Step 1: Find Out if You’re Eligible

To be able to study in Canada there are a number of requirements that need to be met.

Eligibility Requirements

• Be enrolled at a Designated Learning Institution(DLI)
• Have enough money to pay for your tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation (for yourself and any family members who come with you to Canada)
• Not have a criminal record
• Be in good health 
• Prove that you intend to leave Canada when your study permit expires.

Step2: Apply to Your Chosen College or University

Canada has so many great institutions to choose from, however, if you are an international post-grad student, you will need to choose a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Not to worry though, you will have your choice of over 300 DLIs across Canada. If, however, you plan to stay and work in Canada after you have completed your studies, it’s important to check if your DLI meets the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) as not all DLIs are not created equally.

Important Note: Due to COVID-19 regulations, your DLI will need to be approved as having a COVID-19 readiness plan. This is to ensure that all students’ health and safety are protected and are provided with the necessary information and support regarding quarantine, health insurance, etc. during their stay in Canada.

Step 3: Apply For Your Study Permit

Once you have been accepted to your chosen educational institution, you will receive an acceptance letter, which you will need when you apply for your Canadian study permit. Below is a list of the required document for your application

Required Documents

• Proof of acceptance – letter of acceptance from your DLI
• Proof of identity – passport and two passport-sized photos
• Proof of financial – Minimum of $10,000 plus additional fund for each family member that will be joining you eg. proof of student loan, a Canadian bank account in your name, paid tuition and housing fees, proof of funding (person or school), student or education loan, four months bank statements

You may also be asked for additional information, such as:

Additional Documents

• a letter of explanation – why you want to study in Canada;
• a certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) – if you want to study in Quebec
• a custodian declaration (minors only)
• Police certificate;
• Medical exams;
• Language testing;
• Biometrics;
• other documents – any local requirements from your country or region

If you need to submit additional information it’s best to start collecting them before you are asked for them as you will only have 30 days to acquire and submit them from the date they are requested by the IRCC.

• Once your student visa is approved you will receive a port of entry letter of introduction. You will need to show this to the official once you arrive in Canada who will then give you your study permit, which allows you to study in Canada. You will also automatically receive an eTA or temporary resident visa that will allow you to enter Canada. Be sure that you also have all your required and additional supporting documents with you in case you are requested at your port of entry.