Study Permit Applications for Graduate Studies (PhD and master)​

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Graduate studies in Canada offer a broad range of academic pathways, including course-based and research-based master’s programs, doctoral (PhD) programs, and accelerated or combined graduate options. Each university establishes its own academic standards and required documentation, which applicants must review carefully before applying.

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Admission generally begins with meeting the academic prerequisites. Most institutions require a four-year bachelor’s degree or equivalent, a competitive GPA, and sufficient preparation in the intended field of study. Many programs also request additional materials such as a statement of intent, research proposal, academic writing samples, a curriculum vitae, GRE or GMAT scores, or a portfolio for design-related disciplines. Research-focused programs may also require confirmation of interest from a potential supervisor whose expertise aligns with the applicant’s proposed research.

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Language proficiency is another essential component. Depending on the institution and program, accepted language tests may include IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, CAEL, Duolingo English Test, or TEF/TCF for French-language programs. Minimum scores vary, but a typical benchmark is IELTS 6.5 overall or TOEFL iBT 86–100.

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Once admitted, students receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). This document must clearly state the program details, start date, tuition estimate, DLI number, program duration, and any admission conditions. Conditional LOAs may require additional clarification in the study permit application.

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Applicants must also demonstrate they can financially support themselves and any accompanying family members for at least 12 months. Required proof may include bank statements, scholarship or assistantship letters, student loan documentation, sponsor financial information, and evidence of income or assets. Funds must cover tuition, living expenses as set by IRCC, and transportation costs.

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The study permit application package typically includes a valid passport, digital photo, the LOA, academic transcripts, degree certificates, language test results, CV or résumé, supervisor confirmation (if applicable), proof of funds, and required immigration forms. Applicants may need to complete biometrics, an upfront medical examination, and provide police certificates if requested. A Letter of Explanation must outline the purpose of study, academic and career goals, program relevance, and intent to comply with temporary resident conditions.

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For applicants with accompanying spouses or common-law partners, an open work permit may be available if the student is enrolled full-time in a master’s, doctoral, or certain professional programs. Partners must provide proof of relationship, relevant identification documents, the student’s LOA or study permit, and financial documentation. The duration of the work permit typically matches the length of the student’s study permit.

Dependent children must meet legal definition of a dependent and provide proof of relationship and identity, as well as complete biometrics or a medical exam if required. They may study in Canada at the preschool, primary, or secondary level without a study permit (recommended for secondary level); however, a study permit is required for post-secondary studies.

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Common challenges for graduate applicants include financial documentation issues, insufficient ties to their home country, policy changes, accompanying family members eligibility issues, etc. With professional assistance in an early stage, potential concerns can be identified and addressed promptly, helping to prevent complications later in the process..​​​​

Study Permit Applications for Undergraduate Studies

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Applying for an undergraduate program in Canada involves careful planning and attention to both academic and immigration requirements. To be eligible, applicants must meet the admission criteria of their chosen program at a designated learning institution and satisfy Canadian immigration requirements. This includes having no inadmissibility issues related to criminality, health, security, misrepresentation, etc. In addition, applicants are generally required to provide official academic transcripts, a valid passport, a letter of acceptance, and, when applicable, a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL). Proof of financial capacity to cover tuition, living expenses, and travel costs is also required, and many applicants benefit from support in preparing a clear and compelling study plan.

Meeting these requirements can be challenging and applicants often face difficulties in understanding visa office–specific instructions. 

Working with a qualified immigration professional can help reduce errors, address potential ineligibility issues, and ensure that application is prepared according to the current legal and program requirements. This professional support can significantly improve the overall quality of an application submission and strengthen chances of successful outcome.

Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot (FMCSP)

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The Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot (FMCSP) offers French-speaking international students the unique opportunity to study at designated public post-secondary institutions located outside Quebec. These institutions are part of communities where Francophone culture and language are actively supported, providing a learning environment designed specifically for French-speaking students.

To participate in the program, applicants must:

• Hold a valid letter of acceptance from a participating institution.

• Demonstrate adequate French-language proficiency.

• Provide proof of financial capacity to cover tuition and living expenses.

• Meet standard Canadian study permit requirements, including academic eligibility and a genuine intention to study.

Graduates of this pilot program may benefit from permanent residence pathways specifically designed for French-speaking students, giving them the opportunity to live and work in Canada after completing their studies.

Eligible countries of citizenship include members of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie in Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas:
Bénin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Côte d'Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Dominica, Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Haïti, Lebanon, Madagascar, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Morocco, Niger, Rwanda, Saint Lucia, São Tomé and Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Togo, Tunisia.

Professional guidance is available throughout the entire process to assist with:

• The right institution selection,

• A strong study permit application preparation,

• A long-term pathway evaluation toward permanent residence in Canada.

With expert support, applicants can confidently navigate the application process, maximize their opportunities, and make a smooth transition from study to permanent settlement in Canada.

Post Graduation Work Permits

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The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows eligible international graduates to stay in Canada and gain valuable Canadian work experience after completing their studies. As an open work permit, it gives them the flexibility to work for any employer, in any province or territory, and to change jobs freely.

For many students, the PGWP is an essential first step toward permanent residence through programs that reward Canadian education and work experience.

 

Who Can Apply for a PGWP?

To qualify for a PGWP, an applicant must meet specific eligibility requirements:

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1. Academic Requirements:

• Completed a PGWP-eligible program of at least 8 months.

• Earned a degree, diploma, or certificate from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI);

• Maintained full-time student status throughout a program (with limited exceptions).

• Received a final transcript and official completion letter from an educational institution.

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2. Timing Requirements

A PGWP application must be submitted within 180 days of program completion.
An applicant may apply from inside or outside Canada.

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3. Status Requirements

At the time of applying, an applicant must either:

• Hold a valid study permit,

• Have held a study permit in the past, or

• Have been authorized to study in Canada without one under specific IRPR exemptions.

 

New Field-of-Study Rules (Starting July 2025)

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If an applicant completed a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree, they do not need to meet any field-of-study requirements.

Graduates of other university programs and college programs must complete studies in one of the approved in-demand fields:

• Agriculture & Agri-Food

• Healthcare

• Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM)

• Trades

• Transport

• Education

These categories reflect areas of labour shortage and are aligned with Canada’s targeted immigration priorities.

 

Language Requirements (Effective November 1, 2024)

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All PGWP applicants must submit valid English or French test results.

Minimum required scores:

• University graduates: CLB 7 in all skills

• College graduates: CLB 5 in all skills

Accepted tests include IELTS General, CELPIP General, PTE Core, TEF Canada, and TCF Canada.
Results are valid for two years.

 

Eligible Educational Institutions

A program must be completed at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) approved for PGWP purposes. Eligible institutions include:

• Public colleges, universities, CEGEPs, and trade/technical schools

• Certain regulated private institutions in Quebec

• Authorized private degree-granting institutions in Canada

Important: Students in public/private partnership programs (curriculum licensing agreements) are not eligible for a PGWP.

 

How Long Is a PGWP Valid?

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A PGWP validity depends on a program length:

Programs in duration of less than 8 months are not eligible for PGWP.

Programs in duration from 8 to 24 months lead to PGWP that is same as program length.

Programs in duration of more than 24 months may be eligible for PGWP of up to 3 years.

Master's or PhD programs may provide a 3-year long PGWP.

Accelerated programs: PGWP length is based on the official program duration, not how quickly it is completed.

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Why a PGWP Might Be Issued for a Shorter Period?

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The most common reason is a passport that expires early. A PGWP cannot be valid beyond an applicant's passport expiry date.

 

Using PGWP Work Experience for Permanent Residence

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Canadian work experience gained on a PGWP is highly valuable for immigration pathways such as:

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) targeting international graduates

• Many employer-driven PR streams

A PGWP can position post graduates for a long-term success in Canada and allows their spouses or partners to apply for an open work permit if employed in TEER 0 or 1 or in-demand TEER 2 or 3 occupations.

 

Professional guidance can make a significant difference for international graduates  who wish to transition to permanent residence in Canada. With clear strategy and careful document preparation their long term aspirations may be achieved with greater certainty and peace of mind.