepare your documents.
You may need to take:
- Temporary residence permit
- Biometrics
- A medical examination
- Police certificate
- IELTS/test certificate in English
The following documents must be submitted:
- Your CAQ if you are studying in Quebec
- A certificate of approval from your institution
- Identification
- Proof that you can support yourself financially during your stay in Canada
- A letter with an explanation
- If you are a minor, you will need a guardianship declaration.
5. Obtain proof of your English proficiency.
To apply for your student visa, you must prove that you speak English (or French). There are a number of locations where you can take the English test.
The academic IELTS test is required, and entry requirements vary depending on the institution you are applying to. In general, the desired result will be:
- A total score of 5.5 is required for the subjects; a grade lower than 5.0 is not possible.
- The courses require an overall grade point average of 6.0, although no grade may be lower than 5.5.
- Graduate programs require a cumulative score of 6.5, with no grade lower than 6.0.
- For master’s programs, a total score of 6.5 applies, with no points lower than 6.0 being achieved.
6. Create your MyCIC account and apply for your visa.
Log in to the MyCIC website and enter your personal checklist code. Attach all required documents and complete the application form.
7. Pay for your Canadian student permit.
The study permit is $150.
The biometric costs are KAN 85 per person, or KAN 170 for a family of two or more people.
8. Attend an interview.
Some applicants may be required to attend an interview at their local visa office.
9. Apply for a permit from the CBSA (Canada Border Services Agency).
Once your study permit application is complete and approved, you will receive a POE (Port of Entry) cover letter, an eTA, or a temporary visa, depending on your country of origin. Submit this and all other documents to the CBSA, which will issue you your Canadian study permit.
Frequently Asked Questions about Canadian Student Visas
Can I apply for my Canadian student visa by mail?
You can apply in person or by mail, but the process will take longer, and you will not receive an immediate response if you need to provide additional documentation. It is highly recommended to apply online.
How long does it take to process the permit?
The entire process, from start to finish, can take up to three months. You can register at least three months before your expected arrival date. To avoid disappointment, you must submit your registration to the CIC at least nine weeks before the start of the course.
This timeline does not include time between VAC and CIC, biometric processing time, or delays due to incorrect or missing documents.
How can I track my application?
After you have registered, CIC will send you a confirmation of receipt or an email with your registration number. If you apply online, you will automatically receive a confirmation by email. Save this confirmation number and use it to track your application when you log into your account under “View my submitted applications or profiles.”.
Can I change my application after I have submitted it?
If you move, change your phone number, or need to add information, you will need to update your application.
What is the Student Direct program?
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You will receive your study permit via the live student stream. This takes about 20 days and speeds up the process.
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