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Canada Study Visa : Apply In 6 Simple Steps
Applying for a study visa in Canada is not an easy task. It involves several steps and the process can be very time-consuming.

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    Canada’s demand for skilled workers is high, but the government has strict requirements when it comes to approving applicants in its immigration programs. This means that many deserving candidates are left out because they don’t meet all the criteria required by the government. 

    The Canadian government has a tough job when it comes to selecting immigrants who are allowed to live in this country. They have several different programs but each one has its own criteria that must be met by any applicant interested in settling down there.

    Overview of Canadian Immigration Program

    There are more than 80 immigration programs run by the Canadian government to let people work and settle in Canada.

    There are both permanent and temporary Canadian Immigration categories that you can apply for.

    As a Canadian permanent resident, you get access to the healthcare policies and most of the other benefits that the citizens of Canada get.

    How to get a Canada PR visa?

    Permanent Visa Categories:

    You can select any of the above programs and follow these steps to apply for the visa using the Express Entry Method:

    Federal Skilled Worker Provincial Nominee Program Canadian Experience Class Quebec Immigration Atlantic Immigrant Pilot Program Federal Skilled Trades Class You can select any of the above progr
    Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast
    Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast
    Rank Name of the University
    1 Stanford University
    2 Princeton University
    3 University of California, Berkeley
    4 Carnegie Mellon University
    5 New York University
    6 Harvard University
    7 Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    8 Columbia University
    9 University of California, Los Angeles
    10 University of Michigan

    You can select any of the above programs and follow these steps to apply for the visa using the Express Entry Method:

    What are the available Study Programs?

    • Certificate or Diploma of one or two years of duration
    • Advanced Diplomas of two or three years
      Undergraduate
    • Programs of three or four years
    • Postgraduate Programs of two years
    • Doctorates or PhDs of four or five years with dissertation

    The most popular undergraduate courses are engineering and administrative studies. Postgraduate courses that are popular among international students are management, finance, MBA/MIM, MS, and LLB degrees.

     

    What are the different type of universities in Canada?

    The higher education system in Canada is no different from the American education system. There are three main types of Canadian institutions for education:

    • Public Universities : Besides receiving tuition fees from students, these universities are run by the provincial, territorial, or federal governments.
    • Private Universities : These universities do not receive any funds from Canadian government bodies. These universities receive funds through donations and research grants.
    • Liberal Arts Colleges : Public or private colleges are smaller in number in Canada than in the USA. Their primary emphasis is on undergraduate programs in liberal arts.

    Some colleges offer a winter intake. Fall is the primary intake season for most institutions. International students should follow a typical application deadline, which would be 6 to 9 months before the start of the session.

    Deadlines are usually not flexible except for diploma and PG diploma courses. Some institutions accept students for bachelor and masters degree courses past the given deadline, if seats are available.

    Which Canadian universities can I apply to without IELTS?

    • University of Winnipeg : It is compulsory here to produce proof of the English language. This university does not consider IELTS to be essential. You can avail of other alternatives in the university itself.
    • Brock University: IELTS is not required to get enrolled in this university. Other alternatives like TOEFL and IELP (Intensive English Language Program) are also valid. Your last three years of study in English with decent grades are also valid here.
    • University of Saskatchewan: Apart from IELTS and TOEFL, this university also accepts CanTest. This is a Canadian Test of English for scholars and trainees from other countries. This university’s English Language Training program is also a good option.
    • Memorial University of New foundland & Labrador: This is one of the top-ranked universities in Canada. You can attend the CAEL or the ELP (English Language Program) classes here or attempt IELTS, TOEFL, or CanTest.
    • Cambrian College: It is well-known for its broad focus on research and employment. IELTS and TOEFL are not required for admission. International students can continue their studies with other universities in Canada.

    What is the Eligibility for a Canada Study Visa?

    The eligibility criteria for obtaining a Canadian study permit are listed below.

     

    Do I have to get a study permit?

    It is important to note that a study permit is not the same as a study visa. Here are some scenarios where a foreign national will not require a study permit for education in Canada.

    Short Term Studies

    • When your study program or course lasts 6 months or less.
    • When your studies are not a part of any longer study program.
    • When you complete all studies within the time frame approved.

    You will however have to obtain a study permit even if the course is less than 6 months long if you are taking a prerequisite course. You may otherwise have to apply for a study permit, before you begin the full study program.

     

    What are some conditions for exemption of study permit?

    Other conditions for exemption of study permit for your education in Canada:

    • You are related to the staff of Foreign Representatives: Foreign representatives are accredited by GAC (Global Affairs Canada). Your embassy will have to contact GAC to find out if you require a study permit to study in Canada.
    • You are a member of Foreign Armed Forces: Members of foreign armed forces on official duties will not require a study permit in Canada. However, family members, including minor children will need one for studying here.
    • You are a Registered Indian in Canada: If you are a citizen of another country but have a Registered Indian status in Canada, you will not require a study permit for studying there.
    • Minor Indian Children in Canada: Minor children whose parents are refugees, refugee claimants, or parents having work or study permits will not require a separate study permit while seeking admission into preschool, kindergarten, primary or secondary school.

    What Documents are Required for the Canadian Student Visa?

    You would generally need to provide the following documents along with your application for a student visa:
    Documents must be scanned and uploaded. Later, you need to carry the original documents to your visa interview, if you are called for one. It is important to make sure the documents are valid and in order. Kansas can help you with this.

    What are the scholarship requirements in Canada?

    You will need to prepare well for meeting Canadian scholarship requirements. This is difficult and requires lengthy preparation, but the right approach can be fruitful.
    • Research Experience: This is crucial for graduate program applicants. It greatly enhances your chances of obtaining financial aid, even if you are applying for undergraduate programs.
    • Grade Point Average (GPA): This is another important aspect of getting a scholarship for graduate or undergraduate programs in Canada. Colleges and universities here consider a key metric for measuring the success of potential students.
    • Internships: Internship experience greatly enhances the success of your scholarship application. Ask for letters of recommendation from your previous employers, especially if your work is related to the field of study.
    • Community Service: This is another aspect of your scholarship application that can make it shine. Students with community service hours are looked up to as caring and considerate.

    How do I obtain a study permit for fall 2024?

    International students have to submit the following documents for the first stage:
    • letter of acceptance
    • Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (for Quebec students only)
    • proof of funds
    • proof that they can leave Canada when they no longer have legal temporary or permanent status; and any family ties to Canada.
    International students can begin studying after immigration officers assess their applications and issue pre-approval when eligible. International students will need to submit the following documents to go to Canada:
    • Immigration medical examination
    • Security-Police certificates
    • Biometrics

    How do I obtain a study permit for the next academic year (COVID 19 Update)?

    As of January 15, 2022, all international students and their dependents, with limited exceptions, must be fully vaccinated to enter Canada. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently determined that international students can start their studies online in their home country and not travel to Canada. But even to start studying online in their home country, students still need a valid visa and fee payment. To get a study permit in Canada, you must first go to a designated study institution. After acceptance, you can proceed with the application for the study permit online. In addition to the application, you will need to submit certain documents and meet all the Canada Government requirements.

    Application Process for an Canada Study Visa

    Browse the website of the shortlisted colleges/Universities and choose the ones that best match your expectation in terms of quality of education, ranking, programme structure, programme fee and other facilities for international students. You can also call them up or visit their social communities and have your questions answered. International students should verify that the desired institution is a DLI( Designated Learning Institution). Only universities on this list are considered for a study permit. In the absence of a study permit, you cannot get a visa. For a full list of all DLIs by province, please refer to the Designated Learning Institution List. International students are required to pursue studies at a DLI as this status is required to get entry into the country.
    There are 7 entrance exams for immigration to Canada. The ones you need to take depend on the program you plan on pursuing. Test of English as a Foreign Language TOEFL : This is a language test. It measures how well you speak English and your adaptability to the country. It is an easy exam that you should clear if you have basic knowledge of the language. However, do not underestimate this exam. High scores will increase your chances of being selected and may also help you receive entrance scholarships from universities. It is always best to show a foreign country that you are adept at the language they speak in. Graduate Record Exam Graduate Record Exam (GRE): This is an exam that tests graduate program students on their quantitative and analytical skills. This test measures how well a foriegn student would be able to keep with university courses. A high score on this exam could go a long way. SAT: This is a very common standardized test. It is mainly administered in the US but there are prestigious universities in Canada that require you to take this test. Your test results can be sent directly to a few universities of your choice for no cost at all. SATs take a lot of preparation, and it is best to take them seriously. Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT): This is a test that graduate students looking to pursue management programs need to take. MBAs need GMAT scores. It tests your quantitative, verbal and reasoning skills. It is a computer-based exam. You can take them upto five times every year. International English Language Testing System (IELTS): This test is very similar to the IELTS exam. You can take either exam to prove your language skills. Just like the IELTS, it is important to score high on this exam. Medical College Admission Test (MCAT): This is a test for students joining medical programs. It serves as a prerequisite for joining medical programs. It helps universities determine whether a student is equipped to handle their program. There are four sections to this test Verbal Reasoning, Physical Sciences, Writing Sample and Biological Sciences.
    Living in a foreign country can be expensive, especially when you factor in the exchange rate. There is rent, tuition fees and several expenses that can add up in the long run. You need to have a solid financial plan, and cannot depend on funding it with a part-time job when you get there. The government needs to see that you have sufficient funds in your account for them to move forward with your application. Therefore make sure you have evidence that you have the funds, be it a bank statement or an accepted loan application.
    Apply to the universities well before the deadline to avoid unwarranted mistakes. Speaking to university delegates is a great idea, as they can help you out with information that you may not find on their websites. Canadian universities are very intuitive and applying is easy. However, to know how to make your application stand out, contact us. Once a prospective student has selected a Canadian university or college, he or she may refer to that institution's website or contact the office of admissions for information on how to apply. Many institutions receive applications electronically online. In general, an applicant may receive a decision on an application within four to six months after the application deadline. Successful applicants will receive a Letter of Acceptance, which may be used in the application for a Canada Study Permit.
    The Letter of Acceptance is mandatory in the application for a Canada study permit. To obtain a Letter of Acceptance, a potential student may first submit an application to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). If he or she is successful, the institution may issue a Letter of Acceptance. The universities will email you acceptance letters when you get in. You must respond to your desired university within a stipulated period of time. Once you have accepted their offer, there are several things to take care of. If there are scholarships that you have in mind, now would be the time to apply to them. You also need to apply for your study permit and find a place to live. If choosing to live in university dorms, applying early is advisable as they fill up fast. It is also important to keep track of dates, so that you know exactly when to make your way to Canada. The country does not entertain students coming in earlier than required for their courses, and you will be sent back. You also do not want to arrive too late, and miss important events like orientation.
    Once you get admission confirmation done, you can apply for your student visa. It is important to do this at the earliest. You will not be able to travel to Canada without one even if your session has started. This is also why it is important to apply for your study permit as this enables you to apply for your visa. There is also a question of not getting through your interview the very first time, so make sure you start procedure well before your program start date.

    Related FAQS

    There are some basic steps you can undertake to avail a scholarship in Canada. Universities giving generous scholarships to international students in Canada are aplenty. However, you will need a great application to be able to get fully-funded scholarships in Canada. A variety of sources can help you find these scholarships.
    Choosing where to apply is the next logical step in the process of applying. Narrowing down the best option can be daunting.Apart from your area of study, consider these factors while choosing the right college or Canadian university : Primary Language of the College : English, and French are common languages in Canada. Some colleges use one or both as their main language. Type of College : Choose an institute, college, or university th at is the right kind for you. This is an important point in your education. Type of Degree : This will depend upon what you are planning to pursue. It can be an associates, bachelors, masters or Ph.Ds. Location : Research the area surrounding your educational facility. Is it an urban, suburban, or rural location, and does that suit you? Size of College : Are you comfortable in a large or small campus? Do you prefer small seminars or big lectures? Decide where you are most comfortable. The reputation of the University : Spend time researching the reputation of the college. Job placement rates of graduates from the college or university depend on this. Quality of Resources & Facilities : Check out the availability and quality of technical equipment, including the labs and libraries that are in the institution. Opportunities for Work Experience : Does the college run a cooperative program to add to your experience? Fees & Financial Assistance : Does the institution offer you grants or scholarships to help? Studying abroad can be expensive. Faculty & Staff : Research the faculty and staff associated with your study program. There may be someone in particular that you would like to study with. Recreational Activities : Check out the availability of sports, clubs, or a newspaper, if it interests you. Extracurricular activities can be useful. Accommodation for Special Needs : This is particularly important for international students, if you have physical or learning disabilities.
    Yes, you can study in Canada without IELTS. This English skill test is not required in 2024. There are several Canadian institutions offering study programs without IELTS. They adopt different measures to check your language capability. These universities accept other forms of English language credentials apart from IELTS.
    Produce a letter of recommendation from your previous faculties about your English proficiency. Qualify if you have studied in an English-medium school for four or more than four years. If you have attended a university’s language school for a semester or 12 months. Natives of English-speaking nations are also exempted.
    Yes, your spouse, common-law partner, and dependent children are eligible to enter Canada with you on a work or study permit. Your ability to bring along your family while you study is a great benefit.
    The following conditions depending on your case may be listed on your study permit – Whether you are allowed to work in Canada while studying. If you are allowed to travel within Canada during the study. The last date of your education in Canada.
    If a foreign national receives written approval for a temporary work or study permit before entering Canada, his or her family members may apply for a study permit without a Letter of Acceptance. Students who wish to pursue a study program of six months or less do not need to obtain a Letter of Acceptance because they do not require a study permit.
    If an applicant is applying to a study program offered by more than one institution, the Letter of Acceptance should state this clearly. Both institutions must be DLIs. The Letter of Acceptance should be issued by the concerned DLI. If the degree is issued by more than one DLI, the Letter of Acceptance should be issued by the DLI where the student intends to begin his or her study program. In this situation, the Letter of Acceptance should clearly state: The name, type, and location of the other institution; The course(s) the potential student intends to pursue at a different institution; and/or The semester(s) that the potential student intends to spend at a different institution.
    Canadian student visa applicants can reapply after being rejected. Evaluate why the earlier application was rejected and ensure that the same mistake is not repeated again. Your Canada Student Visa can take up to a maximum of 45 business days as per new guidelines issued under the SDS program.

    What Fee is Charged for a Canadian Student Visa?

     

    Cost of living

    The Canadian student visa requirements state that you must have $10,000 CAD or above to study in Canada and $11,000 CAD in Quebec, on top of tuition fees

    Living costs in Canada depend on your spending habits and location. Living in large cities is generally more expensive.

    • Can I study in Canada for free?
      While there are no colleges or universities in Canada that are tuition-free, you can cover the costs of tuition, room, and board by receiving a fully-funded scholarship. A scholarship is the best way to study in Canada for free.
    • What are some important aspects of your scholarship application?
      • Search for Fully Funded Scholarships : This is an essential aspect if you want to study in Canada for free. Your consultant is an expert who can be immensely helpful in finding the right source.
      • Apply for Scholarships to Study for Free : You increase your chances if you apply to several universities. Complete the applications carefully and attach the required documents along with them.
      • Attend Affordable Universities to Cut Down Tuition Costs : Although helpful, this aspect alone will not be able to fully cover the cost of studying in Canada. However, there are universities here that provide a great education at affordable costs.
      • Work in Canada while Studying : Working is another way in Canada to finance your studies. Your Canada study visa allows you to work for 20 hours a week during the academic semester and 40 hours a week during vacations.
      • Find Work Online : You can also find work online as a freelancer or start an online business. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr are great sources where you can earn money while studying in Canada.

     

    Cost of Application

     

    Application Fees for a Canadian Student Visa

    Study Permit Application FeesCA$150
    Work Permit Including ExtensionsCA$155
    Visitor Visa
    (Single or Multiple Entry)
    CA$100

     

    Cost of Tuition

    Tuition fees in Canada depend upon several factors, like the reputation of the university and the level of education you are seeking.

     

    Average Costs for Canadian Citizens Studying in Canada (CAD)

    Undergraduate Degree$6,463 per year
    Bachelor’s Degree$7,056 per year

     

    Average Costs for International Students Studying in Canada

    Undergraduate Degree$29,714 per year
    Engineering & Medicine$21,717 per year
    Dentistry$14,162 per year
    Business & Management$6,827 per year
    Postgraduate Courses$17,744 per year
    Executive MBA Program$56,328 per year
    Regular MBA Program$27,397 per year

    What is the Processing Time for Student Visa Visa?

    Your Canada Student Visa can take up to a maximum of 45 business days as per new guidelines issued under the SDS program.

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    Zingo Immigration ensures a seamless visa journey, from profile evaluation to post-visa services. If you’re unsure about filing an AIPP application, reach out to them for immediate assistance1. Don’t wait—start your visa application today!

    Other Important FAQs

    There is a rise in rejection with an increase in the number of student visa applications. On average, about 39% of total study permit visas are rejected each year. Several factors influence the steep rise in Canadian student visa rejection.
    There are a multitude of opportunities for international students to apply for permanent residency after studying in Canada. Spearheaded by the Federal Express Entry system, there is a wide network of immigration programs offering citizenship Canada : The Atlantic Immigration Pilot has a specific stream for international graduates. With three streams at different levels of graduates, Ontario, the largest province in Canada leads the way among the provincial nominee programs. When the PR candidate has an advanced level knowledge of French, Quebec’s international graduate stream will not require a job offer. Specific international graduate streams are also available for Manitoba, Saskatchewan, British Columbia, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland. PR provision for international graduates is available under the Alberta Opportunity Stream. Other provinces are offering a window of up to three years to hold a post graduation work permit for gaining the required work experience to qualify for Canadian permanent residence.
    Most common reasons for rejection of Canada Student Visa include – Financial insufficiency for studying in Canada. The chosen study program fails to align with the applicant’s academic or employment background. Issues with the applicant’s Letter of Acceptance from the Canadian institution Non-native, English-speaking international students failing to submit the required proof of language proficiency when required Lack of supporting evidence in your travel history or identity documents Lack of intent to return to the home country as the study permit is a temporary visa Lack of job opportunities in the home country is another indication that the applicant is intending to settle in Canada. The choice of your study program should not cast such doubts.
    You must abide by these while studying in Canada : Ensure progress with your study program. Respect all conditions listed on your study permit. Stop studying when you no longer meet the requirements. Prepare to leave Canada at the expiry of your study permit.
    Prospective international students can study either French or English as a second language in Canada. The programs are of good quality, as can be seen on the Languages Canada website. This organization provides a quality assessment of the language schools across Canada and offers lists of approved programs and members.
    The immigration officer examining an application for a study permit renewal has the right to request proof that the applicant has met the requirements of the original study permit. This may manifest as a letter from the institution clarifying that the student has been actively pursuing his or her studies.A second Letter of Acceptance is not generally required for the renewal of a study permit.
    As an international student in Canada, you can work for 20 hours every week during session, and full-time on breaks.
    To be eligible for off-campus work during their studies, international students must meet the following criteria: Students must hold a valid study permit. They should be studying full-time at a designated learning institution (DLI). You can find a comprehensive DLI list on our dedicated page. Additionally, students must maintain satisfactory academic standing as determined by their institution. The academic, vocational, or professional training program they are enrolled in must be at least six months long and lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate. Finally, students need to have a Social Insurance Number (SIN). Remember that if an international student’s situation changes and they no longer meet these eligibility requirements, they must stop working off-campus.
    Sometimes a student who is no longer studying full-time may be able to continue working off-campus if he/she is now studying part-time because it is the last semester of his or her study program and a full-time course schedule is no longer required to complete the program of study.
    Students enrolled in an English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) program; Students taking a general interest course or program; and Visiting or exchange students at a designated learning institution
    Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) considers a student’s full-time status based on the number of hours and credits allocated towards the completion of a degree.
    If a student gets a job working for an employer based on campus, it is considered on-campus work. An on-campus employer includes the school, a faculty member, a student organization, a private business (located within the boundaries of the campus), a private contractor that provides services to the school, and being self-employed on-campus.
    International students pursuing a study program at a DLI in Canada that requires a mandatory work placement or internship can apply for a co-op or intern work permit in addition to a valid study permit. Learn more about Co-op Work Permits in Canada.
    Once the international student graduates, a Post-Graduation Work Permit may be obtained.
    In some cases, spouses or common-law partners of international students studying full-time may be eligible for an open work permit. Visit our dedicated page for information on the advantages of an open work permit.
    In some cases, spouses or common-law partners of international students studying full-time may be eligible for an open work permit. Visit our dedicated page for information on the advantages of an open work permit.
    Main Types of Accommodation: Student Residence , Off-campus shared apartment, Host family/homestay, Apartment rentals