If you're planning to study in Canada, there are some important things you need to know about getting a visa. This includes understanding what documents you need, how much it will cost, the steps you have to take to apply, and which English proficiency test you should take. Whether you're going for your studies or work or to be with family, this blog will give you a basic overview to help you understand the process better. It breaks down the important information so you can approach the process of getting your Canada student visa with confidence.
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What is a student visa?
A student visa is a type of visa that allows individuals to study abroad for a specific period. These visas are typically issued to international students who wish to pursue academic or vocational courses in a country other than their own. The regulations and requirements for obtaining a student visa vary from country to country, and they are often governed by the immigration laws of the host country.
It's important for individuals planning to study abroad to research and understand the specific requirements and regulations of the country they intend to study in, as these can vary widely. Consulting with the relevant embassy and the educational institution can provide detailed and accurate information about the application process and visa requirements.
Canada student visa
A Canada student visa is a permit, or a document issued by the Citizen and Immigration (CIC) that allows you to study in Canada. If you hold a study permit, you must remain enrolled and make reasonable and timely progress toward completing your course.
Your study permit is always accompanied by a visitor visa or Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Please note that a study permit is a document that allows you to study in Canada while a visitor visa or ETA allows you to enter Canada.
Canada student visa requirement
Here are the documents you need to keep in check to apply for your Canada student visa checklist:
An acceptance letter from your educational institution
A valid passport or travel document
Proof that you can support yourself or any family members who might accompany you, while you’re in Canada
You must also fulfil the eligibility criteria to get a Canadian study visa:
Prove that you have enough money to pay for your:
Tuition fees
Living expenses for yourself and any family members who come with you to Canada.
Return transportation for yourself and any family members who come with you to Canada.
Be a law-abiding citizen with no criminal record and not be a risk to the security of Canada (you may have to provide a police certificate).
Be in good health (you may need to complete a medical exam).
You will also be required to appear for a personal interview at the Canadian embassy or consulate.
To prove you can financially support yourself and any accompanying family members, you may be asked to provide:
Documentation of a Canadian bank account in your name if money has been transferred to Canada
Documentation of a student/education loan from a financial institution
Bank statements
A bank draft in convertible currency
Proof of payment of tuition and accommodation fees
A letter for the person or institution providing your funding
Proof of funding paid from within Canada if you have a scholarship or are enrolled in a Canadian-funded educational program
Note: Please note that these are the basic requirements, please check the official website of your preferred university for a detailed list of documents required for visa processing
English language requirement for your Canada education visa
To get your Canadian visa, you need to show you have good speaking English. This usually means passing an English test that evaluates your English language proficiency.
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the most popular test taken for studying, working, or migrating to an English-speaking country. It is recognised in more than 12,000 organisations worldwide.
If you want to study for a bachelor's degree in Canada, you need to score at least an overall IELTS band score of 6.0. For a master's degree, you need a score an overall IELTS band of 6.5.
Read more: Guide on IELTS for Canada
If you want to know more about the IELTS test, you can get in touch with your nearest IDP IELTS test centre. Our team of IELTS experts will help you with your queries.
Read more: IELTS score for Canada student visa
Apply for your Canada education visa online
To get your student visa, go to the CIC official website and fill out the application there. You can do this up to three months before you plan to go to Canada. Keep in mind, that the day you pay the application fee is considered the day you applied.
Advantages of applying for your Canada education visa online
Applying for a visa online is better because:
You don't have to wait for mail delivery, so it's faster
The whole process goes quicker
If something is missing in your application, you'll know right away because it won't be accepted online
You can quickly send any other documents needed later
You'll get emails about how your application is doing