If you’re looking for an excellent education with a diverse student population, Canada should be at the top of your list of study destinations. Every year, tens of thousands of international students choose to pursue their studies in Canada.
The process of applying to study in Canada as an international student is not difficult, but there are a few things that you need to know in order to make the student permit application process go as smoothly as possible.
Applying for a Canada Study Permit
A study permit is a legal authorization that allows someone to study at a designated learning institution in Canada. A foreign national should meet all the eligibility restrictions during the application process as well as rules during the student’s stay in Canada. Express Entry PR notes that there are numerous procedures to follow while applying for a study permit, and the processing timelines vary considerably by country.
So, plan ahead to ensure you receive your visa on time. The majority of Canadian post-secondary education programs begin in January, May, or September, although certain institutions provide intakes outside of those dates.
Since a study permit can’t be obtained without an acceptance letter from a school, prospective students must ensure their institutions and programs of interest are aware of the start date and application procedure well ahead of time so that they have adequate time to get the acceptance letter and submit their applications.
Eligibility Requirements to Study in Canada
The first step to studying in Canada as an international student is to make sure you meet the eligibility requirements. To be eligible, you must:
- An acceptance letter from a Canadian designated learning institution
- Have a valid passport or travel document
- Prove that you have enough money to support yourself during your studies
- Demonstrate your English or French language proficiency (unless you’re enrolled in a program that is taught in another language)
- Be in good health and have a clean criminal record
- Intend to leave Canada at the end of your studies
If you meet all of the above requirements, you can apply for a study permit by submitting an application online or by mail. Once you have submitted your application, all you have to do is wait. If your application is approved, you will receive a study permit that will allow you to stay in Canada for the duration of your studies.
The Four Stages of Obtaining a Study Permit
There are four main stages to obtaining a study permit in Canada as an international student. While we’ve mentioned the eligibility requirements, here is a more detailed overview of the application process and what you need to do to obtain a study permit.
- Check your eligibility as outlined above: you must have been accepted by a DLI, have proof of funds to support yourself during your studies, and have a valid travel document (such as a passport). You can begin the application process if you meet the eligibility requirements.
- Prepare your student permit application: you will need to submit several documents as part of your application, including proof of acceptance, proof of identity, and evidence of financial support. You can find a complete list of required documents on the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
- Submit your study permit application: You can do this electronically by creating an account on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or submitting a paper-based student permit application and mailing the documents to the Visa Application Centre (VAC) that is assigned to your country.
- Once the study permit is approved, travel to Canada: If the student permit is approved, you can now travel to Canada. You will need to present a Port of Entry Introduction Letter to the immigration officer at the port of entry, along with your passport and other required documents. After this, you will now get your student permit.
Enjoy Your Studies
This post should help clear up any confusion surrounding the requirements for studying in Canada as an international student. Start your research early and give yourself plenty of time to complete the application process. Once you have your study permit, enjoy your time in Canada.