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Canada Study Visa – Complete Guide for International Students
Canada is one of the most popular destinations for international students due to its world-class education system, multicultural environment, and opportunities for work and permanent residency. To study in Canada for more than six months, you need a Canada Study Permit (commonly called a Study Visa).
This guide provides complete information about the Canada Study Visa, eligibility criteria, application process, required documents, costs, embassy details, university/college admission steps, and post-study opportunities.
What is a Canada Study Permit?
A Study Permit is an official document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows international students to study at Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Canada.
Eligibility Requirements for Canada Study Visa
To apply, you must meet the following criteria:
- Letter of Acceptance (LOA): Must be admitted to a recognized DLI in Canada.
- Proof of Funds: You need to show you can pay for tuition, living expenses, and return transportation.
- Minimum proof: CAD $20,635 per year for living expenses (outside Quebec).
- In Quebec: CAD $14,349 per year (18 years or older).
- No Criminal Record: Provide police clearance (if required).
- Medical Exam: Pass a medical examination from a panel physician approved by IRCC (if required).
- Language Proficiency: IELTS/TOEFL/PTE scores accepted by colleges and immigration. (Usually IELTS 6.0 overall minimum, but varies by institution.)
- Genuine Student: Must prove that your primary purpose is to study and you will leave Canada after your studies (unless applying for work/PR later).
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Canada Study Visa
(01)
Choose a Program and Institution
- Select a program aligned with your previous studies or career goals.
- Ensure the college/university is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
(02)
Apply and Get a Letter of Acceptance
- Submit applications online to colleges/universities.
- Once accepted, receive an official Letter of Acceptance (LOA).
(03)
Gather Required Documents
- Valid passport
- LOA from DLI
- Proof of funds (bank statement, GIC, sponsorship, loan, etc.)
- Proof of English/French language proficiency
- Medical exam (if required)
- Police clearance certificate (if required)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) / Study Plan
- Passport-sized photographs
(04)
Apply for Study Permit Online (or via VFS/Embassy)
- Apply through IRCC website.
- Pay the visa application fee: CAD $150.
- Biometrics fee: CAD $85.
- Submit all documents.
(05)
Biometrics and Interview (if required)
- Give fingerprints and photograph at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
- Some students may be called for an interview.
(06)
Wait for Visa Decision
- Standard processing time: 8–12 weeks (varies by country).
- If approved, you will receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction and a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or eTA.
(07)
Travel to Canada
- Carry all documents (passport, LOA, proof of funds, visa letter).
- On arrival, a border officer will issue your official Study Permit.
Embassy / Visa Application Centre (VAC) Process
- Applications are submitted online through IRCC or through VFS Global (Visa Application Centres).
- Students may need to visit a VAC for biometrics and document submission.
- Each country has Canadian embassies/high commissions where applications are processed.
👉 Example: In India, applications go through VFS Global Canada centres.
Admission Process in Canadian Colleges & Universities
- Intakes:
- Fall (September – major intake)
- Winter (January)
- Summer (May, limited programs)
- Application Requirements:
- Academic transcripts (10th, 12th, Bachelor’s if applying for PG)
- English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/Duolingo – depending on college)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs, sometimes required)
- Application Fees: CAD $50–$150 per institution
Work Opportunities While Studying
- Allowed to work 20 hours per week during academic sessions.
- Can work full-time during scheduled breaks (summer/winter holidays).
- Eligible for Co-op/Internships if part of the program.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
- After completing studies, you may apply for a PGWP.
- PGWP validity depends on program duration:
- Less than 8 months → Not eligible
- 8 months to 2 years → Permit equal to program length
- 2 years or more → Up to 3 years PGWP