Canada is currently a popular destination for immigrants from all around the world. In 2019, Canada issued nearly 400,000 study visas, with Indian students receiving 1.39 lakh of them.
Canada has unquestionably one of the greatest educational systems in the world. There are also several options for students to make money while they study. If you study in Canada, you have a better chance of landing a well-paying career and settling permanently in the nation with your family as a permanent resident.
In this article, you will learn how to apply for a student visa from India.
The Seven Most Important Study Visa Requirements in Canada
To be eligible for a Canadian study permit, you must meet the following requirements:
Acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institute: You must obtain acceptance from a Designated Learning Institute (DLI). The institution or institute where you wish to study in Canada must have a COVID-19 preparedness plan that has been approved by a province or territory on the approved list.
Proof of funds: You must demonstrate that you have enough money to cover your tuition, living expenses, and return transportation costs for yourself and a family member who will accompany you to Canada.
No criminal record: To demonstrate that you are a law-abiding citizen of your home country, you must have a clean criminal record. Aspirants must obtain a police certification to demonstrate that they do not pose a security risk to Canada.
Immigration Medical Examination (IME): You must also be in excellent health and not pose a risk to the host country’s people. A proper medical certificate from a reputable doctor must be obtained one week before you begin your Visa Application.
Intention to depart: You must demonstrate to the immigration officer that you intend to leave the country after your schooling is finished.
English Language Proficiency Test (not required, but recommended): IELTS score sheet with an overall band of 6.5 for postgraduate programs and a score band of 6 for undergraduate courses.
Statement of Purpose: A good SOP goes a long way and can have a significant impact on your chances of approval.
According to a recent notice for air travellers on January 7, 2021, you are required to have a negative COVID-19 test result prior to boarding international flights to Canada.
How to Apply for a Student Permit
The steps are as follows:
Step 1: Apply for college/university admission.
The first step in starting the Canadian study visa process is obtaining admission approval or an offer letter from a recognised educational institution. In Canada, there are several schools and universities that provide a variety of degrees and study programs to students.
Step 2: Pay the fees.
After receiving an offer letter, the next step is to pay the college or university’s fees. You may pay your fees using International Wire Transfer. When the institution receives and processes your fee, you will be sent a receipt. Keep the receipt since it will be necessary when you submit your visa application.
Step 3: Get a GIC.
A student’s next step is to purchase a Guaranteed Investment Scheme, or GIC. Each overseas student must have a GIC to cover their living expenses once they arrive in Canada. The GIC is worth $10,200 and may be acquired from any participating bank.
The bank deducts around $200 in administrative fees, but this varies from bank to bank. You will get $2,000 immediately upon arrival in Canada, and the other $8,000 will be distributed in 12 equal payments for your living needs.
Step 4: Submit to the medical examination
You will now be required to undergo a medical examination by a doctor approved by the Canadian government. While the results of your medical examination will be sent straight to immigration officials, you will be given a receipt. At the time of application, the receipt will be submitted.
Step 5: Fill out a visa application
The following step is to apply for a Canadian student visa.
Step 6: Obtain your visa
If your application is granted, the Government of Canada will send you a letter requesting your passport. You may submit it in person or via VFS. Following that, you will be issued a temporary residence visa as well as a letter of introduction.
Do you require assistance with your student visa application? Prominent Overseas Careers can assist you in completing your Canada student visa application in a timely and error-free manner.
Annual University Admissions in Canada
Intake 1: Fall Semester – September
Intake 2: Winter Semester – January
Intake 3: Summer Semester – April/May (available for limited programs and universities)
Documents Required for Student Visa Immigration to Canada
Every applicant seeking a student visa to Canada must provide a few papers with their application. The following documents are required for the Canada student visa application process:
- Passport must be valid.
- Acceptance Certificate from a Designated Learning Institute (DLI)
- Evidence of Funds
- Medical Examination for Immigration
- Transcripts of education, diplomas, degrees, or certificates
- Language Proficiency Rating
- Statement of Purpose
- Travel Documents
- Photographs in passport size
- Documents for various exam scores such as GMAT, GRE, IELTS, and so forth.
- CAD 10,000 Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)
- Proof of visa application fee payment
- Payslips as proof of job experience
Fee for Canada Student Visa Processing
A study permit in Canada (including renewals) will set you back CAD 150. (approx. INR 8595)
A Canada Study Permit requires proof of funds.
The applicant and family members must have the following minimum funds:
| Category | Outside Quebec (CAD) | In Quebec (CAD) |
| Primary Applicant | 10,000 | 11,000 |
| First Family Member | 4,000 | 5,100 – 3,800 |
| First Family Member | 3,000 | 5,125 – 1,903 |
The cost of attending university in Canada (approximate figures)
Undergraduate program: 13,000 to 20,000 CAD
Postgraduate master’s degree: 17,000 to 25,000 CAD
Doctoral degree: 7,000 to 15,000 CAD
MBA: 30,000 to 40,000 CAD
The expense of lodging
Annual on-campus stay: around CAD 8,000 to CAD 10,000
Monthly rent for a shared apartment is between CAD 400 and CAD 700.
Approximately CAD 15,000 in living expenditures (indicative)
Taxes: Use your Social Insurance Number to pay taxable charges on the amount you earn while studying in Canada (SIN)
Processing Time for a Canada Study Visa
The processing time for a Canada study visa is estimated to be 3-4 weeks.
