Canada Admission for International Students – Study in Canada

Thinking about studying in Canada? You’re not alone.

More than 800,000 international students chose Canada last year — and not just for the poutine.

They came for world-class universities, friendly immigration policies, a straight shot to permanent residency, and a multicultural life that feels like home (even when it’s -20°C).

But here’s the thing:

Getting in isn’t hard… if you know exactly what to do.

But getting it wrong can cost you time, money, and your chance at studying in Canada.

That’s why we created this guide.

You’ll learn:

• How to choose the right university or college (and why “DLI” matters more than you think)
• Exactly what documents and test scores do you need to apply
• What a Canadian student visa really is — and how to get it without mistakes
• How much it costs (and where to find the money)
• What happens after graduation (hello, Post-Graduation Work Permit)

By the end of this guide, you won’t just hope you get in. You’ll know what to do, when, and how to move forward — with confidence.

Why Choose Canada for International Education

Let’s be honest: there are a lot of study abroad options.

But if you’re serious about investing your time, money, and future?

Canada’s not just an option. It’s a strategic move.

Here’s why:

Globally Recognized Education, Without Ivy League Prices

Canadian universities like University of Toronto, McGill, and UBC consistently rank in the top 100 worldwide.

You get a world-class degree — for a fraction of what it costs in the US or UK.

Multicultural, Safe, and Student-Friendly

From Toronto’s bustling diversity to Nova Scotia’s small-town charm, Canada welcomes international students with open arms.

You’ll find:

• Over 250 ethnic origins are represented in the population
• The world’s 6th safest country (Global Peace Index)
• Friendly policies like work rights during study and PGWP after graduation

The Post-Graduation Advantage

Finish your degree → apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) → become eligible for Permanent Residency.

It’s not just an education. It’s a pathway to building a future in Canada.

Over 800,000+ international students chose Canada in 2023. The top source countries? India, China, the Philippines, and Nigeria. (EduCanada, CIC)

How to Get Admission to a Canadian Institution

You want to study in Canada — but let’s get one thing straight:

You don’t “apply to Canada.”

You apply to a specific college or university in Canada.

This means that your first step isn’t filling out a form.

Your first step is picking the right place — a place that will actually accept you… and that qualifies you for a study permit.

Let’s break it all down 👇

Step-by-Step: How to Get In

This is the part most students get wrong — so take your time here.

1. Research Programs and Universities

Not all schools are equal. Not all programs are eligible.

Start by asking:

• What do I want to study?
• What career do I want after?
• Do I want a degree or a diploma? Then make a shortlist of schools that offer that program.

Pro Tip:

Only consider Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) — schools approved by the Canadian government to host international students.

🔗 Check the official DLI list here (IRCC)

2. Check the Admission Requirements

Each school sets its own rules. But generally, you’ll need:

• A strong academic record (grades matter — especially for top schools)
• Specific course prerequisites (e.g., Math, Science, English)
• Proof of language proficiency (more on that later)

Some programs may ask for portfolios, interviews, or entrance exams.

3. Take Your English Language Test

Unless you’re from an English-speaking country or studied in English previously, you’ll need:

• IELTS Academic (minimum: 6.0–6.5)
• or TOEFL iBT (minimum: 80–100)
• or Duolingo English Test (only accepted by some schools)

Book early — test dates fill up fast.

4. Gather Your Documents

Different schools, different checklists — but here’s what you’ll likely need:

• Academic transcripts (official + translated if not in English/French)
• Valid passport (make sure it doesn’t expire soon)
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) or personal essay
• Resume (for postgrad programs)

5. Submit Your Application

Most schools let you apply online — either via:

• The school’s own portal
• or a centralized system (like OUAC for Ontario universities)

Expect to pay CAD 100– 200 per application.

Then… you wait. If accepted, you’ll get a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) — and that’s your golden ticket to the next step: applying for a study permit.

Admission Requirements for Undergraduate vs Postgraduate

Not all applicants are the same. Neither are the rules.

Undergraduate (Bachelor’s):

• Must have completed secondary education (12th grade or equivalent)
• Minimum GPA requirement (varies: 60%–85% depending on the school)
• IELTS/TOEFL mandatory
• Some programs require math, science, or arts prerequisites

Postgraduate (Master’s/Diplomas):

• Recognized Bachelor’s degree
• Minimum GPA (often 70%+ or 3.0 GPA)
• Strong Statement of Purpose
• Research programs may need a research proposal or supervisor confirmation
• Some may require GRE/GMAT (esp. MBA programs)

Can’t meet the language score?

Look for conditional offers + pathway programs — they let you improve your English first.

Popular Programs and Institutions

Here’s what’s hot (and employable):

Top Programs

• Computer Science & IT
• Business & Finance
• Engineering
• Health Sciences & Nursing
• Media & Communication
• Hospitality & Culinary Arts
• AI & Data Analytics (hello, future)

Top Universities

• University of Toronto (U of T) – Toronto, ON
• University of British Columbia (UBC) – Vancouver, BC
• McGill University – Montreal, QC
• University of Alberta – Edmonton, AB
• McMaster University – Hamilton, ON

Top Colleges & Vocational Schools

• Humber College – Toronto, ON
• George Brown College – Toronto, ON
• Seneca College – North York, ON
• Fanshawe College – London, ON
• BCIT – Vancouver, BC

College vs University?

• Universities = academic degrees (BA, BSc, MA, etc.)
• Colleges = diplomas, certificates, and career-ready training

What’s next?

Once you’ve got your Letter of Acceptance (LOA), you’re ready for the study permit + visa phase — and we’ll walk you through that next.

What Are Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs)?

Here’s a scary little truth:

If your school isn’t a DLI, your study permit will be rejected.

And you won’t be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit either.

So yeah — DLIs matter. A lot.

Let’s clarify what they are, why they matter, and how to avoid misunderstandings.

What is a DLI?

DLI = Designated Learning Institution

It’s a school in Canada that the government has approved to host international students.

Not all schools make the cut.

Not all programs qualify.

And not all provinces play by the same rules.

If you apply to a school that’s not a DLI?

You’ll waste your time.

You’ll waste your money.

And IRCC will definitely reject your study permit.

How Do I Know If a School Is a DLI?

You don’t guess. You check — right here:

🔗 Official DLI List (IRCC)

Search by province.

Find your school.

Confirm that it has a valid DLI number.

Pro Tip: Your Letter of Acceptance (LOA) must mention that DLI number — or your study permit app = 🚫 denied.

DLIs and PGWP: The Connection

This is huge. Let’s say you get into a DLI — great!

However, not all DLIs are created equal when it comes to Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility.

Here’s the rule:

Only full-time programs at eligible DLIs qualify you for a PGWP.

The program must be at least 8 months long.

So, if you want to work in Canada after graduating (and maybe apply for PR later), your school and program must qualify for PGWP.

Always double-check the PGWP eligibility of both:

• The school
• The program

If it’s unclear? Email admissions. Get proof in writing.

Examples of Major DLIs by Province

Here’s a quick look at some of the most recognized DLIs in Canada:

All of these are DLIs.

All offer programs leading to PGWP (if full-time, 8+ months).

But again: Check each specific program before you apply.

What Happens If I Study at a Non-DLI?

You might be thinking… “But this college looks legit.”

Maybe it even has nice branding and cool videos.

Doesn’t matter.

If it’s not a Designated Learning Institution, here’s what’s at risk:

• Your study permit will be refused
• You won’t be allowed to work part-time
• You can’t apply for PGWP after graduation
• You’ll likely have to leave Canada after your program ends

This isn’t something you can fix later. You have to get it right before you apply.

Bottom Line

• Always choose a Designated Learning Institution
• Always confirm your program leads to PGWP (if that’s your plan)
• Always cross-check the DLI number on your LOA

Awesome — you’re about to get into the real paperwork: the one document that lets you actually study in Canada.

Get this right, and you’re boarding a plane.

Get it wrong, and you’re back at square one.

So let’s break it down.

Study Permit and Canadian Student Visa Process

Let’s clear up a huge misconception right away:

A study permit is NOT a visa.

You need both to enter and stay in Canada.

Wait — what’s the difference?

• Study Permit = permission to study in Canada.
• Visa (TRV or eTA) = permission to enter Canada.

If your permit is approved, IRCC will automatically issue your visa (usually a TRV or eTA, depending on your country).

Now that we’re clear on that…

Study Permit Checklist: What You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into your study permit application:

All documents not in English/French must be officially translated.

Application Timeline & Fees

Total prep time? 4–6 months minimum. Start early.

Fees to expect:

• Study permit: CAD 150
• Biometrics: CAD 85
• Medical exam: CAD 200–$300 (depends on location)
• GIC (for proof of funds, if required): CAD 10,000+

Common Mistakes That Get You Rejected

Let’s save you the heartbreak (and the $235 in fees).

Here’s what not to do:

• Submitting incomplete documents
• Using an unlisted or non-DLI school
• Writing a vague SOP (“I want to study abroad because…”)
• Not showing clear financial proof
• Waiting too late to apply (especially for September intake)

Your application should tell a clear, confident story:

Why this program → at this school → in Canada → makes sense for your future.

Bonus Tip: Use Monzo or a Reliable International Bank

Need to show funds?

Open a GIC account or use a trusted financial platform to transfer money securely.

Want to manage your money abroad?

Set up an international-friendly bank account before you fly.

We recommend Monzo for budgeting, rent payments, and no-FX-fee cards.

Before You Click “Submit”

• Double-check all docs
• Confirm DLI status + LOA
• Make sure your SOP is strong
• Have your biometrics booked
• Confirm funds (and back them up with documentation)

Language Proficiency: IELTS, TOEFL, and Alternatives

If you don’t speak English… you can’t study in English.

So, Canadian schools (and IRCC) need proof that you’ll understand lectures, pass assignments, and survive group projects.

That’s where language tests come in.

Which English Tests Are Accepted in Canada?

Most schools accept at least one of the Big Three:

 

These scores aren’t one-size-fits-all.

Each program sets its threshold.

An Engineering Master’s at UBC? Might ask for 7.0+.

A college diploma in Culinary Arts? Might only need a 6.0.

Do I Really Have to Take a Test?

Maybe. Maybe not.

You might be exempt if:

• You studied in an English-medium institution (for 3+ years)
• You’re from an IRCC-recognized English-speaking country (e.g., UK, US, Australia, Nigeria, etc.)

But don’t assume — always check the school’s official page.

Even if the school waives it, IRCC may still require proof of the study permit.

Pro tip: Some schools offer conditional admission if your English scores are below the cutoff. That means:

• You’re accepted 🟢
• But you start with English training first 🟡
• This is common for pathway or foundation programs.

How to Prep for These Tests — Fast

You’ve got two goals:

1. Hit the score your school wants
2. Not spend 6 months and $600 retaking the test

Here’s how to get there:

Recommended Prep Platforms

• IELTS: IELTS Liz, Magoosh, British Council resources
• TOEFL: ETS practice tests, Notefull, Kaplan
• Duolingo: Official practice site, TestReady.io

Give yourself 3–6 weeks to prep, even if you’re confident in English.

Book Your Test Early (Seriously)

Test seats fill up fast — especially close to school deadlines.

• IELTS: 48 dates/year, paper or computer
• TOEFL: Multiple dates/month, only computer
• Duolingo: You can take it from your room anytime

Retakes? Usually allowed after 3–7 days (but don’t plan on needing one).

Fees:

• IELTS: ~$300 CAD
• TOEFL: ~$245 CAD
• Duolingo: ~$75 USD

Don’t Do This

Assume the school will waive your test — confirm first

Leave booking until the last minute

Wing the test (yes, you “speak English,” but format matters)

Submit expired test scores (they’re only valid for 2 years)

Money is the part that can make or break your Canadian study dreams.

Because here’s the truth:

Studying in Canada isn’t cheap.

But it doesn’t have to break you either — if you know what to expect (and what most guides don’t tell you).

So, let’s break down every dollar you’ll need — tuition, rent, ramen, and beyond. 

Cost of Studying in Canada for International Students

Let’s start with the big number.

The average international student in Canada spends between CAD 25,000 to $45,000 per year.

But averages don’t tell your story. So here’s the real breakdown 👇

Tuition Fees

This is your biggest cost — and it varies based on:

• The school
• The program
• Your level of study

Want to save? Look into colleges first — they’re cheaper, shorter, and can still lead to PR via PGWP.

Living Expenses

Where you live changes everything.

What’s included in the “monthly total”?

• Rent
• Groceries
• Public transport
• Cell phone/internet
• Occasional takeout + Netflix

Other Hidden Costs

These don’t hit you monthly — but they do hit.

Planning Tip:

Set aside at least CAD 2,000–$3,000 for your first month.

You’ll pay deposits, buy essentials, and learn that snow boots are non-negotiable.

Visual Breakdown: Real Student Budget (Monthly)

Here’s an example from a student living in Ottawa:

Want to cut this down?

• Cook more
• Get a roommate
• Live farther from campus
• Use student discounts on everything

How Much Do I Need to Show IRCC?

For your study permit, IRCC requires proof of the following:

• First-year tuition +
• CAD 10,000 for living expenses
• (or $11,000 if studying in Quebec)

Best way to show it?

A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) + bank statements or sponsor letters.

Scholarships and Financial Support Options

Okay, real talk:

Most students don’t even apply for scholarships.

Most students could get one — if they did.

Whether you need a full ride, a few grand off tuition, or help to cover textbooks, there’s money on the table for international students in Canada.

Here’s how to find it — and win it.

University-Specific Scholarships

These are the most accessible — because you’re automatically considered at most schools when you apply.

Let’s look at some top ones:

Hot tip: Reach out to financial aid offices directly. They often have smaller, lesser-known bursaries available to international students.

Government and External Scholarships

These are usually more competitive — but worth it.

Pro Tip: Check with your home country’s education ministry or embassy in Canada — they often have bilateral scholarship programs.

How to Find and Apply (Without Burning Out)

Here’s how to avoid overwhelm:

Where to Search

• University websites → “International Students” + “Funding”
• ScholarshipsCanada.com
• EduCanada Scholarships
• Campus France (for French-speaking applicants)
• Your country’s embassy page

What You’ll Need

• Transcripts
• IELTS/TOEFL score
• Statement of Purpose or personal essay
• Financial need documentation (if applicable)
• Letters of recommendation
• Resume or CV (esp. for leadership/merit-based scholarships)

When to Apply

• Most open at the same time as school apps
• Deadlines range from October to March (for Fall intake)
• Apply as early as possible — scholarships run out

What About Student Loans?

If you’re not eligible for local loans, you can look into:

• MPOWER Financing – no co-signer loans for international students
• Prodigy Finance – graduate-level programs only
• Local credit unions – in your home country, before departure

Ensure you understand interest rates, repayment terms, and whether loans affect your visa status.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and Beyond

Here’s the TL;DR you need to hear:

If you study the right program at the right school, you can legally work full-time in Canada for up to 3 years after graduation.

And that work experience?

It can open the door to permanent residency (PR) through pathways like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry.

Let’s map it all out.

Let’s go — this next part is the payoff. Because sure, you came to study…

…but if we’re being real? You’re also thinking:

“Can I stay in Canada after I graduate?”

“Can I work?”

“Can this lead to PR?”

Spoiler alert: yes, yes, and yes.

But only if you play it smart — starting before applying to school.

What is the PGWP?

It’s an open work permit issued by IRCC that allows international students to work full-time for any employer in Canada after graduation.

Valid for up to 3 years, depending on your program length.

PGWP Eligibility: Do You Qualify?

You’re eligible if you: ✅ Completed a full-time program at a DLI with PGWP eligibility

Studied for at least 8 months

Graduated from a degree, diploma, or certificate program

Had valid student status throughout your studies

Apply for PGWP within 180 days of receiving your final marks

You’re NOT eligible if:

• Your school is a DLI but not PGWP-eligible
• Your program was less than 8 months
• You took unauthorized breaks or studied part-time when not allowed
• You studied online only from abroad (except during COVID-era exceptions)

How Long Is the PGWP Valid?

Example:

You study for a 1-year diploma → get a 1-year PGWP.

You study for a 2-year diploma → you can get the full 3 years.

Steps to Apply for PGWP

You must apply within 180 days of getting your transcript or letter of completion.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Copy of your passport
• Final transcript or official letter of program completion
• Your study permit
• Completed application forms
• CAD $255 payment (work permit + open work permit holder fee)

Apply online via IRCC → Start your PGWP application here

Processing time: 2 to 5 months

You can work full-time while waiting if you apply before your study permit expires.

What Can You Do With a PGWP?

Any job, anywhere in Canada.

• Work full-time
• Switch employers
• Gain Canadian work experience
• Build PR points under Express Entry

You don’t need a job offer to apply.

You don’t need an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment).

PGWP as Your Path to Permanent Residency (PR)

The PGWP gives you Canadian work experience — and that’s the key to unlocking PR via:

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – 1 year of skilled work
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) – get nominated by a province
• Atlantic Immigration Program – for jobs in Nova Scotia, PEI, etc.

What are you doing here? Building a CRS score — and that score gets you into the Express Entry pool.

Most PR applicants with PGWP backgrounds get invited to apply within 6–18 months.

Tips to Maximize Your PGWP Path

Choose a program that’s 2+ years long

Make sure the school is PGWP-eligible (not just a DLI)

Don’t drop to part-time status unless required

Apply early — don’t wait till day 179

Use your PGWP time to get Canadian NOC B-level work experience (skilled jobs)

Accommodation and Life in Canada as an International Student

Let’s cut to it:

Studying abroad isn’t just about classrooms — it’s about living abroad.

Where do you live?

How do you make friends?

Can you work part-time and still afford rent?

Here’s what international student life in Canada actually looks like.

On-Campus vs Off-Campus Housing

The differences are as follows:

On-Campus Housing

Perfect for: First-year students, no-fuss move-ins, instant community.

Pros

• Pre-furnished
• Close to class
• Meal plans available
• Easy to make friends

Cons

• It can be pricey (especially with meal plans)
• Limited availability — apply early (like, 6–9 months early)
• Some are closed in summer

Cost: CAD 600–1,200/month, depending on city and dorm style

Off-Campus Housing

Perfect for: Budget-conscious students, privacy seekers, long-term stay.

Pros

• More freedom
• Can be cheaper
• Choose your location + roommates

Cons

• More responsibility (contracts, bills, setup)
• Must factor in commuting
• May need furniture + Wi-Fi setup

Rent:

• Shared apartment: CAD 500–900/month
• Studio: CAD 900–1,500+ (varies wildly by city)

Pro tip: Avoid Facebook’s “too good to be true” listings. Rental scams are real.

Try trusted sites like:

• PadMapper
• Rentals.ca
• Your school’s housing portal

Student Life and Cultural Adjustment

Let’s talk you — because the lectures are just one part of the experience.

Orientation = Your Survival Kit

Every school has an international student orientation.

Go.

That’s where you’ll learn about:

• Healthcare sign-up
• Work permits
• Banking
• Transit cards
• How not to freeze in February

How to Make Friends Fast

• Join clubs (they’re everywhere — anime to AI)
• Say yes to potlucks, language exchanges, and meetups
• Don’t skip the welcome week — it’s networking gold

Culture shock? It’s normal

You’ll miss food. Family. Weather. (Yes, even the heat.)

But give it 6–8 weeks. Canada’s multicultural vibe makes it easier to adjust than most places.

Here is a real quote from Priya, a UBC student:

“I missed home so much in Month 1. By Month 3, I was calling Canada home.”

Safety, Healthcare, and Transport

• Safety

Canada ranks consistently in the top 10 safest countries.

Still, common sense applies—especially in bigger cities. Lock your stuff, know your neighborhood, and don’t flash cash.

• Healthcare

You must have health insurance — and every province handles this differently:

Check with your school. They’ll either include insurance or tell you where to buy it.

Cost: CAD 600–900/year

• Getting Around

Public transit is solid in most student cities.

Bonus: Uber, Lyft, Zipcar, and shared e-scooters are common in major cities.

Can I Work While Studying?

Yup. IRCC lets full-time international students work:

Up to 20 hours/week during the semester

Full-time during scheduled breaks

You don’t need a separate work permit — it’s included with your study permit.

Pro tip: Look for on-campus jobs first; they are easier to balance and often less competitive.

Get Set Up with Monzo or a Student Bank Account

Let’s be real — managing rent, groceries, and currency exchange in your first month abroad is a lot.

• Open a bank account with no FX fees
• Track your spending in CAD + home currency
• Pay rent + get direct deposits easily
• Set budget categories and alerts
• [Set Up My Student Account with Monzo] (Banking CTA)

Application Checklist and Timeline

You’re planning to move countries.

That’s no small task — but it doesn’t have to feel like a 3,000-piece IKEA desk.

Here’s how to go from zero to visa without the panic attacks.

The 12-Month Canadian Study Prep Timeline

Whether you’re applying for Fall (September), Winter (January), or Spring (May) — start 10–12 months ahead.

Month-by-Month Breakdown:

 

Pro Tip: For September intake, start the process the fall before (i.e., September of the Eg Previous year).

The Ultimate Canada Admission Checklist

Print this. Tape it to your wall. Check boxes like a boss.

Phase 1: School + Program Research

• Shortlist 3–5 schools (DLIs only)
• Confirm PGWP eligibility
• Check admission requirements (GPA, prerequisites)
• Confirm language test requirements

Phase 2: Documents & Applications

• Valid passport (6+ months left)
• Academic transcripts
• Language test score (IELTS/TOEFL)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Letters of Recommendation (2–3)
• Resume/CV (for postgraduate)
• Submit school application(s)
• Pay application fee(s)
• Track application status

Phase 3: Post-Admission

• Receive Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
• Purchase GIC (if required)
• Gather proof of funds
• Complete biometrics
• Medical exam (if needed)
• Apply for a study permit
• Pay IRCC fees (CAD 235)

Phase 4: Arrival Prep

• Find accommodation (on- or off-campus)
• Get health insurance
• Book flight
• Get documents ready for border (LOA, passport, visa, permit approval)
• Budget for the first month
• Pack essentials (don’t forget: winter jacket!)

Nice to Have:

• International SIM card or unlocked phone
• CAD $ in cash
• Contact info for your school’s international office
• Bank account set up (or Monzo onboarding)

Final Tip Before Takeoff:

You don’t need to have it all figured out on Day 1.

But you do need a plan, a timeline, and trusted info.

Bookmark this guide. Revisit it often. And if you’re ever unsure, ask:

“Is this school a DLI?”

“Does this program lead to PGWP?”

“Can I afford this city?”

And most importantly: “Will this move get me closer to my future?”

Chances are, if you’ve made it this far, the answer is already yes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Admission for International Students In Canada

You’ve got questions. Canada’s got paperwork.

Let’s meet in the middle.

1. Can I Work While Studying in Canada?

Yes.

Full-time international students with a valid study permit can work:

• Up to 20 hours/week during academic terms
• Full-time during breaks (summer, winter, scheduled holidays)

You can’t work if you’re only enrolled in part-time studies (unless it’s your final semester).

2. Can I Bring My Spouse or Children With Me?

Yes — but read this twice.

• You can apply for an open work permit for your spouse at the same time as your study permit
• Your children can attend school in Canada tuition-free (in most provinces)
• You’ll need proof of additional funds to support them

Pro tip: Apply for their permits with yours — not later.

3. What if My Study Permit Gets Refused?

First: Don’t panic. It happens.

Then, Fix what went wrong and reapply.

Top reasons for rejection:

• Incomplete or inconsistent documents
• Weak Statement of Purpose (not convincing enough)
• Not enough proof of funds
• School not recognized as a DLI
• Officer doubts you’ll return home after your studies

Fix the gap, rewrite your SOP, and show stronger evidence. Then reapply. Many students get approved on the second try.

4. Can I Switch Schools or Programs After Arriving?

Yes — but there are rules.

You must:

• Stay enrolled at a DLI
• Inform IRCC via your online portal
• Not violate study permit conditions

Switching from a university to a college (or vice versa)? Totally fine — just don’t ghost IRCC. Paper trails matter.

5. What Happens After I Graduate?

You can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) — and stay up to 3 years working in Canada.

That PGWP experience can help you apply for Permanent Residency under Express Entry (CEC or PNP).

Translation: You don’t have to leave after your last class. This can be the beginning, not the end.

6. What if My Program Is Online or Hybrid?

If you’re outside Canada, studying online won’t make you eligible for PGWP.

If you’re already in Canada and studying hybrid? That’s allowed — as long as most of your program is in-person.

Always check current IRCC rules — online learning exemptions during COVID have mostly expired.

7. How Do I Show Proof of Funds?

You need to show you can cover:

• Tuition for the first year
• Living costs: CAD 10,000 (or $11,000 in Quebec)

You can use:

• Bank statements (yours or a sponsor’s)
• Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)
• Scholarship letters
• Loan approval letters (recognized financial institutions)

No screenshots. No photos of cash. IRCC wants official documents.

8. How long does the study permit take to process?

It depends on your country of residence.

Some applicants qualify for Student Direct Stream (SDS) — faster processing (20 days or less)

Regular study permit timelines: 4 to 12 weeks

Check current estimates here → IRCC processing times

9. Do I Need a Medical Exam?

Probably, yes — if:

• You’ll be in Canada for more than 6 months
• You’re from a designated country (e.g., India, Nigeria, the Philippines)
• You plan to work in healthcare, childcare, or teaching

Book with an IRCC-approved panel physician only.

10. What Documents Do I Need at the Airport?

Have these printed and backed up digitally:

• Passport
• Study permit approval letter
• Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
• Proof of funds
• Housing confirmation (optional)
• GIC certificate (if applicable)
• Return/onward ticket (if required)

The officer at the border can deny you entry — be respectful, be clear, and don’t joke around.

That’s a Wrap

You’ve officially reached the end of your Complete Guide to Canada Admission for International Students.

From choosing your program… to submit your study permit… to life after graduation, you’re no longer guessing.

You’ve got the info. You’ve got the steps. Now you’ve got the confidence.

Need help getting started?