How to Apply for Study Visa in Canada (Student Visa Requirements and Study Permit)?

Studying in Canada is a goal for many international students. The country offers world-class education, a welcoming environment, and various opportunities for career growth. However, obtaining a study permit or student visa in Canada requires careful planning and a structured approach. This guide will help you navigate the visa application process step by step, ensuring a smooth transition to your academic journey in Canada.

What is a Canadian Study Visa?

A Canadian students visa, also known as a study permit in Canada, is an essential document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows you to study at designated learning institutions in Canada.

If you want to study in Canada, you must apply for a study permit before arriving. Without this permit in Canada, you are not eligible to enroll in any study program as an international student.

Fun Fact: Canada is one of the top destinations for international students, with over 640,000 students enrolling in various institutions in Canada every year.

Step 1: Get Accepted by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) to Study in Canada

The first step in obtaining a Canada student visa is securing admission to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Only DLIs are authorized to host international students to study in Canada.

How to Choose the Right Institution?

1. Research universities in Canada and other DLIs that offer your preferred study program.
2. Check visa requirements and admission conditions for your chosen institution.
3. Ensure the institution is recognized on the official Government of Canada website.

Application Process for Universities in Canada

• Submit an application form online or through a paper submission.
• Provide necessary documents such as transcripts, English language proficiency scores, and recommendation letters.
• Pay the application fee and await your student visa application approval.

Once you receive an offer letter, you are eligible to apply to apply for a Canada student visa.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents for Canada Study Permit Application

To successfully apply for a student visa, you need to submit the application for your study permit with the correct documents.

Essential Documents for a Study Permit in Canada

• A valid passport for your entire stay in Canada.
• Acceptance letter issued by a DLI in Canada.
• A proof of financial support, i.e., documents proving your ability to pay tuition, living expenses, and return transportation.
• Passport-sized photographs as per IRCC specifications.
• Some applicants must undergo an Immigration Medical Examination (IME).
• A Police clearance certificate is also required for applicants from certain countries.
• A Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or a Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) is required for students applying to select institutions.

If you apply on paper, ensure that all required forms and documents are correctly filled out and submitted to the local visa office.

Step 3: Meet Financial Requirements for Canadian Study Permit

Financial stability is a key visa requirement to get a study permit in Canada. If you’re in Canada or applying for a Canadian study, you must show proof of funds for tuition, living expenses, and return travel. Meeting these financial requirements is essential for a study visa application, student visa application online, or if you need a visitor visa or ETA. Ensure you qualify, as you’re eligible for a study permit only if all financial criteria are met.

Minimum Fund Requirements

The Canadian government requires proof that you have enough funds for your stay.

Below are the funding paid from within Canada requirements:

Category	Amount Required (per year)
Tuition Fees	Varies based on institution
Living Expenses	$10,000
Living Expenses (Quebec)	$11,000
Additional Family Member	$4,000 per person

Proof of Funds May Include:

• Bank statements
• Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)
• Student loan documents
• Scholarship or funding letters

If you don’t meet the financial requirements, your application might be rejected.

Step 4: Apply Online and Submit Your Study Permit Application for Canada Student Visa

Once you have gathered all necessary documents, it’s time to apply for your student visa. You can apply online or submit your application on paper through a visa centre.

Steps to Apply for a Study Permit:

1. Create an Account: Register on the IRCC Website.
2. Complete the Application Form: Ensure all sections are correctly filled out.
3. Upload Documents: Submit scanned copies of required files.
4. Pay the Visa Fee: The application fee is $150 CAD.
5. Submit Your Application: After verification, submit it for processing.

Step 5: Provide Biometrics and Attend an Interview for a Student Visa in Canada (if required)

After you apply for your study permit, you may be required to provide biometrics or attend an interview at a visa center.

Biometric Process

• Biometrics include fingerprints and photographs.
• You must book an appointment at a Visa Application Center (VAC).
• The biometric fee is $85 CAD.

Interview (if required)

Applicants may be required to appear for an interview at their local visa office. Be prepared to answer questions about:

• Your reason for studying in Canada.
• Your financial stability.
• Your plans after completing your studies.

Step 6: Track Your Application Status & Await Approval

Processing times vary based on your location. On average, the processing time for a study permit is 8-12 weeks.

How to Check Your Study Permit Status?

• Log in to your IRCC account.
• Check email updates regularly.
• Follow up with the visa center if required.

Once your application is approved, you will receive:

• Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction
• Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) (if applicable)

Step 7: Prepare for Your Travel to Canada

Before you travel to Canada, make sure to carry the necessary documents along with your study permit.

Documents to Carry When Traveling

• Passport
• POE Letter
• Study permit approval letter
• Proof of finances

Upon arrival, present your study permit in Canada at immigration. The border officer will verify your documents and grant you entry.

Fun Fact: The Government of Canada issues study permits to over 300,000 students annually.

What are Some Common Reasons for Canadian Student Visa Rejection (And How to Avoid Them)?

Rejections can be disappointing, but understanding the common pitfalls can help you prepare better.

Top Reasons for Visa Rejection:

1. Incomplete Documentation – Ensure all required documents are submitted.
2. Insufficient Financial Proof – Provide strong financial statements.
3. Weak Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Write a compelling SOP explaining why you want to study in Canada.
4. Lack of Ties to Home Country – Show strong reasons why you plan to return after completing your education.

If your education permit application is rejected, you can apply for a study permit again with improved documentation.

Top 20 Universities for Students Aiming to Arrive in Canada for Higher Education

Canada is renowned for its high-quality education system, attracting students worldwide.

Below is a curated list of the top 20 universities in Canada, highlighting their global rankings, average annual tuition fees for international students, popular courses, and estimated average graduate salaries.

Sl. No.	University	Global Ranking	Average Annual Tuition Fee (CAD)	Popular Courses	Average Graduate Salary (CAD)
1	University of Toronto	21	35,000 – 65,000	Computer Science, Business Administration, Public Policy	96,000
2	McGill University	30	25,000 – 35,000	Business Administration, Communication Sciences and Disorders	100,000
3	University of British Columbia	48	40,000 – 80,000	Engineering in Clean Energy, Occupational Therapy, Land and Water Systems	150,000
4	Université de Montréal	48	22,000 – 35,000	Data Science, Education, Business Administration	75,000
5	University of Alberta	111	20,000 – 45,000	Environmental Sciences, Computer Science, Engineering	80,000
6	McMaster University	138	20,000 – 40,000	Health Sciences, Engineering, Business	85,000
7	University of Waterloo	112	20,000 – 40,000	Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics	107,000
8	Western University	172	25,000 – 45,000	Business, Law, Health Sciences	100,000
9	Queen’s University	246	25,000 – 40,000	Business, Engineering, Arts and Science	90,000
10	University of Calgary	242	15,000 – 47,000	Engineering, Business, Medicine	148,000
11	University of Ottawa	279	20,000 – 45,000	Law, Social Sciences, Engineering	124,000
12	Dalhousie University	308	18,000 – 35,000	Medicine, Law, Engineering	80,000
13	Simon Fraser University	328	20,000 – 35,000	Business, Engineering, Arts and Social Sciences	85,000
14	University of Manitoba	601-650	19,300 – 30,000	Agriculture, Engineering, Medicine	75,000
15	University of Saskatchewan	473	20,000 – 35,000	Agriculture, Engineering, Business	70,000
16	Concordia University	521-530	21,000 – 30,000	Business, Engineering, Arts and Science	80,000
17	Memorial University of Newfoundland	701-750	6,000 – 18,000	Engineering, Business, Medicine	65,000
18	University of Guelph	591-600	7,700 – 14,000	Agriculture, Veterinary Medicine, Engineering	75,000
19	University of Winnipeg	601-650	15,000 – 23,000	Arts, Business, Science	70,000
20	Brandon University	701-750	1,300 – 6,000	Music, Education, Science	60,000

Conclusion

Applying for a Canadian education permit requires careful planning. If you plan to study in Canada, ensure you start early, as the visa process can take time. Follow all steps correctly, from securing admission at partner institutions in Canada to preparing financial proof and submitting your visa application online.

Whether you study or work in Canada, having a study permit in Canada is crucial for students to study legally. If you wish to stay in Canada after your studies, you may need to apply for a work permit.

By staying informed on the latest visa requirements and conditions, you can ensure a smooth transition into your academic life in Canada. Good luck with your Canada student visa requirements!

Want to study in Canada? Schedule a call with our experts at Ambitio and watch your study abroad dreams come true!

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