Canada is sure, one of the most prestigious countries for students to study abroad as it provides the top-most quality of education at a minimal cost. Canada is the first country in the world to adopt a policy of multiculturalism, embracing diversity and pluralism, welcoming 250 ethnic origins mainly from Asia, Africa, and Europe. So, you won’t face any cultural shock as the country is known for its friendly, peacekeeping, and secure to live in.
The Canadian Universities are ranked by the newly-released QS World University Rankings 2020 which includes 26 top Canadian university judges on a methodology that assesses each university on its academic and employer reputations, research impact, and more.
In order to get admitted to the Canadian Universities, you need to go through the process of visa application in under 4-6 weeks. A student should meet the requirements of the Canadian Immigration Act and Regulations under normal circumstances.
Under is the step by step process of getting a Canada Study visa –
Step 1 – Applying for the Canada Universities
The foremost step to get your Canada Study visa is that one should apply for Canadian universities. You need to begin with the offer letter received from a Canada University. Make sure that you’re applying for a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada because then only one is eligible.
Don’t hurry up with your registration and admission process. First, find out the area of your interest and the best universities for it. Nowadays, it’s quite easy as every university has its own website which consists of all the information regarding the courses, semesters, subjects, duration, fees and everything.
The Canadian academics structure is flexible regarding switching your courses, but make sure you go for the right one after comparing all the options in terms of quality of education, ranking, program structure, tuition fee, and other facilities for international students.
Select the appropriate University and Course according to your choice. For admission, you need to fill an application form and submit various documents including proof of your previous academic qualifications, passport copy, and proof of your English language ability, personal details. Wait until your offer letter is received. Usually, it takes time to process all the information, so you’ve to wait patiently.
Step 2 – Pay Tuition fees
Cheers! You are selected. Once you receive an offer letter from the Canadian University then your chances to receive a visa get higher. You should pay the tuition fees as mentioned in your offer letter by International Wire Transfer. Once they receive and process your fees, they will give you a receipt. This receipt will stand as proof of your Canada Student Visa application. Don’t misplace the receipt, as it will be needed to lodge your Canada Study visa application process.
Step 3 – Apply for a Study Permit
Now that you have an institution ready with you, you need to apply for a study permit Canada Study visa. You’re served with two options either you apply through online means or via visiting local visa application centers. You should be accompanied by your acceptance letter and receipt received in the previous step, passport, and documentary proof that you have adequate finances to study in Canada.
Online means, you need to create an online account with the Government of Canada website. You have to convert all your documents into digitized copies and a credit card to pay your fee of INR 7,800. After submitting you can track your Canada Study visa application.
If you decide to visit the local application office then you should read the instruction guide provided on the Government of Canada’s website. Attach all documents to your application. Makes sure all your documents are translated either into English or French. Once you translate your documents, you will need an affidavit from the person who will do your translation. Then pay the application fee and the biometrics fee.
If you are an Indian student applying for a study permit visa or temporary resident Canada Study visa then you don’t need to submit your biometrics application and you are eligible for the Student Direct Stream. The SDS guarantees a faster processing time around 20 days to get your visa clear.
Step 4- Purchase of GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate)
After applying for a study permit you need to buy GIC or Guaranteed Investment Certificate from any participating banks. As Scotia bank and ICICI Bank Canada are the only participating Canadian financial institutions in India at present, you can open a GIC account with either of these banks.
You can obtain a GIC of $10,200 CAD for the adjustment of living expenses. $200 will be deducted as the interest charge of the bank. The student will receive $2000 immediately once he lands in Canada and $8000 will be paid in equal installments for the next year.
In addition to the GIC, you will also need sufficient funds to cover your extra expenses while studying in Canada.
Step 5 – Medical Examination
You now have to undertake a medical examination by a doctor approved by the Canadian Government. This medical examination is generally done after 1 month of your Canada Study visa Application or you also have the option to get the examination done before you submit your student visa application. The medical report will automatically be transferred to the embassy.
Step 6 – Visa Lodgment
To lodge your Canada Study visa application you will need to submit some documents as per SDS Checklist:
1. Canada Study visa Application Form
2. Original valid passport with photocopy of the Bio data page
3. Family information form
4. An Acceptance Letter issued by the SDS Educational institute in Canada
5. Use of Representative Form (IMM 5476)
6. Proof of English Proficiency Test
7. Academic Documents
8. Receipt of Payment of Tuition fee
9. Evidence of GIC purchase
10. Student Questionnaire
11. Medical, etc.
Step 7 – Visa Outcome
You will get to know about the outcome of your Canadian student visa application.
Some frequently asked questions!
1. Is IELTS or TOEFL required for a Canada Study visa?
In order to gain smooth entry into Canada, and international students will have to prove proficiency in English or French. For French, you can opt for DALF, DELF, or TCF. You need to brush up your language skills in order to clear your visa.
2. What is the age limit for a Canada Study visa?
There is no age limit specified to get a Canadian student visa.
3. How many years is the Canadian student visa valid for?
The validity of your visa depends on the length of his program/course. If your program is for two years, you can stay back up to 3 years.
4. Can I Work while studying in Canada?
While working in Canada is an apt option for international students to finance their study and extra expenses, but there are some criteria you have to meet in order to apply for part-time jobs.
5. How long can I stay in Canada after graduation?
After graduation, you need a work permit to stay back in Canada. Your study permit will expire 90 days after you complete your study program.
6. Can international students work in Canada after graduation?
Yes after graduation one can work in Canada, after applying for a work permit under the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program. The program provides you with a work permit that is valid for the duration of the study program. The maximum validity period for this permit is three years.
7. How long does it take to get a Permanent Residency in Canada?
To get permanent residency you need to work for at least two years in Canada.
