Study in Canada - Canada Study Programs
Applying to study in Canada as an international student involves several steps. First, you will need to apply and be accepted into a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. Once accepted, you can apply for a study permit, which allows you to stay in Canada for the duration of your study program. To apply for a study permit, you will need to provide proof of acceptance from a DLI, proof of identity, and proof of financial support.
If you need to extend your study permit, you can do so before it expires by applying online through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. You will need to provide updated documents, such as a letter of enrollment from your school and proof of financial support for the extension period.
While studying in Canada, you may be eligible to work part-time during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as the summer holidays. To work while studying, you will need to apply for a work permit. Most study permits allow you to work off-campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic session and full-time during scheduled breaks.
After you graduate from your study program in Canada, you may be eligible to apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP), which allows you to stay and work in Canada for up to three years after graduation. To be eligible for a PGWP, you must have completed a program of study at a DLI that was at least eight months long and have graduated from a program that led to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
Overall, studying in Canada as an international student offers many opportunities, including the ability to work part-time while studying and the option to stay and work in Canada after graduation. It's important to familiarize yourself with the requirements and application processes for study permits, work permits, and post-graduation work permits to make the most of your study experience in Canada.
Note :
You need a provincial attestation letter to apply for a study permit
New eligibility requirements for open work permits
Updated application form for study permit extensions
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Sign in to your study permit account
Find a school (designated learning institution)
Get a post-graduation work permit
Information for Canadian schools
Find out if you need a study permit
To determine if you need a study permit to study in Canada, you can answer a few questions related to your situation:
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1. Are you a temporary resident or visitor in Canada? If you are in Canada on a temporary basis, such as a visitor or a worker, you may be able to study without a study permit if your course or program is less than six months in duration.
2. Is your study program longer than six months? If your study program is longer than six months, you will likely need a study permit to study in Canada.
3. Are you enrolled in a designated learning institution (DLI)? To be eligible for a study permit, you must be enrolled in a DLI, which is a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students.
4. Do you have proof of acceptance from a DLI? To apply for a study permit, you will need to provide proof of acceptance from a DLI. This could be a letter of acceptance or an official enrollment letter.
5. Do you have enough money to cover your tuition fees and living expenses? To study in Canada, you must have enough money to cover your tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation.
If you answered yes to questions 2, 3, and 4, and you are not exempt from needing a study permit, you will need to apply for a study permit to study in Canada. You can apply for a study permit online or through a visa application center (VAC) in your country. It's important to apply for your study permit well in advance of your intended start date to allow for processing time.
Choosing a school, college or university
When considering studying in Canada, it's important to understand the different kinds of schools available to international students. Canada offers a wide range of educational institutions, including universities, colleges, technical institutes, and language schools. Each type of institution offers different programs and courses, so it's important to research and find the one that best suits your educational and career goals.
When to apply for study programs in Canada can vary depending on the institution and program you are interested in. Generally, it's a good idea to start the application process well in advance of the program start date, as some programs may have limited space and fill up quickly. Most institutions have specific application deadlines, so be sure to check the requirements and deadlines for each program you are interested in.
In addition to applying to a designated learning institution (DLI), there are other requirements you may need to fulfill to study in Canada. These may include obtaining a study permit, providing proof of financial support, demonstrating proficiency in English or French, and undergoing a medical exam. It's important to carefully review and fulfill all requirements to ensure a smooth application process and successful enrollment in your chosen program.
Get a study permit
To study in Canada, international students must meet certain eligibility criteria. Generally, you must have been accepted into a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada, prove that you have enough money to pay for your tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation, and have a clean criminal record.
To apply for a study permit, you will need to provide a letter of acceptance from a DLI, proof of financial support, and proof of identity. You may also need to provide a medical exam certificate, depending on your country of residence.
Processing times for study permit applications vary depending on the country and time of year, so it's important to apply well in advance of your intended start date. You can check the current processing times on the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
Once you arrive in Canada, you can expect to be greeted by a welcoming and diverse community. Many institutions offer orientation programs for international students to help them adjust to life in Canada. You may also have access to support services, such as housing assistance, academic advising, and counseling services. Overall, studying in Canada can be a rewarding experience, offering high-quality education and a multicultural environment.
Get a study permit faster
If you are a legal resident in certain countries, you may be eligible to benefit from the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program, which aims to expedite the processing of study permit applications for students who meet specific criteria. To be eligible for the SDS program, you must be a legal resident of one of the following countries: China, India, the Philippines, Vietnam, Pakistan, Senegal, Morocco, or Antigua and Barbuda.
To apply through the SDS program, you must meet additional requirements, including providing proof of language proficiency in English or French, obtaining a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of $10,000, and undergoing a medical exam before submitting your application.
The benefit of applying through the SDS program is that processing times are typically faster compared to regular study permit applications. This allows you to receive a decision on your application more quickly, enabling you to plan your study in Canada more effectively.
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It's important to note that meeting the eligibility requirements for the SDS program does not guarantee approval of your study permit application. You must still meet all the regular requirements for a study permit, including providing proof of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada and demonstrating that you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay.
Study in Canada as a minor child
For a minor child who is not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident to study in Canada, several requirements must be met. First, the child must have a valid study permit to study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. The child's parent or guardian must apply for the study permit on their behalf.
To apply for a study permit for a minor child, the parent or guardian must provide a letter of acceptance from a DLI, proof of financial support, and proof of identity for the child. The parent or guardian may also need to provide a custodianship declaration if the child is under the age of majority in the province or territory where they plan to study.
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In addition to the study permit, the child may also need a temporary resident visa (TRV) or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) to enter Canada, depending on their country of citizenship. It's important to check the specific requirements for the child's country of citizenship before applying for a study permit.
Once the study permit is approved, the child can study at the designated learning institution specified in the application. It's important to note that minor children studying in Canada must also comply with any other requirements, such as attending school regularly and maintaining satisfactory academic progress.
Learn about student life in Canada
Applying for scholarships as an international student in Canada can greatly reduce the financial burden of studying abroad. Many Canadian universities and colleges offer scholarships, bursaries, and awards specifically for international students. It's important to research and apply for these opportunities early, as deadlines and eligibility criteria vary.
Living in Canada as an international student can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Canada is known for its high quality of life, safety, and multiculturalism. To make the most of your time in Canada, consider getting involved in campus activities, exploring the local community, and making connections with other students and residents.
During your studies, it's important to stay informed about your rights and responsibilities as an international student. This includes understanding your study permit conditions, maintaining full-time enrollment, and keeping your contact information up to date with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
After graduation, you may be eligible to apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP), which allows you to stay and work in Canada for up to three years. The PGWP is an excellent opportunity to gain Canadian work experience and potentially transition to permanent residency in Canada.
Overall, studying in Canada as an international student offers many opportunities for personal and professional growth. By taking advantage of scholarships, getting involved in the community, and staying informed about your immigration status, you can make the most of your experience in Canada and set yourself up for success in the future.
Extend your study permit or restore your status
To renew your study permit in Canada, you must apply for an extension before your current permit expires. It's important to start the renewal process well in advance of the expiration date to avoid any gaps in your status. Here's how you can renew your study permit:
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1. Check your eligibility: Make sure you are eligible to apply for a study permit extension. You must continue to meet the requirements for your permit, such as being enrolled in a designated learning institution (DLI) and having enough funds to support yourself.
2. Gather your documents: You will need to provide a letter of acceptance from your DLI for the extension period, proof of funds to support yourself during your studies, and any other documents required by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
3. Apply online or by mail: You can apply for a study permit extension online through the IRCC website or by mail. Follow the instructions provided on the website and submit your application along with the required documents.
4. Pay the application fee: There is a fee for renewing your study permit, which you must pay when you submit your application. The fee can be paid online or by mail, depending on the application method.
5. Wait for processing: Once you have submitted your application, you will need to wait for it to be processed. Processing times can vary, so it's important to apply well in advance of your permit expiration date.
If your study permit has already expired, you may be able to restore your status as a student in Canada. To restore your status, you must submit an application for restoration along with the required documents and fees. However, you must do this within 90 days of your study permit expiring and have continued to meet the requirements for your permit during this time.
Change schools or update your information
To update your profile or contact information as an international student in Canada, you can do so through your account on the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. It's important to keep your contact information up to date to ensure that you receive important notifications and documents from IRCC.
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Your study permit is typically valid for the duration of your study program, plus an additional 90 days. This means that if you are enrolled in a four-year degree program, your study permit would likely be valid for four years plus an additional 90 days. It's important to check the expiration date on your study permit and apply for an extension before it expires if you plan to continue studying in Canada.
If your study permit is about to expire and you need to extend your stay in Canada, you must apply for a study permit extension before your current permit expires. You can apply for an extension online through the IRCC website or by mail. It's important to apply well in advance of your permit expiration date to avoid any gaps in your status.
Traveling outside Canada and then re-entering
To re-enter Canada as an international student, you will need several documents:
1. Valid passport: Ensure that your passport is valid for the duration of your stay in Canada.
2. Valid study permit: Your study permit must be valid for the duration of your stay in Canada. If your study permit has expired, you will need to renew it before returning to Canada.
3. Temporary resident visa (TRV) or electronic travel authorization (eTA): Depending on your country of citizenship, you may need a TRV or an eTA to enter Canada. Check the requirements on the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
4. Letter of acceptance: Carry a copy of your acceptance letter from your designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada.
5. Proof of funds: Have proof that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in Canada, including tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation.
6. Additional documents: You may also be asked to provide other documents, such as a letter of invitation, proof of ties to your home country, or a travel itinerary.
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It's important to check the entry requirements for Canada before you travel to ensure that you have all the necessary documents. If you have any questions about your eligibility to re-enter Canada as an international student, you can contact the nearest Canadian visa office or consulate for assistance.
Work while studying
International students in Canada may be eligible to work while they study, but the type of work and the number of hours permitted depend on various factors, including the type of study permit and the program of study. Here's an overview:
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1. On-campus work: Most international students with a valid study permit are eligible to work on campus at the institution where they are studying without the need for a separate work permit. On-campus work is limited to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks.
2. Off-campus work: International students with a valid study permit may be eligible to work off campus without a separate work permit. However, they must meet certain criteria, including being enrolled full-time in a designated learning institution (DLI) and having been studying full-time for at least six months. Off-campus work is limited to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks.
3. Co-op programs: Some study programs in Canada include a co-op or internship component that allows students to gain practical work experience in their field of study. International students enrolled in these programs may be eligible to work full-time during the co-op or internship portion of their program without the need for a separate work permit.
4. Post-graduation work permit (PGWP): After completing their studies, international students may be eligible to apply for a PGWP, which allows them to work in Canada for up to three years after graduation. The length of the PGWP depends on the length of the study program, up to a maximum of three years. The PGWP is an open work permit, which means that graduates can work for any employer in Canada.
It's important for international students to familiarize themselves with the specific rules and regulations regarding work eligibility and restrictions based on their study permit and program of study. Violating the conditions of a study permit can have serious consequences, including removal from Canada.
Stay and work in Canada after you graduate
After graduating from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada, international students may be eligible to apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP). The PGWP allows students to stay and work in Canada for up to three years after graduation. To be eligible for a PGWP, students must have completed a program of study that was at least eight months long and have graduated from a program that led to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
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To apply for a PGWP, students must submit an application to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) within 180 days of receiving written confirmation of completing their program of study. The application must include proof of completion of the program, such as a transcript or official letter from the DLI, as well as proof of identity and status in Canada.
Once granted, the PGWP is an open work permit, which means that graduates can work for any employer in Canada. The length of the work permit depends on the length of the study program, up to a maximum of three years.
Having gained Canadian work experience through the PGWP, graduates may be eligible to apply for permanent residence through various immigration programs, such as the Express Entry system. Canadian work experience is highly valued in the Express Entry system and can increase an applicant's chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residence.
Overall, the PGWP is a valuable opportunity for international students to gain Canadian work experience and potentially transition to permanent residency in Canada. It's important for graduates to familiarize themselves with the eligibility criteria and application process for the PGWP and permanent residence to make the most of their post-graduation opportunities in Canada.
Get a visitor visa to return to Canada
As a study permit holder in Canada, it's important to understand how and when to apply for various permits and extensions to ensure that you maintain your legal status in the country.
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1. Study Permit Extension: If you need to extend your stay in Canada as a student, you should apply for a study permit extension before your current permit expires. It's recommended to apply at least 30 days before your permit expires to allow for processing time.
2. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): If you plan to work in Canada after completing your studies, you should apply for a PGWP within 180 days of completing your program. The length of the work permit depends on the length of your study program, up to a maximum of three years.
3. Permanent Residence: If you are interested in applying for permanent residence in Canada, you should familiarize yourself with the various immigration programs available, such as the Express Entry system, and apply when you meet the eligibility criteria.
4. Other Permits and Extensions: Depending on your circumstances, you may need to apply for other permits or extensions, such as a temporary resident visa (TRV) or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) to re-enter Canada after traveling abroad.
It's important to carefully review the application requirements and instructions provided by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for each permit or extension you plan to apply for. Failure to maintain your legal status in Canada can have serious consequences, including removal from the country.
Expiring post-graduation work permit
If your post-graduation work permit (PGWP) is expiring before this year and you are not eligible for an extension, you might be eligible for an open work permit. An open work permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada and does not require a job offer.
To be eligible for an open work permit, you must meet the following criteria:
1. Your PGWP must be expiring before this year.
2. You must have valid status in Canada.
3. You must be physically present in Canada at the time of application.
4. You must have been in Canada with valid status since your PGWP expired.
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If you meet these criteria, you can apply for an open work permit through the "Open Work Permit" application package on the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. You will need to provide proof of your current status in Canada, such as a copy of your PGWP and a letter from your employer confirming your employment.
It's important to apply for an open work permit before your PGWP expires to ensure that you maintain your legal status in Canada. An open work permit can provide you with the flexibility to work for any employer while you explore other opportunities for permanent residency or further study in Canada.
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