How to Study in Canada as an International Student

Are you a foreign national looking to expand your knowledge and study in Canada? Continue reading below for steps to take to gain a study permit.

To be able to study in Canada you must first apply to a designated learning institute (DIL) and be accepted. Only once you have received your acceptance letter can you apply for a study permit. A study permit is a document that is issued by Citizenship and Immigration Canada allowed international students to attend an authorized school within Canada for any period longer than 6 months.

How to obtain a Canadian Study permit:

To successfully obtain a study permit in Canada, the immigration officer will examine the following

1. Study Plan

• The program you have chosen
• The reasons why you chose that study program
• Why you chose Canada to study this program as opposed to your home country
• How this program will help you chance in your home country

2. Finances
   • You must be able to prove that you have enough funds to support yourself for the duration of your time within Canada. Including tuition, living expenses etc.
3. Criminal Record
   • Any past criminal charges must be addressed before applying. Options available vary from a Temporary Resident Permit to Criminal Rehabilitation
4. Ties to home country
   • You must be able to prove to officers that you have strong reason to return to your home country once you have completed your studies. Proof can include family, property etc

Obligations of an International Student

Upon receiving your Study Permit and coming to Canada, international students have an obligation to:

• Obey the conditions of your study permit
• Make every effort to complete your study program
• Stop studying if you no longer meet the requirements of your permit
• Exit Canada when your study permit expires

There may additional requirements on your study permit. It is important to be aware of all requirements.

Study Permit Exemption

If the program of study is 6 months or less, you are able to study in Canada without a study permit.  This program cannot be part of a longer program and you must complete your studies within the 6 month time frame.

Do minors require a study permit?

The age of majority varies by province.  Minors are exempt for requiring a study permit if:

• They are in kindergarten
• Refugee or refugee claimants
• Children of refugee or refugee claimants
• Parents are in Canada on a study or work permit

Akrami and Associates

Study permits have a unique set of requirements and obligations. It is highly recommended to seek legal expertise before applying and submitting your application. At Akrami and Associates, our representatives have assisted with hundreds of successful study permit applications. For more information or book a time to speak with one of our representatives contact us at 416-477-2545 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.