Study in Canada
Canadian Study Permit
Start your journey to world-class education in Canada! We help international students obtain study permits, navigate the application process, and plan their pathway to permanent residence.
Complete support from start to finish: From choosing the right program, DLI acceptance, CAQ (Quebec), study permit application, to PGWP and PR planning. 96% success rate!
Why Study in Canada?
Canada offers exceptional education, work opportunities, and a clear path to permanent residence.
World-Class Education
Canadian universities consistently rank among the top 100 worldwide. Degrees recognized globally by employers and institutions.
Work While Studying
Work up to 24 hours/week during semesters and full-time during breaks. Gain valuable Canadian work experience.
Post-Graduation Work Permit
After graduation, get an open work permit for up to 3 years. One of the best pathways to permanent residence!
Pathway to PR
Canadian education gives extra CRS points in Express Entry. Plus Canadian work experience through PGWP leads to CEC eligibility.
Bring Your Family
Your spouse can get an open work permit. Children study free in public schools K-12.
Safe & Multicultural
Canada ranks among the safest countries. Welcoming multicultural society with strong support for international students.
Affordable Compared to US/UK
Tuition fees 30-50% lower than comparable US/UK universities. Lower cost of living in many Canadian cities.
Beautiful Country
Experience stunning nature, vibrant cities, and four distinct seasons. Quality of life consistently ranked among the best.
Types of Study Programs
Choose the program that best fits your goals and career plans.
University Degree Programs
Duration: 1-6 years
Bachelor's (4 years), Master's (1-2 years), PhD (4-6 years). Recognized worldwide, excellent research opportunities.
🎓 Up to 3 years PGWP
College Diploma/Certificate
Duration: 1-3 years
Practical, career-focused programs at community colleges. Strong industry connections and co-op opportunities.
🎓 1-3 years PGWP (based on program length)
Vocational Training
Duration: 6 months - 2 years
Skilled trades programs: carpentry, plumbing, electrical, automotive. High demand in Canadian job market.
🎓 PGWP if 8+ months program
Language Programs
Duration: 3-12 months
English (ESL) or French immersion programs. Improve language skills before starting academic programs.
🎓 No PGWP (standalone language programs)
Study Permit Application Process
A structured 10-step process we guide you through from start to finish.
Choose Your Program & DLI
1-2 weeksWe help you select the right program based on your goals, budget, and immigration pathway. Only Designated Learning Institutions (DLI) qualify for study permits.
Get Acceptance Letter
2-8 weeksApply to your chosen DLI. We review your application, prepare supporting documents, and help with essays/statements of purpose.
CAQ Application (Quebec Only)
4-6 weeksIf studying in Quebec, apply for Certificat d'acceptation du Québec (CAQ) before the study permit. We handle the entire process.
Prepare Documents
1-2 weeksGather required documents: passport, acceptance letter, proof of funds (10,000+ CAD/year + tuition), academic transcripts, language test results.
Submit Study Permit Application
1-2 daysWe complete the application forms, write cover letters explaining your study plan, compile documents, and submit to IRCC.
Biometrics Appointment
1-2 weeksWithin 30 days, provide biometrics (fingerprints & photo) at your nearest VAC. Fee: 85 CAD.
Medical Exam (If Required)
1-2 weeksSome applicants need medical exams from panel physicians. Required for certain nationalities or programs.
Application Processing
4-16 weeksIRCC reviews your application. Processing times vary by country (typically 4-16 weeks). We monitor and respond to any requests.
Approval & Port of Entry
Same dayUpon approval, receive your Port of Entry Letter. At the Canadian airport, present your documents to receive your study permit.
Start Your Studies & Plan for PGWP
OngoingBegin your program! We help you plan for work permits, PGWP application, and eventual permanent residence.
Study Permit Requirements
Essential documents and requirements for your study permit application.
Acceptance Letter
- Letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Must show program name, duration, start date
- Tuition fees clearly stated
- Valid at time of application
Proof of Funds
- Tuition for first year (varies by program)
- Living expenses: ~10,000 CAD/year outside Quebec
- Living expenses: ~11,000 CAD/year in Quebec
- Bank statements, GICs, or scholarship letters
Identity Documents
- Valid passport (for entire study duration ideally)
- Recent passport-size photos
- Any previous Canadian visas/permits
- National ID card (some countries)
Academic Documents
- Transcripts from previous education
- Diplomas/degrees
- Language test results (IELTS, TOEFL, TEF)
- Certified translations if not in English/French
Letter of Explanation
- Why you chose Canada and this program
- How it fits your career plans
- Ties to your home country
- Intent to leave Canada after studies (important!)
Medical & Police Clearance
- Medical exam (if required for your country)
- Police certificate from countries lived 6+ months
- Certified translations if needed
Top Canadian Universities
World-renowned institutions offering exceptional education.
University of Toronto
Toronto, ON
#1 in Canada
McGill University
Montreal, QC
#2 in Canada
University of British Columbia
Vancouver, BC
#3 in Canada
University of Montreal
Montreal, QC
#4 in Canada
University of Alberta
Edmonton, AB
#5 in Canada
McMaster University
Hamilton, ON
#6 in Canada
University of Waterloo
Waterloo, ON
Top for Engineering/CS
University of Ottawa
Ottawa, ON
Top Bilingual University
Success Stories
"Got accepted to University of Toronto for Computer Science. LIMAJ helped with my application and I received my study permit in 6 weeks through SDS!"
Ahmed K.
BSc Computer Science - UofT
⏱️ 6 weeks
"As a mature student, I was worried about my application. LIMAJ prepared a strong letter of explanation and I got approved for my MBA at McGill!"
Sarah M.
MBA - McGill University
⏱️ 8 weeks
"The CAQ process for Quebec seemed complicated but LIMAJ made it easy. Now studying at Université de Montréal. Merci!"
Mohammed L.
Master's - UdeM
⏱️ 10 weeks
"My first application was refused. LIMAJ helped me understand why and reapply with better documentation. Approved on second try!"
Priya S.
College Diploma - Seneca
⏱️ 7 weeks
"Came as a student, now I have my PGWP and applying for PR through CEC. LIMAJ guided me the whole way!"
Chen W.
PGWP after Master's
⏱️ 3 year journey
"My spouse got an open work permit thanks to LIMAJ's help. Now we both work and study in Vancouver!"
Fatima A.
PhD with Spousal OWP
⏱️ 9 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to study in Canada?
Costs vary significantly by program and institution. Undergraduate: 15,000-35,000 CAD/year. Graduate: 10,000-25,000 CAD/year. College diploma: 8,000-20,000 CAD/year. Living expenses: 10,000-15,000 CAD/year depending on city. Total budget: 25,000-50,000 CAD/year. Many scholarships are available for international students!
Can I work while studying in Canada?
Yes! With a valid study permit, you can work: Up to 24 hours/week during academic sessions, Full-time during scheduled breaks (summer, winter). You don't need a separate work permit for on-campus or off-campus work. Co-op/internship work permits are available for programs with mandatory work terms.
What is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
PGWP is an open work permit for graduates of Canadian DLIs. Duration: Program < 2 years = PGWP length equals program length. Program ≥ 2 years = 3-year PGWP. You can work for ANY employer in ANY field. It's one of the best pathways to Canadian permanent residence through Express Entry (Canadian Experience Class)!
What are the English language requirements?
Most institutions require: IELTS Academic: 6.0-6.5 overall (varies by program). TOEFL iBT: 80-100 (varies by program). Duolingo English Test: Accepted by many schools (110-120). Some programs may have higher requirements. Pathway programs available for students who need to improve English first.
Can my spouse and children come with me?
Yes! Spouse/common-law partner: Can apply for an open work permit (if you're studying in a master's/PhD or certain diploma programs). Children: Can study in public schools (K-12) for FREE. You'll need to prove sufficient funds for the whole family. Family members apply for their permits alongside your study permit application.
How long does study permit processing take?
Processing times vary by country of residence: India: 8-12 weeks. China: 8-10 weeks. Nigeria: 10-14 weeks. Philippines: 6-8 weeks. Middle East: 6-10 weeks. Apply at least 3-4 months before your program starts. Student Direct Stream (SDS) offers faster processing (20 days) for applicants from certain countries with upfront medical/GIC.
What is the Student Direct Stream (SDS)?
SDS is a faster study permit processing option for applicants from: India, China, Philippines, Vietnam, Pakistan, Morocco, Senegal, and several other countries. Requirements: GIC of 10,000 CAD, upfront medical exam, language test (IELTS 6.0+ or TEF equivalent), acceptance from SDS-eligible DLI. Processing: Often approved within 20 days!
Can I stay in Canada after my study permit expires?
Yes, you have several options: PGWP: Apply before study permit expires (within 180 days of graduation). Another study program: Apply for new study permit. Work permit: If you have a job offer. Visitor status: Stay temporarily while making other arrangements. PR application: If eligible through Express Entry or PNP. Always maintain valid status - apply for extensions BEFORE your permit expires!
Ready to Study in Canada?
Let us help you achieve your educational dreams. Book a consultation today!