How To Apply?

There are two primary pathways to secure your Canada Student Visa:

1. Student Direct Stream (SDS) Program: Thinking of studying in Canada? The Student Direct Stream (SDS) offers an expedited option for eligible students to get their study permits processed within 20 calendar days! Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know:

Who Qualifies for the SDS?

To be eligible for faster processing through the Student Direct Stream (SDS), you must

• be a legal resident living in 1 of the following countries:
  • Antigua and Barbuda
  • Brazil
  • China
  • Colombia
  • Costa Rica
  • India
  • Morocco
  • Pakistan
  • Peru
  • Philippines
  • Senegal
  • Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • Vietnam

• Apply to a designated learning institution (DLI) that participates in the SDS program.

Additional Requirements for Faster Processing:

• Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL): As of January 22, 2024, most SDS applicants need a PAL from the province or territory where they plan to study. Find more information on the IRCC website.
• Meet all eligibility requirements: This includes having a valid acceptance letter, proof of financial support, and passing medical and background checks (if applicable).
• Submit biometrics as soon as possible: This involves providing fingerprints and a photograph.

Important Considerations:

• Processing times can still vary depending on individual circumstances.
• SDS application is done online – there’s no paper option.
• A study permit is not a visa itself. You may also need a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) to enter Canada.

What Documents Do You Need?

• Valid passport
• Acceptance letter from a participating DLI
• Proof of financial support: This could be bank statements, a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC), or scholarship/award funding. The required GIC amount varies depending on your province of study.
• Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)
• Medical exam results (if required)
• Police certificates (if required)
• Language test results (must meet minimum score requirements)

How to Apply:

1. Gather all required documents.
2. Prepare to submit your application online.
3. Pay the application and biometric fees. Make sure you have a valid credit card or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, JCB, or UnionPay for online applications).
4. Provide your biometrics as soon as possible.
5. Wait for a decision. You’ll be notified by IRCC within 20 calendar days after they receive your biometrics (if applicable).

What Happens if Approved?

• “Once your student visa is stamped in your passport, you will be prepared to travel to Canada.”

• Upon arrival in Canada, a border officer will verify your eligibility and issue your study permit if there are no issues.

Not Eligible for SDS?

Don’t worry! You can still apply for a study permit through the regular process. While processing times might be longer, this route is open to students from any country and any DLI in Canada.

2. Non-SDS Stream

For International Students in Canada: A Comprehensive Guide

The Non-SDS stream is the traditional pathway for international students seeking to study in Canada at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). It’s open to applicants from any country, regardless of whether their nation participates in the faster Student Direct Stream (SDS) program.

Key Points:

• Eligibility: Open to all international students applying to any DLI in Canada.
• Processing Time: Generally longer than the SDS program, varying based on individual circumstances and current application volume. Expect 3 to 4 months.
• Application Process: More traditional and document-heavy compared to SDS.
• Benefits: Applicable to a wider range of programs and institutions compared to SDS.

Additional Considerations:

• Exchange Student Permit: For short-term study programs lasting less than six months, you might require an exchange student permit instead of a full study permit.
• Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ): If you plan to study in the province of Quebec, you’ll need a CAQ from the Quebec government in addition to your federal study permit. This is a separate application process.

Tips for a Successful Non-SDS Application:

• Start Early: Begin planning and gathering documents well in advance of your desired program start date.
• Meet Language Requirements: Each educational institution sets its own English or French language proficiency requirements. Ensure you meet or exceed these standards.
• Demonstrate Financial Stability: Provide strong financial proof to support your living and tuition expenses throughout your studies.
• Be Thorough and Accurate: Double-check all forms and documents for completeness and accuracy before submission.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about current processing times, you can increase your chances of a successful Non-SDS study permit application for Canada.

To be eligible for a Canada Student Visa, you must meet the following general requirements, regardless of the application stream (SDS or Non-SDS):

• Acceptance Letter: Hold a valid acceptance letter from a designated learning institution (DLI) for a full-time program.
• Meet Language Requirement: Student must appear for IELTS or required test and score relevant marks in each module.
• Financial Support: Demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover your tuition fees and living expenses for your entire study duration. This can be shown through bank statements, scholarships, or proof of support from a sponsor.
• Meet Medical Requirements: You may need to undergo a medical examination to ensure you don’t pose a public health risk.
• Pass Criminal Background Check: A police certificate from your home country (and potentially other countries you’ve resided in) may be required to demonstrate a clean criminal record.
• Meet Immigration Requirements: Be admissible to Canada and have no prior immigration violations.

Additional factors may be considered, such as:

• Your academic record
• Language Test Results
• Purpose of study
• Ties to your home country (demonstrating you intend to return after graduation)

Remember: It’s crucial to meet all eligibility requirements to increase your chances of visa approval.

Regardless of the application stream (SDS or Non-SDS), the general application process involves the following steps:

1. Research and Choose a Program: Explore programs offered by DLIs that align with your academic goals.
2. Apply to the DLI: Submit an application to your chosen program and obtain a valid acceptance letter.
3. Prepare Your Application:
   • Gather required documents (specific documents may vary depending on the stream, see details below).
   • Pay the application fee (fees can change, so consult the IRCC website for current costs).
   • Complete the online application form through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website: [invalid URL removed]
4. Submit Your Application: Electronically submit your completed application and supporting documents through the IRCC website or mail them if applicable.
5. Biometrics (if applicable): Provide fingerprints and a photograph at a designated location.
6. Interview (if applicable): An immigration officer may request an interview to assess your application further.
7. Await Decision: IRCC will process your application and inform you of their decision. Processing times vary significantly between SDS and Non-SDS streams (check the IRCC website for current estimates).
8. Obtain Study Permit: If approved, you’ll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) document allowing you to travel to Canada and obtain your study permit upon arrival.
9. Arrive in Canada: Present your COPR document and supporting documents to a border services officer at the port of entry to receive your official study permit.

SDS Stream:

The streamlined SDS stream may require fewer documents compared to the Non-SDS stream. Up-to-date information can be found on the IRCC website, but common requirements include:

• Completed application form
• Valid passport
• Two recent passport-sized photographs
• Acceptance letter from a designated learning institution (DLI) participating in the SDS program
• Proof of financial support for the first year of your studies. This could include:
  • Bank statements demonstrating sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses
  • Proof of scholarship or award funding

Non-SDS Stream:

The Non-SDS stream typically requires a more comprehensive document package compared to the SDS stream. Always consult the IRCC website for the latest list, but common requirements include:

• Completed application form
• Valid passport
• Two recent passport-sized photographs
• Acceptance letter from a DLI
• Proof of financial support for a minimum of one year. This could include:
  • Bank statements demonstrating sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses
  • Letter of financial support from a sponsor along with their financial documents (tax returns, bank statements)
  • Proof of scholarship or award funding
• Medical exam results (if applicable) You’ll receive instructions from IRCC if a medical exam is necessary.
• Police certificate(s) from your home country (and potentially other countries you’ve resided in for six months or more in the past five years).
• Proof of paid application fees

Canada Student Visa Information

Processing Times

Processing times for Canada Student Visas can vary significantly depending on the application stream, your home country, and current application volumes. It’s crucial to plan well in advance and submit your application as early as possible, particularly if applying through the Non-SDS stream. Here’s a general guideline:

• SDS Stream: Processing times are generally faster, often within 20 calendar days from the date your complete application is received by IRCC.
• Non-SDS Stream: Processing times can vary considerably, ranging from a few weeks to several months.

IRCC Fees

There are associated fees with the Canada Student Visa application process. Here’s a breakdown of the main fees:

• Study permit application fee: CAD 150
• Biometric fee (if applicable): CAD 85
• Medical exam fee (if applicable): The cost will vary depending on the designated medical practitioner you visit.
• Police certificate fees (if applicable): You’ll need to pay separate fees to obtain police certificates from each country you’re required to submit them for.

Estimated Cost of Studying Undergraduate Courses in Canada (CAD)

Planning for the financial aspects of studying in Canada is crucial. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of estimated costs to consider when budgeting for your undergraduate studies:

Tuition Fees

Pre-Arrival Expenses (in CAD)

Additional Living Expenses (not included above)

While these costs are not directly related to tuition fees, they are essential to consider for a realistic understanding of your overall budget:

• Accommodation: The cost of housing (rent, on-campus residence fees) will vary by location and type of accommodation. Research average rental rates or residence fees in your chosen city to estimate this expense.
• Food: Groceries, eating out, and other food costs will depend on your eating habits. Factor in the cost of groceries if you plan to cook frequently, or allocate a budget for dining out if you prefer.
• Textbooks and Course Materials: The cost of textbooks and other learning materials can vary by program. Consult with your chosen university/college for program-specific estimates.
• Transportation: Public transportation passes, gas (if you plan to own a vehicle), or other transportation costs will depend on your needs and chosen mode of getting around. Research public transportation options and their associated costs in your chosen city.
• Health Insurance: Student health insurance plans are mandatory in Canada. The cost of these plans can vary depending on the provider and level of coverage. Research different student health insurance options to find a plan that meets your needs and budget.
• Personal Expenses: This category includes entertainment, clothing, communication (phone plans, internet), and other miscellaneous expenses. Allocate a realistic budget for these personal needs based on your lifestyle choices.

Remember: These are just estimates. The actual cost of studying in Canada will vary depending on your individual circumstances and lifestyle choices. Carefully consider your spending habits and research specific costs in your chosen location to create a personalized and realistic budget for your undergraduate studies in Canada.

While IRCC doesn’t publicly disclose specific reasons for visa rejections, some common factors can contribute to a negative outcome. Here’s how to mitigate these risks:

• Incomplete Application: Ensure all required documents are submitted accurately and completely. Double-check the IRCC website for the latest list and avoid missing any crucial elements.
• Insufficient Financial Support: Demonstrate you have sufficient funds to cover your entire study duration. Provide clear and compelling financial documentation.
• Inadequate Academic Qualifications: Ensure your academic record meets the admission requirements of your chosen program.
• Inadmissible Status: Maintain a clean criminal record and address any previous immigration issues that may