1. Choose a Program: Your program choice is one of the most important factors of your study permit application. You must present a strong case for studying in Canada in this particular program. We make program recommendations based on your work experience and education history. This will give you the best possible chance of submitting a successful application.

2. Apply to the School: After deciding on a program, we will help you prepare and submit your application. You need to have a letter of acceptance from a Canadian designated learning institution (DLI) before you can apply for a study permit.

3. Apply for a Study Permit: With your acceptance letter in hand, you’ll be ready to apply for your study permit. We will help you to prepare and submit your application to Canadian immigration.

International Student Document Checklist

Certain documents are necessary for the application process. Below is a list of documents that may be requested of you.

Acceptance Letter: A letter sent by the school confirming your acceptance into your program of study.

Proof of Financial Support: Proof that you have money to support yourself and any family members coming with you. You must show that you can cover your tuition fees as well as your cost of living (accommodation, food, etc.) for your first year in Canada.

Identity documents: Birth certificate, marriage certificate and passport.

What is a Canadian Study Permit?

A Canadian study permit is the document that allows you to study at a school in Canada. 

Once you have been accepted to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), you can apply for a Canadian study permit.

1. Check your eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements for a Canadian study permit. You will need:

• an acceptance letter from a DLI,
• proof of financial support,
• supporting documents (varies depending on your countries of citizenship and residence)

2. Prepare your application: If you meet all eligibility requirements then you can start to prepare your study permit application. Make sure that you have gathered all documents required for your country. If you don’t show that you meet the requirements, an immigration officer may reject your application. It is a good idea to have a qualified immigration representative review your application before you submit it.

3. Submit your study permit application: You have two options when submitting your application:

• Submit an electronic application: Create an account on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. You can submit an application electronically using scanned or electronic copies of documents.
• Submit a paper-based application: Gather hard copies of your documents and mail them to the Visa Application Centre (VAC) assigned to your country.

4. If your study permit is approved, come to Canada! You do not receive your Canadian study permit until you arrive at a Canadian Port of Entry (POE). If your permit is approved, the Canadian government will issue you a Port of Entry Introduction Letter. You must show this letter to the immigration official when you arrive in Canada to get your study permit.

How Long Does it Take to Apply for a Canadian Study Permit?

Processing times for study permits vary greatly. The amount of time it takes depends on your country of residence.

The shortest processing time is 1-2 weeks, but some applicants can expect to wait as long as 16 weeks. Processing times depend on the volume of applications received. If you’re applying close to the beginning of Canada’s academic year you may experience delays.

What Are the Conditions of a Canadian Study Permit?

There are certain terms and conditions attached to a Canadian study permit. You must respect these conditions in order to retain all the benefits of your study experience.

• You must be enrolled at a designated learning institution (DLI)
• You must be enrolled as a part-time student, or a full-time student if studying in Quebec
• You must not take any authorized leaves longer than 150 days from your program of study