Canada is one of the popular study abroad destinations known for its excellent education system. According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Canada’s international student population grew by 13% in 2019 alone. So, if you are planning to study in Canada, you may have questions like what are the eligibility criteria, what documents to arrange, and more. Let’s find out answers to these questions together!

What is a Canadian student visa?

A Canadian student visa, also known as a Canadian study permit, allows you to study in Canada. This is issued by Canadian immigration authorities.

Eligibility Criteria

• A valid passport
• You should have an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institute (DLI). DLI is any educational institution that is recognized by Immigration Department
• You are expected to take care of education-related expenses like tuition fees. Hence, you will have to prove the same by producing supporting documents like proof of funds
• You will have to provide the necessary health certificates

Documents that you need to get a visa

1. Valid Passport

You are not needed to have a study permit if the course duration is less than six months. However, the courses that last more than six months will require a study permit, and a valid passport is a must to get a study permit. So, your passport should cover the total duration of your study program.

2. Acceptance letter from DLI

You will have to produce an acceptance letter that states that you have secured admission from your university.

3. Medical documents

If you are applying for a Canadian visa, you are expected to take an Immigration Medical Examination (IME). The impaneled doctor will have to validate the documents, and this may take some time. So, it is advised to have the documents ready before applying for a visa to avoid the last-minute rush. Therefore, it is best to book an appointment with the impaneled doctor in advance.

4. Proof of Funds

Students studying abroad have to produce proof of funds which the financial institutions generally issue. When you opt for an education loan for abroad studies, you can easily get proof of funds from the same provider.

5. Photographs

You will require recent passport size photographs. The size of the photographs should be 35mm x 45mm.

Other important things to remember:

Student Direct Stream

Students from India and a few more countries will now be able to apply through Student Direct Stream, a fast-track route to get a study permit. However, it requires you to meet a score of 6 in the IELTS exam. So, what if you don’t qualify under this fast-track mode? Do not worry; your application will be considered for a regular study permit, and it just won’t be expedited.

In the case of the regular mode, English proficiency tests are not mandatory. Still, it is best to have the scores ready because most Canadian universities require you to submit your English proficiency test scores of exams such as IELTS, TOEFL and PTE.

If you are all geared up to study in Canada but feel overwhelmed due to the education cost, we are here to help you. Be it tuition fees, airfare or any other expense, we, at Avanse, cover all education-related expenses. All the best for your academic journey!

Disclaimer: The information shared in this article is for general information purpose only. Nothing contained in this article amounts to any specific or legal advice. For the latest update, please visit the country website or contact your visa consultant.