How is a study permit assessed?

When you apply for a study permit to Canada, your application is assessed based on the following factors:

• Acceptance by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI): You must have a letter of acceptance from a DLI in Canada. This is a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students.
• Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL): In early 2024, IRCC started the requirement for provinces to issue PALs to international students with a few exceptions. If you are applying for a study permit now, you will likely need a PAL from your college/university before applying.
• Proof of Financial Support: You need to show that you have enough money to pay for your tuition fees, and living expenses for yourself and any family members who come with you to Canada. This can include bank statements, proof of a student loan, a letter from a person or institution providing you with money, or proof of funding from within Canada if you have a scholarship or are in a Canadian-funded educational program.
• Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC): A GIC is a Canadian investment that has a guaranteed rate of return for a fixed period of time. This is offered by many Canadian banks. Most students applying to Canada will need to have a GIC amount of CAD 20,635
• Intention to leave Canada: You must convince the officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your studies. This includes showing ties to your home country, such as family, spouse, kids, job offer, or property.
• Study plan: A study plan is a crucial part of your study permit application. It summarizes your intention and commitment to study in Canada. An ideal study plan should include:
• An introduction about your background
• Your reasons to choose Canada for studying
• Your educational background
• Your reason for choosing this particular program of study
• Your career goals
• The opportunities available to you in your home country after completing your studies in Canada

 

How to submit a complete study permit application?

The first step in any immigration application is to check the application for completeness. If your application is not properly filed and incomplete – they can return or refuse your application. Some of the documentation required for the study permit applications includes:

• Letter of acceptance from DLI
• Financial documents to support your study and stay in Canada
• Valid Passport
• Digital Photo
• Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)
• Study plan
• Education transcripts, degrees, diplomas and/or certificates.
• Language test results
• Work experience reference letters
• Police certificate
• Medical exam
• Marriage certificate (if married)
• Paying the proper fees
• Signing the forms required

 

Please note that this is not a comprehensive list, and the documentation may differ depending on individual circumstances of the case.

Applying for a study permit in the current immigration landscape is a tricky process. This is why it is more important than ever to choose a professional who understands the nuances of the system. For further information and to discuss specifics of your case, contact us at [email protected]; or 226-881-3343. We will be happy to assist you!

Disclaimer: The above article is meant for informational and knowledge purposes and does not constitute legal advice.

Source: Study permits: Assessing the application - Canada.ca