CANADA STUDY VISA
What is a Canada Study Visa?
- A Canada Study Visa is a permit that allows international students to live and study in Canada at designated learning institutions (DLIs). It's issued based on admission, financial proof, and genuine study intent.
Eligibility Requirements:
- To be eligible, you must:
- Be enrolled in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Have a valid Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
- Show proof of funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return travel
- Have no criminal record
- Pass a medical exam (if required)
- Show intent to leave Canada after study (unless applying for PR later)
Documents Required
- Valid passport
- Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Canadian DLI
- Proof of funds (tuition + 1-year living expenses)
- IELTS or PTE scorecard (as per college requirement)
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Medical exam receipt (Upfront Medical)
- Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) (if needed)
- 2 recent passport-size photographs
Financial Requirements
You must prove you can support yourself financially:
- Tuition Fees (1-year) – depends on college/course (CAD $12,000–$20,000)
- Living Expenses – CAD $10,000/year (outside Quebec)
- or CAD $11,000/year (inside Quebec)
- Funds can be shown in:
- Education loan from a recognized bank
- Savings account
- Fixed Deposits (3+ months old)
- GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate – compulsory for SDS)
Types of Application Streams
SDS (Student Direct Stream) – Fast-track visa (within 20 calendar days)
Requirements:
- IELTS: Minimum 6.0 in each band
- Payment of 1-year tuition fees
- CAD $10,000 GIC
- DLI-approved college/university
- Upfront Medical
- Non-SDS (General Category) – Slower processing time (6–8 weeks)
- Flexible IELTS scores accepted
- Bank balance or loan acceptable
- More documentation required
How to Apply
Secure admission in a DLI-approved institution
- Gather all required documents
- Pay 1-year tuition fee
- Purchase GIC (for SDS)
- Get Upfront Medical
- Create IRCC account and apply online at:
- 👉 https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada.html
- Upload documents & submit biometrics
- Track application through GCKey
Spouse & Dependent Visa
- Spouse can apply for Open Work Permit (if student is in PG level course)
- Children can study in Canada on a study permit.
Common Reasons for Rejection
- Weak or unclear SOP
- Low IELTS score (for SDS)
- Lack of financial proof
- No clear ties to home country
- Questionable academic progression
SOP (Statement of Purpose) is Key
- A strong SOP should include
- Your academic background
- Why you chose Canada
- Why that college/university/course
- Your career goals
- Proof that you will return or seek legal PR options
- Clearly show genuine student intent
Visa Success Tips
- Choose SDS route if eligible
- Make sure GIC & tuition are paid
- Avoid fake documents at all costs
- Write a well-structured SOP
- Keep financial documents clear and 28+ days old
Need Help with Canada Study Visa?
- ✈ VISARISE – Canada Study Visa Experts.
- Admission in Top Colleges/Universities
- .SDS/Non-SDS Guidance
- GIC, SOP, Medical & PCC Assistance
- End-to-End Visa Filing & Travel Support