Canada, with its high-quality education system, attracts over 130,000 international students annually. Beyond academia, the country offers diverse opportunities and a rich cultural experience, with a focus on research, scientific publications, and international collaborations.
Apply at a Canadian university and receive your admission letter
If you're undecided about where to study in Canada, you must finalize this decision before initiating your Canadian Student Visa application. Upon receiving admission to a Canadian university, the crucial admission letter required for the visa application process will be issued.
Recommended Canadian universities include:
- Brock University
- Seneca College
- University of Regina
- Wilfrid Laurier University
- Mount Allison University
Check if you need to apply for a Canadian Student Visa
Use the official Canadian study permit tool to determine whether you need a study visa or permit. Conditions exempting you from a study visa include being a family or staff member of a recognized foreign representative in Canada, enrolling in a program lasting less than six months, being a member of foreign armed forces, or possessing Indian status recorded in Canada.
Note that the study permit/visa is distinct from a regular visa required for entry into Canada; a travel visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is necessary.
Start your application for the Canadian student visa
Once you have the admission letter, proceed to apply for the student visa, domestically known as a study permit. Key steps include:
- Online application on the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) website before arriving in Canada.
- Mailing visa application credentials if online submission is impractical.
- Submission of the admission letter from a government-accredited learning institution.
- Proof of sufficient financial resources for tuition fees and living expenses.
- Evidence of a clean criminal record.
- Submission of clinical records to verify good health.
Under recent visa regulations, if a family member is applying for a work permit in Canada, study permit applications are processed within two weeks. Renewals or extensions are possible if continuing studies, changing universities, or extending the program.
Prepare all required documents for the Canadian Student Visa:
- Filled-in student permit application form.
- Original admission letter from the university.
- Valid passport/travel document.
- Two recent passport-size photographs.
- Evidence of financial assistance (10,000 to 11,000 CAD per year).
- Letter of intent.
- Additional requirements for studying in Quebec.
Language requirements for studying in Canada
While evidence of English language aptitude is not mandatory for the Canadian student visa, Canadian universities may require it unless you come from an English-speaking nation. Accepted language tests include IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and C1 Advanced.
Biometrics appointment and interview
Depending on your nationality, a visit to a Visa Application Centre for biometrics may be necessary, with a separate fee. Some countries are exempt from this requirement. An interview, with a potential fee, may also be part of the process based on individual circumstances.
For the latest information on the Canadian student visa, consult the official student visa page of the Canadian government.