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Study Permit Key Topics

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What is a Canadian Study Permit?

Every year, over 130,000 students come to Canada to study. In order to do so, they must obtain a study permit issued by the Canadian government. This permit, which is a type of Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) allows students to study in Canada for a temporary period of time, and typically indicates the educational instutition they are attending and course of study. To qualify, an applicant must fit a certain set of requirements.

How to Get a Study Permit

To get a Canadian study permit, you must first apply to a designated learning institute. Once accepted, you may proceed to apply for a study permit. Alongwith the application itself, you will be required to submit certain documentation, as well as meet all requirements set by the Canadian government.

Have a Successful Application

When applying for a study permit, it is important to consider all the factors an officer will take into account when looking at your eligibility. Aside from being accepted into a university, it is important that you can prove you have sufficient funds to cover tuition, as well as ties to your home country that indicate you will return home after completing your study.

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What if You Are Refused?

An applicant can be refused for a number of reasons. He or she may lack proof of sufficient funds, or proof that they will stay for only a temporary basis. If this happens, it is important to take a close look at the application to understand what went wrong. From here, an individual may be able to reapply and oftentimes have success the second time around if all issues are fixed.

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Resources for Prospective Students

If you are interested in studying in Canada, you will first need a letter of acceptance from an educational institution, meaning you will need to apply to the university directly. Canada offers great opportunity for higher learning at a number of institutions. Here we have highlighted some options to serve as a starting point in deciding where to apply.

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Study as a Path to Permanent Residency

Many international students in Canada finish their studies with the hopes of obtaining work and remaining in Canada permanently. In certain Express Entry categories, students may be eligible for permanent residence without any work experience. Often though, students will apply for work and then a work visa to stay temporarily. After having gained academic and work experience in Canada, they may have more options to apply for Canadian permanent residency.

Thousands of Students Come to Study in Canada Every Year!

More than 130,000 students come to study in Canada every year and even more come to Canada to learn English or French. There is no reason why this cannot be you too! If you intend to study in Canada, you will likely need a ‘Study Permit’. A Study Permit is issued by the Canadian government which gives you permission to study in Canada for a temporary period. In most cases, the Study Permit specifies the particular educational institution and course of study. If want to study in Canada, you will need to file Form IMM 1294. This form is used by individuals who want to apply for a study permit. Approved study permits may be limited to study at a certain school, or a certain course of study.

Study Permits are temporary resident visas (TRV) and so when you are entering Canada, you will be required to show an officer that you will be studying in Canada only for a temporary period.

Canadian Study Permit Requirements

In order to qualify for a study permit, you must:

  • Satisfy an officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your studies
  • Have a letter of acceptance from an educational institution
  • Prove that you have money for the duration of your stay in Canada to pay for tuition fees, and living expenses for yourself and accompanying family members.
  • Be law-abiding and have no record of criminal activity
  • Not be a risk to the security of Canada
  • Be in good health (complete a medical examination, if required)

Note: You may need produce any additional documents requested by the officer to establish your admissibility.

The Top 4 FAQs About Canadian Study Permits

1. How long can I study in Canada?

Generally you can stay in Canada for the duration of your study permit. Look at your permit and it will tell you when it expires. In some cases, you can apply for an extension.

2. Can I work while on a Study Permit?

Yes, but only under limited circumstances such as when:

  • Your employment is on-campus;
  • The international student is the recipient of a scholarship;
  • The work has been certified as being an integral part of the program of study;
  • The work consists of academic research or a post-doctoral fellowship;
  • The work takes place after graduation in a field related to the program of study.

Spouses of international students are eligible to work temporarily in Canada.

There are other ways to work while on a study permit depending on where you study in Canada.

3. Do I always need a Study Permit to study in Canada?

No. You do not require a Study Permit when:

  • You take a French or English language training course that is no more than three months in duration; or
  • You are the spouse or dependent child; a diplomatic or consular officer; a representative of a foreign country; or a representative of the United Nations or any other intergovernmental organization of which Canada is a member.

4. Can I extend my study permit?

Yes you can. You will need to file Form IMM 1249. This immigration visa form is used by individuals who want to file for an extension of their study permit in Canada. Individuals submit form IMM 1249 to change conditions or to extend their stay in Canada as students. This application is for temporary residents who reside currently reside in Canada as students.

Note: Individuals holding valid current temporary resident status can apply for an extension of their stay, provided they apply at least 30 days before the expiry date of their current status.

Why Hire Us to Help You With Your Student Visa Forms

Studying in Canada is an amazing experience for any student. Canada has one of the highest standards of education in the world. If you want to ensure your best chances at getting an approval on your student visa application, then we recommend you consult with us before submitting. We have helped thousands and thousands of students successfully enter Canada on a study permit, and we can help you too!

The first step towards your studying in Canada is getting an assessment of your case. Fill out our immigration assessment form and we will get back to you within 24 hours to discuss your eligibility and options.

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