Canada | CrossBorders

Canada Study Visa : Apply In 6 Simple Steps

Applying for a study visa in Canada is not an easy task. It involves several steps and the process can be very time-consuming.

Key Highlights

What is a Canadian Study Visa?
Intakes in Canadian Universities
Top Universities in Canada
Eligibility & Documentation Process
Application Procedure
Costs Involved
Other FAQs

A lot of students who apply for this visa end up frustrated because they are unable to complete their application on time, or even worse, they don’t get approved at all. Luckily, we have simplified the entire process by creating a step-by-step guide that will help you through every stage of your application.

What is a Canada Study Visa?

A Canada study visa allows you to travel to and study in Canada. This visa also allows you to work part-time to bear your expenses and qualify for student facilities.

According to The Times Higher Education’s World University Rankings 2022, Canada is home to 30 of the world’s top 500 universities. The number of international students opting to study in Canada keeps growing every year. A sizable number of these students stay back in Canada after finishing their studies.

Canada’s universities and community colleges provide some of the best international study programs alongside the best research facilities for foreign students. Canada should be at the top of your list if you are planning to study abroad.

Intakes in Canadian Universities

The fall, winter, and summer are the three academic intakes at the institutions in Canada.

Fall – Lasts from September to December.
Winter – Lasts from January to April.
Summer – Lasts from May to August.

Top Universities in Canada

What are the available Study Programs?

Certificate or Diploma of one or two years of duration
Advanced Diplomas of two or three years
Undergraduate Programs of three or four years
Postgraduate Programs of two years
Doctorates or PhDs of four or five years with a dissertation

The most popular undergraduate courses are engineering and administrative studies. Postgraduate courses that are popular among international students are management, finance, MBA/MIM, MS, and LLB degrees.

What are the different type of universities in Canada?

The higher education system in Canada is no different from the American education system. There are three main types of Canadian institutions for education:

Public Universities: Besides receiving tuition fees from students, these universities are run by the provincial, territorial, or federal governments.
Private Universities: These universities do not receive any funds from Canadian government bodies. These universities receive funds through donations and research grants.
Liberal Arts Colleges: Public or private colleges are smaller in number in Canada than in the USA. Their primary emphasis is on undergraduate programs in liberal arts.

Some colleges offer a winter intake. Fall is the primary intake season for most institutions. International students should follow a typical application deadline, which would be 6 to 9 months before the start of the session.

Deadlines are usually not flexible except for diploma and PG diploma courses. Some institutions accept students for bachelor and masters degree courses past the given deadline, if seats are available.

Which Canadian universities can I apply to without IELTS?

University of Winnipeg: It is compulsory here to produce proof of the English language. This university does not consider IELTS to be essential. You can avail of other alternatives in the university itself.
Brock University: IELTS is not required to get enrolled in this university. Other alternatives like TOEFL and IELP (Intensive English Language Program) are also valid. Your last three years of study in English with decent grades are also valid here.
University of Saskatchewan: Apart from IELTS and TOEFL, this university also accepts CanTest. This is a Canadian Test of English for scholars and trainees from other countries. This university’s English Language Training program is also a good option.
Memorial University of Newfoundland & Labrador: This is one of the top-ranked universities in Canada. You can attend the CAEL or the ELP (English Language Program) classes here or attempt IELTS, TOEFL, or CanTest.
Cambrian College: It is well-known for its broad focus on research and employment. IELTS and TOEFL are not required for admission. International students can continue their studies with other universities in Canada.

Eligibility for a Canada Study Visa

The eligibility criteria for obtaining a Canadian study permit are listed below.

You are enrolled at a designated learning institution in Canada.
You can have enough money to pay for tuition fees, and living expenses, for yourself and your family, and pay for return transportation for yourself and your family to your home country.
You obey the law, have no criminal record, and can obtain a police certificate if required.
You are in good health and are willing to undergo a medical examination if required.
You can prove to the visa officer that you will leave Canada on the expiry of your study permit.

Do I have to get a study permit?

It is important to note that a study permit is not the same as a study visa. Here are some scenarios where a foreign national will not require a study permit for education in Canada.

Short Term Studies

When your study program or course lasts 6 months or less.
When your studies are not a part of any longer study program.
When you complete all studies within the time frame approved.

You will however have to obtain a study permit even if the course is less than 6 months long if you are taking a prerequisite course. You may otherwise have to apply for a study permit before you begin the full study program.

What are some conditions for the exemption of a study permit?

Other conditions for exemption of study permit for your education in Canada:

You are related to the staff of Foreign Representatives: Foreign representatives are accredited by GAC (Global Affairs Canada). Your embassy will have to contact GAC to find out if you require a study permit to study in Canada.
You are a member of Foreign Armed Forces: Members of foreign armed forces on official duties will not require a study permit in Canada. However, family members, including minor children will need one for studying here.
You are a Registered Indian in Canada: If you are a citizen of another country but have a Registered Indian status in Canada, you will not require a study permit for studying there.
Minor Indian Children in Canada: Minor children whose parents are refugees, refugee claimants, or parents having work or study permits will not require a separate study permit while seeking admission into preschool, kindergarten, primary or secondary school.

Documentation Required for a Canadian Student Visa

The following documents are required:

Proof of acceptance
Proof of identity
Proof of financial support
Statement of Purpose
A custodian declaration (for minors)

Documents must be scanned and uploaded. Later, you need to carry the original documents to your visa interview, if you are called for one. It is important to make sure the documents are valid and in order. We can help you with this.

What are the scholarship requirements in Canada?

You will need to prepare well for meeting Canadian scholarship requirements. This is difficult and requires lengthy preparation, but the right approach can be fruitful.

Research Experience: This is crucial for graduate program applicants. It greatly enhances your chances of obtaining financial aid, even if you are applying for undergraduate programs.
Grade Point Average (GPA): This is another important aspect of getting a scholarship for graduate or undergraduate programs in Canada. Colleges and universities here consider a key metric for measuring the success of potential students.
Internships: Internship experience greatly enhances the success of your scholarship application. Ask for letters of recommendation from your previous employers, especially if your work is related to the field of study.
Community Service: This is another aspect of your scholarship application that can make it shine. Students with community service hours are looked up to as caring and considerate

How do I obtain a study permit for fall 2023?

International students have to submit the following documents for the first stage:

letter of acceptance;
Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (for Quebec students only);
proof of funds;
proof that they can leave Canada when they no longer have legal temporary or permanent status; and
any family ties to Canada.

International students can begin studying after immigration officers assess their applications and issue pre-approval when eligible.

International students will need to submit the following documents to go to Canada:

Immigration medical examination
Security-Police certificates
Biometrics

How do I obtain a study permit for the next academic year (COVID-19 Update)?

As of January 15, 2022, all international students and their dependents, with limited exceptions, must be fully vaccinated to enter Canada.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently determined that international students can start their studies online in their home country and not travel to Canada. But even to start studying online in their home country, students still need a valid visa and fee payment.

To get a study permit in Canada, you must first go to a designated study institution. After acceptance, you can proceed with the application for the study permit online. In addition to the application, you will need to submit certain documents and meet all the Canada Government requirements.

Application Process for Canada Study Visa

Step1: Research to know what’s best for you

Step 2: Shortlist the best Universities in Canada

Step 3: Prepare for entrance exams

Step 4: Finance your studies

Step 5: Apply to the university

Step 6: Letter of Acceptance to a Canadian Designated Learning Institution

Step 7: Get your Student Visa

Related FAQs

Can I get a scholarship to Canadian Universities?

There are some basic steps you can undertake to avail a scholarship in Canada. Universities giving generous scholarships to international students in Canada are aplenty.

However, you will need a great application to be able to get fully-funded scholarships in Canada. A variety of sources can help you find these scholarships

Can I get a scholarship to Canadian Universities?

There are some basic steps you can undertake to avail a scholarship in Canada. Universities giving generous scholarships to international students in Canada are aplenty.

How do I choose where to apply?

Choosing where to apply is the next logical step in the process of applying. Narrowing down the best option can be daunting.Apart from your area of study, consider these factors while choosing the right college or Canadian university:

Primary Language of the College: English and French are common languages in Canada. Some colleges use one or both as their main language.
Type of College: Choose an institute, college, or university that is the right kind for you. This is an important point in your education.
Type of Degree: This will depend upon what you are planning to pursue. It can be an associate's, bachelor's, master's or Ph.Ds.
Location: Research the area surrounding your educational facility. Is it an urban, suburban, or rural location, and does that suit you?
Size of College: Are you comfortable in a large or small campus? Do you prefer small seminars or big lectures? Decide where you are most comfortable.
The reputation of the University: Spend time researching the reputation of the college. Job placement rates of graduates from the college or university depend on this.
Quality of Resources & Facilities: Check out the availability and quality of technical equipment, including the labs and libraries that are in the institution.
Opportunities for Work Experience: Does the college run a cooperative program to add to your experience?
Fees & Financial Assistance: Does the institution offer you grants or scholarships to help? Studying abroad can be expensive.
Faculty & Staff: Research the faculty and staff associated with your study program. There may be someone in particular that you would like to study with.
Recreational Activities: Check out the availability of sports, clubs, or a newspaper, if it interests you. Extracurricular activities can be useful.
Accommodation for Special Needs: This is particularly important for international students, if you have physical or learning disabilities.

Can I apply for a Canada Student Visa without IELTS?

Yes, you can study in Canada without IELTS. This English skill test is not required in 2023. There are several Canadian institutions offering study programs without IELTS. They adopt different measures to check your language capability. These universities accept other forms of English language credentials apart from IELTS.

What are some alternatives to enrolling without IELTS?

Produce a letter of recommendation from your previous faculties about your English proficiency.
Qualify if you have studied in an English-medium school for four or more than four years.
If you have attended a university’s language school for a semester or 12 months.
Natives of English-speaking nations are also exempted.

What conditions may be listed on my study permit?

The following conditions depending on your case may be listed on your study permit –

Whether you are allowed to work in Canada while studying.
If you are allowed to travel within Canada during the study.
The last date of your education in Canada.

How can I get exempted from having to provide a Letter of Acceptance?

If a foreign national receives written approval for a temporary work or study permit before entering Canada, his or her family members may apply for a study permit without a Letter of Acceptance.
Students who wish to pursue a study program of six months or less do not need to obtain a Letter of Acceptance because they do not require a study permit.

Can I get a study permit for multiple DLIs?

If an applicant is applying to a study program offered by more than one institution, the Letter of Acceptance should state this clearly. Both institutions must be DLIs. The Letter of Acceptance should be issued by the concerned DLI. If the degree is issued by more than one DLI, the Letter of Acceptance should be issued by the DLI where the student intends to begin his or her study program. In this situation, the Letter of Acceptance should clearly state:

The name, type, and location of the other institution;
The course(s) the potential student intends to pursue at a different institution; and/or
The semester(s) that the potential student intends to spend at a different institution.

Can I reapply if my visa is rejected?

Canadian student visa applicants can reapply after being rejected. Evaluate why the earlier application was rejected and ensure that the same mistake is not repeated again. Your Canada Student Visa can take up to a maximum of 45 business days as per new guidelines issued under the SDS program.

Costs Involved for a Canadian Student Visa

Cost of Living:

The Canadian student visa requirements state that you must have $10,000 CAD or above to study in Canada and $11,000 CAD in Quebec, on top of tuition fees.

Living costs in Canada depend on your spending habits and location. Living in large cities is generally more expensive.

Cost of Application:

Application Fees for a Canadian Student Visa

Cost of Tuition:

Tuition fees in Canada depend upon several factors, like the reputation of the university and the level of education you are seeking.

Average Costs for Canadian Citizens Studying in Canada (CAD)

Feel free to customize the list to reflect what is most important to you. Some of these factors may be more valid to you than others.

Can I study in Canada for free?

While there are no colleges or universities in Canada that are tuition-free, you can cover the costs of tuition, room, and board by receiving a fully-funded scholarship. A scholarship is the best way to study in Canada for free.

What are some important aspects of your scholarship application?

Search for Fully Funded Scholarships: This is an essential aspect if you want to study in Canada for free. Your consultant is an expert who can be immensely helpful in finding the right source.
Apply for Scholarships to Study for Free: You increase your chances if you apply to several universities. Complete the applications carefully and attach the required documents along with them.
Attend Affordable Universities to Cut Down Tuition Costs: Although helpful, this aspect alone will not be able to fully cover the cost of studying in Canada. However, there are universities here that provide a great education at affordable costs.
Work in Canada while Studying: Working is another way in Canada to finance your studies. Your Canada study visa allows you to work for 20 hours a week during the academic semester and 40 hours a week during vacations.
Find Work Online: You can also find work online as a freelancer or start an online business. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr are great sources where you can earn money while studying in Canada.

Processing Time for a Canadian Student Visa

Your Canada Student Visa can take up to a maximum of 45 business days as per new guidelines issued under the SDS program.

Why Choose Us?

Cross Borders Overseas Consultancy is the best immigration consultant in India. Don’t take our word for it, we have the numbers to prove it. Served 10K+ customers and over 4K+ active cases.

Visit Visa: Travel for leisure or business to any part of the world with Us.
Study Visa: Study in Globally-recognized Universities!
Work Visa: Work & settle in the World’s Best Cities!
Immigration: We are your one-stop solution for all your visa and immigration needs
Permanent Residence: Become a Permanent Resident and enjoy special benefits.

Customized services:

Profile Evaluation: Based on your unique profile history, we make matches with the visa eligibility requirements, and advise you with the visas you must apply for.
Resume Writing: We guide you to create a resume that stands out as desired by the concerned immigration authority.
Procuring documents: Help you arrange documents needed before applying for a visa.
Professional guidance: Be it providing you with interview training, French/English courses or working samples for resumes, cover letters or assisting with application forms, medical or police clearance certificates - we will always be there for you.
Dedicated Case-Officer: We offer personal assistance and a single point-of-contact between the company and you, throughout the process
Post-Landing Services: We help you settle down in the country after you’ve received your visa. These services are specifically customized as per your requirements.

You can expect a one-stop solution for all your visa needs from profile evaluation, documentation, and application drafting to post-visa services with Cross Borders Overseas Consultancy. If you are confused about filing the AIPP application, you can contact us immediately. We will be pleased to help you in any way we can.

Don’t wait. Begin your visa application today!

Other Important FAQs

Is it Difficult to Get a Canada Student Visa?

There is a rise in rejection with an increase in the number of student visa applications. On average, about 39% of total study permit visas are rejected each year. Several factors influence the steep rise in Canadian student visa rejection.

Is it easy to get Canadian PR after my studies are completed?

There are a multitude of opportunities for international students to apply for permanent residency after studying in Canada. Spearheaded by the Federal Express Entry system, there is a wide network of immigration programs offering citizenship in Canada:

The Atlantic Immigration Pilot has a specific stream for international graduates.
With three streams at different levels of graduates, Ontario, the largest province in Canada leads the way among the provincial nominee programs.
When the PR candidate has an advanced level of knowledge of French, Quebec’s international graduate stream will not require a job offer.
Specific international graduate streams are also available for Manitoba, Saskatchewan, British Columbia, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland.
PR provision for international graduates is available under the Alberta Opportunity Stream.

Other provinces are offering a window of up to three years to hold a post-graduation work permit for gaining the required work experience to qualify for Canadian permanent residence.

Why is my Canada Student Visa rejected?

The most common reasons for the rejection of a Canada Student Visa include –

Financial insufficiency for studying in Canada.
The chosen study program fails to align with the applicant’s academic or employment background.
Issues with the applicant’s Letter of Acceptance from the Canadian institution
Non-native, English-speaking international students failing to submit the required proof of language proficiency when required
Lack of supporting evidence in your travel history or identity documents
Lack of intent to return to the home country as the study permit is a temporary visa
Lack of job opportunities in the home country is another indication that the applicant is intending to settle in Canada. The choice of your study program should not cast such doubts.

What are my responsibilities while studying in Canada?

You must abide by these while studying in Canada:

Ensure progress with your study program.
Respect all conditions listed on your study permit.
Stop studying when you no longer meet the requirements.
Prepare to leave Canada at the expiry of your study permit.

Are there good language schools in Canada for foreign students with English and French as their second language?

Prospective international students can study either French or English as a second language in Canada. The programs are of good quality, as can be seen on the Languages Canada website. This organization provides a quality assessment of the language schools across Canada and offers lists of approved programs and members.

8. What are the eligibility requirements for working on campus?

In order to be eligible to work off-campus during his or her studies, an international student must:

hold a valid study permit;
be studying full-time at a (Visit our dedicated page for a comprehensive Designated Learning Institution (DLI) List);
have satisfactory academic standing as determined by their institution;
be studying in an academic, vocational or professional training program that is at least six months in duration and leads to a degree, diploma or certificate
have a Social Insurance Number (SIN).

If an international student’s situation changes and he or she no longer meets any of the above eligibility requirements, he or she must stop working off-campus.

9. Do I have to stop working if I change my course?

Sometimes a student who is no longer studying full-time may be able to continue working off-campus if he/she is now studying part-time because it is the last semester of his or her study program and a full-time course schedule is no longer required to complete the program of study.

10. Who is not allowed to work off-campus?

Students enrolled in English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) program;
Students taking a general interest course or program; and
Visiting or exchange students at a designated learning institution

11. How does the IRCC determine course completion?

Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) considers a student’s full-time status based on the number of hours and credits allocated towards the completion of a degree.

12. What is on-campus work?

If a student gets a job working for an employer based on campus, it is considered on-campus work.

An on-campus employer includes the school, a faculty member, a student organization, a private business (located within the boundaries of the campus), a private contractor that provides services to the school, and being self-employed on-campus.

13. When can I work as a co-op or intern?

International students pursuing a study program at a DLI in Canada that requires a mandatory work placement or internship can apply for a co-op or intern work permit in addition to a valid study permit.

Learn more about Co-op Work Permits in Canada.

14. What is a Post-Graduate Work Permit?

Once the international student graduates, a Post-Graduation Work Permit may be obtained.

15. Who is eligible for an open work permit?

In some cases, spouses or common-law partners of international students studying full-time may be eligible for an open work permit. Visit our dedicated page for information on the advantages of an open work permit.

16. What are the types of immigration categories for International student Immigrants?

If you have any questions about applying for Canadian permanent residence, please contact us.

17. What are the accommodation options available for international students in Canada?

Main Types of Accommodation:

Student Residence
Off-campus shared apartment
Host family/homestay
Apartment rentals

Cross Borders Overseas Consultancy is NOT a RECRUITMENT / PLACEMENT AGENCY, We neither assist in any kind of Job / employment offers nor do guarantee any kind of domestic/International placements.