Canada continues to be one of the most preferred study destinations for Indian students, thanks to its world-class universities, safe environment, multicultural society and excellent post-study work opportunities. Every year thousands of students apply for the Canada Study Visa, but many struggle with understanding the correct process, documents and requirements.
If you are planning to study in Canada after 12th or graduation, this simple step-by-step application guide for Indian students will help you understand everything clearly from choosing a course to receiving your visa.
Let’s get started.
Why Study in Canada?
Before applying for a Canada Study Visa, it helps to understand why the country is such a popular choice:
- Top-ranked universities
- Affordable tuition compared to the USA and UK
- Safe, student-friendly lifestyle
- High demand for skilled professionals
- 20 hours/week part-time work allowed
- 2–3 years Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
- Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR)
This is exactly why thousands of students compete for the Canada Study Visa every year.
1. Choose Your Course & College (DLIs)
The first step toward getting a Canada Study Visa is selecting the right program and institution.
Canada has Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) — these are colleges/universities approved to host international students.
Popular Courses for Indian Students:
- Business & Management
- Computer Science / IT
- Engineering
- Healthcare / Nursing
- Project Management
- Hospitality
- Data Science & AI
How to Choose:
Look for DLI-approved colleges
Check program eligibility
Review tuition fees & scholarship options
See if the program offers co-op or internship opportunities
Once you finalize your course, you can apply for an offer letter.
2. Apply for Admission & Receive Offer Letter
After selecting a college, submit your admission application with:
- 10th & 12th marksheets
- Bachelor’s degree (if applying for PG program)
- IELTS/PTE score
- Passport
- Updated resume
- Statement of Purpose (if required)
Most Canadian colleges take 2–4 weeks to provide an Offer Letter, depending on intake and availability.
3. Take IELTS, PTE, TOEFL or Duolingo Test
For a successful Canada Study Visa application, you must prove your English proficiency.
Minimum requirements differ depending on your program:
For Diploma Programs:
- IELTS: 6.0 overall, no band less than 5.5
- PTE: 52+
- Duolingo: 95–105
For PG Diploma / Master’s:
- IELTS: 6.5 overall, no band less than 6.0
- PTE: 58+
- Duolingo: 110–120
Better scores increase your visa approval chances.
4. Arrange Proof of Funds (GIC + Tuition Fees)
Canada requires you to show proof that you can financially support your education and living expenses.
In the Student Direct Stream (SDS) category, Indian students need:
- GIC of CAD $20,635 (2025 updated amount)
- One year tuition fee payment
GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) is deposited through banks like Scotiabank, ICICI Bank Canada, CIBC etc.
5. Gather All Required Documents
To apply for the Canada Study Visa, Indian students must prepare the following documents:
Essential Documents:
- Passport
- Offer Letter from DLI
- Proof of tuition fee payment
- GIC certificate
- IELTS/PTE scorecard
- Passport-size photos
- Academic transcripts & certificates
- Medical examination (IME)
- Biometrics appointment slip
Additional Documents:
- Statement of Purpose / Study Plan
- Family income proof
- CA report (if needed)
- Affidavit of support (if sponsored by parents)
A strong and clear SOP increases your visa approval chances significantly.
6. Complete Your Medical Examination
Before submitting your visa file, you must undergo an Immigration Medical Examination (IME) by a panel physician approved by IRCC.
Medical tests include:
- Chest X-ray
- Blood tests
- Basic physical checkup
The medical report is automatically uploaded to IRCC by the panel clinic.
7. Submit Biometrics
Biometrics (fingerprints + photograph) are required for all Indian students applying for the Canada Study Visa.
You must schedule your biometrics at:
- VFS Global (Canada Visa Application Centre)
Your biometrics are valid for 10 years.
8. Apply Online Through IRCC Portal
After completing all paperwork, you can submit your Canada Study Visa application online via the IRCC portal.
Two major categories:
SDS Category (Fastest & Recommended)
Processing Time: 4–8 weeks
Requirements:
- IELTS/PTE
- GIC
- 1-year fee paid
Non-SDS Category
Processing Time: 8–16 weeks
Used when English test scores are lower or funds are from multiple sources.
Make sure your documents are scanned clearly and uploaded properly.
9. Wait for Visa Decision
Once you submit your Canada Study Visa file, IRCC will review:
- Your academic history
- English scores
- Financial capacity
- Purpose of studying
- SOP
- Ties to home country
Processing time varies based on intake and volume of applications.
Possible Updates:
- Biometrics Submission Letter
- Medical Passed
- Correspondence Letter
- Final Approval (Passport Request / PPR)
When you receive a PPR, it means your visa is approved.
10. Fly to Canada & Complete Post-Arrival Formalities
Once your visa is approved, book your tickets and prepare for arrival.
After landing in Canada, you must:
- Meet Border Services Officer
- Receive your Study Permit
- Activate your GIC account
- Register at your college
- Arrange accommodation
- Apply for a part-time job (if needed)
Your Canadian journey officially begins here!
Common Reasons for Study Visa Rejection
Understanding these reasons can help you avoid mistakes:
Weak SOP
Insufficient funds
Low academic scores
Wrong program selection
Gaps not explained
Lack of home ties
Doubtful intent of return
A well-prepared file significantly improves your chances of getting a Canada Study Visa.
Final Thoughts
A Canada Study Visa opens the door to world-class education, global exposure, job opportunities and a bright future. But the process must be handled carefully — right course, right documents, right visa category and a strong SOP.
With guidance from trusted consultants like DBGS Education Overseas, Indian students can navigate the entire process smoothly and confidently.
Canada offers a perfect combination of quality education, affordability and long-term career prospects — making it one of the best destinations for international learners.
