Study in Canada
Canada is a top destination for international students. With high-quality educational institutions, a diverse and vibrant culture, a reputation for safety, and a welcoming atmosphere, Canada attracts students worldwide.
Canada’s education system is globally respected, with universities consistently ranked among the best. Students can enjoy a multicultural environment and inclusive community, fostering cross-cultural understanding.
The educational landscape in Canada comprises universities, colleges, and vocational schools, each catering to different academic and professional needs. This diversity allows students to choose institutions aligned with their aspirations. Academic programs tend to be rigorous and engaging, spanning various programs and degrees.
When selecting an institution to attend in Canada, prospective students should consider how their career goals and interests align with faculty expertise, internship opportunities, and campus facilities at different schools. Consulting educational counselors and professors will help make a well-informed decision about where to apply.
Why Choose Canada for Your Studies?
There are many advantages to studying in Canada, the top one being the country’s commitment to high-quality education. Canadian universities and schools consistently rank in the top of the international lists. International students can access cutting-edge research, innovative teaching methods, and a world-class faculty. Students receive a well-rounded and thorough education, preparing them for successful careers or further degree programs.
International students can also benefit from Canada’s rich cultural diversity. Canada promotes and welcomes students and faculty from around the world. This multicultural approach offers students a rich learning experience and fosters a global perspective. Beyond the classroom, students can engage in many cultural activities on and off campus.
Canada also offers excellent employment opportunities for international students during and after their studies. Students can work part-time during their studies and full-time during scheduled breaks. Post-graduation permits allow new graduates to explore career opportunities in Canada after completing their studies. This encourages new talent to settle in the country and offers international students a chance to join Canada on a more long-term basis.
Application Process for International Students
The application process for Canadian international students is designed to make it as seamless as possible for them to obtain their student permit. There are several critical steps applicants must take to ensure their application is processed correctly. First, prospective student must select the best secondary or post-secondary academic institution for them based on their academic and career objectives.
Next, applicants must gather the required documents, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume or CV, a statement of purpose, and proof of English language proficiency, usually with IELTS or TOEFL scores. Some additional documents may be required depending on the program and the institution. Each institution will have admissions criteria for GPA requirements, standardized test scores, and program prerequisites.
Prospective students should submit their applications for study according to the admission requirements of their preferred institution. Application deadlines typically range from December to March for the upcoming academic year but will vary depending on the institution.
Once the application is submitted, students can proceed with their study permit application process. Some institutions may require an interview or further documentation, such as a high school diploma or additional references.
What is the Canada Study Permit?
To study in Canada, most international students must obtain a study permit. Study permits allow foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. Legal residents from some countries can obtain their study permits by applying through the Student Direct Stream. This is a streamlined channel for obtaining a study permit.
Study permits are not visas and do not permit the holder to enter Canada. Depending on the applicant’s nationality, they may also need to apply for and obtain a visitor visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA). In most cases, if the applicant’s study permit is approved, a visa or eTA will be issued with it.
Most international students must apply for their study permits before traveling to Canada for their study program. However, some students may be eligible to apply for their permit from within Canada or at the port of entry.
Eligibility Criteria for the Study Permit
International students applying for a Canada study permit must meet the eligibility criteria. They must be enrolled at a DLI and have sufficient financial means to pay tuition fees. They must also be able to cover the living expenses and return transportation for themselves and any accompanying family members.
Students must obey all Canadian laws while residing there and have a clean criminal record from their home country. This can be proven through a police certificate or background check. They should be healthy and present a medical exam during the application process.
To avoid overstaying their visas, international students must prove to immigration officers that they will leave Canada before their study permit expires.
While studying in Canada, international students should do their best to complete their program and respect the conditions of their study permit. Conditions might include employment permissions, travel permissions, the date of expiry, and the DLI where the applicant can study. Students who wish to study at a different institution must change the listed DLI in their Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) online account.
Required Documents for Study Permit Application
All international students must provide the required documents for their study permit application. Required documents will vary depending on the applicant’s nationality. However, there are some documents that nearly all applicants must provide.
The following documents are the general required documents for most international student applicants:
The applicant’s preferred DLI must provide a letter of acceptance into the study program. Applicants must include the original or an electronic copy of the letter in their study permit application.
- Starting December 1, 2023, post-secondary students applying from outside Canada must have their DLI confirm the validity of their acceptance letter. If the DLI does not reply within the time allotted, the application will be returned, and the processing fee will be refunded. Students must confirm with their school that they will validate the application before resubmitting.
- Family members of someone with a study permit or work permit in Canada do not need to provide a letter of acceptance.
Students who have been conditionally accepted may need to take prerequisite courses. These courses must be completed before the student can start their study course. A study permit will be issued, including the length of these courses plus one (1) year. Once accepted into the main program, students must apply for a new student permit to extend their stay.
The applicant and any dependents traveling with them must have a valid passport or travel document. Applicants applying online will upload a copy to the IRCC portal. If the application is approved, they must send the original passport.
- Permanent residents of the United States must travel to Canada with a valid green card (or another official proof of status) and a valid passport from their country of origin.
Applicants must provide two recent passport-sized photos and write their name and date of birth on the back of each one.
Applicants must prove they can financially support themselves and any dependents who travel with them. They can provide one of the following documents:
- A Canadian bank account in their name
- A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a Canadian financial institution
- Proof of a student or education loan from a bank
- Your bank statements for the past four (4) months
- A bank draft that can be converted to Canadian dollars
- Proof of tuition and housing fee payments
- A letter from the person or institution lending the applicant money
- Proof of funding from within Canada (i.e. a scholarship or a Canadian-funded educational program)
- Minimum funds
This letter should explain the applicant’s reason for studying in Canada and that they understand your responsibilities as a student.
This should be provided by the Government of Quebec for students who want to study for longer than six (6) months in Quebec.
Students will likely need a medical exam if they plan to study in Canada for more than six (6) months, have recently spent time in certain countries, or plan to work in a job where public health must be protected.
If the international student is a minor who requires a custodian, they must include the Custodianship Declaration form with their application. It has two pages that must be notarized and included in the study permit application. The custodian in Canada must sign the first page, and the second page must be signed by the parents or legal guardians of the minor.
Other documents may be required depending on the applicant’s nationality and the visa office in their country of residence. Students applying from a country that isn’t their country of residence may be required to prove their immigration status in that country. They must also ensure their immigration documents, especially re-entry permits, are valid before applying for a Canadian visa.
** International students applying for a study permit on or after December 1, 2023, must be aware of the new version of the study permit application form. Students applying through an IRCC secure account must use the new version to submit their study permit application. Applications submitted on or after December 1, 2023, that use the old version of the form will not be accepted.
How to Apply for a Study Permit
Some international students may be eligible to apply through the Student Direct Stream. All other students can take the following steps to apply online through their IRCC secure online portal. Only individuals with specific exemptions, such as having a disability or holding an identity document for non-national residents, refugees, or stateless persons, preventing online application, can apply on paper.
Applicants can take the following steps to complete their application online:
1
Prepare to apply
- Before applying online, students must have a scanner or camera to create electronic copies of their required application documents. They must also have a valid credit or debit card.
- Students must select the country or territory they are applying from to ensure they have the correct local visa office instructions.
2
Answer the questions
After answering the online questions, students will receive a personalized document checklist. This will be necessary for their application process.
3
Pay the fees
Applicants must pay all fees, including processing fees, biometrics fees, and third-party fees, including medical exams, police certificates, language testing, and any visa application center services.
4
Create an account and sign in
All students need an account to complete their application online. They will use this account to pay their fees, submit their application, and check the status of their application while it’s being processed. Applications can be tracked using a unique client identifier (UCI) and an application number.
5
Secure a visa or eTA
Applicants who need an entry permit or eTA will receive it automatically if their application if it’s approved.
6
Provide biometrics
Students must book their biometrics collection appointment on time to avoid processing delays.
7
Await a decision
Applicants must wait for their study permit application to be processed. The typical processing time is 10 weeks. If the application is incomplete, the IRCC may return it without processing it or request missing documents. This may lead to delays. Applicants may be asked to give an interview in their home country.
If the application is approved, the international student applicant will be sent their study permit and a visa or eTA, if needed. After receiving their study permit and securing all immigration documents, students can proceed with their travel plans to Canada.
Studying in Canada as a Minor
For minors below 18, Canada offers a safe and enriching environment to attend school or university. The IRCC has implemented systems to ensure the well-being and legal standing of minor students so they can enjoy the best of Canada’s multicultural and vibrant educational institutions.
Minor students must meet specific eligibility criteria to study in Canada. They must also make arrangements for guardianship or custodianship. These crucial decisions will determine who is responsible for their care and decision-making while away from their parents in Canada.
The application process for minors seeking a Canada study permit is very similar to the regular process. The major difference is that minors must have a parent or legal guardian complete the application on their behalf. The parent or guardian must address questions related to guardianship, accommodation, and support.
Once they arrive at their DLI in Canada, minors will find a supportive educational system that makes it easy to adapt to school life. With the aid of various resources, minors can navigate their new academic environment. These resources address language barriers, cultural adjustments, and social integration. Minor students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities, fostering personal growth and a sense of community for minor students in Canada.
Working While on a Study Permit
International are permitted to work while studying in Canada. This allows them to remain financially secure while pursuing their studies. International students can only begin working when their study program commences. Students with a valid study permit and specific on-campus work conditions can work without needing a separate work permit. This includes full-time post-secondary students at public or private institutions, with programs lasting 900 hours or more, and those at private schools authorized to grant degrees. Part-time course load is permitted in the final semester without limitations on on-campus work hours.
Working on campus is restricted in certain situations, such as when not studying full-time, on leave, or when switching schools. The definition of “on-campus” encompasses all buildings of the school campus, and work at other locations is permitted under certain conditions, like research-related activities. Social insurance numbers (SINs) are necessary for employment, and conditions on the study permit dictate the eligibility for on-campus work. There are no hourly limits for on-campus work as long as eligibility requirements are maintained.
For off-campus work, international students must meet specific criteria, such as being a full-time student at a designated learning institution, being enrolled in an eligible program, and having an SIN. Part-time students may also be eligible under certain conditions. Off-campus work is subject to hourly restrictions. During scheduled breaks, students may work full-time, and special provisions allow more than 20 hours per week for specific periods. Self-employed students must also adhere to these conditions.
To work off campus without a work permit, students need specific conditions on their study permit. Changes to study conditions can be requested, and working after completing a study program is possible with a work permit or during a new study program, meeting specified requirements. Remote work for foreign employers is allowed without impacting the weekly off-campus work limit, provided study permit conditions are met.
Living in Canada as an International Student
The Canadian educational atmosphere is highly welcoming toward international students. However, there is always an adjustment period for students. To ease this transition, students are encouraged to engage with local communities and fellow international students. Participating in cultural exchange programs, joining student clubs, and attending community events can foster cross-cultural understanding and create a supportive network.
Students can participate in the orientation programs organized by their university or school. These programs offer valuable insight into campus life and academic expectations. Building relationships with Canadian peers, attending campus events, and exploring local traditions contribute to a more seamless integration into the local culture and educational environment.
Canadian secondary and post-secondary academic institutions offer support services to ensure international students make the most of their experience. These services include language support, academic counseling, and mental health services.
Students in Canada can choose from various housing options, including on-campus dormitories, homestays with local families, and off-campus housing. Each option has its advantages, with on-campus living offering convenience, homestays providing cultural immersion, and off-campus housing offering greater independence.
Finally, students could understand the expected cost of living in Canada and plan their financials accordingly. Living expenses cover accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses. These fees will vary depending on the student’s situation and lifestyle.
Outside of Quebec, international students will probably require around CAN$10,000 per month, which is CAN $833 per month. The IRCC estimates it will cost around $4000 per year for each additional family member. Within Quebec, the estimated yearly funds required, not including tuition, are CAN$13,134 per year for someone above 18, and CAN$6,569 per year for a minor under 18.
To alleviate some financial burden, international students can apply for scholarships and part-time work opportunities. Creating a realistic budget and managing expenses efficiently are key aspects of successful financial planning for all students in Canada.
Opportunities for Work After Graduation in Canada
International students in Canada will have numerous opportunities for post-graduation work permits, employment prospects, and potential pathways to permanent residency. The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program stands out as one of the top initiatives, allowing eligible graduates to work in Canada for up to three years after obtaining their degrees.
This program provides valuable work experience and serves as a stepping stone toward permanent residency. Gaining Canadian work experience enhances the employability of graduates and contributes to their overall integration into the Canadian workforce. Many provinces and territories offer Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) that facilitate the transition from temporary to permanent status, providing additional pathways for those seeking long-term settlement in Canada.
To be eligible for PGWP, students must have graduated from a designated learning institution and completed a program of study that lasted at least eight (8) months. They must submit the required documents and fees. The PGWP not only allows graduates to work but also facilitates networking and career growth. Acquiring Canadian work experience can enhance the student’s career prospects, and for many graduates, it helps to streamline the permanent residency process.
Students are encouraged to leverage job search resources, networking events, and career support services offered by educational institutions and community organizations to maximize their opportunities in the Canadian job market.
Pathways to Permanent Residency
The Canadian government provides favorable immigration policies for international students, recognizing the valuable contributions they make to the country. Graduates from Canadian institutions may be eligible to apply for various immigration programs, facilitating a smoother transition from student life to becoming permanent residents.
Studying in Canada provides a strategic pathway for international students to explore opportunities for permanent residency, reflecting the country’s welcoming approach towards skilled and educated individuals. The Canadian government recognizes the value that international students bring to its economy and communities and has established various immigration programs to facilitate their transition from temporary residents to permanent residents.
One prominent avenue is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, allowing eligible graduates to gain valuable Canadian work experience. This experience becomes a significant asset when applying for permanent residency through programs such as the Express Entry system, where points are awarded for factors like age, education, language proficiency, and Canadian work experience.
Moreover, many provinces and territories in Canada have their own Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), offering additional routes to permanent residency for international students. These programs are designed to address regional labor market needs, and nomination by a province or territory can significantly enhance an individual’s chances of obtaining permanent residency. The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is another immigration stream that favors candidates with Canadian work experience, providing another avenue for former international students to secure permanent residency.
FAQ
Yes, you can bring your family with you while studying in Canada. The Canadian government allows spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children to accompany international students. They may apply for a work or study permit to join you during your studies in Canada.
If your international student visa application is refused, you will receive a letter from IRCC explaining why. Common reasons for an application to be denied are not having a valid letter of acceptance, not having enough money to support yourself in Canada, not passing the medical exam, not being able to convince the visa officer of your intention to come to Canada only to study, or not being able to convince the visa officer that you will leave at the end of your study period. You can contact the visa office that sent you the refusal letter with additional questions.
Yes, international students in Canada can work during their studies both on and off-campus, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria. On-campus work is generally unrestricted for full-time students, while off-campus work may require a work permit under certain conditions.
To obtain a Social Insurance Number (SIN), international students must have conditions on their study permit that authorize employment. These conditions should be specified on the initial study permit, and if not, students can request an amendment. After obtaining the necessary conditions, they can apply for a SIN through Service Canada.