Students who are willing to leave for Canada from overseas countries are required to get a Student Authorization Visa before going to Canada for studies. All international students in Canada should also meet the requirements of the Canadian Immigration Act and Regulations. Students are recommended to have at least two months before the commencement of the study programs for the visa procedures to be processed. It is a general procedure that the overseas students heading for Canada for studies should submit the completed application kit to the immigration section of the Canadian High Commission.

There are more than 85 universities in Canada which provide a high level of education to students coming from around the world. Canada has some of the finest private English schools from grade 1-12 for local as well as international students. The Canadian government spends 9.5 % of its GDP in the education system. Many Canadian education institutions are funded by the government and therefore they have some of the best facilities.

Basic process for obtaining student authorization.

• Foreign students must apply to a Canadian education institute and obtain admission in such an institute. This institute must be certified by the immigration authority for the issuance of the student authorization/visa. This is generally mentioned in the prospectus of the school. It is not mentioned students must ask the institute directly whether admission in that particular institute will qualify him/her for student authorization.
• Once the admission is secured, the student is required to make an application to the Canadian immigration office for student authorization and visa.
• The student can make this application while in Canada or outside of Canada.

Visa documentation – requirements :

• Completed Student Application form IMM 1294B
• Completed Supplementary Questionnaire for students and postdoctoral researchers.
• Personal Information Form
• Study Permit Questionnaire
• Official letter of acceptance from Canadian university, college or Technical Institute.
• Certificate of Acceptance from the province of Quebec (Only if you plan to study in the province of Quebec)
• TOEFL/IELTS scores if applicable
• Passport, valid for at least one year from the planned date of entry to Canada.
• Bank Draft for the visa processing fee of Rs. 5080 and VFS processing fee of Rs. 680

INTERVIEW :

An interview with a Canadian Visa Officer may be required. If this is the case, you will be advised in writing of the time and place for the interview.

MEDICAL EXAMINATION :

The Canadian High Commission will issue medical instructions. Students must pass a medical examination with nominated doctors in India.

If the student is found to be in good health and there are no other concerns with the application, the Visa and Student Authorization will be issued.

You need the following documents to apply for a study permit:

• Proof of identity
• Proof of financial support
• Letter of explanation
• Proof of acceptance