To study in Canada for more than six months, international students need a study permit (often referred to as a student visa). Here’s what you need to know:
✅ 1. Letter of Acceptance
You must have an official letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
- Must be printed on the institution’s letterhead
- Include program details, tuition fees, and start and end dates
✅ 2. Proof of Funds
You need to show that you can financially support yourself (and any accompanying family) during your stay.
Minimum financial requirement (as of 2024–2025):
- Tuition fees (as per your DLI)
- CAD $20,635 per year for living expenses outside Quebec (for a single applicant)
- CAD $15,078 per year if studying in Quebec
Accepted financial proofs:
- Bank statements (past 4–6 months)
- Education loan from a recognized financial institution
- Proof of paid tuition and accommodation fees
- Canadian bank account (if funds have been transferred)
- Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) – mandatory under Student Direct Stream (SDS)
✅ 3. Valid Passport
Your passport should be valid for the entire duration of your intended stay in Canada.
✅ 4. Passport-Sized Photos
You’ll need two recent passport-sized photos meeting Canadian visa photo specifications.
✅ 5. Immigration Medical Exam (IME)
You may be required to undergo a medical examination by an approved panel physician, especially if:
- You’re from a designated country/territory
- Your course duration is more than 6 months
- You plan to work in healthcare, childcare, etc.
✅ 6. English/French Language Proficiency
Most institutions require proof of language proficiency, but it’s not mandatory for the visa application itself unless applying via SDS.
Common tests:
- IELTS (Minimum 6.0 overall, no band less than 6.0)
- TOEFL
- PTE Academic
✅ 7. Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Explain:
- Why you want to study in Canada
- Your educational goals
- Your plan after graduation
- How the program aligns with your background
✅ 8. Police Clearance Certificate
You may be asked to provide a police certificate to prove that you have no criminal record.
✅ 9. Visa Application Forms & Fees
Required forms:
- IMM 1294 – Application for Study Permit
- Family Information Form (IMM 5645)
- Schedule 1 (if applicable)
Application fee: CAD $150
Biometrics fee (if required): CAD $85
✅ 10. Biometrics Appointment
You’ll be required to provide your fingerprints and photo at a visa application center (VAC).
Optional: Student Direct Stream (SDS)
Faster visa processing (20 days or less) for students from select countries (e.g., India, China, Philippines). Requirements include:
- IELTS score of 6.0 or higher in each band
- Proof of full tuition payment for the first year
- GIC of CAD $10,000 or more
- Upfront medical exam and biometrics
Processing Time
- Regular Study Permit: 4–10 weeks depending on your country
- SDS: ~20 calendar days (after biometrics)
After Approval
You’ll receive:
- Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction
- eTA or Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) (if applicable)
Present these at the Canadian border to get your study permit issued.