Study in Canada:
A Gateway to Success by Means of a Study Permit
Canada is among the most favored countries among students around the world. With world-class universities and being a cultural melting pot, pursuing a Canadian education opens many new doors toward a thriving future.
Here at Tabula Rasa Immigration Services, we help students through the often-daunting process of getting a Canadian study permit to start their academic pursuits more easily.
Why Choose Canada for Your Education?
Aside from the noteworthy educational score, Canada is also known for active student life, high academic standing, and its high standard of living. By studying in Canada, you’ve just opened your doors to a world-class education and an exciting post-graduate opportunity. So, here are some key benefits of study permits in Canada:
- High-class Education: Canadian institutions have world recognition for their excellence when it comes to research and teaching.
- Work Opportunities: Part-time work opportunities while pursuing studies and fulltime during scheduled breaks are available for international students.
- Permanent Residency Pathways: When you complete your graduation, you could be eligible for a PGWP that, in turn, may lead you to permanent residency pathways.
- Diverse Culture and Welcoming Environment: Canada is home to people from all over the world, creating a vibrant and inclusive environment for international students.
Understanding Study Permits in Canada
A study permit is a written authorization from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), allowing international students to study at a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Most international students need a Canadian study permit, as well as a TRV or an eTA depending upon their country of origin.
Study Permit Eligibility Requirements
To apply for a Canada study permit, you must:
- Get Accepted by a Designated Learning Institution: You will require a letter of acceptance from an institution recognized by the government of a province or territory to host international students; this is known as a DLI.
- Receive a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL): Each Province has a quota of international students and each DLI has a limited number of students they can accept per year. The PAL is proof when applying for your study permit, that you are approved as being part of that province’s quota.
- Proof of Financial Support: You must demonstrate that you can support tuition, living expenses for yourself and any dependents who plan to join you along with return transportation home. This support should be for your entire length of your program.
- No criminal record: The applicant should not have any kind of criminal record. A police clearance certificate may be asked for.
- Good Health: Sometimes you may also be asked to provide a medical checkup while proving that you are in good health.
- Intention to Leave Canada: You need to show your intention to leave Canada upon the expiration of your study permit, though this has no bearing on your right to apply for permanent residence following your studies.
The Study Permit Application Process
Before you apply for a study permit, it is critical to understand a few important steps that will determine the options available to you after your studies.
Working with us, will offer you a pathway guide based on your desired outcome. This discussion includes analysing the best province, best program, best schools, cost etc.
*Get Your Letter of Acceptance (LOA)*
Once this is finalized and your pathway is drawn up, apply to and receive the letter of acceptance
from a DLI. Find and apply to programs at schools in Canada, ensuring that it is on the DLI list.
- Gather Required Documents
Prepare the documentation necessary, which typically includes:
o Valid passport or travelling documents
o Proof of acceptance from a DLI
o Proof of adequate finance – bank statements, scholarship letters, etc.
o Passport size photos, and other forms of identification
o A letter of explanation indicating your goals of study
o A police certificate
o In some cases, medical examination results are necessary especially when your study involves dealing with kids or in a medical setting.Each case is different, so more documents may be needed to package a complete application for you.
– Provide us with all the required documents to fill out the application.
– As a licensed representative firm, we handle the application submission on your behalf. If you require a temporary resident visa, or electronic travel authorization, this will automatically be issued once your application for a study permit is approved. - Pay the Fees
The cost of an application for a study permit is normally CAD $150. You may have to pay for additional fees if you are required to provide biometrics. You may also additionally have to pay for the temporary resident visa or eTA, which depends on your country of origin.
*Government fees change, so we will update you before your application submission. - Biometrics Appointment
Depending on your nationality, you may also be required to supply fingerprints and a photo from a local visa application center. - Wait for Processing
The processing times depend on your country of origin and the number of applications submitted. For your situation refer to estimated processing times for study permits by IRCC. - Obtain your Study Permit
If your application is approved, you’ll get a letter of introduction and in most cases a visa or eTA. Your actual study permit will be given to you when you arrive in Canada.
What Happens After You Arrive in Canada?
When you arrive in Canada, present your Port of Entry Letter and all documents to the border services officer. They will issue your study permit, containing:
- The duration of your study permit application
- Whether you are authorized to work on or off campus
- Any limitations on travel or other conditions
*It is critical that you follow the conditions of your study permit. Refusing to do so may result in the loss of your permit and you may have to leave Canada.
Working While Studying
One of the major benefits of going to Canada is that you can work part-time during your studies without a separate work permit. You can work up to twenty hours per week during your regular academic sessions. Additionally, you can also work full-time during scheduled school breaks, including winter and summer holidays.
If your program requires an internship/co-op, you will be issued the applicable work permit at the time of your study permit approval.
*This may provide you with the valuable Canadian experience and income supplementation you need while studying.
Transition to a Post-Graduation Work Permit
After attending a DLI which is PGWP eligible, you may be eligible for a PGWP, which would allow you to stay in Canada and work for up to three years depending on the length of your program. This work experience is critical if you have plans to apply for permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class under Express Entry.
Permanent Residency Pathway
For many international students, making their way to Canada for further studies paves the way to permanent residency. As a result, the PGWP might also facilitate gaining qualifying Canadian work experience that may in turn qualify you through Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs.
These programs are predictors of skilled immigrants who will be able to contribute to the economy and society of Canada.
Why Choose Tabula Rasa Immigration Services?
At Tabula Rasa Immigration Services, we understand how thrilling and equally overwhelming this journey can be. Our team of RCICs helps you with everything, from getting your study permit to exploring post-graduation pathways. We offer:
Personalized Counseling: We evaluate your individual case and advise you on the choice of the most suitable academic program and institution.
Comprehensive Application Support: Our team will ensure that your study permit application is complete and accurate and submitted on time.
Post-Graduation Consultation: Whether you need assistance with a PGWP or Permanent Residency Application, we give you continued support even upon your arrival in Canada.
Ready to start your Canadian study journey?
At Tabula Rasa Immigration Services, our mission is to help you achieve all your goals concerning your education and immigration to Canada.
Book your consultation today and take that first step to your future in Canada.
Please refer to the official IRCC website for more details on the Canada study permit process.
