International students planning to study in Canada must apply for a Canada study visa (study permit), a required document enabling them to study in the country legally, thus allowing them to benefit from Canada’s appeal as a highly sought-after travel destination with its well-developed nation, excellent educational programs, and worthwhile degrees.
This encourages students to apply online for their study permits, as many parents aspire to send their children to Canadian elementary or secondary schools. Individuals aim to commence their graduate or undergraduate studies there, necessitating study permission and a study visa.
Upon acceptance to a Canadian university, one might need to apply for a study permit before enrolling overseas. These permits, known as student visas in Canada, are vital, especially considering that over 1 million international students held valid Canadian study permits in 2023, marking a 29% increase from the previous year.
Notably, 8 of Canada’s top 10 fastest-growing student populations were from African countries in 2023. However, changes may occur under new caps, affecting institutions’ willingness to accept applications from countries with historically low approval rates.
Ontario accounted for 52% of all international students in Canada in 2023. Yet, projections indicate a potential over 35% drop in approvals for affected study levels in Ontario in 2024 due to new application caps.
Despite this, K-12 and postsecondary studies experienced a 28% growth in 2023 over the previous year but should anticipate fewer students in 2024. Canada’s international student population reached a record high in 2023, with more than a million students enrolled in approved programs of six months or longer, primarily at colleges or universities, reflecting a 27% year-on-year growth following a 30% expansion in 2022.
Although Canada is a fairly hospitable country, there are certain guidelines that international students studying there must adhere to. For those who plan to remain longer than six months, the local government demands a study permit; the best way to ensure everything goes according to plan before you leave home is to know what to expect from the application process.
In Canada, student visas are referred to as study permits. You can remain in Canada as long as you have a valid study permit. However, you’ll need a visiting visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter the nation. You’ll instantly receive an eTA after your study permission has been approved.
What is a student visa for Canada (Study Permit)?
A student with a valid Canada student visa can begin their studies there and may also be eligible to work in Canada with the appropriate work permit. The student needs a study permit in addition to the visa, essentially the same as a Canada Visitor Visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTa). Thus, the Canada student visa combines an eTA and a study permit or a visiting visa and a study permit, allowing those outside of Canada to complete the document checklist and apply.
The only places in Canada where you can begin your studies with a study visa are known as Designated Learning Institutions (DLI), crucial information found when you read the instruction guide. With a study permit, you can remain in Canada until the completion of your program and, in some situations, work both during your time in school and after you graduate, a fact emphasized during the consultation process. You need to meet these requirements to maintain your study permit in Canada:
- Participate in a DLI at all times.
- Strive to finish your study regimen.
- Fulfil the conditions outlined in the student visa.
- If you don’t fit the conditions for the student visa, stop studying.
- As soon as your study permit expires, depart Canada.
- While you have a study permit, you cannot obtain Canadian-issued documentation or government benefits, such as health coverage. However, if that is your objective, it will make it simpler for you to apply for Canadian citizenship.
What is a Designated Learning Institution ( DLI)?
As previously stated, enrollment in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is required to obtain a student visa for Canada. DLIs are colleges or universities that have received permission from the provincial or territory authority, evidenced by a provincial attestation letter, to accept international students.
All elementary and secondary schools in Canada are DLIs by default. Yet, many colleges and other educational establishments are not DLI-certified. You shouldn’t apply for those since, even if accepted, you won’t be eligible to apply for a work permit without a valid study permit.
Check their official website to determine if a university or other educational facility is a DLI. You will be directed to the official website of the Government of Canada, which is the source for all Canadian visas, including how to get your study permit. After you select the province or territory, the page will generate a list of all DLI institutions. There, you can verify whether or not the location you wish to apply to is a DLI.
If the institution loses its DLI designation while enrolled, you can finish your studies there until your permit expires. Suppose your current one expires before you finish your degree; you may need to apply for a new permit to study in Canada. In that case, you must enrol in a DLI university to obtain a new one.
What Makes Canada a Top Choice for International Students?
- High Quality of Education
Canada’s educational system is highly regarded for its excellence. Some of the world’s best universities and academic institutions, offering top-notch instruction in all fields of study, are located there. There are many more opportunities for overseas students in Canada than in other countries. Canadian educational institutions offer highly valued degrees that are respected by businesses globally, making graduates extremely employable and enhancing their permit to study in Canada.
These degrees range from flexible teaching schedules to innovative learning methods and classroom practice. Undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees are among the academic paths international students can take in Canadian universities with a valid study permit. Thanks to small class sizes and individualized attention, students receive a top-notch education that equips them for success in the workplace.
2. Diverse Languages and More People
Canada has two official languages, French and English, among the many immigrant languages spoken there, which range from Punjabi to Spanish. International students in Canadian universities are fine with their academic pursuits since English is the medium of instruction for all degrees. To demonstrate their ability to use the English language, international students must pass language proficiency exams like the TOEFL or IELTS. It is rather straightforward to complete your application if you are committed to your objective!
3. Unique People and Culture
In a diversified nation that embraces diversity, international students can make global connections, meet people worldwide, and learn about new cultures, enhancing their experience after they arrive in Canada. Experiencing different cultures may be enlightening and transformative. When you come to Canada, you will be warmly welcomed as an international student and equipped with the skills you need to succeed in a globalized world, and you’ll be eligible for a study permit that opens up numerous opportunities.
4. Pathways to Get a High-Paying Job
Many international students worry about how they will support themselves while studying abroad and figuring out how to make ends meet. But don’t worry, as all overseas students are qualified for various part-time jobs in Canada. In this way, students can meet new people, get work experience, and make money to sustain themselves upon their arrival in Canada. In Canada, part-time jobs are an excellent opportunity to expand your network, learn the language, and become more diligent in society.
5. Education That Won’t Break the Bank
The farther you go, the more expensive your education gets, also impacting the document checklist for your study permit. However, compared to popular study-abroad locations like the United States or even the United Kingdom, tuition costs at Canadian universities and colleges are frequently less. This implies overseas students won’t have to break the bank to receive a quality education, and they must apply for a study permit to study in such an accommodating environment. Additionally, Canada offers grants and scholarships to international students that can help defray some of the education expenses. Students also feel relieved that living expenses in Canada are far cheaper than in other countries, making the arrival in Canada less daunting financially.
6. Accommodating Communities
Canadian cities are considered among the most livable in the world, boasting clean streets, pure air, low crime rates, and first-rate public transportation. They also provide a secure and friendly atmosphere for international students. In addition, a wide range of cultural and recreational opportunities, inexpensive housing, and free healthcare are advantageous to students.
Students are further encouraged to build a future for themselves in this lovely country because of the respect that Canadian communities and the country offer in comparison to other nations.
7. After Graduation Offers
After obtaining their degree or diploma, students often wonder about their career options. A post-graduation work visa is available to international students studying in Canada, enabling them to work there for a maximum of three years following the completion of their education.
Through several immigration processes, this work experience may help students achieve permanent status in Canada after they arrive in Canada. This is a significant plus since it gives international students the chance to gain practical work experience and possibly eventually become citizens of Canada.
8. Academic Project Funding Support
Most Canadian institutions offer research-focused degrees, which is just one of the numerous advantages of studying there, as students navigate through the application process made outside of Canada. Through various extracurricular activities, students participate in opportunities for scientific study and acquire real-world experience, making for a well-rounded academic experience. The Canadian government actively funds scientific endeavors that advance society, including projects by those with a study permit who are eligible to work in Canada. New student in Canada opportunities arise daily because Canadian universities are at the core of breakthrough research.
9. Ease of Acceptance in Canada Institutions
Admission to Canadian institutions is less competitive than that of US or UK universities. Universities in Canada provide a wider variety of degrees to international students, including multidisciplinary programs. In most cases, admission to Canadian universities does not require foreign applicants to take additional entrance tests, making it easier for those who apply on paper from outside of Canada. Canada considers high school performance and IELTS test results for admissions, as opposed to the challenging SATs and GREs that applicants must take to get into institutions in America.
Additionally, students intending to study in Canada have a higher chance of acceptance than those from other countries, and Canadian visas are easier to obtain.
Who Requires a Study Permit in Canada?
A student visa and permit are required for international students who wish to study in Canada and require a guest visa or an eTA to enter the country. One tip is to apply study permit online to expedite the process. When combined with an eTA or guest visa, the permit allows you to begin your studies even though it does not grant you entry into Canada alone; this process is crucial for those applying from outside Canada.
However, depending on specific circumstances, some individuals may need study permission to study in Canada. These individuals include:
- If your program of study in Canada lasts less than six months, you won’t require a study permit—instead, you’ll simply need an eTA or visiting visa. However, if you find it difficult to finish the six-month program, a study permit will be required.
- You do not require a study visa if you are a member of the family or staff of a foreign representative accredited by Global Affairs Canada in Canada.
- You may not require a study permit if you are a foreign military member stationed in Canada on official business, but your family members may.
- You do not require a study permit if you are a foreign national with registered Indian status in Canada. Still, it’s different for those wishing to study in Canada from outside Canada.
- You do not require a study permit if you are a minor in Canada and one of the following applies to you: You are enrolled in kindergarten; You are a refugee or refugee claimant; Your parents are refugees or refugee claimants; You are enrolled in preschool, elementary or secondary education, and your parent can work or pursue education in Canada.
Am I Eligible For a Student Visa in Canada? To be qualified to apply for a Canada student visa and permit, you need to meet the requirements listed below: - Possess a legitimate admission letter bearing the following details from a designated learning institution (DLI): An official school letterhead, the course of study and degree you will earn, the total amount of tuition you have to pay, the program’s beginning and ending dates.
- To apply for a student visa, you must be at least eighteen years old, and it’s beneficial if you’ve also applied for a work permit to gain professional experience in Canada. Children under eighteen cannot apply on their own, so you must apply on your child’s behalf if they wish to attend elementary or secondary school.
- Possess a spotless criminal record and provide court documentation attesting to it, which is essential when you apply for a study permit or work permit in Canada.
- A Consent Form from the Visa Application Center (VAC) must be completed and signed if you’re applying for a study permit or a work permit. Copies of your current immigration status in Canada or another nation must be submitted.
- Please show that you are only visiting Canada temporarily and that you will return to your home country after your studies are done.
The Step-by-Step Application Procedure for Canada Student Visa
Process for obtaining a student visa for Canada: There are a few steps involved in the Canadian student visa application process, which are as follows:
Step 1: Getting Approved By a designated learning institution, or DLI:
Prior doing anything else, you have to be accepted into a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. The Canadian government’s recognition and authorization are prerequisites for the DLI to host international students. Once you have an approval letter from a DLI, you can continue with the visa application process.
Step 2: Compile the Necessary Records
Assemble all the documentation required for your application for a Canada student visa. These usually include a valid passport, a letter of acceptance from DLI, completed application forms, proof of funds, academic records, language test results, a statement of purpose, and any additional paperwork requested by the Canadian government.
Step 3: Establish an Online Account
Register for an account on Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) official website. You will be able to check the status of your application, pay fees, and submit your application using this account.
Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
Depending on the kind of visa you need and your place of residency, you must pay an application cost. Using a legitimate payment method, the cost can be paid online on the IRCC website.
Step 5: Finish the Application and Send It in
The application for a visa must be completed completely and accurately. Provide all the necessary information, including your name, phone number, educational background, and planned vacation location. Utilizing your online account, upload the required documents and submit your application.
Step 6: Enrollment in biometrics, if applicable
You can be asked to submit biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) as part of the visa application procedure, depending on your country of origin. You’ll get directions on where and how to take your fingerprints, which is often done at a specific location when applying for a visa.
Step 7: Attend Interview (if required)
In certain circumstances, you can be asked to show up for an interview at the Canadian consulate or embassy in your nation. The purpose of the interview, which is a part of the process made outside of Canada, is to determine your eligibility and confirm the details you submitted in your application, including whether you’re eligible for a study permit. Should an interview be necessary, you will be notified with all the information.
Step 8: Await the Visa Decision
As soon as your application is received, the processing time begins. After reviewing your application and doing the necessary verifications, the Canadian government will choose whether to issue you a visa. Because processing times can vary, it is crucial to confirm the most recent times on the official IRCC website.
Step 9: Get your Passport and Visa
You will either receive your passport and visa stamped inside it through the mail or a specific visa application facility when your application has been approved. Make sure you provide a working address and contact details when returning your passport.
Canada Student Visa Fees
Your application for a study permit will cost you $150 up front. But keep in mind that you might also have to pay for copies of some of the required documents or, if necessary, for their translation. This may raise the final cost.
Interview Tips for Canada Study Visa
1. Do You Have Relatives Or Friends In Canada?
Give a yes-or-no response at first. If so, you should describe the nature of your relationship with them. If not, you have to express a desire to meet new people and form friendships in Canada. You have to demonstrate how willing you are to fit in with Canadian society.
2. Who Is Going To Pay For The Study?
You must state where you get the money for your fees and living expenses in Canada. Whether your parents are supporting you financially or if you are taking out a loan for your education. Make sure you tell the truth; the application form will be checked to confirm.
3. What Occupations Do Your Parents Have?
You must mention your parents’ occupation. Give specifics about the kind of employment. They might even inquire about your family’s money. Strive for accuracy, if not exactness. It will be confirmed using the application that you previously filed.
4. Were Any Scholarships Awarded To You?
If so, you must state the name of the scholarship as well as its benefits and amount. If not, you have to demonstrate how hard you are trying to obtain one.
5. In Canada, Where Will You Be Staying?
Talk about the specifics of your lodging in Canada. You have to disclose the specifics if you are living in a dorm on campus. Additionally, you need to include the information for a temporary place to stay.
6. Have You Previously Visited Canada?
Pupils must select a yes or no response. If so, you must specify the visit’s purpose and the date of arrival. Included here should be the reason for the prior visit as well as any other pertinent information.
7. What Made You Decide On Canada?
The students must explain why they choose to pursue their study in Canada. You should also give a justification for your decision to attend a Canadian university rather than one in your own country. Explain why you were unable to locate a course that was comparable in your home country. Describe the university’s caliber. You can also discuss how experiential learning or co-ops will give you a leg up once you graduate.
8. Why Did You Decide On A Specific Canadian College Or University?
You are required to discuss the benefits of attending the college or university of your choice based on your research. You should discuss how the university’s reputation and the faculty’s innovative research and accomplishments inspired you to enrol.
9. Which Programme Are You Enrolled In, And Why?
Ensure you are aware of the programme’s start, end, and length. You must discuss the program’s course and curriculum. The advantages of pursuing that specific programme ought to seem legitimate. You also need to explain why you think you can succeed in this specific programme. Additionally, you can discuss how the co-op programme or the modules will help you get ready for the future.
9. Will You Be Attending A University Where You Will Be Joining Faculty Members?
You must select a yes or no response to this question. If so, you should state the person’s name, your relationship to them, and whether you are currently in communication. If not, you must demonstrate your desire to study at a university with one of the reputable faculties that you have learned about.
Frequently Asked Questions About Canadian Student Visas
1. What Are the Requirements for a Student Visa in Canada?
The requirements for a student visa in Canada typically include an acceptance letter from a designated learning institution, proof of financial support to cover tuition fees and living expenses, a valid passport, satisfactory health and security checks, and sometimes proof of language proficiency.
2. How Much Money Is Required to Study in Canada for a Visa?
The amount of money required to study in Canada for a visa varies depending on factors such as tuition fees, living expenses, and the duration of the program, especially when planning to study in Canada – study permits may add to the overall cost. Generally, applicants need to demonstrate they have sufficient funds to cover their education and living costs.
3. Is Canada Currently Giving Student Visas Easily?
The ease of obtaining a student visa for Canada can vary depending on individual circumstances and the prevailing immigration policies. While Canada generally welcomes international students, each application is assessed on its own merits.
4. How Long Does It Take to Get a Canada Student Visa?
Processing times for a Canada student visa application can vary depending on the instructions of the local visa office. Generally, a decision on a student visa application takes several weeks to a few months.
5. Which Agency Is Legitimate for Canada Visas in Nigeria?
Legitimate agencies for Canada visas in Nigeria are those registered with the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC), which can help you get your study permit faster.
6. How Much Do Immigration Consultants Charge in Canada for Study Permits?
Immigration consultants in Canada may charge varying fees for assisting with study permits, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the complexity of the case and the services provided. However you can start by booking a free session with globemigrant work and study abroad consultants.
7. How Much Does the Canadian Embassy or Consulate Charge for a Student Visa?
The Canadian embassy or consulate charges a processing fee for student visa applications, the amount of which may vary and can be found on their official website.
8. What Are Some Canada Study Visa Qualifications?
Qualifications required for a Canada visa typically include admission to a designated learning institution, proof of financial resources, and meeting health and security criteria.
9. What Grades Are Needed for a Canada Student Visa?
The specific academic grades required for a Canada student visa depend on the educational institution and program applied to, typically requiring good academic standing.
10. Can I apply for a student visa to Canada by mail or in person?
You can apply in person or by mail. Still, it will take longer, and you will only get a response after extra paperwork is needed. You are advised to submit an online application for both your study and work permits to ensure a smoother process at the port of entry.
11. After my application is filed, can I make changes?
You must update your application if you move, change your phone number, or require additional information. Enter into your account and adhere to the instructions.
12. What is the Student Direct Scheme?
If you hail from:
- China and India
- Morocco
- Senegal
- Pakistan
- Vietnam
- The Philippines
You can obtain your study permission by using the student direct stream. This speeds up the procedure, which takes roughly 20 days.
Final Words
Canada’s well-developed nation status, first-rate educational offerings, and rich cultural diversity make it an attractive tourism destination. A study visa can only be obtained by fulfilling certain conditions, like enrolling in a designated learning institution (DLI), submitting the required paperwork, and following the application guidelines provided by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Even with the strict prerequisites, international students should consider studying in Canada because of its many advantages, which include access to a top-notch education, a wide range of linguistic and cultural experiences, career options, and post-graduation prospects. For this reason, knowing the nuances of the application process for a study visa and fulfilling the requirements is crucial to a fruitful academic endeavour in Canada.