Canada is emerging as a popular study abroad destination. To apply Canada student visa you must understand the basic requirements outlined in this blog. Students from around the world choose Canada to pursue higher education.
Also, Canada is well-known for offering high quality education and research opportunities. One can have the flexibility to transfer between the types and levels of education without running into roadblocks common in other parts of the world.
Before stepping further into the process, let’s first check the Eligibility Criteria and Requirements in detail.
What are the Eligibility Criteria for Canada Student Visa
Listed here are the eligibility criteria for students to study in Canada. Students can enter Canada if:
They have completed their senior secondary education.
Must have a minimum score of 55% and above.
For Master’s, a minimum score of 60 % and above are accepted.
English Language proficiency like IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Must have an offer letter from a recognized DLI.
If you satisfy these requirements, you are eligible to start your education in Canada.
Canada Student Visa Requirements
Apart from the eligibility criteria, one must follow visa requirements to obtain Canada study permit, which are as follows:
Education documents including transcripts.
Experience letter (if any)
Acceptance letter from your educational institution
Study permit Application Attestation letter from the province you plan to pursue your studies.
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Certificates of Extracurricular achievements
Proof of Tuition Fee payment
Proof of GIC payment
Proof of English language proficiency
How to Apply Canada Student Visa
1. Choose a Course/College
The first step for the abroad studies is choosing the perfect course and college. At Canapprove, we assess every student’s profile and suggest courses that match their abilities and also, our education consultants select top courses from highly ranked universities.
2. Appear for Language Test
Students must complete English language proficiency test before you move further in the visa process. For IELTS you must obtain a minimum score of 6. Other language tests like PTE, TOEFL, CELPIP etc. are also being accepted.
3. Apply Online
You can submit your application online to obtain an offer letter from the College/ University. Students are advised to apply for 2 or 3 colleges as they can choose from various options.
4. Receive an Offer Letter:
As soon as you become eligible, students will receive an offer letter from the college which is your primary document for visa filing. Students must pay the tuition fee which is mentioned in the Offer letter before you file your visa.
5. Receipt of Payment
Obtain tuition fee receipt after finishing your payment from the college which is an important document for visa filing.
6. Receive PAL
PAL or Provincial Attestation Letter is a mandatory document for UG students since it is issued from the province in which you are planning to pursue your studies.
7. Purchase of GIC
GIC or Guaranteed Investment Certificate is an amount that is used for the miscellaneous expenses when you are in Canada. It amounts to 20635 CAD which can be withdrawn in parts to utilize it for your additional expenses. The amount received depends on the bank chosen by the student.
8. Proof of Funds
Apart from the tuition fees and GIC, students are advised to arrange your proof of fund like your financial statements which proves that the student is financially sound, and you can complete your education without any hurdles.
9. File your Visa
As you complete arranging your documents, you can fill out basic details on the CIC website and submit the visa application and wait for the decision.
What is the processing time for Canada student visa
It takes about 2 to 10 weeks for your student visa approval.
Canada Post Study Work permit options
Post Study Work Permit is offered to students who wish to stay and work in Canada. If the students decided to pursue work for a specified period which are as follows:
Under this program, international students can work for a Canadian employer.
Students will be able to work for a period depending on your course duration. However, the validity for PGWP extends between 8 months to 3 years.
To conclude, applying student visa to Canada is the right choice if you plan to build your career in one of the futuristic countries. Choose the right immigration consultants like Canapprove, by which you can bring your educational dreams a reality.
FAQ
What are the Types of Student Visas in Canada?
Canada offers students opportunity to study in the country through a single student visa. Also, under SDS and Non-SDS categories, applicants can file visas.
How long is your Student Visa Valid for?
Student visa is valid depending on your course duration.
What if Canada Student Visa gets Rejected?
If your visa gets rejected, you have the option to re-submit your visa application.
How much is Canada Student Visa fee from India?
Student visa fee from India is 235 CAD (approx. 15000 INR) which includes your Biometric charges.
How to get Scholarship in Canada?
Scholarships in Canada are provided depending on the academic excellence of the students.
Do you know why studying in Canada is so appealing despite the expenses? It is because, Canada education is worth of every dollar you spend. If you dream of studying in Canada, but the cost makes you apprehensive, think twice. Studying in Canada can be more affordable than you think!
Canadian education standards are high, however, education in Canada is less expensive compared to US, UK or other European countries. With the right guidance and assistance, you may get scholarships and loans that lessen your financial burden. Moreover, students have the flexibility to work while studying. So, don’t fret.
If you want to know more, continue reading. In this blog, we have compiled all the necessary information regarding the study costs in Canada, including the ways to reduce expenses.
Costs for Studying in Canada
Canada is known for its education system and high-ranking academic institutions. However, the costs involved in studies make students often vacillate between choices. Expense has always been a deciding factor when choosing to study abroad. So, before diving into the financial aspects, let us try to understand the different types of costs involved. These are:
→Tuition fees
→Books and other study materials costs
→Student visa and associated cost
→Living costs
→Other academic expenses
➱Tuition Fees
Tuition fees cover the cost of teaching, library facilities, laboratory, and equipment accessibility. It largely depends upon the academic institution you choose to study at. If you select a premium university in Canada, then the tuition fees will be higher.
This also varies depending on whether you choose an undergraduate or a post graduate course. For an undergraduate degree, the annual course fee may be around CAD 25000 and for a post graduate degree you may need to pay CAD 17000.
With a longer duration course, the tuition cost will be higher. For STEM courses, the tuition fees will be higher than arts related courses.
➱Books and Other Study Materials
Textbooks and other educational materials may require anywhere around CAD 500. You can buy used books or go for eBooks too. Electronic equipment such as laptops may be an additional item you may want to add to your inventory, which can cost extra expenses.
➱Student Visa and Associated Cost
Student visa is required if you intend to enter Canada for study purposes. Study visa Canada charge is CAD 150 excluding any additional fees. Individuals who want to study in a university or college in Canada must have a Canadian study permit. A student visa may allow you entry to the country, however, a study permit is required for continuation of studies.
For a course less than 6 months’ duration, a student need not have a study permit whereas for more than 6 months’ stay, students require to procure one. You should apply for a study permit renewal 30 days before its expiry. As of January 1st, 2024, the students are required to have a minimum fund of CAD 20,635 per year, to apply for a study visa Canada.
➱Living Costs
Living expenses differ for each province and city. If you select a college or university in Canada for study purposes, they offer you an estimated institution fee. This may include the living expenses, if you choose the on campus boarding facility.
Several expenses come under living expenses. These include:
Housing and Accommodation:
Accommodation cost is an important component of the living cost. You can stay on campus or go for other options such as shared apartments, single apartments, or homestays.
Staying in the college may cost you more than living off campus. However, while choosing to stay in private housing you might need to buy things on your own, such as utensils, furniture, electricity, and internet connection. Besides, you might need to cook.
Food:
The cost for food and beverages, groceries, etc. vary according to the provinces you are staying in. If it is a rural area the cost will be less, and if it is a city area the cost may go high.
Utilities:
As part of your daily expenses, you need to pay for electricity, water, heating and cooling facilities, and gas. This may cost you nearly CAD 250. Mobile phones and the internet are also essential these days. The cost for these may be around CAD 100. If you choose to buy a new phone it will add to the expenses.
Health Insurance:
Certain provinces offer health insurance to international students. If your province doesn’t offer health insurance, you must purchase one. Most of the time, tuition fees cover health insurance.
Travel Expenses:
Air tickets from India to Canada and vice versa cost anywhere between CAD 1600 to 2100. Costs also depend on the season you travel. Currently, you can book the cheapest ticket during the month of January. In August, you may find booking expensive. Additionally, to ensure a lower airfare you can book 3 months prior to your trip.
In addition to air ticket expenses, students must also figure out local transportation costs. These include bus ticket, subway ticket and train ticket charges. Some educational institutions help with public transportation by offering transit charges.
Entertainment Costs:
As part of your stay abroad, you might want to enjoy yourselves. You can go to a theatre, watch sporting events, and attend concerts. You can occasionally eat out too! Canada being a beautiful country, you can explore fabulous locations. This may cost you around CAD 150. However, this may increase or decrease depending on your personal choices.
How to Reduce Study Cost in Canada
Finances play a pivotal role in overseas education. Nobody wants to get stranded in a foreign country with lack of funds. It is important to have proper planning and estimation.
Although, it is highly unlikely to reduce the standard living costs in a particular province, there are several practical ways in which you can minimize your study cost in Canada. These include choosing affordable cities, educational institutions, availing loans, getting financial aid, and working part-time.
➱Cheap Cities to Study in Canada
The living expenses in each city are different. If you are looking for the cheapest cities in the country, a few of them are listed below:
Reputed universities and colleges in Canada may charge high tuition fees from students, however, you can reduce your expenses, if you choose affordable educational institutions. A few colleges with reasonable fee structure are listed below.
?Brandon University
?Humber College
?Simon Fraser University
?Glendon College
?Centennial College
?Seneca College
➱Scholarships for International Students
Though you can find educational institutions with pocket friendly fee structure, external financial aid can ease financial difficulties. There are several scholarships awarded to international students in Canada. These include:
?York University International Student Scholarship Program
?Humber College International Entrance Scholarship
?Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan
?Waterloo Merit Scholarship
?Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program
?Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute
?Carleton Prestige Scholarships
?Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships
?Winnipeg President’s Scholarships for World Leaders
?Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
?Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
?University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships
?Trudeau Scholarships and Fellowships
?Calgary International Entrance Scholarships
?Quebec Provincial Government Scholarship
➱Educational Loans for Students in Canada
Students’ loans are another way to bolster your studies in Canada. As federal loans are generally available to Canadian citizens, international students should get private loans. All loans cover tuition fees. Usually, the loan amount covers accommodation costs, health insurance costs, transportation costs, laboratory fee, hostel fee, study material costs, field trips fee and other associated expenses along with tuition fees.
The rate of interest and repayment period may vary according to the bank and the loan granted. Students must repay the loan once they get a job after they complete their studies.
➱Part-Time Jobs
Students can opt for part time jobs to meet expenses during their stay in Canada. Academic programs in the country are generally designed to teach the curriculum in a 20-hour per week classes. This will provide ample space to relax and work while studying. With efficient budgeting and financial management, you can finance more than 50% of your expenses with a part-time job.
Does Canada Education worth all the Expenses?
Education in Canadian Universities is indisputably valuable. It can help you develop professional as well as social skills that can leverage your career to new heights. Exposure to diverse cultures from around the world, offer you unique experiences and a novel global outlook. During recruitment, the internationally accepted certificate can be a gamechanger, giving you an edge over your peers.
Hope you are able to recognize why studying in Canada can be less expensive than you might imagine. Don’t drop your study abroad dreams due to financial concerns. Associate with an expert like Canapprove. We can help you with strategic planning and the right financial management to keep your money worries at bay. We make sure to make your study in Canada a breeze.
Advantages of applying for a Canadian study permit in December
Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently announced significant updates concerning international students in the country. The good news is that you can benefit from applying for a Canadian study permit in December.
Most of these changes will be effective from January 1st, 2024. Continue reading to understand the advantages associated with applying for your study permit this month.
Save CAD 10,000 Before Hike in Cost-of-Living Requirement
As per the latest IRCC announcement on December 7, the cost-of-living requirement for international students in Canada is expected to increase from CA$10,000 to CA$20,635.
However, the new cost-of-living requirement for study in Canada will take effect on January 1st, 2024. Individuals can save CAD 10,000 by applying for a study permit in Canada before this date, even if their studies commence later in 2024.
IRCC has more than doubled the previous cost-of-living criteria. This is done to ensure that international students possess adequate financial resources to sustain themselves in Canada.
However, this affirms the fact that there could be a downside in applying before the new requirements kick in. Students may soon realize they are falling short of covering their living expenses. This may not be the case with those applying after the new updates are made effective.
Remote Study Time Counted to Your Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
IRCC has also expressed its intention to permit international students to engage in remote learning at Canadian post-secondary institutions. The time spent studying outside of Canada will continue to contribute to their PGWPs.
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) serves as Canada’s official employment pathway for international graduates who qualify for permanent residence. The work permit has the same duration as the length of the student’s program of study. It is usually up to three years.
Under this provision, students can include their time spent in remote learning toward PGWP eligibility under the following conditions:
➤ when students spend less than 50% of their time by learning remote
➤ The program of study commences before September 1st, 2024.
Thus, international students who apply for their study permit in December may leverage these remote learning opportunities. This approach has the potential to result in cost savings for students, such as accommodation, food, and other basic living costs.
Essential Requirements to Apply for a Canadian Study Permit
To apply for a study permit in Canada, you’ll need to meet the following eligibility requirements and gather the necessary documents:
Eligibility Requirements for a Canadian study permit:
1. Be enrolled at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI): This is a school authorized by the Canadian government to host international students. Basically, you can find a list of DLIs on the IRCC website or ask our study-abroad counselors to help you.
2. Be financially sufficient to afford your tuition fees and expenses: This typically includes proof of income, scholarships, or financial support from a parent or guardian.
3. Meet the academic requirements of your program:You’ll need to provide transcripts or diplomas from your previous education.
4. No criminal record:You may need to provide a police clearance certificate.
5. Complete a medical exam:Only certain countries and study program will require this.
6. State that you will leave Canada after your permit expires to the immigration officer: This means demonstrating that you have ties to your home country and that you’re not planning to immigrate to Canada illegally.
Documents Required to apply for a Canadian study permit:
1. Valid passport:Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the expected expiration date of your study permit.
2. Proof of acceptance from a DLI: A letter stating that the school has accepted you.
3. Proof of financial resources: Generally, this could include bank statements, scholarship letters, or proof of financial support from a parent or guardian.
4. Medical examination results (if required): Given that, you’ll need to get a medical exam from a panel physician that the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has approved.
5. Additional documents: Depending on your circumstances, you may also need to provide additional documents, such as a police clearance certificate, proof of language proficiency, or a study plan.
Enhance Your Chances with CanApprove
Indian students represent a significant portion of international students in Canada, accounting for around 41% in 2023.
There’s a growing trend of Indian students pursuing postgraduate degrees in Canada, seeking specialized knowledge and research opportunities. Engineering, computer science, and business dominate the areas of study for Indian students in Canada.
You too can be eligible for any study program of your choice!
Applying through a reputed consultant can increase your chances of qualifying for a study permit in Canada. CanApprove is one such recognized immigration and study abroad partner. We are offering free consultation to determine your study options and eligibility to study abroad.
