Canada remains one of the world’s most popular destinations for international students thanks to its high-quality education, work opportunities, and clear pathway to permanent residency. This detailed guide explains everything you need to know about the Canadian Student Visa (Study Permit)—eligibility, documents, application process, work rules, costs, timelines, and tips to avoid refusal.
Your decision to study in Canada can shape your career, expand your horizons, and open doors to a brighter future — and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Axeliis Immigration Services
What Is a Canadian Study Permit?
A Study Permit is an official document issued by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) that allows foreign nationals to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
It is not a travel visa—you may also need a TRV (Visitor Visa) or eTA to enter Canada.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a Study Permit, you must:
- Receive an acceptance letter from a DLI (college or university).
- Show proof of funds, including:
- Tuition fees
- Living expenses
- Travel expenses
- Have a clean criminal record (police clearance may be required).
- Be in good health (medical exam for some countries).
- Prove genuine intent to study and leave Canada after your studies (unless applying for PR
later). - Demonstrate language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or other accepted tests).
Documents Required for a Study Permit
Here’s a complete list of documents for your Canada Student Visa application:
- Valid passport
- DLI acceptance letter
- Tuition payment receipt (recommended)
- GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) – for SDS applicants
- Proof of funds (bank statements, education loan, sponsor letter)
- IELTS/PTE/TOEFL scorecard
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) – extremely important
- Passport-size photos
- Medical exam (IME number)
- Police clearance certificate (if applicable)
- Academic documents (10th, 12th, Bachelor’s, transcripts)
SDS vs Non-SDS Stream
SDS (Student Direct Stream) offers faster processing for students from eligible countries such as India.
SDS Requirements:
- IELTS 6.0 in each band or equivalent
- GIC $20,635 CAD
- First-year tuition paid
- Upfront medical
- Strong SOP recommended
Non-SDS Requirements:
Same documents—but processing takes longer and financial proof is more detailed.
Final Thoughts
Applying for a Canadian Student Visa can be one of the biggest steps toward building a successful future. With the right guidance, documents, and preparation, you can increase your chances of approval and start your education journey in Canada confidently.
Leave a Reply