Do you want to go to Canada for your college or university studies? Find out what a study permit is, why you need one and how to get one faster. 

There are many benefits to studying at a College or University in Canada. We will provide our assistance along every step of the way to a study program, helping you establish yourself when you arrive.

The study permit is a document Canada issues that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions in Canada. Most foreign nationals need a study permit to study in Canada. We will make sure you have all the documents you need before you apply. 

1.1    Why Canada

There are many reasons why getting an education in Canada is a great idea, below we discuss only a couple of them:

  • Safety and progressive culture

Canada is considered to be a very safe country. In 2018, Canada was ranked first in the world for its attitude towards personal freedom and social tolerance. It’s known across the world for its progressive and friendly culture.

  • High-quality education

Canadian universities are among the best in the world. Currently, 32 Canadian universities are ranked in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, three of which are in the top 50. From a student perspective, this quality also comes with flexibility. Students are encouraged to explore and take a range of classes before declaring a major, so you can try new things and work out what you like before committing yourself to a particular field of study.

  • International environment

Over the past decade, Canada has seen a surge in international applications. Multiculturalism is a trademark of Canada. Everyone is welcomed and embraced. In 1971, Canada was the first country in the world to adopt multiculturalism as an official policy. In doing so, Canada affirmed the value and dignity of all Canadian citizens regardless of their racial or ethnic origins, their language, or their religious affiliation. 

  • Affordable education

The cost of schooling for international students in Canada in considerably cheaper than elsewhere in the world. When comparing average tuition fees for colleges and universities in Australia, New Zealand, the U.K., the United States, and Canada, Canada was by far the cheapest and the U.S. was the most expensive. 

1.2    Do I qualify for a student permit?

You need these documents to apply for a study permit:

  • proof of acceptance from your school
  • proof of identity, and
  • proof of financial support

Abibask can help you with preparation of all the documents and the whole process of getting a study permit. You need to exhibit proof of funds meaning you need to show you have the capacity to support yourself in your entire study and stay in Canada.

Outside Quebec
Persons coming to CanadaAmount of funds required per year (doesn’t include tuition)Amount of funds required per month (additional to the tuition)
You (the student)CAN$10,000CAN$833
First family memberCAN$4,000CAN$333
Every additional accompanying family memberCAN$3,000CAN$255

Example:

  • If you and 2 family members want to come to a province (other than Quebec) for a year, you will need
  • living expenses: $10,000 (for the student)
  • living expenses: $4,000 (for the first family member)
  • living expenses: $3,000 (for the second family member)

Total: $17,000

Increasingly, as the Federal Court has pivoted towards the position that procedural fairness is needed where there are concerns regarding a study permit application, refusals are more likely going to come on concerns you will not leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay.

Having family ties in Canada means having relatives living and settled in the country to the extent that illegal stay with them is made possible. This does not always mean that having a relative wouldn’t get you a visa. In fact, family ties in your country of origin means you have enough reasons to return after studying in Canada. Having a decent job, assets, valued education, and family or business back home, are some of the critical reasons for an applicant to return from Canada. We are here to make sure that you show strong familial bonds back home, increasing your chance of getting a study permit.

1.3    Benefits of Studying in Canada

As a foreign student with a study permit, you can work up to 20 hours per week during your school sessions, and full-time during school breaks. Post-secondary studies usually break for 4 months each summer, giving you a significant amount of time to work in order to help pay for your studies in Canada.

One of the most significant benefits of studying in Canada is the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) that every student is eligible to apply for after completing certain programs of study in Canada. A post-grad work permit is an open work permit that can last for up to three years. With this permit, you can work in almost any job and the employer does not need any special permission to hire you. 

Canada offers an extremely convenient work program for international students looking to remain in the country after they finish their degree. The program gives you plenty of time to build up your CV and make connections that will allow you to remain in the country permanently if you wish – or to return home with several years of fantastic international work experience under your belt.

No matter how comfortable you feel with your immigration situation, we’re certain that Abibask can provide valuable insights – because we do so every day. We have accumulated knowledge of this process and we know the ins and outs of Canada immigration. Contact our office for an appointment today – you might be surprised at what you haven’t thought about regarding your Canadian student immigration application. Talking to an Abibask professional will ensure that you position yourself in a way that maximizes your immigration opportunities as an international student in Canada.