Ultimate Guide: 7 Crucial Facts About Canada Student Visa

The Canada student visa is important for the many international students who go to study in Canada each year. Also known as study permit, the Canada student visa conditions change rapidly. Therefore, be sure to update yourself with the right information.  You will find valuable information on the website of the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Canada Student Visa Requirements

As an international student, you will need the Canada student visa before your arrival in Canada. To be eligible, you should have the following:

• Proof of acceptance: an acceptance letter from a designated learning institution (DLI).. As such, your application to a university should have already been processed and your acceptance letter received.
• Proof of identity: This can be a valid passport or travel document.
• Proof of financial support: You should also show proof of funds that can be used to cover tuition fees, accommodation, and stipends.
• A medical exam
• Other documents (May be requested from you as the application progresses)
• A letter of explanation: this letter should indicate why you want to study in Canada and how you understand your role as a student.

Canada student visa Application

Apply for the Canada student visa as soon as you receive an acceptance letter from the university you applied to. The student visa can be applied for either online or through the IRCC office. Or physically, by going to a visa application center in your country.

The online route is faster but not available in every country.

• Processing time.

The processing time may take up to 3 months, depending on where you are applying from.  You should request for a study permit before travelling to Canada. However, in some cases it can be applied for in Canada. US citizens or eligible permit holders may be able to apply at the port of entry to Canada.

How much is the Canada Student Visa Fee?

• Study permit (including extensions) – per person: $CAN 150
• Restoring your status as a student: $CAN 350. This is split into:
  • Restoring your status ($CAN 200)
  • Getting a new study permit ($CAN 150)

Statement of Purpose (SOP) for Canada student Visa.

An SOP is needed when applying to a university as well as during the immigration process. This is part of the requirements to study at a Canadian university. The SOP for a Canada Student Visa is an essay in which applicants outline their academic goals and the reasons for their choice of program and university. Candidates should also include their post-study plans.

The core contents of their Statement of Purpose for their visa applications and university admissions can be the same. Few adjustments can be made to differentiate them.

Find the Full Guide to Study in Canada here.

Here are 7 Essential Steps for a Successful Canada Student Visa Application in 2025

1. Choosing the Right Intake Period

Selecting the appropriate intake period is essential for a timely and hassle-free admission to a Canadian university or college. Canadian institutions offer three main intakes:

• Fall Intake (September) – Most popular and offers a wide range of programs.
• Winter Intake (January) – Suitable for students who miss the fall intake.
• Summer Intake (May/June) – Limited programs are available.

Since Canada Student Visa processing takes 2-3 months, it is recommended to apply at least 3 months before your chosen intake to avoid delays.

2. Apply to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)

To be eligible for a Canada Student Visa, you must receive an official acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)—a government-approved university or college in Canada.

Before applying, verify that your chosen institution is on the DLI-approved list. Consulting a trusted immigration expert or education consultant can help streamline your application and ensure compliance.

3. Proof of Financial Stability

To obtain a Canada Study Permit, you must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover:

• Tuition fees
• Living expenses (Minimum CAD 10,000 – CAD 11,000 per year)
• Travel expenses and medical insurance
• Other miscellaneous costs

Proper financial planning is essential, as your ability to finance your studies significantly influences your visa approval chances.

4. Language Proficiency Requirements

Although an English proficiency test is not mandatory for a Student Visa, most Canadian universities require proof of English proficiency unless you are from an English-speaking country.

Accepted tests include:

• IELTS Academic
• TOEFL iBT
• PTE Academic
• C1 Advanced (formerly Cambridge English: Advanced)

5. Gather Required Documents for Canada Student Visa

A successful Study Permit application requires the following essential documents:

• Completed Canada Study Permit application form
• Original Letter of Acceptance from a DLI
• Valid passport (with return eligibility to your home country)
• Recent passport-sized photos (as per specifications)
• Proof of sufficient financial support (Minimum CAD 10,000 – CAD 11,000 annually)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Letter of Intent
• Receipt of Canada Study Permit application fee

Additional Documents for Quebec Applicants:

• Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ)
• English & French translations of documents (if applicable)
• Certified copies of original documents

6. Submit Your Canada Student Visa Application

Once you receive your Letter of Acceptance, you can proceed with your Student Visa (Study Permit) application.

Steps to apply:

•  Apply online via the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) portal.
• If online submission isn’t possible, you can submit documents via mail.
• Provide proof of financial stability (tuition, living expenses, etc.).
• Submit a Police Clearance Certificate to confirm a clean record.
• Provide a Medical Exam Report if required.

Visa Processing Time:

• Standard processing takes up to 3 months.
• If you have a family member working in Canada or apply under the Student Direct Stream (SDS), your visa could be processed within 2 weeks.
• After graduation, your Student Visa remains valid for 3 months, allowing time for travel or work permit application.

7. Biometrics & Interview Appointment

Depending on your citizenship, you may need to visit a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide biometric data (fingerprints & photos).

• Biometric Fee: CAD 85 (in addition to visa processing fees).
• Some applicants may also be required to attend an interview at a VAC.

Faster Visa Processing with Student Direct Stream (SDS):
Students from certain countries can benefit from SDS, which processes Study Permits in just 20 days for a CAD 150 fee. SDS is available for students from:

• India
• China
• Pakistan
• Morocco
• Senegal
• The Philippines
• Vietnam