Canada ranks third in the world as the most popular study destination. Every year, thousands of international students graduate with Canadian qualifications and start their careers with valuable work experience obtained right here in Canada. Canada offers international students an array of top-ranked colleges and universities to choose from as well as exciting post-graduate visa options..
With a Canada student visa you will be able to work and study in Canada. Although you will be limited to the amount of hours you can work per week you can still earn money while pursuing a world-class education. Find out how you can come to Canada as a student below!
What Is a Canada Student Visa?
As part of new COVID-19 measures, if you want to study in Canada then you will need a Canadian study permit which will be issued along with your visa. Previously, you only needed a study permit if you're planning to study in Canada for longer than six months.
Your study permit is typically valid for the same duration as your study program or 90 days after you complete your studies. It takes around eight weeks to process your study visa application so it's important to plan ahead so that you arrive in Canada on time for your first semester.
Do I Qualify to Study in Canada?
You can study in Canada if you meet the requirements for a study visa. Before you can apply for a visa you will need to enroll and be accepted at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. A DLI is an approved college or university that hosts international students. The great news is that the majority of top-ranked educational institutions are DLIs such as the University of Toronto and the University of British Columbia.
To be accepted into a study program in Canada you may need to prove your English language abilities by writing a test or meeting certain criteria used by the specific university and college.
Canada Study Visa Requirements
You can apply for a Canada student visa if you meet the following requirements:
| Study Visa Requirements | |
|---|---|
| Requirement | Details |
| Letter of Admission | Enroll for a study program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and receive proof of acceptance. |
| Valid Passport | Provide a copy of your passport. Double check that your passport will remain valid during your stay in Canada. |
| Proof of Funds | A bank statement or other forms of financial proof. You are required to have $10,000 per year or $833 per month in funds to study in Canada. This does not include your tuition fees. |
| Letter of Explanation | A letter that motivates your reason for wanting to study in Canada. |
| Medical Examination | You may need to provide proof that you are in good health. |
How to Apply for a Study Visa?
Step 1: Enroll at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
The first step is to find and enroll at a suitable DLI that meets both your academic goals and budget. There are over 300 DLIs across the country that offer short and long study programs. If you want to stay on and work in Canada after you graduate then it's possible to qualify for a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP).However, you'll then need to complete a PGWP-eligible course.
Step 2: Study Visa Application
Once you have collected all of your supporting documents including your admissions letter and proof of funds then you can compile and submit a study visa application online or via mail to the IRCC. It costs $150 to process your study permit application and you may be asked to submit your biometrics which costs an additional $85.
Step 3: Get Your Study Permit
In approximately eight weeks you'll know if your application was successful and be issued a study permit along with a temporary resident visa to enter Canada. You must travel to Canada before your visa expires. If you don't finish your courses before the date on your permit, you must apply to extend your stay as a student. On the flip side, if you finish your studies early, your permit will stop being valid 90 days after you complete your studies. This allows you some time to extend your stay in the country.
How we can help you
Planning to study in Canada? Eliminate the guesswork and let the visa specialists and student advisors we work with guide you through the process. From finding a DLI that suits your academic goals and budget to helping you write a motivational letter and applying for a Canada study visa on your behalf - we do it all.
Make an informed decision about your future in Canada with the professional guidance of Visa de Canada today.