Study in Canada: Step-By-Step Guide for International Students

Canada is a North American country consisting of ten provinces and three territories. It is the world’s second-largest country by total area, and its southern border with the United States is the world’s longest land border. Canada is home to a variety of languages, including French, English, and Aboriginal languages.

Canada is home to 21 of the world’s top 500 universities, and 32 in the top 1,000. Canada has a highly diverse population, with people from all walks of life. International students have many opportunities to learn about Canadian culture and customs during their stay in Canada.

What is a Canadian Study Permit?

A study permit is a document that allows international students to stay in Canada and study. A study permit is similar to a student visa, which is required for people who want to school in Canada.

How do I apply for a Canadian Study Permit?

There are various stages to obtaining a Canadian study permit.

1. Check your eligibility: To be eligible for a study permit, you must meet the requirements of the Canada Student Visa Regulations. These regulations are found on the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) website.  Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements for a Canadian study permit. You will be required to submit: an acceptance letter from a DLI, proof of financial support, supporting documents (varies depending on your country of citizenship and residence).

2. Prepare your application: If all eligibility requirements are met, then you can start preparing your study permit application. You will need to create a Canadian study permit application package, which includes the following:

• A completed application form DS-160 (available on CIC’s website)
• Proof of your acceptance letter from a DLI
• Proof of financial support
• Supporting documents (varies depending on your country of citizenship and residence)

3. Submit your application: Once you have completed and submitted all of the required documents, your study permit will be issued.
4. Come to Canada if your study permit is approved: If your application is approved, you will need to come to Canada to receive your study permit. The Canadian government will issue you a Port of Entry Introduction Letter. This letter must be shown to the immigration officials when you arrive in Canada to get your study permit.

What Are the Conditions of a Canadian Study Permit?

To be eligible for a Canadian study permit, you must meet the following requirements:

1. You must be enrolled at a designated learning institution.
2. You must be enrolled as a part-time student, or a full-time student if studying in Quebec.
3. You must not take any authorized leave longer than 150 days from your program of study.

It is important to understand and respect the terms of your study permit. In doing so, you will get the most out of your study abroad experience in Canada. Students who respect the terms of their study permits also have a better chance of being granted a post-graduate work permit.

Steps on How to Study in Canada

There are a few things you need to do in order to study in Canada:

1. Understand the requirements of studying in Canada: There are a few things you need to know about the Canadian education system before you start your studies. For example, Canadian universities require that students have a high school diploma or equivalent. The basic requirements for all universities and institutions include an updated passport, proficiency in either English or French, proof of passing prescribed language tests with minimum grades/bands, and proof that you can finance your study as well as the cost of living in the country. Note that requirements vary between provinces and institutions as well.

2. Choose your course and institution: Once you understand the requirements, the next step is to choose your course and institution. There are many universities and colleges across Canada to choose from, so do your research before making your decision.
3. Apply to universities: Once you have chosen your course and institution, the next step is to apply. You will need to submit an application form, along with transcripts of your academic records, letters of recommendation, and a financial statement.

4. Take the language proficiency test: Once you have applied to universities and received an acceptance letter, the last step is to take the language proficiency test. This is a mandatory requirement for all new students in Canada. IELTS is the preferred test for proficiency in English, with some institutions also accepting the Cambridge English: Advanced or TOEFL exam score. For French speakers, you can take various French-language tests such as DALF, DELF, or TCF, although the TEF exam is the most common option.

5. Apply for a study permit: Once you have passed the language proficiency test, the next step is to apply for a study permit. This document will allow you to attend university in Canada and study the course of your choice.
6. Pay the fees: Once you have received your study permit, the next step is to pay the tuition fees. This can be a costly process, so make sure you have enough money saved up.
7. Travel time: Once the fees have been paid, you will need to travel to Canada and get registered at your new university. This process can take up to two months, so be prepared for a long journey.
8. 8 . Get settled: After you have arrived in Canada and registered at your university, the last step is to get settled. This means finding an apartment, making friends, and getting used to the new lifestyle.

Canada Student Visa Requirements to Study

To study in Canada, you will need to obtain a study permit.

To study in Canada, international students are expected to apply for a visa at any Canadian embassy in their home country. First of all, the student will have to first apply for admission and obtain an acceptance letter.

There are a few basic requirements that you must meet in order to be eligible for a study permit. Below is a list of documents that are required before you can obtain a Canadian study visa.

1. Acceptance letter: This document confirms that you have been accepted to study in Canada and outlines the specific course of study you are interested in.
2. Proof of financial support: You will need to provide proof of financial support in the form of a bank statement, scholarship or grant letter, or an affidavit from your parents or guardian.
3. Your valid passport or travel document: A valid passport or travel document is required to enter Canada.

4. Application form: You must complete an application form, which can be obtained from your nearest Canadian embassy or from the Canadian government website.
5. Six size passport photograph: You will need to take a passport photograph, which should be 2-by-2 inches in size.
6. Proof of payment of the application fee: The application fee for a study permit is CAD$150. Proof of application fee payment in an acceptable format is required.
7. Letter of Explanation: This document should state the reasons why you are coming to Canada and how you plan to use the time off from your studies. The letter will inform the visa officer that you understand your options.

Once you have successfully completed all of the required documentation, you can then take it to your nearest Canadian embassy or consulate to submit it.

Frequently Asked Question

How Long Does it Take to Apply for a Canadian Study Permit?

The processing time varies. It usually takes about six weeks to process a study permit application. However, it can take up to eight weeks during peak periods.

The shortest processing time is 1-2 weeks. In some cases, applicants can expect to wait as long as 16 weeks. Processing times depend on the volume of applications received. If you’re applying close to the beginning of Canada’s academic year, you may experience delays.

Do I Need to Take the IELTS to Study in Canada?

Most schools require the IELTS to study in Canada. However, some schools and programs may not require it. Students should consult with the school or program of their choice to confirm any requirements. Canadian universities generally accept the IELTS as a valid academic credential. Some schools may also require the TOEFL or SAT. Students should research their school’s requirements before applying.

What is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)?

A designated learning institution (DLI) is an educational institution in Canada that is designated by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) as being eligible to receive international students.

Do I Need to Submit a Letter of Intent to Study in Canada?

A letter of intent is required if you are applying to study in Canada. However, international students who have been accepted to a Canadian university do not need to submit a letter of intent. The purpose of the letter of intent is to assure the Canadian government that you will respect the conditions of your permit. You must agree to leave the country once your permit has expired.

When is the Deadline to Apply to Study in Canada?

There is no deadline to apply to study in Canada. However, if you are looking for a program that has a specific start date, you should apply at least six months in advance. The deadline for applications is typically in early January. Check the individual websites of the schools you have an interest in. Note that the earlier you get your application in, the better.