How to Study in Canada, Work, and Immigrate
Studying in Canada involves four key steps: selecting a study program, obtaining a Letter of Acceptance from a Canadian institution, receiving a provincial attestation letter from the relevant province or territory, and finally, applying for a study permit.
One of the key advantages of studying in Canada is the increased potential to apply for Canadian permanent residence status.
Table of Contents
- How to Study in Canada
- What are the Benefits of Studying in Canada?
- About Canada’s Universities and Colleges
- New changes to study permit allocations
- Study Pathways to Permanent Residence
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Contact the Cohen Immigration Law Firm for Assistance
How to Study in Canada
Here are the steps to study in Canada and transition to permanent residence:
Step 1 – Choose a Program
Research and select the educational program you wish to pursue in Canada.
Step 2 – Apply to a Designated Learning Institution
Once you’ve chosen a program, submit your application to a Canadian designated learning institution (DLI).
Step 3 – Apply for a Study Permit
After receiving a Letter of Acceptance and a provincial attestation letter from the relevant province or territory, Cohen Immigration Law can assist you in applying for a study permit. This permit is essential for legally studying in Canada.
Step 4 (Optional) – Explore Immigration Options
Upon completing your studies, Cohen Immigration Law can guide you in exploring pathways to gain work experience in Canada and pursue permanent residence.
What are the Benefits of Studying in Canada?
Canada has become one of the top destinations for international students, hosting over 800,000 learners from around the globe. Research highlights several reasons for this attraction:
High-Quality Education: Canadian institutions are renowned for their academic excellence.
Work Opportunities: International students can work during and after their studies, facilitating a pathway to permanent residence.
Bilingual Environment: Students have the chance to study in English and/or French.
Safety and Security: Canada is known for its safe living conditions.
Multicultural Society: The country embraces diversity, welcoming immigrants and international students from nearly 200 nations each year.
Affordability: Compared to other popular destinations, Canada is more budget-friendly, especially given the weaker Canadian dollar relative to major currencies like the USD, GBP, and EUR.
About Canada’s Universities and Colleges
Canada boasts over 1,500 Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) authorized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to welcome international students. These institutions play a vital role in helping students study in Canada and facilitating their stay after graduation. The list of DLIs is continually expanding, so it’s essential to verify that your chosen institution is authorized by checking the Canadian government’s official website.
Ontario and Quebec, as Canada’s largest provinces by population, host nearly 1,000 DLIs combined, providing numerous options for prospective students.
Universities across Canada generally offer comparable levels of high-quality education due to the country’s commitment to equity in its education system. This ensures that all students have access to a robust educational experience, regardless of the institution they attend.
In addition to universities, Canada has around 150 community colleges that provide excellent education. While universities focus on theoretical knowledge and specialized career training (e.g., medicine, engineering, law), community colleges emphasize practical training to help students integrate quickly into the labor market. College programs are designed to equip students with hands-on skills relevant to their field of study, supporting both their professional and immigration goals upon graduation.
New changes to Canada's study permit allocations
In 2024, IRCC will limit the number of study permits issued to 360,000, with allocations based on the student populations of provinces and territories. This cap will not affect master’s or doctoral students, nor those in elementary or secondary education, and study permit renewals will remain unaffected.
In 2025, the cap will increase to 437,000 study permits, including master’s and PhD students.
These changes aim to promote sustainable levels of international students, protect stakeholders from abuses of the program, and ensure sufficient housing for accepted students. Under this new policy, a portion of the study permit cap will be allocated to provincial and territorial governments, which will then distribute it among Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in their areas.
Starting January 22, 2024, all study permit applications will require a provincial attestation letter to support the applicant’s study approval in Canada.
Study Pathways to Permanent Residence (PR)
International students who complete post-secondary education in Canada have numerous opportunities to extend their stay and transition to permanent residence.
Your Canadian education can significantly enhance your chances for permanent residency, as many federal and provincial immigration programs prioritize candidates with Canadian credentials and work experience.
After graduation, you can gain Canadian work experience through a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which may allow you to work for up to three years, depending on your academic program.
While on a PGWP, you can explore various pathways to permanent residence, including:
Express Entry
Express Entry is the main system for managing economic immigration applications in Canada. Candidates are assessed using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which favors individuals who are young, have Canadian education and work experience, and possess strong English and/or French skills—attributes many international students have. Through Express Entry, you may qualify for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), which facilitates permanent residency for numerous former international students each year.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
The PNP allows provinces and territories to nominate immigration candidates who meet local economic needs. Many PNP streams specifically favor former international students or have dedicated pathways for them.
Quebec
Quebec has its own immigration system, separate from federal programs. It encourages former international students to seek permanent residency, notably through the Quebec Experience Program, aimed at those who studied in the province.
Other Federal Programs
In addition to the Express Entry system, the federal government offers other economic class immigration programs that may include special streams for international students or exemptions from Canadian work experience requirements. Notable examples include the Atlantic Immigration Program and the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot.
By leveraging your education and work experience in Canada, you can enhance your prospects for a successful transition to permanent residency.
Contact THE MILLENNIUM IMMIGRATION For Assistance
Need assistance studying in Canada? THE MILLENNIUM IMMIGRATION is here to help! With over 11 years of immigration expertise, we can guide you through the process.
Contact us today to schedule a free telephone consultation with one of our lawyers.