Study Permits in Canada

The number of international students in Canada now exceeds 500,000, and continues to grow every year. The provinces of Ontario and British Columbia attract the majority of these students, accounting for almost half and a quarter of the total respectively. Canada offers several major advantages:

• Academic excellence: The country is home to some of the world's best universities and educational institutions, offering high-quality training.

• Competitive cost of living: Tuition and living costs in Canada are often more affordable than in other countries such as the U.S., U.K. or Australia.

• Values of tolerance and inclusion: Canada is renowned for its open and welcoming society, characterized by low levels of discrimination.

Apply for a study permit to study in Canada

To study in Canada, most foreign students need a study permit. However, if you're planning to study in Quebec, there's one step you'll need to take first: obtain a Certificat d'acceptation du Québec (CAQ) before submitting your application for a study permit. Once your studies are completed, you may be eligible for a post-graduation work permit for up to three years, allowing you to work and seek employment in Canada.

Common situations and related procedures

Here's an overview of the steps you need to take, depending on your situation:

• Acceptance into a Canadian institution (outside Quebec): You will need to apply for a study permit from the Canadian authorities, providing a letter of acceptance, financial proof and a valid passport.

• Request priority processing: If you are eligible, you can request fast-track processing when you submit your application online.

• Acceptance into a Quebec institution: You must first obtain a CAQ before applying for a study permit.

• Working as a student: If you're already in Canada, you may be authorized to work while you study under certain conditions, requiring an application for a student work permit.

• Change of program or institution: If you change your program or institution, you will need to update your study permit or submit a new application if necessary.

• Doing an internship: If your program includes an internship, you may need to obtain a work permit for the internship.

• Finding a job after your studies: After graduation, you can apply for a post-graduation work permit, valid for up to three years, depending on the length of your studies.

Why choose Canada?

Every year, over 600,000 international students come to Canada to benefit from its world-class education and career opportunities. Canada has become a very popular destination for international students, offering quality training and greater affordability than other developed countries.

If you have any questions or would like us to take on your application, the first step is to complete our free online assessment. An advisor from our International Student Programs Department will contact you to discuss your options.

The Canadian Study Permit: A key to studying in Canada

A Canadian Study Permit is an official document authorizing you to study at a school, college (CEGEP) or university in Canada. Once you have been accepted at a Designated Educational Institution (DEI), you can apply for a Study Permit.

Key steps in the application process :

1. Choosing a program : Your choice of study program is crucial to the success of your application. It is essential to justify your choice in terms of your academic and professional background.

2. Submit your application to the school: Once you've chosen a program, you'll need a letter of acceptance from the school. This letter is required to apply for a study permit.

3. Apply for a study permit: Once you've received your letter of acceptance, you can apply to the Canadian authorities, with the help of our team to prepare your file.

Language requirements for studying in Canada

To study in Canada, you need to be proficient in one of the two official languages: English or French. Language requirements vary by institution and program. Some schools allow you to take language courses to improve your skills during your studies.

In some cases, if you come from an English-speaking country or have previously studied in French, you may be exempt from taking a language test such as TEF. Always check the specific requirements of the institution to which you wish to apply.

Checklist of required documents

Here are the documents generally required for your study permit application:

• Letter of acceptance from the establishment.
• Proof of financial support to cover tuition and living expenses.
• Identity documents such as your passport, birth certificate, etc.

Canadian study permit requirements

The Canadian study permit comes with conditions that must be met to maintain student status and benefit from the associated advantages:

• Be enrolled in a Designated Educational Institution (DEI).
• Follow a full-time program (or part-time in Quebec).
• Do not take more than 150 days of authorized leave.

Respecting these conditions is essential to ensure a successful study experience in Canada, with increased chances of obtaining a post-graduation work permit.

Studying in Quebec: Additional requirements

To study in Quebec, you must obtain a CAQ issued by the MIFI (Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration) before applying for a study permit. This document confirms your acceptance as a student at a Quebec institution. You must also meet the specific conditions of the CAQ before you can begin your studies in this province.

Once you've obtained your CAQ, you can apply to the Canadian authorities for a study permit.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)