A Guide for Studying in Canada
Last year Canada hit an all-time record by welcoming 450,000 international students. The country’s high-quality education, safety, security and multiculturalism are proving to be attractive for individuals looking to study abroad.
Another reason people might find Canada a great place to study is the fact that it allows international students to work during their studies, and become eligible for a Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
With the PGWP, students have an opportunity to gain Canadian work experience, which can significantly improve their odds of gaining permanent residence in the future.
So, how can you study in Canada? Here are the steps you should follow:
1. Figure out where you want to study.
Canada has many high-quality schools, so it is important to research and find programs that match your interests and goals. You can also consult with the IRCC website to find a designated learning institution (DLI). If your school of choice is on the list, the government has authorized it to welcome international students.
If you plan to apply for a PGWP after graduating, ensure that the program and DLI are visa-eligible.
2. Apply and get the Letter of Acceptance
Once you have applied and have been accepted by a Canadian designated learning institution, you will receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA). That letter must be submitted to the IRCC, along with your study permit application.
3. Apply for a Study Permit
You can submit the application on your own, or you can hire a Canadian immigration lawyer to prepare everything on your behalf.
The IRCC will ask for a list of documents to accompany your study permit application:
- Letter of Acceptance;
- Proof of financial support to cover your tuition and living expenses in Canada;
- Police certificates;
- Medical exams; and
- Letter of explanation detailing your career objectives and ties to your home country.
If you are from an eligible country, you can apply via the Student Direct Stream. The processing standard for these applications is around 20 days but comes with some conditions. To submit your online application you must have a minimum score of 6.0 on each skill and have a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) with a Canadian bank for $10,000 CAD.
Students from the following countries are eligible to apply for the Student Direct Stream:
- India;
- China;
- The Philippines;
- Pakistan;
- Vietnam;
- Morocco;
- Senegal;
- Brazil;
- Colombia;
- Peru;
- Antigua and Barbuda;
- Costa Rica;
- Trinidad and Tobago; and
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
After graduation and one year of Canadian work experience, you are eligible to apply for permanent residency.
