1. Choosing the Right Academic Program in Canada for You
Before embarking on your journey to study in Canada, it’s crucial to start by selecting the ideal academic program for you. Often underestimated, this initial step holds immense importance as it lays the foundation for your entire educational and professional experience in Canada.
First and foremost, carefully evaluate your interests and career goals. Opting for a program that aligns with your passions and long-term aspirations significantly increases your chances of success and personal fulfillment. However, there are additional critical factors to consider.
Ensure that the educational institution you choose is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) recognized by the Canadian government. This designation is essential for international students, as it guarantees a quality education and makes you eligible for a Canadian study permit.
Moreover, if your goal is to stay in Canada and gain valuable work experience after graduation, it’s essential to verify whether the program you select is eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This permit allows you to work in Canada for a specified period after completing your studies, providing a unique opportunity to gain international work experience.
To summarize, choosing the right program, confirming the institution’s recognition, and ensuring PGWP eligibility will set you on the path to a successful study experience in Canada. Remember, it’s not just about obtaining an acceptance letter; it’s about making informed decisions that will shape your future in Canada and beyond.
2. Prepare Study Permit Application
When submitting your study permit application for Canada, you will need to provide the following documentation in addition to any country-specific requirements:
Letter of Acceptance (LOA): After being accepted into a Canadian Designated Learning Institution, you will receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA). Include this in your study permit application. The acceptance letter must contain specific information; while most schools are familiar with the requirements, you can verify your letter’s contents by comparing it to the sample letter of acceptance provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL): This document is issued by the province or territory where you plan to study. It confirms the educational institution’s recognition and program approval. Typically, your learning institution will guide you through obtaining this document.
Proof of Financial Support: You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and any accompanying family members during your first year in Canada. This includes proof that you can cover your tuition fees as well as your living expenses (accommodations, food, etc.).
Proof of Identity: You and any accompanying family members must have a valid passport or travel document. Online applicants should upload a copy of their passport’s information page, and if approved, submit the original passport. (Citizens of the United States have specific identification options.) Additionally, two recent passport-size photos with names and birthdates on the back are required.
Other Documents:
- Letter of Explanation: This letter explains your reasons for studying in Canada and your understanding of your responsibilities as a student. It is required even if your program doesn’t mandate a study permit.
- Medical Exam: A medical exam is mandatory if you plan to stay over 6 months, have recently visited specific countries, or intend to work in roles that safeguard public health. Check if you need one based on your circumstances.
- Custodian Declaration (Minor Children): If a minor requires a custodian, include the Custodianship Declaration form, with both pages notarized. The custodian in Canada signs the first page, while the child’s parents or legal guardians sign the second.
- Re-entry Permit (if applicable): Obtain this if your passport issuer requires it. Ensure compliance with any other specific document requests based on your situation.
- Refer to local visa office instructions and comply with any additional requirements. Ensure you have proof of immigration status if not in your home country during the application.
Collect these documents in advance, as processing times may vary, and avoid unnecessary travel to gather them.
Note: If you are applying to attend a school in the province of Quebec, you must obtain a certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) before submitting a study permit application.
- Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ): Necessary for studying in Quebec for over 6 months. Obtain an attestation of issuance from the Government of Quebec with guidance from your school. This is not required for shorter programs in Quebec.
3. Submit Study Permit Application
Once you’ve thoroughly checked that you have included all the required documents for your study permit application, you are ready to submit it.
Submit your application through the online web portal. If you are unable to apply online due to a disability or technical issues with the online application, you can submit a paper-based application to your designated visa application centre (VAC).
Processing times can vary significantly from one country to another, ranging from a few weeks to several months, so be sure to plan ahead.
4. Travel to Canada
If you are living outside of Canada and your application is approved, you will receive a Letter of Introduction and a travel visa (if required for your country of citizenship). These documents will authorize you to travel to a Canadian Port of Entry (POE) to obtain your study permit. Your study permit will not be mailed to you; you can only pick it up when you arrive at a Canadian POE and speak to a border official.
If you are living inside Canada and your application is approved, your study permit will be mailed to you.
The document allowing international students to study in Canada is called a study permit rather than a study visa. The term ‘visa’ refers to a document that allows you to enter Canada, while a ‘permit’ allows you to participate in specific activities, such as working or studying.
5. Maintain your status
If your study permit is approved and you enter Canada as an international student, you must meet the following requirements to maintain legal status in Canada:
- Always remain enrolled at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- Make progress toward completing your program.
- Adhere to any conditions listed on your study permit.
- Stop studying if you no longer meet the requirements.
- Leave Canada when your permit expires.
If you’re ready to start your adventure by finding a program of study in Canada, complete our free student assessment and one of our experts will contact you to discuss study programs that interest you.
