Canada is a great place for international students. Its universities have excellent programs, and its student communities are active and multicultural. If you want to study in Canada, you’ll need a Canadian study permit.
While some applicants may be able to apply for a study permit from within Canada, most will need to do so before travelling there. Today, we walk you through each of the crucial steps in the Canadian student visa application process so that you can get it right the first time.
Here’s everything you need to know about getting your application off to a good start, including information on fees, exemptions, and the criteria for Canadian student visas for international applicants.
Canada Study Visa Eligibility Requirements
- Letter of acceptance to a university: You need a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institute or DLI. Your chosen Canadian institution must have received authorization from its province or territory, and that authorization must be on the list of approved COVID-19 plans.
- Confirmation of funds: You must prove that you have enough money to cover your tuition costs and living expenses while you study in Canada, as well as the return travel costs for you and a family member who joins you in Canada.
- No criminal record: To prove that you are a law-abiding citizen, you will need to have a clean criminal record. To prove that they do not pose a threat to Canadian security, the candidates must submit a police certification.
- Medical certificate: You must be in good health and not pose a threat to Canadians. You must provide a current medical certificate signed by an accredited physician at least one week before you start your visa application.
- Language proficiency results: IELTS result sheet with a band of 6.5 overall, and 6 in all four skills areas for postgraduate programs, as well as a score band of 6 in all four skills areas for undergraduate courses.
- Statement of Purpose: A strong SOP can help you improve your chances of being accepted.
Step-by-step guide to applying for a Canada visa
Step 1: Complete and submit a college or university application.
To begin the Canadian study visa application process, applicants must first gain admission acceptance or an offer letter from an accredited educational institution. In Canada, there are several colleges and institutions that provide students with a variety of degrees and study options.
Step 2: Pay the university fees
After receiving an offer letter, you will pay your college or university fees. You can use an international wire transfer to pay these fees. A receipt will be sent to you once your institution has received and processed the payment. The receipt must be saved because it will be needed when you submit your visa application.
Step 3: Invest in GIC
It is a student’s next step to purchase a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC). This investment plan is mandatory for all international students who wish to study in Canada, as it provides funds to cover living expenses during the first year of study. The plan has a $10,200 value, which can be purchased at any participating bank. Administrative fees are deducted by the bank, which averages $200 but might vary from bank to bank. Upon arrival in Canada, students will be given $2,000; the remaining $8,000 is given out in 12 equal payments for living expenses.
Step 4: Get yourself medically examined
You must now undergo a medical examination by a physician licensed by the Canadian government. You will receive a receipt for this examination, but the results will be sent directly to Citizenship and Immigration Canada. This receipt will be provided when you submit your application.
Step 5: Submitting a visa application
The next step is to submit an application for a student visa to Canada, as well as any additional required documents.
Step 6: Apply for a visa.
When your application is approved, the Canadian government will send you a letter asking for your passport. It can be delivered in person or by VFS. After that, you will receive a temporary resident visa and a letter of introduction.
