It is important to apply for a study permit immediately upon receiving the letter of acceptance. Study permit processing times vary, and applicants may see delays during busy times — particularly during the summer months.
In order to be eligible to submit an application for a Canadian study permit, a prospective student must:
- Obtain a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution in order to submit an application for a study permit
- Prove that he or she has sufficient financial support to cover the first year of tuition, as well as living expenses and return transportation to his or her home country
- Obtain a Certificat d’acceptation du Quebec (Quebec Acceptance Certificate, or CAQ) if he or she wishes to study in Montreal or elsewhere in the Province of Quebec
- Have clean record. Applicants with a criminal background, or who pose a risk to Canadian security, may be refused. IRCC may request an applicant to supply a police clearance certificate
- Be in good health. IRCC may request an applicant to complete a medical examination; and,
Satisfy the immigration officer that he or she will leave Canada at the end of the stay authorized by the study permit - The applicant may also be required to submit the following supporting documents:
Passport for the applicant and every family member included on the application;
Two passport photos for the applicant and each family member included on the application, with the full name and date of birth written on the back;
Photocopy of marriage certificate, if applicable; and,
Any further documents required by specific visa offices.
Applicants for a Canadian study permit are required to prove they have enough money to cover the first year of tuition fees. They also need to have the financial resources to support themselves, and any accompanying family members, each year.
Financial resources may be proven with the following information:
- Canadian bank account statements in the applicant’s name, if money has been transferred to Canada
- Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating financial institution
- Proof of a student or educational loan from a financial institution
- The applicant’s bank statements from the past four months
- A bank draft in convertible currency
- Proof of payment of tuition and accommodation fees
- A letter from the person or institution providing you with money; and/or
- Proof of a scholarship or funding paid from within Canada
- Family or friends of the applicant may also submit letters confirming that they will support the applicant during his or her studies.