Visa to Canada, future to the world.

Canada Student Visa
Guide 2026

Canada is one of the most popular destinations for international students, attracting over 1,000,000 students from around the world. With globally ranked universities, affordable tuition compared to the US and UK, and strong post-study work opportunities, it has become a top choice for students planning to study in Canada.

If your program is longer than 6 months, you must obtain a Canada Study Permit (commonly called a Canada student visa) before starting your studies. This guide covers everything, visa requirements, fees, processing times, rules, and whether you need Canada student visa consultants to get it done right.

Why Study in Canada?

Study in Canada. Stay in Canada. Build in Canada.

Canada is one of the world’s top destinations for international students, known for its high-quality education and welcoming environment. With over 1 million international students, it continues to be a leading global hub for higher education and career opportunities.

Why Study in Canada?

What is a Canada Student Visa?

A Canada student visa, officially called a Study Permit, is a document issued by the Canadian government that allows international students to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.

It is not a visa in the traditional sense, it works alongside your entry visa (Tourist Visa or eTA) to grant you legal student status in Canada.

Note: If your program is longer than 6 months, you need a Study Permit. No exceptions.

Canada Student Visa Requirements

Here’s what you need to meet the Canada student visa requirements:

Acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
Proof of sufficient funds (CAD 20,635 per year) to cover tuition, living costs, and return travel.
Valid passport (must be valid for the duration of your stay).
Proof of ties to home country (intent to return after studies).
Clean criminal record (police clearance certificate may be required).
Medical examination (if required based on your country).
Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining your study plans.
Canada student visa application form (IMM 1294).

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Canada Student Visa Process - Step by Step

Getting your canada student visa doesn't have to be overwhelming. Follow these steps and you're halfway there.

01

Get Accepted by a DLI

Secure an offer letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) approved by the Canadian government. If required, your institution will also assist in issuing your Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL). No offer letter or PAL (if applicable), no Study Permit.

02 Check If You Need a Study Permit

If your program is longer than 6 months, and most degree programs are, a Study Permit is mandatory.

03 Gather Your Documents

Offer letter, valid passport, financial proof, SOP, academic transcripts, and language scores. Incomplete applications are the #1 reason for delays.

04 Apply Online via IRCC

Create your account on ircc.canada.ca, complete Form IMM 1294, upload documents, and pay the Canada student visa fees (CAD 150 + CAD 85 biometrics).

05 Submit Biometrics

Visit your nearest Visa Application Centre within 30 days of receiving your Biometric Collection Notice.

06 Complete Medical Examination (If Required)

Some nationalities require a medical exam by an IRCC-approved physician. Complete it promptly, delays here affect your overall Canada student visa processing time.

07 Wait for a Decisionview

Standard processing takes 4-12 weeks. Track your status on the IRCC portal and avoid submitting duplicate applications.

08 Receive Your Letter of Introduction

Approval doesn't mean an instant Study Permit, you'll receive a Letter of Introduction to present at the Canadian border.

09 Arrive & Get Your Study Permit

Present your documents to the border officer on arrival. Your Study Permit is officially issued here, keep it safe throughout your stay.

Note: The Student Direct Stream (SDS) has been officially discontinued by IRCC. All applicants now follow the standard process regardless of country of origin.

Canada Student Visa Documents - Complete Checklist

Miss one document and you're back to square one - here's everything you need, in one place.

Identity & Application

Valid passport.
Completed online application (IMM 1294).
Digital photo as per IRCC specifications.
Passport-size photographs.

Academic & Admission

Acceptance letter from a DLI.
Academic transcripts and certificates.
Language test scores (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE).
Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) (if required under study permit cap).

Financial

Bank statements (last 3-6 months).
Education loan sanction letter.
Scholarship or sponsorship letter (if applicable).
Proof of tuition fee payment (if paid upfront).

Additional

Statement of Purpose (SOP).
Police clearance certificate.
Medical examination results (if required).
Custodian Declaration (for students below 17 years old).

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Common Reasons for Canada Student Visa Rejection

Tips to Get Your Canada Student Visa Approved

Canada Student Visa Fees - Full Breakdown (2026)

No surprises, here’s exactly what you’ll pay:

Fee Type	Amount (CAD)
Study Permit Application Fee	CAD 150
Biometric Fee (individual)	CAD 85
Medical Examination (if required)	CAD 200-450
Police Clearance Certificate	Varies by country
Estimated Total (approx.)	CAD 435-685+

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Columbia Business School

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NYU Stern School of Business

I’m really grateful to Nomad team for all the help and support. From the very first step, they were always just a call away. Thanks to them, the whole process felt so much smoother and less stressful. I’d happily recommend them. They truly go above and beyond for the people they works with!

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Stanford Graduate School of Business

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UCLA Anderson School of Management

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University of Southern California

Nomad Team helped me get the best possible option for my financing needs. They made sure that I got the most updated and consistent information to make the right decision towards the most important aspect of my studies i.e. money management. They were always there to help me and have a great attitude towards helping others.

Sourav Mehra

UVA Darden School of Business

Working with your team was an incredibly smooth and reassuring experience. A special shoutout to Karan and Deepesh, who truly went above and beyond at every stage and making sure everything was on track despite tight timelines. I’m genuinely grateful to have had such a supportive team by my side, I couldn’t have done it without you!

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Kellogg School of Management

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Shakib Shaikh

Aston University

Your unwavering support, particularly in navigating the challenge of securing a loan without collateral, has been truly remarkable. Special thanks to Shweta ma’am. Your service and commitment to helping students like me achieve their dreams have made a profound impact, and for that, I am deeply thankful.

Akanksha Dilip Mhaisne

Kent State University

I’m incredibly grateful to Poonam and the entire Nomad Team for their outstanding support throughout. Their guidance was clear, timely, and tailored to my specific needs. I highly recommend them to anyone pursuing international education. They’re knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely invested in your success.

Jaspreet Kaur

University of Maryland

Thanks Sulekha & Nomad Credit for assisting me throughout. You also helped me boost my confidence personally in the entire process. I am grateful, you were there to resolve my every doubt regarding visa interview questions and any query I had. At the end, thanks once again for helping me achieve F-1 visa for the USA.

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San Jose State University

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a consultancy for Canada student visa, and how do I find one near me?

A consultancy for canada student visa is not mandatory, but it can make a significant difference if your profile is complex, you've had a prior refusal, or you're simply unsure about the process. When searching for Canada student visa consultants near me, always verify they are a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), this is your protection against fraud and misinformation.

What are the key Canada student visa rules I should know before applying?

As a Canada international student visa holder, the basic Canada student visa regulations are simple, you can only study in the DLI on your permit, actively enrolled, you must not work more than 24 hours a week off-campus during school terms, and you have to renew your Study Permit in case you change schools. Breaking either of these may cost you your status and your future immigration.

What is the cost of living in Canada for international students?

The living expenses in Canada is generally lower than the US or UK, but varies by city. Toronto and Vancouver are the most expensive, averaging CAD 1,500-2,500/month including rent, food, and transport. Cities like Calgary, Ottawa, or Halifax are considerably more affordable, a smart consideration when choosing where to study in Canada.

Toronto / Vancouver - CAD 1,800 - 2,500 (Estimated Monthly Cost )
Calgary / Ottawa - CAD 1,200 - 1,800 (Estimated Monthly Cost )
Halifax / Winnipeg - CAD 1,000 - 1,500 (Estimated Monthly Cost )

Are there scholarships for MBA in Canada?

Yes, even more than the majority of the students know. The best scholarships in MBA in Canada include the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, merit-based scholarships offered by individual schools, such as Rotman, Ivey, and Desautels, and international student awards funded by the government. Partial tuition waivers and assistantships are also offered by many schools. Deadlines in research scholarship are early and most of them are closed before the intake of the program.

Is a Study Permit required for diploma courses in Canada?

Yes, if your diploma courses in Canada are longer than 6 months at a DLI, a Study Permit is mandatory. Short-term programs under 6 months may not require one, but having a permit gives you work rights and a stronger immigration standing. If you're considering overseas education in Canada for a diploma or certificate, always check your institution's DLI status before applying.

Do I need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) for Canada student visa in 2026?

The study permit cap in Canada has necessitated most undergraduate and college applicants to have a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL). But PhD students and some research-based programs can be an exception. Always ensure that you ask your institution before applying.

Do I need a separate visa to study bachelors from Canada?

No separate visa exists for undergraduate students. Whether you're looking to study bachelors from Canada or pursue a postgraduate degree, the process is the same, a Study Permit through IRCC, supported by your DLI offer letter, financial proof, and supporting documents. Your entry visa or eTA is issued alongside the Study Permit approval.

What are the visa requirements to study masters from Canada?

To study masters from Canada, you need an offer letter from a DLI, proof of sufficient funds, valid passport, language scores (IELTS/TOEFL), and a compelling SOP. The Study Permit application process remains the same regardless of program level, what changes is the academic and financial threshold your chosen university expects.

What are common Canada student visa interview questions?

Not all applicants are called for an interview, but officers may ask about your chosen course, why you want to study in Canada, how you will fund your education, and your plans after graduation. Your answers should be clear, honest, and consistent with your application and Statement of Purpose (SOP).