This page is intended solely for individuals from countries outside Europe who wish to apply for a study permit. It contains additional information related to the Applying for a study permit page.
Documents to provide
In addition to the usual required documents, individuals from countries outside Europe are generally required to submit additional documents.
Personalized letter of explanation
The personalized letter of explanation (PDF, 112 KB), of no more than 2 pages, is intented to convince the immigration officer that:
- You do not have dual intent: even if your plan is to immigrate to Canada permanently someday, you agree to comply with the terms of your study permit and to return to your home country after completing your studies. Along with your letter, include any documentation that will convince the officer that you will leave Canada when your study permit expires (for example, proof of previous travel, proof of family and professional ties to your country of residence).
- Your study plan is consistent with your background (previous education, work experience, chosen program, and career goals).
Police clearance certificate
The police clearance certificat is intented to confirm that you do not pose a security risk to Canada. If it is required, it is possible – and even recommended – to obtain it before applying for a study permit.
Other documents
Any other document proving your eligibility for a study permit may be requested by the visa office of the country from which you are applying.
In immigration matters, the burden of proof rests with the applicant. In other words, it is your responsibility to provide all the documents necessary for the proper processing of your application.
Please review the visa office's guidelines for a complete list of the documents you need to provide based on your country.
If your permit application is refused
It can sometimes be difficult to understand why a study permit application has been refused, and it may not always seem logical. This may happen if you do not meet one or more of the eligibility criteria:
- You have not demonstrated that you intend to leave Canada after completing your studies.
- You do not have sufficient financial capacity, or the source of the funds has not been demonstrated.
- The person responsible for your care has not provided sufficient evidence or demonstrated a relationship with you.
- Your study plan isn't logical or well explained.
Other reasons may include:
- Medical or criminal ineligibility
- Fraud or false statements
- The officer doubts your good faith
- Family ties in Canada (failure to report, false statements, etc.)
- Employment situation and prospects in the country of origin
HEC Montréal cannot intervene in study permit applications. The assistance we can provide is limited. However, if your application is refused, contact the Zone Info and submit the refusal letter and the officer’s notes through HEC en ligne.
You can still submit a new application for a study permit if you wish.
Need advice or information about immigration?
It is not necessary to hire a lawyer or a consultant to get help.
If you have any questions:
- Please contact us using the contact form.
- Meet with a counselor for a quick consultation (5 to 10 min.) without an appointment:
- In person: Mondays and Thursdays, from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., at Zone Info in the Decelles building.
- Online (Zoom): Tuesdays and Fridays, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
- incoming [at] hec.ca (Contact the IASMS) if you are participating in an exchange program.
This web page is published for informational purposes only and holds no official standing. Changes may occur without notice. Quebec laws and regulations, as well as information emanating from the Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration, and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, take precedence over this document.