Do you plan to study abroad and get more open to new academic and cultural opportunities? Canada is one of the top destinations for international students, with its world-class education, rich culture, and wonderful scenery. Whether you want to study in an undergraduate or graduate program, the universities in Canada offer a great environment for personal, academic, and career growth. KnN Study Abroad understands the decision to study abroad is not easy and comes with many steps, which is why we help you through the entire process. In this blog, we’re going to unveil why Canada should be on your top priority list of countries and how KnN study abroad helps you at every step to making this dream a reality.
The Initial Steps to Having Your Study Permit for Canada
First and foremost concerning your studies in Canada, you should plan and obtain a study permit. It does not allow you to study at a Canadian educational institution legally. A study permit is an authoritative document granted by the Government of Canada for international students to study in Canada for a certain period. Thus, start your application beforehand because processing time varies according to your mother country.
Who Needs to Apply for a Study Permit and When?
Whenever you hang around studying for over six months in Canada, you should have a study permit. Most international students, whether undergraduate, graduate, or vocational, must obtain one. The exceptions are short-term studies (less than six months) and courses that are co-op or internship components, which may require more permits depending on the nature of the work.
When to Apply
Apply for your study permit well in advance of when you intend to start your program, ideally at least 3-4 months ahead of beginning your study session since processing times vary based on your home country and other factors. For example, the earlier you submit, the more time you will have to prepare for traveling to Canada. However, you can apply for a study permit only after getting accepted by a recognized Canadian educational institution.
Application Process and Documents Required for a Study Permit
Step 1: Get an Acceptance Letter
You must receive an Acceptance Letter from an accredited Canadian educational institution before applying for a study permit. This is proof of acceptance into a full-time program, a part of your application.
Step 2: Prepare Other Required Documents
You will need to prepare quite several documents for your application for a study permit after receiving your Letter of Acceptance. Below are the normal documents one would be expected to provide:
- Valid Passport: Ensure it is valid through the duration of your stay
- Letter of Acceptance: From a recognized Canadian educational institution.
- Proof of Financial Support:e., bank statements, scholarship letters, or sponsor guarantee.
- Statement of Purpose: Explaining your study intentions and career goals.
- Language Proficiency (if required): Proof of English/French proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).
- Study Permit Application Form (IMM 1294): Complete and submit the official application form.
Step 3: Submit the Application
You can apply for a study permit either online or through a Visa Application Centre (VAC). While applying online is more convenient, at KnN study abroad our experts also help with the application. When you submit your application, you are also required to pay the application fee, which is typically around CAD 150. Ensure that all information is accurate and complete to avoid any delays.
Step 4: Biometrics and Interview (if applicable)
You may have to provide your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at a VAC, and may also require an interview.
Step 5: Wait for a Decision
After submission, the Canadian authorities will now process your request. Time taken for processing shall vary from country to country and other dependant factors. During this period, it is possible to ask for some additional documents or even call for an interview. Once approved for the study permit, you will get either an electronic travel authorization (eTA) temporary resident visa (TRV), or both along with a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction.
Step 6: Arrival in Canada
When you reach Canadian borders, you have to present your Letter of Introduction and all the relevant documents to the immigration authorities, who will create your study permit at the port of entry.
Cost of a Study Permit in Canada
The usual charge for applying for a study permit in the country of Canada is CAD 150. It includes processing the study permit application but is nonrefundable in any case, including denial of the application. There might be additional costs accompanying the application charge, which vary according to the applicant’s characteristics such as:
- Biometrics Fee: If required, you have to pay for biometrics fingerprints, and of course, a photo. The fees for biometrics amount to CAD 85 which applicants from most countries have to pay.
- Visa Application Centre (VAC) Fees: Those are the copyrights you accrue should you make your application through a Visa Application Centre instead of through a direct submission.
- Other costs: The other expenses drawn in may involve documents obtained from police certificates, a medical exam (if required), and language proficiency exams such as IELTS and TOEFL for further supporting the application.
Make sure you put aside a good estimate to be able to afford these costs for the smooth processing of your application. Always check the latest fees on the official Canadian immigration website or at your local VAC.
Contact Us Today to Begin Your Study Abroad Journey!
Just contact us now at KnN Study Abroad, and we will initiate the process of your study abroad journey. We have a team of highly qualified and experienced experts who will assist you in applying for your study permit, selecting a university, and meeting all other conditions to ensure that the process goes successively. You can even contact us for counselling if you are not confident. Visit our website or give us a call so we can make it happen for you to study in Canada.
