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canadiansc@live.caToll Free Number
9820115187
Studying in Canada is a popular choice for Nepali students wanting to pursue further education abroad. If you’re among them but need clarification about the study permit in Canada and visa procedures, you’ve come to the right place.
There are several reasons why students from Nepal choose Canada for their higher education. Not only does Canada offer world-class education, but it also provides affordable tuition fees, a safe and peaceful environment, and the opportunity to work while studying. These factors attract students who wish to experience real-world learning while earning a degree.
Whether you’re interested in exploring dynamic cities, immersing yourself in a diverse cultural environment, or pursuing a globally recognized education, Canada presents an excellent opportunity for international students. However, understanding all the Canada visa requirements and processes can seem daunting. It’s important to conduct thorough research before applying for a study permit in Canada.
But don’t worry. Here we have a detailed step-by-step guide that will provide you with all the necessary information to navigate the Canada visa process smoothly and successfully from Nepal.
A study permit in Canada is the official document issued by the Canadian government for international students.
This permit allows you to legally enroll and study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. DLIs include universities, colleges, vocational schools, and similar institutions authorized to accept international students. Since most foreign nationals fall under this category, obtaining a Study Permit is essential for pursuing your education in Canada.
To apply for a study permit in Canada, you must demonstrate financial capability to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and transportation expenses for you as well as any other family members accompanying you.
Additionally, you must have a clean criminal record, maintain good health, and prove your intention to leave Canada upon permit expiration.
Many people commonly mistake study permits for student visas, assuming they are the same thing, but there is a notable difference between the two. A study permit is specifically tailored to educational pursuits and is granted for the duration of the academic program, with conditions such as maintaining full-time enrollment. On the other hand, a student visa is a document granting permission to enter and stay in that country for a specified period and purpose, which in the case of students like you, is typically for education.
Both study permits and visas are essential documents of the immigration process for international students wishing to pursue their academic goals in Canada. Technically, the Canadian government doesn’t give out a separate “Student Visa.” When your study permit gets approved, you’ll also get either a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA). Either of these allows you to enter Canada.
The Canadian education system is renowned in the world for a reason. They typically have four stages of education in their system starting from Kindergarten to post-secondary education. Let’s break it down one by one.
Kindergarten is the first stage, but not mandatory for all children. This is like a play school introducing basic concepts.
After that, they enter the primary school. Mostly children from ages 6 to 12 fall under this category and the system focuses on core subjects like math, science, and reading. Here, students develop a strong base of knowledge.
Starting around age 12, students enter the secondary school level. This system is different from the Nepalese education system because students can choose a more academic path focused on theories or a more practical path with hands-on learning, depending on their interests. There are even specialized electives to learn deeper about specific subjects.
After high school, there are various paths to take. Students can pursue short certificate programs to gain job-ready skills in specific areas. Students from Nepal typically apply for a study permit in Canada after completing Plus 2 or a Bachelor’s degree in their home country.
Canadian career colleges offer in-depth, hands-on training in a particular field, often with smaller classes for a more personalized experience. Universities are the most prestigious option, granting longer degrees like Bachelor’s or Master’s in a wide range of subjects.
In Canada, all colleges and universities follow the same high standards set by the government. This ensures you get a quality education wherever you go, no matter which path you choose within Canada’s post-secondary education (colleges or universities).
To obtain a study permit in Canada, you must fulfill some requirements. First, you need acceptance from a designated Canadian school (DLI) for a valid study program.
Then you’ll need to show you have enough funds for the total cost of studying in Canada including tuition, living costs, and returning home. The amount varies depending on your situation and the school’s location.
They’ll also want proof of a clean criminal record through a police check from your home country. In some cases, a medical exam might be required. Finally, you’ll need to convince them you plan to leave Canada after your studies by showing strong ties to your home country.
These are the general requirements, but specific documents and procedures can vary depending on your situation and Canadian immigration rules.
Here is a detailed breakdown of the specific documents required for a Canadian student visa.
If you want to get accepted into Canadian educational institutions, they require you to demonstrate proficiency in either English or French, depending on the language of instruction of the program they intend to enroll in.
The most commonly accepted English language proficiency tests to study in Canada are the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and the Pearson Test of English (PTE). Similarly, Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française (DALF) is a common test for French proficiency. Most of the students from Nepal choose IELTS to study in Canada.
Your IELTS score is also one of the major factors in determining your acceptance to the desired learning institute in Canada. The overall band score for colleges and Universities in Canada is 6.5 with no band less than 6.0. Mostly Diploma and certificate level programs may accept a lower score, but it is highly recommended that you score 6.5 or equivalent.
| Name of institution | World Ranking | IELTS minimum requirement (undergraduate programs) | IELTS minimum requirement (postgraduate programs) |
| University of Toronto | 21 | 6.5 | 7.0 |
| University of British Columbia | 37 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| McGill University | 44 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| McMaster University | 77 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| University of Montreal | 90 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| University of Alberta | 132 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| Name of institution | World Ranking | IELTS minimum requirement (undergraduate programs) | IELTS minimum requirement (postgraduate programs) |
| University of Toronto | 28 | 6.5 | 7.0 |
| McGill University | 33 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| University of British Columbia | 47 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| University of Alberta | 109 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| McMaster University | 146 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| University of Montreal | 14 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| University of Waterloo | 163 | 7.0 | 7.0 |
Beyond the study permit, there are other additional requirements to obtain a Canadian student visa. These requirements may include a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), health insurance, and biometrics.
As an international student, some provinces like British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec provide medical coverage to you while in others you need to make arrangements for private health insurance coverage.
The provincial health care system covers basic medical services and emergency care. But for many other services like dental care, optic care, prescription medications, and some diagnostic tests. The provincial health care system in Canada covers basic and preventive medical services, as well as emergency care.
The Canada student visa process costs CAD 150 as of 2024. However, it’s important to check the most recent fee update on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website, because fees are subject to change.
You may also require a biometrics fee which is around CAD 85 per person, up to a maximum of CAD 170 for a family applying together.
Apart from that other expenses like the cost of living and tuition fees make up for the total cost to study in Canada is around CAD 35,000.
Conduct thorough research on which University or college you want to go to Depending upon the program specializations, costs, duration, city, and other factors, choosing the right institution is the first and most important step in getting a study visa. There are many options to choose from, including universities, colleges, and language schools. You can search for universities and colleges online or by contacting them directly. Make sure the institute you apply for is a Designated learning institution (DLI) and the program you choose aligns with your interest perfectly.
After you get accepted by the educational institution, gather all the necessary documents like SOP, passport, academic qualifications, proof of financial support, source of income, and all the others mentioned above in this article.
Once you receive confirmation of acceptance from the institution, you’ll need to pay the tuition fee. Follow the payment instructions provided by the institution, which may include wire transfer, online payment, or other methods.
After you’ve chosen the right program and University, got accepted to it, and paid the tuition fee, you can now complete your study permit application form for Canada. Make sure you fill the form correctly and if you have any confusion consult with our experts at the Canadian Study Center.
Now that your form is complete, submit your Canada study permit application along with all other required documents through the online portal via the Canadian Study Center. Also, make sure you pay any applicable visa application fees.
It takes time to process your application by the Canadian authorities and the time taken to receive a decision can vary depending on how many people are applying in that season. Generally, it takes around three to four months to receive a decision but sometimes it may also take around six months. As you wait patiently, you can check the application status by contacting the Canadian study center. Here are some other things you can do after applying for a study permit in Canada.
If your visa is approved, you will get a study permit in Canada. This document will let you legally stay in Canada for your studies. Make sure you keep this safe and with you. You’ll need it to travel to Canada.
Now that you have received your study permit, you must be excited to enter Canada. But as an international student, you may face difficult situations also. So to be prepared on what to expect about the Canadian culture, system, policies, and other things, attend a Pre-departure session organized by consultancies and relevant organizations. CSC also provides such sessions for every intake, so make sure you keep updated on that.
Now get your passport stamped and make travel arrangements like booking flights and accommodations. Start looking for the available housing options. Also, pack some warm clothes to be prepared for the Canadian weather.
Upon arrival in Canada, follow any required immigration procedures, such as customs and immigration check-in, depending on what the Canadian authorities ask. Keep all your official documents with you and communicate confidently.
There can be different specific circumstances for a study permit in Canada. Some of them are applying for dependent family members, extending or changing your study permit status, working while studying regulations and limitations, and post-graduation work permit programs. Here is a detail on each of such conditions.
You can include your family members (spouse, common-law partner, or dependent children) either in your initial study permit application or apply for their separate permit later on. You may need to provide proof that you can financially support your family members during their stay in Canada.
If you need to extend your study permit or change your status from visitor visa to student permit, you should apply before your current permit expires through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. You’ll need to provide updated proof of enrollment and financial support. If you’re already in Canada and want to change your status to a student permit, you can do so by applying online or on paper, depending on your circumstances.
As an international student in Canada, you may be eligible to work on or off campus while studying. You don’t need a separate work permit for on-campus jobs, but you must have a valid study permit.
Similarly, you can work off-campus for up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks without a separate work permit.
Some study programs include mandatory co-op or internship placements, which may require a separate work permit. Make sure you are aware of any restrictions regarding your eligibility to maintain compliance with your study permit in Canada.
After completing your studies in Canada, you become eligible for a post-graduation work permit, allowing you to gain valuable work experience. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit offered to international graduates from eligible DLI-registered institutions in Canada. Students can apply for an open work permit after 180 days of graduation.
The length of your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is determined by the duration of your study period. A student must study for at least 8 months at a DLI-registered eligible institution to be eligible for a Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
As an international student from Nepal, here are some tips for a successful study permit application in Canada.
The requirements for a study permit in Canada include enrollment at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada, adequate financial resources to cover all your expenses, a clear criminal record, being in good health, and having an intent to return home after the completion of your studies.
The time taken to receive a study permit to Canada varies depending on the situation but it usually takes around 3 to 4 months.
You need to have at least CAD 25,000 to apply for a study permit in Canada.
If you are well prepared with all the requirements and genuinely intend to study in Canada, you can easily get a Canadian study permit with the right guidance from reputed consultancies like Canadian study center.
Generally, a minimum overall academic IELTS score of 6.5 and a minimum score of 6.0 for all four bands (Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking) is required by many colleges/Universities. But it is not mandatory, you can still apply for a study permit in Canada if one or two band has slightly lower score.
There is no specific age limit for studying in Canada. However, some courses or Universities may have minimum age requirements for enrollment. You may need to be at least 16 years old to apply for a study permit in Canada for an undergraduate program. If you are below 18, your parent or guardian is responsible for the financial and other aspects. On the maximum side, there is no upper age limit for studying in Canada.
You need to pay tuition fees for the first year of your program after receiving acceptance from your desired college/University before applying for the study permit in Canada.
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