If you’re interested in studying in Canada one of the first things you’ll need is a Canadian study permit. Canada is a fantastic country for international students, with plenty of world-class institutions and vibrant, multi-national student communities.
Whilst some people can apply for a study permit from within Canada, you’ll probably have to do this before you arrive in the country.
There are several key stages in the Canadian student visa process you’ll need to get right. From the important Canadian student visa information for international requirements to fees and exemptions, we provide everything you need to get your application off to the best possible start.
The Canadian immigration authorities issue study permits to eligible international students, which allows them to study in Canada.
A study permit is not a visa and you will need a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorisation to enter the country. The visa authorities will provide either the visitor visa or electronic authorisation once your study permit is authorised.
While holding a study permit, you can stay for the duration of your course plus an additional 90 days. In addition, you can prepare to leave the country or extend your stay during these extra days.
Looking to study in Canada? Explore top universities and get free expert guidance with EdvoyThe average study permit processing fee is CAD 150. The fee for the biometric and any additional third-party tests like medical tests are added in addition to the primary processing fee.
It is advisable to apply for your permit to study in Canada as soon as you receive your course offer.
Generally, things run smoothly if you are prepared and organise your documentation before starting your application. But, sometimes there can be delays, and it can even take up to 3 months to obtain your study permit.
By starting the application early, you can give yourself time to overcome any issues that might come up during the process. To help you prepare everything you need to complete the permit application process, we provide a step-by-step guide below.
If you haven’t already, the first step when applying for a Canadian study permit is confirming your acceptance at a Canadian university.
Firstly, you will need a firm acceptance, alongside an acceptance letter, to begin your Canadian student visa application. Below, we list some of the most popular universities in Canada for international students.
Generally, most students need a Canadian student visa for their time in the country. However, there are a few allowances. These exemptions are for the following reasons.
If you need to double-check your permit requirements to enter Canada, use the official government tool to find out whether you need a study permit.
Once you’ve finalised your university application you can get started on your permit application.
In Canada, student visas are known as “study permits”. The permit doesn’t allow you to enter Canada. As well as your permit, you’ll also need a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorisation.
Firstly, you should start your online application straight after being accepted to your course. All permit applications are completed through the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website.
Before you start your application process, make sure you have all of the following documents. Failure to provide information for any of this documentation can slow down the process.
Currently, the Canadian student visa application fee is 150 Canadian Dollars. However, you might have to pay additional fees for medical exams, biometrics data collection and language tests, such as TOEFL, PTE Academic and IELTS Academic.
Also, don’t forget to pay any further tuition fees for your institution. Make sure to include all these fees when assessing your budget.
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As part of the Canadian student visa application process, it’s important to understand the requirements and responsibilities of international students. These are essential for maintaining your study permit and may form part of the interview process.
Here are some of the important requirements to remember whilst studying in Canada.
Once you’ve filled in your online application form and submitted the associated documents, you are likely to book an appointment at a Canadian visa application centre in your country.
Here, you will have your biometrics data taken. This includes things like fingerprints and official photos. Presently, the standard biometrics fee is 85 Canadian dollars. This is not included in the regular Canadian student visa fee of $150.
As part of this process, you might also have an interview with a Canadian immigration official. However, this is nothing to worry about. Student visa interviews take place to show you are a genuine student. The interview also helps you to demonstrate your responsibilities in the country.
Before the interview make sure you practice and prepare. Go through your application to recollect the information you entered. Ask your family members to give you a mock test or try talking in front of the mirror.
Be calm and confident on the day of the interview. Remember to dress professionally, be early and answer all the questions clearly.
The Canadian student visa process can take up to 90 days. As a result, make sure you give yourself plenty of time when applying.
If you are a resident of certain countries, you can speed up your application through the Student Direct Stream. This usually takes around 20 days and is open to students from several countries including Brazil, China, India, Morocco, Pakistan, the Philippines and Vietnam.
Further eligibility information and how to apply for a Canadian student visa are available on the Canadian government’s website.
Once your Canadian student visa is approved, you will receive confirmation via the online portal. But, if you’ve applied from outside Canada, you’ll be sent a “port of entry letter of introduction”. This shows that you are allowed to study in the country. On arrival in Canada, you will show this to border services, alongside your visitor visa or electronic travel authorisation.
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Before, during and after your application, keep checking that you have the following documents available. These are essential for your application process to run smoothly and to help you gain entry to study in Canada.
If you have all of these documents to hand, the application process is easier and quicker so you can focus more on your dream course.