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Advantages of applying for a Canadian study permit in December
Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently announced significant updates concerning international students in the country. The good news is that you can benefit from applying for a Canadian study permit in December.
Most of these changes will be effective from January 1st, 2024. Continue reading to understand the advantages associated with applying for your study permit this month.
Save CAD 10,000 Before Hike in Cost-of-Living Requirement
As per the latest IRCC announcement on December 7, the cost-of-living requirement for international students in Canada is expected to increase from CA$10,000 to CA$20,635.
However, the new cost-of-living requirement for study in Canada will take effect on January 1st, 2024. Individuals can save CAD 10,000 by applying for a study permit in Canada before this date, even if their studies commence later in 2024.
IRCC has more than doubled the previous cost-of-living criteria. This is done to ensure that international students possess adequate financial resources to sustain themselves in Canada.
However, this affirms the fact that there could be a downside in applying before the new requirements kick in. Students may soon realize they are falling short of covering their living expenses. This may not be the case with those applying after the new updates are made effective.
Remote Study Time Counted to Your Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
IRCC has also expressed its intention to permit international students to engage in remote learning at Canadian post-secondary institutions. The time spent studying outside of Canada will continue to contribute to their PGWPs.
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) serves as Canada’s official employment pathway for international graduates who qualify for permanent residence. The work permit has the same duration as the length of the student’s program of study. It is usually up to three years.
Under this provision, students can include their time spent in remote learning toward PGWP eligibility under the following conditions:
➤ when students spend less than 50% of their time by learning remote
➤ The program of study commences before September 1st, 2024.
Thus, international students who apply for their study permit in December may leverage these remote learning opportunities. This approach has the potential to result in cost savings for students, such as accommodation, food, and other basic living costs.
Essential Requirements to Apply for a Canadian Study Permit
To apply for a study permit in Canada, you’ll need to meet the following eligibility requirements and gather the necessary documents:
Eligibility Requirements for a Canadian study permit:
1. Be enrolled at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI): This is a school authorized by the Canadian government to host international students. Basically, you can find a list of DLIs on the IRCC website or ask our study-abroad counselors to help you.
2. Be financially sufficient to afford your tuition fees and expenses: This typically includes proof of income, scholarships, or financial support from a parent or guardian.
3. Meet the academic requirements of your program: You’ll need to provide transcripts or diplomas from your previous education.
4. No criminal record: You may need to provide a police clearance certificate.
5. Complete a medical exam: Only certain countries and study program will require this.
6. State that you will leave Canada after your permit expires to the immigration officer: This means demonstrating that you have ties to your home country and that you’re not planning to immigrate to Canada illegally.
Documents Required to apply for a Canadian study permit:
1. Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the expected expiration date of your study permit.
2. Proof of acceptance from a DLI: A letter stating that the school has accepted you.
3. Proof of financial resources: Generally, this could include bank statements, scholarship letters, or proof of financial support from a parent or guardian.
4. Medical examination results (if required): Given that, you’ll need to get a medical exam from a panel physician that the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has approved.
5. Additional documents: Depending on your circumstances, you may also need to provide additional documents, such as a police clearance certificate, proof of language proficiency, or a study plan.
Enhance Your Chances with CanApprove
Indian students represent a significant portion of international students in Canada, accounting for around 41% in 2023.
There’s a growing trend of Indian students pursuing postgraduate degrees in Canada, seeking specialized knowledge and research opportunities. Engineering, computer science, and business dominate the areas of study for Indian students in Canada.
You too can be eligible for any study program of your choice!
Applying through a reputed consultant can increase your chances of qualifying for a study permit in Canada. CanApprove is one such recognized immigration and study abroad partner. We are offering free consultation to determine your study options and eligibility to study abroad.
Book your free appointment with us today!
