Thinking about making the move to study in Canada? You’re not alone! Every year, thousands of international students choose Canada for its top-ranked universities, diverse culture, and high quality of life. Whether you’re planning a diploma, bachelor’s, or master’s degree, one of the most important steps is securing your Canada student visa.

At Study And Work Abroad, we’ve guided countless students through this process—so don’t worry, you’re in good hands. In this complete guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to apply for a visa for study in Canada, step by step.

Step 1: Get Accepted by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)

Before you apply for a student visa, you must receive a Letter of Acceptance from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI). This is a school approved by the Canadian government to host international students.

Once you have your letter, you can begin the Canada student visa application process, also known as applying for a Study Permit.

Step 2: Gather Your Required Documents

Here’s a list of the documents you’ll typically need:

• A valid passport

• Letter of Acceptance from a DLI

• Proof of sufficient funds (tuition + living expenses)

• Passport-sized photos

• Statement of Purpose (SOP)

• Immigration Medical Exam (IME), if required

• Police clearance certificate (if applicable)

• English language proficiency test results (like IELTS or TOEFL)

• Receipt of visa application fee payment

Your study in Canada consultants (like us!) can help double-check your documents before you submit them.

Step 3: Apply for Your Canada Student Visa

You can apply online through the official Government of Canada website or via paper application (though online is faster). You’ll also need to pay the application fee (CAD $150) and biometrics fee (CAD $85).

Some students may be eligible for the Student Direct Stream (SDS), which offers faster processing (around 20 days) if you meet certain criteria, including applying from a participating country and providing upfront documentation like a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC).

Step 4: Submit Biometrics and Medical Exams

After you apply, you’ll receive instructions to give biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) at a local visa application center. Some students will also be required to complete a medical exam with an approved panel physician.

Step 5: Wait for the Decision

Once all steps are complete, your application will be reviewed. Processing times vary depending on your country of residence, but it generally takes 4 to 12 weeks.

If approved, you’ll receive:

• A Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction

• A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

• And upon arrival in Canada, your Study Permit will be issued

Can You Work While Studying?

Yes! Most international students can work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during breaks. This helps students manage living expenses and gain valuable work experience.

Why Study in Canada?

• World-class education system

• Multicultural, inclusive environment

• Affordable tuition compared to the US or UK

• Opportunities for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP)

• Pathway to permanent residency

Whether you're heading to Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, or a smaller student-friendly city, Canada offers an enriching academic and cultural experience.

How Study And Work Abroad Can Help

At Study And Work Abroad, our expert team of study in Canada consultants helps students like you:

• Choose the right program and university

• Prepare strong applications

• Secure scholarships and manage finances

• Complete the Canada student visa process from start to finish

• Offer pre-departure and post-arrival guidance

We believe studying abroad should be exciting—not stressful. With our support, you can focus on your dreams while we handle the paperwork.

Final Thoughts

Getting a visa for study in Canada may seem like a big step, but with the right guidance, it’s completely manageable. Whether you’re going for business, engineering, healthcare, or the arts, Canada has the right program for you.

Ready to start your Canadian education journey? Reach out to Study And Work Abroad today—we’ll help you make it happen!