I came to #Canada to study, later transitioned to working under a Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP), and eventually became a Canadian citizen—all within 6 years and 7 months. If you’re planning to follow a similar path, this guide is for you.

Below is a detailed walkthrough on how to submit your study permit application once you have an acceptance letter from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada.

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility for a Study Permit

After receiving your acceptance letter, check if you require a study permit by visiting the official Government of Canada website:
• Check Your Eligibility

Once you’ve confirmed eligibility, proceed to the “How to Apply” section on the same page.

Step 2: Create Your Online Account
1. On the ‘How to Apply’ page, you will be asked two key questions:
• Where are you applying from? Answer: Outside Canada.
• How do you want to apply? Answer: Online.
• Then, select your country.
2. Scroll down and click on ‘Create An Account and Sign In’.
3. You will be redirected to the account creation page. Click ‘Sign in with GCKey’ and set up your username, password, and security questions.

Congratulations—you now have an online profile ready for document submission!

Step 3: Gather All Required Documents and Forms

Essential Forms

Download and complete the following forms from the official website:
• Application for a Study Permit Made Outside Canada (IMM 1294)
• Application for a Temporary Resident Visa Made Outside Canada (Optional, if required)
• Family Information Form (IMM 5707)

Find the forms and a document checklist here:
• Download Forms and Checklist

Tip:
• Save all forms to a designated folder on your computer.
• Ensure you have the latest version of Adobe installed to open and fill the forms correctly.

Other Required Documents
• Acceptance Letter and Receipt from your Canadian institution.
• International Passport (must be valid for the duration of your studies).
• Digital Passport Photograph meeting Canada’s specifications.
Digital Photo Specifications
• Proof of Financial Support:
Provide your bank statements and, if applicable, your sponsor’s statement of account. Include any additional documents that demonstrate your financial capability.
• Police Clearance Certificate (PCC):
Although not mandatory per the checklist, including your PCC can help prevent delays.
• Motivation/Letter of Explanation:
In your letter, share your personal story and explain:
• Who you are and your academic or career background.
• Why you chose to study in Canada over other countries.
• How the chosen course aligns with your career goals.
• Your reasons for selecting that particular school.
• How studying in Canada will help you contribute to your home country upon your return.
• Sponsor’s Letter:
If you are being sponsored (ideally by a parent), include a letter stating your relationship, the importance of your chosen course, financial capabilities, and a clear promise of your return after studies.

Optional Attachments:
If your online profile does not offer separate upload sections for additional documents (such as a police report, sponsor letter, resume, job offer, or portfolio), merge them into your motivation letter using PDF merger tools such as PDFSam, PDFbinder, or SmallPDF. If the merged file exceeds 4MB, use a PDF compressor like FreePDFConvert or SodaPDF.

Step 4: Review and Submit Your Application

Before submission:
• Double-check every form and document to ensure they’re filled out, signed, and validated properly.
• Confirm that you have included all required documents as per the checklist.

The application fee is as follows:
• Study Permit: CAD 150
• Biometrics Fee: CAD 85
Total: CAD 235

Once you’re sure that everything is in order, submit your application online.

Step 5: Complete Biometrics

After submission, you will receive a Biometrics Introduction Letter. Use this letter to book an appointment at the nearest VFS office:
• Book Your Biometrics Appointment

Attend your appointment to complete the biometrics process.

Tips for a Strong Application
• Sponsor Choice:
It’s best to have a parent (preferably your father or mother) as your sponsor. If using another relative, ensure you have a gift deed in place.
• Proof of Sufficient Funds:
In addition to tuition fees, show that you have at least CAD 10,000 available per year for living expenses.
• Accurate Documentation:
Do not mix up documents. For example, ensure Document A is only used for its designated purpose.
• Health Standards:
Ensure you meet the health requirements. Health Standards
• Compelling Motivation Letter:
Convince the visa officer that you will leave Canada after your studies by outlining strong ties to your home country.

#StudyInCanada


Credits: Tunde Omotoye (via X formerly Twitter)