How to Apply for a Canada Student Visa 2025

If you’re planning to study in Canada in 2025, you’ll need a Canada Student Visa, also known as a Study Permit. This permit allows you to live and study in Canada legally for the duration of your program.

In this detailed guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about applying for a Canadian student visa, from eligibility and required documents to the step-by-step application process.

What is a Canada Study Permit?

A study permit is an official document issued by the Government of Canada that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada.

It is not the same as a visa — the study permit lets you study in Canada, while your visa (visitor or temporary resident visa) allows you to enter the country. Usually, both are issued together once your study permit is approved.

Who Needs a Study Permit?

You need a study permit if:

• You are not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

• You want to study in Canada for more than six months at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).

• You are enrolled in a full-time academic, professional, or vocational program.

You do not need a study permit if:

• Your study program is less than six months.

• You are a family member or staff of a foreign representative in Canada.

• You are a member of a foreign armed force under the Visiting Forces Act.

Step 1: Get an Acceptance Letter from a Canadian Institution

Before applying for a student visa, you must first be accepted by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) — a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students.

What to do:

1. Choose a Canadian university, college, or institution that is listed as a DLI.

2. Apply for admission by submitting your academic records, English proficiency test results (IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo), and other required documents.

3. Once accepted, you’ll receive an official Letter of Acceptance (LOA) — this is mandatory for your visa application.

Example DLIs:

• University of Toronto

• University of British Columbia (UBC)

• McGill University

• University of Alberta

• Seneca College

Step 2: Gather the Required Documents

To apply for a study permit, you’ll need to prepare several important documents. Make sure everything is valid and translated into English or French (if applicable).

Essential Documents:

• Valid passport (must be valid for the entire duration of your stay)

• Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution

• Proof of financial support

• Passport-size photographs (recent)

• Immigration Medical Examination (IME) results (if required)

• Statement of purpose (Letter of Intent)

• Academic transcripts and certificates

• Proof of English or French proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)

• Receipt of payment for application fees

Proof of Financial Support:
You must prove that you can cover:

• Tuition fees

• Living expenses (around CAD $10,000 per year for a student)

• Return transportation costs

Examples of proof include:

• Bank statements for the past 4–6 months

• Scholarship or funding letters

• Letter from a sponsor or guardian

• Canadian bank account (if money transferred already)

Step 3: Apply for the Study Permit Online

The easiest and fastest way to apply is online through the Government of Canada’s Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.

Steps to apply:

1. Go to the official website: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html

2. Create an IRCC account (also called a GCKey account).

3. Select “Apply for a Study Permit.”

4. Fill out the online application form accurately.

5. Upload all required documents in PDF or JPEG format.

6. Pay the application fee (CAD $150) and biometrics fee (CAD $85 if applicable).

7. Submit your application.

Step 4: Give Your Biometrics and Attend an Interview (if required)

After submitting your online application, you may be asked to:

• Provide biometric information (fingerprints and photo). You’ll receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter and must visit a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your country to complete this step.

• Attend an interview if the visa officer requests it (this is not always required).

Tip: Always bring all your supporting documents and proof of acceptance to your appointment.

Step 5: Wait for the Processing of Your Application

Once your biometrics are submitted, the visa officer will review your application. Processing times can vary depending on your country — typically between 3 to 12 weeks.

You can check your application status online through your IRCC account.

If your application is approved:

• You will receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction, and if required, a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV).

You’ll need these when you travel to Canada.

Step 6: Prepare for Travel to Canada

When traveling to Canada, carry the following documents in your hand luggage:

• Passport

• Port of Entry Letter of Introduction

• Letter of Acceptance from your school

• Proof of financial support

• Copies of tuition payment receipts

• Accommodation details

• Any correspondence from the Canadian embassy

At the airport, a border officer will check your documents and issue your Study Permit — this is the actual document that allows you to study in Canada.

Step 7: Arrive and Start Your Studies

After arriving in Canada:

• Get your Study Permit from the border officer.

• Contact your school’s international office for orientation.

• Apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) if you plan to work part-time.

• Open a bank account and set up health insurance (if required).

You can now start your studies and enjoy life as an international student in Canada!

Special Option: The Student Direct Stream (SDS)

The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is a faster processing option for students from specific countries, including India, Nigeria, China, the Philippines, and Pakistan.

Requirements for SDS:

• Acceptance from a DLI

• Proof of payment for first-year tuition

• Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAD $10,000

• Recent medical exam and language test results

• Application made online

SDS applications are typically processed within 20 days if all requirements are met.

Common Reasons for Study Visa Rejection

To avoid delays or refusals, pay attention to these common mistakes:

• Insufficient proof of funds

• Missing or incomplete documents

• Weak statement of purpose (not explaining study goals clearly)

• Applying to a program unrelated to previous education or work experience

• Not convincing the visa officer that you’ll return home after your studies

Tip: Your study plan should clearly show why you chose your program, how it fits your career goals, and why you’ll return to your home country after completing your studies.

Final Thoughts

Applying for a Canada Student Visa may seem challenging, but with the right preparation and understanding of the process, it’s completely achievable.

Start early — gather all documents, write a strong statement of purpose, and ensure your financial proof is solid. Once approved, you’ll join thousands of international students enjoying Canada’s world-class education and quality of life.

If you follow these steps carefully, you’ll be well on your way to starting your academic journey in Canada in 2025.