Becoming a student in Canada
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HOW TO BECOME A STUDENT IN CANADA?
Canada is among the most sought-after countries for immigration for several reasons: universal healthcare, employment opportunities, cultural and religious diversity. Furthermore, Canada is internationally recognized for its high-quality education system; every year, the country welcomes many international students. However, to study in Canada, it is essential to obtain a study permit. This article therefore aims to provide an overview of the step-by-step procedure to obtain a study permit in Canada and become a student in Canada, taking into account the specific details regarding Quebec and briefly explaining how the Canadian education system works. We will first briefly present the Canadian education system to provide a better understanding of the different procedures (I). Next, we will cover the procedure to follow regarding the study permit at the federal level outside Quebec (II). Finally, we will explain the specific procedures to follow to obtain a study permit in the province of Quebec (III).
I. UNDERSTANDING THE CANADIAN EDUCATION SYSTEM:
In Canada, each of the 13 provinces and territories manages its own school system and follows government standards, meaning each province and territory is responsible for the administration of its education system. This consequently means that laws, policies, and educational programs can vary from one province to another. Each province has its own Ministry of Education that sets the standards and regulations for elementary, secondary, and post-secondary schools. Therefore, various modalities such as curricula, admission criteria, school calendars, inclusive education policies, graduation requirements, and teaching regulations can differ from one province to another.
For example, the province of Quebec has a distinct education system due to its French-speaking majority. Quebec offers curricula in French and follows an education system based on the college and university model. School is compulsory in Canada from the age of 6 until about 18. After secondary school, students have the choice between college and university. Both education systems help students prepare for their future. In college, students can acquire practical and technical skills specific to their desired career. They can study subjects such as graphic design, web development, culinary arts, occupational health, and many others. Colleges often collaborate with employers from different sectors to develop the most up-to-date curricula. The duration of college studies generally varies from one to three years, at the end of which students obtain a certificate or diploma. At university, students often delve into in-depth and theoretical subjects such as law, medicine, art history, engineering, and many others. The duration of university studies generally varies from three to seven years, and upon completion, students obtain a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree.
In Quebec, the education system is unique. After secondary school, students can attend a college of general and vocational education (CÉGEP). Cégeps offer a two-year program of study leading to a Diploma of College Studies (DEC), which prepares students for university or to enter the workforce.
French education system | Quebec education system | Education system in the rest of Canada | |
Primary / Elementary | Preschool (ages 3-6), elementary school (ages 6-11) | Primary (ages 6-12) | Kindergarten (age 5), elementary school (ages 6-11) |
Secondary | Collège (ages 11-15), lycée (ages 15-18) | High school (ages 12-17) | High school (ages 12-17) |
College | No direct equivalent, post-secondary education begins | CEGEP (ages 17-19) | No direct equivalent, post-secondary education begins |
Post-secondary (University) | University (Licence, Master, Doctorate), Grandes Ecoles | University (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD) | Community college, technical college, university (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD) |
Assessment | Grading out of 20 | Grading generally out of 100 or by letter (A, B, C, etc.) | Grading generally out of 100 or by letter (A, B, C, etc.) |
School year duration | From September to June, with regular holidays | From late August to June, with summer, winter, and spring breaks | From September to June, with summer, winter, and spring breaks |
Access | Selection based on academic record from high school and in higher education | University admission is based on CEGEP grades | University admission is generally based on high school grades |
Final secondary school diploma | Baccalauréat | Diplôme d’études secondaires (DES) | High School Diploma |
II. THE PROCEDURE TO BECOME A STUDENT IN CANADA OUTSIDE QUEBEC:
First, we will provide preliminary information regarding the process (A). Next, we will examine in detail the various requirements (B) as well as the documents necessary to submit a visa application (C). Finally, we will guide you precisely through the procedure for presenting this application and the steps to follow after submitting it (D).
A) Information regarding the process
A) 1. What is a study permit?
A study permit is an official document issued by the Canadian government, which allows foreign students to temporarily reside in Canada to pursue full-time studies at a designated learning institution. This document is of paramount importance for international students wishing to study in Canada, whether at a university, college, or language school. The study permit is issued by Canadian immigration authorities and is a legal requirement for international students, unless they are exempt. This document indicates the authorized duration of stay in Canada, generally linked to the duration of the study program. It also specifies the conditions with which the student must comply, notably maintaining full-time student status, respecting the start and end dates of the studies, as well as the obligation to leave the country at the end of the program, except in the case of an application for an extension of stay or change of status. Indeed, after a study permit in Canada, one can obtain an open work permit to work in any job and subsequently obtain Permanent Residence. The study permit confers a legal status on international students, allowing them to reside in Canada for the entire duration of their studies. It is therefore essential to comply with the conditions established by Canadian authorities and respect the regulations in force to maintain this status and take full advantage of the opportunity to study in Canada.
A) 2. Fees related to obtaining a study permit
Here are some essential points to consider regarding the fees related to obtaining a study permit: · Application fees International students must pay an application fee of 150 dollars, so it is highly recommended to consult the current rates on the official website of Canadian immigration or the office responsible for processing applications: https://www.canada.ca/fr/immigration-refugies-citoyennete/services/etudier-canada/permis-etudes.html
· Biometrics fees: In some cases, international students must also pay a biometrics fee, which covers the collection of their fingerprints and the taking of a biometric photo, amounting to CAN$85
· Additional processing fees: Depending on the province or territory in which you plan to study, specific additional processing fees may apply.
A) 3. Processing time for a study permit application
The processing time for a study permit application can vary based on various factors, such as your country of origin, the chosen study program, and the province where you plan to study. Processing times can also fluctuate depending on the time of year, as some periods receive a larger volume of applications than others. It is always possible to obtain an estimate of the processing time by consulting an immigration lawyer or by visiting the following official link: https://www.canada.ca/fr/immigration-refugies-citoyennete/services/demande/verifier-delais-traitement.html
B) Eligibility requirements
The eligibility requirements for a student visa in Canada are as follows: - You must have received an acceptance letter from a designated learning institution in Canada. - You must also demonstrate that you have the financial resources necessary to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and additional costs during your stay in Canada. - You may eventually be required by Canadian authorities to provide proof that you do not have a criminal record and that you do not pose a threat to the security of Canada. - Canadian authorities may require you to undergo a medical exam to prove that you are in good health and do not pose a risk to public health in Canada. Finally, you must prove that you intend to return to your country of origin once your studies are completed.
C) Documents required to obtain a study permit
C) 1. Proof of acceptance:
Obtaining a study permit in Canada requires the submission of certain documents. First, you must provide a copy of the acceptance letter from the school that admitted you. IRCC, or Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, is the government agency that oversees immigration and citizenship in Canada. For a school to host international students in Canada, it must be designated by IRCC. A designated learning institution is a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. The list of designated learning institutions (DLIs) is available on the IRCC website, which you can consult at this address: https://www.canada.ca/fr/immigration-refugies-citoyennete/services/etudier-canada/permis-etudes/preparer/liste-etablissements-enseignement-designes.html It is very important to check that the school you are interested in is indeed on this list before applying for a study permit. As for the documents requested by schools, this can vary depending on the school and the study program, but generally, they include:
- Proof of language proficiency: You may need to prove that you are capable of following courses in the language of instruction of the school (English or French). This may involve taking a language proficiency test, such as the TOEFL or IELTS for English, or the TEF for French.
- Academic transcripts: Schools will want to see transcripts from your previous studies to verify that you have the necessary prerequisites for the program you wish to pursue. - Letters of recommendation: Some schools may request letters of recommendation from your previous teachers or employers.
- Personal essay or statement of purpose: Some schools may require a personal essay or statement of purpose explaining why you want to follow the program and how it fits into your career plans.
- Proof of financial support: You may need to prove that you have the financial means to pay for your studies and support yourself while in Canada. Please check with the specific school you are applying to for the exact list of required documents. If you receive a conditional acceptance from the school you applied to, it means you must complete prerequisite courses. These could be, for example, English or French language courses. You must successfully complete these courses before being admitted to your main study program. If you are accepted into a preparatory study program before being admitted to your main program, Canadian authorities will issue a study permit for the duration of these courses plus an additional year. However, once you are accepted into your main program, you will need to apply for a new study permit to extend your stay as a student. There are exceptions, however. If you are a family member of someone whose application for a study permit or work permit was approved in writing before your arrival in Canada, you are not required to provide an acceptance letter.
C) 2. A valid passport:
When you submit your study permit application in Canada, you must have a copy of your valid passport to prove your identity and foreign resident status, along with an identity photo that complies with the standards specified by Canadian immigration.
C) 3. Proof of financial means:
To submit your application, you must prove that you can support yourself. You can prove you have financial resources through:
- Proof of a Canadian bank account in your name, if you have transferred money to Canada,
- A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian financial institution, - Proof of a student or education loan issued by a bank,
- Your bank statements for the last 4 months,
- A bank draft that can be converted into Canadian dollars,
- Proof that you have paid tuition and accommodation fees,
- A letter from the person or school providing you with money,
- Proof of funding paid within Canada, if you have a scholarship or are part of a Canada-funded educational program. It is important to note that you must provide official and authentic documents to support this financial proof. If family members are accompanying you while you are in Canada, you must also prove that you or they can support themselves.
Who? | Financial resources required per year (excluding tuition fees) | Financial resources required per month (excluding tuition fees) |
Yourself (the student) | CAN$10,000 | CAN$833 |
First family member | CAN$4,000 | CAN$333 |
Each additional accompanying family member | CAN$3,000 | CAN$255 |
Official source: https://www.canada.ca/fr/immigration-refugies-citoyennete/services/etudier-canada/permis-etudes/obtenir-documents.html
It is therefore important to plan for these funds to cover expenses for accommodation, food, transport, healthcare, and other everyday costs during your stay in Canada. Make sure to have these financial resources before applying for your study or visitor permit, in order to meet the requirements for proof of financial support upon application.
C) 4. Letter of explanation:
This letter is optional, but it can be important as it helps the visa officer understand who you are and what your goals are. You must explain in this letter why you want to study in Canada and that you understand your responsibilities as a student. You must attach this letter to any study permit application, even if you do not need to obtain a study permit for your program.
C) 5. Medical exam
A medical exam may be required in the following situations: - If you plan to stay in Canada for more than 6 months. - If you have recently visited certain countries identified as presenting public health risks. - If you plan to hold positions that require mandatory public health protection, such as working in fields related to health, education, or childcare. In these cases, you may be required to undergo a medical exam to assess your health status and ensure that you do not pose a risk to public health in Canada. However, it is important to note that for some study or work permits, a medical exam is not systematically required, even for a stay of more than six months. This depends on several factors, including your country of origin or the countries in which you have recently stayed, as well as the type of work you plan to do in Canada. Here is the link to the IRCC website where you can check if you need to undergo a medical exam: https://www.canada.ca/fr/immigration-refugies-citoyennete/services/demande/medical-police/examens-medicaux.html
D) How to apply for a student permit and what are the steps to follow after applying?
D) 1. Prepare your documents You must gather the necessary documents such as the acceptance letter from the learning institution, your valid passport, and financial proofs. It is important to provide as many documents as possible to have a complete application. The study permit application must be completed online on the Canadian immigration website Canada.ca, whether you are outside of Canada or already in Canada.
D) 2. Steps after submitting your application The typical procedure includes the following steps:
- You will receive a confirmation of receipt for your study permit application. This may be in the form of an acknowledgment of receipt or a tracking number, depending on the country.
- Your application will be processed by the relevant authorities. This may take some time depending on the volume of applications and the specific processing times of the country.
- Once your application has been assessed, a decision will be made regarding the approval or refusal of your study permit. You will be notified of the decision by email, postal mail, or in person.
- If your application is approved, you will need to obtain your study permit. Follow the instructions provided to collect your study permit, whether it is a physical or electronic document.
- Compliance with study permit conditions: Once you have obtained your study permit, ensure that you respect all conditions specified on it, such as attendance requirements, maintaining enrollment at the designated learning institution, etc.
III) THE PROCEDURE TO BECOME A STUDENT IN QUEBEC
To come and follow a training course of more than 6 months in Quebec as an international student, you must obtain 2 documents:
- A Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) for studies, issued by the Government of Quebec,
- A study permit, issued by the Government of Canada.
The criteria for obtaining a CAQ are as follows:
- Be admitted to a designated learning institution in Quebec,
- Demonstrate your financial capacity to cover the costs of studying and living in Quebec, - Pay the fees for the examination of your application,
- Undertake to respect all the conditions of your Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ).
A) Admission to a designated learning institution in Quebec
To apply for a study permit, you need an acceptance letter from a designated learning institution (DLI). A DLI is a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. All primary and secondary schools in Canada are DLIs. You can consult a list of the different DLIs on the Canada.CA website: https://www.canada.ca/fr/immigration-refugies-citoyennete/services/etudier-canada/permis-etudes/preparer/liste-etablissements-enseignement-designes.html
B) Demonstrating financial capacity
In order to come and study in Quebec, it is necessary to demonstrate your financial capacity to cover the various costs: tuition, transport, and living expenses. As an indication, here are the amounts in Canadian dollars that you must be able to provide between January 1 and December 31, 2023:
- For a person under 18 years old: $7,176
- For a person aged 18 and over: $14,349
- For two people aged 18 and over: $21,046
- For two people over 18 and one person under 18: $23,575
- For two people over 18 and two people under 18: $25,444 It is also important to plan for settlement costs for the first year, which amount to 500 Canadian dollars. All this information can be found on the website: https://www.quebec.ca/education/etudier-quebec/conditions-requises
In addition, you must demonstrate that you have health and hospitalization insurance for yourself and all accompanying family members for the duration of your stay in Quebec. However, if you can prove that you already have valid health and hospitalization insurance in Quebec, or if your country of origin has a social security agreement with Quebec, you will not need to prove your financial capacity for insurance. In order to demonstrate your financial capacity, you must present one or more of the following documents to immigration at the time of your application:
- Recent proof of funds transfers,
- It can also be proof of your assets and other sources of income, a recent authorization for fund transfers from the foreign exchange control office of your country of origin or residence,
- An official and recent confirmation that you have received a scholarship,
- A bank statement for the last three months, which must indicate the current balance of your account and proof that you are the holder, and
- An up-to-date bankbook, you must also provide proof that you own the bankbook. If another person takes responsibility for the costs related to your study stay in Quebec, you must provide the documents of a declaration of financial support form, along with detailed financial proof of this person, as mentioned in the previous section.
You can consult all the precise terms on the website: https://www.quebec.ca/education/etudier-quebec/conditions-requises
C) Payment of application processing fees
The processing fees for a CAQ/STUDY PERMIT as of January 1, 2023, are as follows:
- International student: $124 It should be noted that these fees are non-refundable, even in case of refusal of your application. Furthermore, you cannot deduct them from the fees required by the Government of Canada. Please note that other fees related to the study permit application, imposed by the Government of Canada, may also be required.
You will find all precise information on the website: https://www.quebec.ca/education/etudier-quebec/demande-selection-temporaire#c115477
D) Compliance with the obligations of the Quebec Acceptance Certificate:
It is imperative to respect the conditions of your Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ), otherwise it could be revoked.
You must commit to:
- Pursue the level of education indicated on your CAQ for studies or on your letter of attestation of issuance of the CAQ for studies.
- Have health and hospitalization insurance for yourself and accompanying family members for the duration of your stay.
- Make your studies your main activity, by studying full-time. However, this condition does not apply if you are:
- A temporary worker.
- A family member accompanying a temporary worker.
- A family member of an international student.
- A person with refugee status or a protected person in Canada.
- An asylum seeker.
- An international student in the final term of their study program. It is essential to respect these commitments in order to maintain the validity of your CAQ and to continue studying in Quebec.
E) Obtaining the CAQ and the study permit in Canada
Once you have obtained the Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) from the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) of Quebec, there is still an important step to take to study in Canada: obtaining your study permit. The CAQ is an authorization issued by the Government of Quebec, certifying that you have been accepted into an educational institution in Quebec. However, to study in Canada, you must also obtain a study permit from the federal government. To start the process of obtaining a study permit, you will need to provide the required documents, such as:
- The study permit application form, available on the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
- Proof of acceptance from the designated learning institution in Canada where you have been admitted. Your valid passport.
- Proof that you have the necessary financial resources to support yourself during your studies and stay in Canada.
- Proof of health insurance covering the duration of your stay in Canada.
You will need to submit your study permit application to IRCC, respecting specific deadlines and procedures. Once your application is approved, you will receive a letter of introduction (sometimes called a port of entry letter) which will allow you to travel to Canada. Upon arrival, a border services officer will assess your admissibility and issue your study permit. It is important to note that the process of obtaining a study permit may vary depending on your country of origin. It is therefore recommended to consult the IRCC website or contact the Canadian embassy or consulate in your country to obtain precise information on the requirements and steps to follow. For more detailed information on the process of obtaining a study permit, please refer to Section II of this article, where we have detailed the steps to follow to study in Canada. By following these steps, you will be on the right track to realize your study project in Canada after obtaining your CAQ from MIFI. The law firm has a direct platform with Immigration Canada to submit your file on your behalf as a Canadian lawyer.
We offer three types of packages:
- Canadian immigration law consultation: you have a one-hour call with a Canadian lawyer who will choose the best way for you to immigrate to Canada, then you remain free, once the program is chosen, to complete your file alone or with the help of the firm;
- The turnkey Immigration package from A to Z: in concrete terms, we send you an email with the list of documents we need (we assist you if you have difficulty obtaining the documents if necessary) and we take care of everything, from verifying the documents, filling out the forms, interacting with the Canadian administration, submitting the file via our lawyer platform, and following up until the study / work permit / permanent residence is obtained;
or
- The proofreading package: you choose your program, you gather the documents and fill out the forms, and at the time of sending we step in to review the forms and documents to ensure there are no inconsistencies/errors that could delay your file or, in the worst case, lead to the refusal of the study/work/residence permit.
