Your Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Canadian Study Visa

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Studying in Canada is more than just earning a world-class education—it’s a chance to experience life in one of the world’s most welcoming, diverse, and opportunity-filled countries. At Reliant Travel, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Whether you're aiming for a diploma, a degree, or a postgraduate program, here's how to make your dream a reality:

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1. Choose Your Program and Institution

Before applying for a visa, you must first be accepted into a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)—these are schools approved by the Canadian government to host international students.

Popular program options include:

• Diploma Programs (2–3 years): Ideal for career-focused students.

• Bachelor’s Degrees: For students pursuing full undergraduate education.

• Postgraduate Certificates/Diplomas: Short, skill-based programs for those who already hold a degree.

• Master’s Degrees: For academic advancement or research pathways.

• Pathway Programs: Help students improve their English or meet academic requirements before starting their main program.

Reliant Tip: We can help you find a program that matches your academic goals, career plans, and budget.

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2. Apply and Get a Letter of Acceptance (LOA)

Once you’ve chosen your program, you’ll need to apply directly to the institution. Each school has different requirements, but most ask for:

• Academic transcripts

• Language proficiency scores (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)

• Statement of Purpose (SOP)

• Letters of recommendation

Once accepted, you’ll receive an official Letter of Acceptance (LOA)—a critical document for your visa application.

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3. Gather Your Study Visa Documents

With your LOA in hand, it’s time to prepare your Study Permit application. Here’s what you typically need:

• Valid passport

• Letter of Acceptance from a DLI

• Proof of funds (tuition + living expenses)

• Immigration Medical Examination (if required)

• Police clearance certificate

• Recent passport-sized photos

• Ties to home country (proof you’ll return after studies)

• Statement of Purpose (SOP)

• Visa application forms and fee

Reliant Tip: Our team will carefully review your documents and help strengthen your SOP—a crucial part of a successful application.

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4. Apply Through IRCC (Online or Paper)

Submit your application through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) either online or by paper (online is faster). You’ll pay the visa fee and upload your documents through the secure portal.

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5. Biometrics Appointment

After applying, you’ll receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL). Schedule your appointment at a local Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide fingerprints and a photo.

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6. Wait for a Decision

Processing times can vary based on where you’re applying from, but many students under the Student Direct Stream (SDS) get faster decisions if they meet specific criteria (like upfront medicals and full tuition payment).

What's SDS?
A faster visa pathway for students from countries like India, Philippines, China, Nigeria, and more—offering shorter processing times if you meet the requirements.

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7. Receive Your Letter of Introduction

If approved, you’ll receive:

• Letter of Introduction (to present at the Canadian border)

• Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) (if applicable)

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8. Travel to Canada and Start Your Journey!

Once you arrive in Canada, show your documents at the border, and you’ll receive your Study Permit. Now it’s time to start your academic and personal journey in Canada!

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Why Choose Reliant Travel?

• Personalized program selection

• Help with LOA applications

• Document review & SOP writing

• Step-by-step visa support

• Post-arrival guidance (PGWP, work rights, etc.)

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Bonus: Pathways After Graduation

Studying in Canada can also open doors to permanent residency! After graduating, many students are eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows you to work in Canada for up to 3 years. Work experience gained during this time can count toward Permanent Residency (PR) applications under programs like Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).