Study in Canada
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by Rekha McNutt
Canada’s colleges and universities offer high quality education, sought after by students around the world. Completing post-secondary education in Canada not only opens up opportunities abroad, but it can also provide a path to permanent residence in Canada.
For the most part, you will need a study permit to study in Canada. There are exceptions. For example, if your program of study in under 6 months in duration, you may be able to complete that without a study permit.
In order to complete your post-secondary education in Canada, you must first enroll in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), which are the colleges and universities that are approved for study permits. Be careful when choosing your college or university as not all DLIs have approved programs that are eligible for a post-graduation work permit!
How long is a study permit valid for?
The length of the study permit usually spans the duration of your program. Here are some general guidelines:
if you are required to complete pre-requisite courses, then the permit is valid for the duration of those courses, plus 1 year. You will need to seek an extension if more time is required
if you cannot finish your studies within the time granted on your study permit, you must ask for an extension
if you graduate before your study permit expires, it stops being valid 90 days after you complete your studies regardless of the expiry date printed on the actual permit.
Can you work while studying?
Students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during school semesters, and full time during any breaks.
Eligibility requirements
you must be enrolled at a DLI
you must prove you have enough money to afford your tuition, living expenses and return transportation for you and any accompanying family members
you must demonstrate you (and any accompanying family members) are genuine temporary residents and that you would depart Canada at the end of your study permit
How to apply
Generally, you must apply for a study permit before arriving in Canada. A Canadian visa office abroad will process your application. Most applications are now made online, with forms and documents uploaded for an officer’s review.
Depending on where you come from, you may need to complete medical exams. Criminal record checks may be required. In most cases, biometrics will also be required.
If approved, you are provided with an approval letter, along with an eTA or Visa, as required depending on your country of origin. The actual permit is issued on arrival in Canada by a Port-of-Entry Officer.
If your application is refused, your can either try again or appeal to the court. Choosing the right option depends on a number of factors, including how good the initial application was and the reasons for the refusal. You can read about Judicial Review applications if you want to get a sense of what the court process involves.