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Study in Canada: Student Visas & Permits

If you are a foreign national, meaning you are not a citizen or permanent resident of Canada, then a study permit will be required before you can formally enter Canada to study. Study permits allow international students to study at Designated Learning Institutions (DLI). Before you apply, make sure you have all the necessary documentation.

Jan 31, 2014

If you are a foreign national, meaning you are not a citizen or permanent resident of Canada, then a study permit will be required before you can formally enter Canada to study. Study permits allow international students to study at Designated Learning Institutions (DLI). Before you apply, make sure you have all the necessary documentation. In general, a study permit will be valid for the entire length of your studies, plus an extra 90 days, which allows individuals to prepare a permit extension or leave Canada.

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The Canadian embassy or consulate in your country should have the most up-to-date information regarding what is required. The university at which you have been accepted should also provide guidance for international students trying to obtain a study permit. All documents should be in English. Otherwise, they will need to be translated by a certified translator.  As the expected processing time for a study permit can vary depending on your country of origin, it’s recommended that you apply for a study permit well in advance. So, whatever you do, don’t leave it to the last minute!

Study in Canada - Overview

Over 90,000 international students choose Canada as their study abroad destination every year. Click here to learn why.

Education System

Want to learn about how the higher education system works in Canada? Canada is a popular destination for a variety of students, given its diverse programs, free education and its culture and history. Take a minute to find out more about the structure of the education system in Canada!

Housing & Living Costs

No matter where you study abroad, it’s important to create a budget in advance so that you’re prepared. Therefore, we’ve detailed average living and housing costs so that you can get a better idea of what you would be paying as a student in Canada.

Tuition Fees & Scholarships

Tuition fees for degree programs in Canada may vary. Both international and domestic students are expected to pay tuition fees in Canada. To cover the rest of the costs, there’s plenty of scholarship opportunities available.

Language & Culture

Canada is a country rich in history and culture. Find out more about what the country offers in terms of language, culture, and more!

Meet the English Requirements

Make sure you're ready to start studying abroad in Canada. Canadian schools will normally want to see evidence of your English-language abilities. The TOEFL® test is accepted by all Canadian schools and is even the preferred test for more than 80% of graduate programs. Find out more about the TOEFL® test and how it can help you.

ETS, TOEFL and TOEFL iBT are registered trademarks of ETS.

Application Process

All countries have specific admissions requirements for students to gain acceptance into a university. Learn more about the ins and outs of admission to programs in Canada, and what you need to apply, depending on your citizenship.

Programs

Ready to look at education in Canada? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in Canada today!


Keystone Team

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The Keystone Team is comprised of experienced educators and advisors dedicated to providing valuable resources and advice to students all over the world.