How to submit a successful study permit application

It is not difficult to submit a solid study permit application. However, people from countries other than France have asked us questions pertaining to their specific situation. Here are our answers.

When should I submit my application?

• Admission to Fall term: submit it as soon as possible, before July 1st.
• Admission to Winter term: submit it as soon as possible, before November 1st.

What documents do I have to submit?

In matters of immigration, the burden of proof rests on the person submitting the application. This means that it is up to them to provide all the necessary documents for their case to be processed properly. The officer is not obligated to contact the applicant to obtain more information.

You must consult the visa office instructions for the country from which you are applying.

What you must do:

• Send a cover letter or explanation letter with your application.
• Demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to study in Canada.
  • Show that you have the required funds for your first year of studies only.
  • Provide a summary of your financial proof.
    • Calculate the funds and provide a page summarizing all the documents.
    • Make sure to number all the pages of your financial proof documents.
  • Provide a statement of financial support by the guarantor
• Pass medical examinations, if required.
• Convince the immigration officer that you do not have a dual intent; you will leave Canada at the end of your studies (although you can apply for a post-graduation work permit and, eventually, permanent residence).
• Provide police certificates, if necessary. You must not pose a security risk in Canada.
• Provide a Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) or the approval letter for your application for temporary selection for studies.
• Provide any other document that establishes your eligibility for the study permit and that is requested by the visa office for the country from which you are applying.

What are the main reasons for refusal?

Study permit refusals are sometimes difficult to understand and do not always seem logical. Refusals may be due to the applicant’s inability to meet one or more of the eligibility criteria.

Main grounds for refusal:

• The student has not shown their intention to leave Canada after their studies.
• The student has insufficient financial capacity or has not shown a source of funds.
• The student’s guarantor has not provided sufficient financial proof or shown their ties to the student.
• The study plan is not logical or clearly explained.
  Provide a logical explanation of your study plan in your cover letter. This will be useful, for example, if you already have an equivalent or higher level of education, or if you are changing direction or careers.

Other grounds for refusal may include:

• Medical or criminal inadmissibility
• Fraud or misrepresentation
• Applicants do not seem legitimate
• Family ties in Canada (failure to report it, misrepresentation, etc.)
• Employment situation and prospects in the country of origin

Need help?

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