How to Apply for a Study Permit in Canada in 7 Easy Steps?

Overview

There are several reasons why studying in Canada is popular. Canadian universities are globally recognized and offer world-class education in a variety of fields. Canada is known as a safe and friendly country, making it comfortable for students from different countries. The country's diverse culture contributes to this experience, allowing students to meet people from all over the world and learn from different perspectives. Canada also has beautiful natural landscapes and vibrant cities that offer a high quality of life. In this guide, we will share a Canada study visa process step by step so that students can have a smooth transition.

Importance of Understanding the Application Process for Study Permit

If you are going through the Canada student visa process, it is very important to know how to apply for a study permit.

• It's required by law: If you want to study in Canada for more than six months, you usually need a study permit. It's a legal requirement, so you have to follow the rules.

• Right timing is key: You must apply for your study permit at the right time. You need to do this well before classes start so that everything is finished on time.

• Documents are very important: You need to gather and submit the correct documents.

• Money Matters: You will need to prove that you have enough money to pay for your tuition fees, living expenses, and travel expenses back home after your studies.

• Health and Safety: Depending on where you're from and how long you'll be staying, you may need biometric data (such as fingerprints) or a medical examination.

• Visa Process: The Canada study visa process includes familiarizing yourself with the visa application and may require an interview and additional paperwork.

• Academic Impact: If you do not receive your study permit correctly, it could delay the start of your studies or prevent you from entering Canada.

Study Permit Application in Canada: 7 Steps

Step 1: Get into a Canadian University

• First, you need to apply and be admitted to a Canadian university that accepts international students. To Study in Canada, you must first apply and be accepted by a Canadian university. This approval is very important before you can apply for a student visa. 

• The university you choose must be recognized by the government as a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) that allows international students to study. 

• If you haven't decided on a program yet, you can use Study Portals to find the right program for you. Simply select your degree type (e.g. Bachelor's or Master's), enter your field of study and then enter "Canada" to search. 

• The validity period of your student visa depends on the information in your acceptance letter. If you received a conditional offer that requires additional courses before starting your main program, your visa will cover this period plus one year. You will then need to apply for a new visa if necessary. Ask your Canada Education Consultants in Delhi to guide you through the university selection process. 

Step 2: Find out if you need a study permit

• Canada has agreements with some countries that exempt students from the need for a study permit. If you're not sure if you need one, you can fill out a short questionnaire to find out. In general, you don't need a Canadian study permit if: 

• Your study program is six months or less.

• You are a family member or employee of a foreign representative accredited by Global Affairs Canada (GAC).

• You are a member of a foreign armed forces on official duty in Canada.

• You have registered your status as an Indian in Canada.

• You are a temporary resident and an asylum seeker attending a French language and culture course in Quebec.

Step 3: Gather your documents

• Before you apply online for a Canadian study permit, make sure you have all the required documents. 

• Letter of Admission: This is an official document from your Designated Learning Institution (DLI) confirming your acceptance for admission into the program.

• Proof of Identity: A valid passport or travel document and two recent passport photos.

• Financial Proof: You need to prove that you have enough money to support yourself financially while studying in Canada. This will cover your tuition fees and living expenses, or at least 10,000 Canadian dollars per year.

• Letter of Explanation: This document explains why you want to study in Canada and confirms that you have a clear understanding of the responsibilities of international students.

• Certificate of Admission of Quebec (CAQ): If you want to study in Quebec, you will need this certificate in addition to your admission letter.

• Declaration of Guardianship: If you are under 17 years of age, this declaration confirms that you have a Canadian guardian while you are studying in Canada.

• Study Permit Fee Receipt: You need this document to prove payment of the CAD 150 fee required to process your study permit application. Having these documents ready in advance will make the online application process smoother and more efficient.

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Step 4: Start your application

• Once you have all the required documents, you can start your online application for a Canadian study permit. Read the instructions: Make sure you understand the application process by reading the Canadian government instructions.

• Create an online account: Create an account on the official Canadian immigration website. This account will be used to pay fees, submit your application and check the status of your application.

• Fill out the form: Enter your details like name, address, work history, educational background etc. in the online form.

• Upload required documents: Upload scanned copies of all required documents including an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), proof of identity, proof of funds, statement of reasons and any other documents requested.

• Pay the Fee: At the end of your application, you will need to pay the study permit fee of 150 Canadian dollars. Please make sure to complete this step to complete your application.

• Check your application status: Please monitor your application status regularly for updates or further enquiries from the immigration authorities. 

Step 5: Biometrics and Medical Check

• Providing biometric data and medical examination: If you are applying from outside Canada and have not provided biometric data before, you will need to visit an official visa application centre and provide your fingerprints and photograph. There is a biometric fee of CAD 85 in addition to the study permit fee.

• Some applicants may be exempt from the requirement to collect biometric data. You can determine if you are required to provide biometric information by completing a questionnaire on the official website. Residents of certain countries may also be required to undergo a medical examination by a licensed physician.

• Check the Government of Canada website to see if this applies to you. Following these steps carefully and correctly will ensure a smooth processing of your Canadian study permit application.

Step 6: Apply early

• It is important to submit your study permit application early, as it can take up to 13 weeks for the Canadian government to process your study permit application. To avoid last-minute stress, start the process 4-6 months before your intended departure date. 

• Processing times vary depending on several factors, including whether you apply online or using a paper form, whether you have submitted all the required documents, and how quickly authorities can verify your information and respond to your inquiries.

• For those who prefer a faster response time, there is the Student Direct Stream (SDS). If you are from countries such as Brazil, China, India, or Vietnam, you can opt for the SDS. However, you will need to meet additional requirements, such as Proof of guaranteed investment of 10,000 Canadian dollars and proof of language proficiency with an IELTS score of at least 6.0 in each skill. Applications through SDS usually take around 20 calendar days.

Step 7: Demonstrate your English skills

• If you are from a non-English speaking country and wish to study in Canada, you must prove your English language skills. If you apply for a study permit through the normal procedure, you do not need to prove your English language proficiency. However, Canadian universities require proof of knowledge.

• If you have previously completed a degree in an English-speaking country, you may be exempt from this requirement. If you need to prove your English language skills, you must provide evidence of a recognised language test.

• Each university and program sets its minimum scores for tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced, CAEL, etc. It is important to consider the specific requirements of your program before deciding to take the test.

Sum Up

If you are applying for a visa it can be a difficult process for a Canada study visa. Canada has a strong economy, so students often find good employment opportunities after graduation. In addition, many graduates can stay and work in Canada for some time after completing their studies. Overall, these aspects make Canada a great option for international students looking for a rewarding education and future career prospects. However, following these seven steps will help ensure that you have all the necessary documents and information to complete your application.