Last Updated on October 14, 2023
Canada is a popular destination for international students who are seeking a world-class education in a welcoming and diverse environment. With a reputation for academic excellence, safety, and multiculturalism, Canada is the top choice for many students from all over the world.
Studying in Canada as an international student opens up a world of opportunities, from accessing world-renowned universities and colleges to experiencing the country’s stunning natural beauty and vibrant cities. Canada’s commitment to quality education is reflected in its diverse range of programs, including degrees, diplomas, and certificates in various fields. Moreover, international students can benefit from various funding opportunities, making education more affordable and accessible. In this blog, we will delve into the reasons why studying in Canada is an excellent choice for international students and what they can expect from this life-changing experience.
Why Study in Canada?
A lot of compelling reasons exist for why international students might decide to study in Canada, yes. Some of the main causes are as follows:.
High-Quality Education: Canada is home to some of the top-ranked universities in the world, which are renowned for their high standards of instruction and opportunities for research. Many of these universities provide a wide variety of courses and degree programs to meet the needs and interests of students from various backgrounds.
Affordable Education: Studying in Canada may be less expensive than in other well-known study abroad locations like the US and the UK. International students may qualify for scholarships or other forms of financial aid, and tuition and living expenses in Canada are typically lower than in many other nations.
Multicultural Society: The society in Canada is open to all people and is multicultural, valuing individuality and inclusivity. Since they can encounter various cultures, languages, and viewpoints while studying in Canada, this fosters a welcoming environment for international students.
Safety and Security: Canada is regarded as one of the safest and most secure nations in the world. International students looking for a safe and secure location to study will find it appealing due to its low crime rate and stable political climate.
Post-Graduation Opportunities: Canada provides numerous chances for foreign students to gain work experience and eventually immigrate there. For those looking to gain useful work experience and possibly settle in Canada, the nation offers a number of programs and pathways that enable international students to work and live there after graduation.
Overall, studying in Canada can offer foreign students a rich educational and cultural experience and may also have long-term advantages.
Top Canadian Universities to Consider
Canada is home to many excellent universities that offer world-class education and research opportunities for international students. Here are some of the top Canadian universities for international students, based on rankings and reputation:
- University of Toronto: The University of Toronto is consistently ranked as one of the top universities in Canada and the world. It has a diverse student population, including many international students, and offers a wide range of programs in various fields of study.
- University of British Columbia: The University of British Columbia is a highly-regarded research university located in Vancouver, British Columbia. It is known for its strong programs in areas such as forestry, health sciences, and engineering, and has a large and diverse international student community.
- McGill University: Located in Montreal, Quebec, McGill University is known for its excellence in research and teaching in fields such as medicine, law, and business. It has a large international student population and offers a variety of programs and services to support their academic and social success.
- University of Alberta: The University of Alberta is a top-ranked university located in Edmonton, Alberta. It has a diverse student population and offers a range of programs in fields such as engineering, business, and health sciences.
- University of Waterloo: The University of Waterloo is a well-regarded research university located in Waterloo, Ontario. It is known for its strengths in areas such as engineering, computer science, and mathematics, and has a large and diverse international student community.
- Simon Fraser University: Simon Fraser University is a highly-regarded university located in Burnaby, British Columbia. It has a strong reputation for its programs in areas such as business, communication, and criminology, and has a diverse international student community.
- York University: York University is a large and diverse university located in Toronto, Ontario. It is known for its strengths in areas such as law, business, and social sciences, and has a large international student population.
Overall, these universities offer high-quality education and research opportunities, a welcoming environment for international students, and a range of programs in various fields of study.
What is a Study Permit?
A study permit is a legal document issued by the Canadian government that enables foreign students to attend designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. This permit is a requirement for most international students, with some exceptions.
How to Get a Study Permit in Canada?
To secure a study permit, International students must submit an application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and meet a number of requirements, including proof of acceptance into a DLI, proof of financial support, and proof of medical eligibility. In some circumstances, students might also be required to submit a biometric fingerprint and photo.
The student may work part-time on campus while they are enrolled in classes thanks to the study permit, which is typically good for the duration of their program. After completing their program, students may also be qualified for a post-graduation work permit, which enables them to work in Canada for a predetermined amount of time.
For as long as they are studying in Canada, international students must maintain the validity of their study permit. They might need to leave Canada if their permit expires or is suspended, or they might experience other negative immigration effects.
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For international applicants, Canadian universities frequently have different deadlines than for domestic applicants. Make sure you are aware of the appropriate deadline for your program!
Study Permit Requirements
Obtaining a study permit requires meeting a specific set of requirements, which can be a complex and time-consuming process. It is important to have a clear understanding of these requirements before beginning the application process to ensure a smooth and successful outcome. There are two sets of requirements to consider: eligibility requirements and application requirements.
Eligibility Requirements
Acceptance Letter:
Proof of acceptance to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada is one of the main requirements for obtaining a study permit. A letter of acceptance from the DLI you intend to attend, which will include the following details, is required.
- The academic program you have been admitted to.
- The program’s duration.
- The program’s start and end dates.
- The program’s associated costs, including the tuition and other related expenses.
This letter, which must be from a DLI approved by the Canadian government to host international students, must be submitted with your application for a study permit. By checking the official website of the Canadian government, you can determine whether your institution is a DLI.
Proof of Financial Support:
In order to be granted a study permit, you must also demonstrate that you have the financial resources necessary to pay for both your education and living expenses in Canada. You must submit financial documentation, such as a bank statement or other financial records showing you have enough money to pay for the following expenses, to the government of Canada as proof of your financial stability.
- Tuition costs.
- Expenses for a livable lifestyle (including lodging, food, and transportation).
- Travel back to your country of origin.
The exact sum of money needed varies depending on your program’s length, the city you’ll be attending classes in, and other elements. To find out the minimum amount of money needed for your specific circumstance, it is advised that you visit Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) official website.
Supporting Documents:
You might also be asked to submit additional supporting documentation to show that you meet the criteria for a study permit in addition to the two requirements mentioned above. These could consist of:
- A valid passport or other travel authorization.
- Transcripts or certificates of completion of studies.
- Results from a language test.
- An official police clearance.
- A report from a physical examination.
Your country of origin and the DLI you intend to attend may have different requirements for specific documents. To make sure you have submitted all necessary paperwork on time, it is advised that you carefully go over the application checklist the IRCC has provided.
Application Requirements
Accurate and Truthful Application Forms:
It’s critical that you complete the application form completely and truthfully because it’s an integral part of the process of applying for a study permit. All questions on the forms must be answered honestly, and the forms must be filled out completely. Your application for a study permit may be rejected if you provide incomplete or inaccurate information.
Payment of Required Fees:
You must pay the necessary application fee in order to submit an application for a study permit in Canada. Your country of origin and the particulars of your application will affect the fee. On the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), you can find the most recent information regarding fees. The required paperwork must be submitted with the application along with payment of the fee.
Necessary Supporting Documents:
You must submit all required supporting documents, including but not limited to:, in order to support your study permit application.
- A passport or other travel document that is current.
- A letter of acceptance from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- Evidence of funding.
- Transcripts or diplomas from schools.
- Results of a language test.
- A certificate of police clearance.
- A certification of a medical examination.
You must make sure all necessary documents are submitted and are accurate, complete, and up to date. Your application for a study permit may be rejected if any information is incomplete or incorrect.
Additional Documents:
You might need to submit extra paperwork to support your application for a study permit in certain situations. For instance, if you have previously studied in Canada, you might be required to submit your academic records and your prior study permit. Similar to that, if you receive a job offer in Canada, you might be required to present a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from your employer. It is crucial to check the official IRCC website or speak with an experienced immigration consultant to find out if you need to submit any additional documentation.
By carefully preparing and submitting these documents, you can increase your chances of a successful outcome in the study permit application process.
Study Permit Application Process
The procedures for applying for a study permit in Canada can be complicated, but by carefully and accurately following them, you can improve your chances of success.
Determine your Eligibility:
You must ascertain your eligibility for a study permit before beginning your application. In order to qualify, you must have been accepted by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada, show that you have the resources to cover your living expenses and tuition, and meet other requirements like having a spotless criminal record.
Gather Required Documents:
The following step is to compile all the necessary paperwork for your study permit application. This typically consists of your passport, a letter of acceptance from a DLI, evidence of financial support, diplomas or transcripts from your education, the results of any language tests you took, and any other documentation needed given the circumstances of your application.
Complete the Application Form:
The study permit application must be filled out completely and accurately. It is crucial to include all the necessary information when completing the application form, which can be done both online and on paper. To make sure all of the information is accurate, you should carefully review your application form before submitting it.
Pay the Application Fee:
The necessary application fee must be paid at the time of application. The application fee can be paid online or in person at a specific financial institution.
Submit the Application:
You need to submit your application to the Canadian visa office in your home country after you’ve filled out the form, gathered all necessary paperwork, and paid the application fee. Depending on what the visa office requires, you can submit your application online or in person.
Wait for Processing:
You must wait for the Canadian visa office to process your application after you submit it. The country of application and the particulars of your application will affect the processing time. Your application number will allow you to check the status of your application online.
Provide Additional Documents (if needed):
The Canadian visa office may require additional paperwork or information as part of the application processing process. If this occurs, you should do so as soon as you can in order to prevent delays in your application’s processing.
Receive a Decision:
The Canadian visa office will inform you of its decision after processing your application. If your application is accepted, a study permit will be given to you, allowing you to pursue your studies in Canada. You will be informed of the reasons for the rejection of your application if it is denied, and you may have the option to challenge the judgment.
We Can Help Your Canada Study Permit Application!
Kindly fill out our study permit immigration assessment form and we will get back to you within the day to discuss your eligibility and options.
Getting Study Permit FAQs
We heard you that’s why Allreview.ca has compiled and answered most, if not all, of the frequently asked questions so that you don’t have to do the research yourselves.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Study Permit in Canada?
According to a number of variables, including the applicant’s home country and the time of year, the processing time for a study permit application in Canada can change. As processing times can range from a few weeks to several months, it is generally advised that students apply for their study permit as soon as possible.
According to the website of the Canadian government, the present-day anticipated processing times for requests for study permits are as follows as of February 2023.
14 weeks for applications submitted online.
21 weeks for paper applications.
It’s important to remember that these processing times are only estimates and that each individual processing time may vary depending on a variety of factors.
What Should I Do If My Study Permit Application is Refused?
A candidate may be rejected for a variety of reasons. It’s possible that they don’t have documentation proving they have the necessary funds or that they’re only staying temporarily. In order to figure out what went wrong if this occurs, it’s critical to carefully examine the application. From this point on, a person may be able to reapply and, if all problems are resolved, frequently succeed the second time around.
Can I Work While Studying in Canada With a Study Permit?
Yes, you may work part-time on or off campus while you are a student as an international student in Canada with a valid study permit. Your study permit also includes a work permit that entitles you to work up to 20 hours per week during the regular academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks like the winter and summer holidays.
Can I Bring My Family With Me to Canada on a Study Permit?
Yes, you may be able to bring your family along on a study permit if you are an international student. This will depend on your specific situation.
If you are granted a study permit, work permit, or visitor visa, your family members may be able to apply to join you in Canada. International students’ spouses or common-law partners who are enrolled in full-time studies at a designated educational institution may be qualified for an open work permit, which enables them to work for any employer in Canada without a job offer.
Can I Extend My Study Permit in Canada?
Yes, as an international student in Canada, you may be able to extend your study permit in certain situations.
You must submit an application before your current permit expires and fulfill certain requirements, such as maintaining your eligibility for a study permit and providing evidence that you are enrolled full-time at an approved educational institution in Canada.
In Conclusion
Getting a study permit in Canada is a detailed process that requires careful planning and attention to detail. Each stage of the procedure, from figuring out your eligibility to collecting the necessary paperwork and finishing the application, is crucial. Understanding the criteria and steps involved in the application process will improve your chances of obtaining a study permit and achieving your academic objectives in Canada. Remember to carefully read the instructions, and if you require assistance with the application procedure, contact a licensed immigration professional.
