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Studying in Canada
Coming to Canada as a student is not only a path to an incredible education, but a great way to get to know the country and decide if it is a place that you would like to call home. Colleges and universities have international student groups and programs that will help make your transition into Canadian life easier.
The government recognizes the important resource that international students are to the future development of Canada. In 2008, the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) immigration program was introduced, making it easier for international students to stay in Canada and become a Canadian Permanent Resident after the completion of their studies.  Coming to Canada as a student may be your route to permanent residency!

Getting Started
In order to come to Canada as student, you must first be accepted into a program of study at a Canadian college or university.
Find a Canadian school and the program that is best for you: http://www.schoolfinder.com/
Note that if you will be studying at an educational institution in Quebec, you will need to obtain a Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (Quebec Certificate of Acceptance of CAQ). This is a document issued by the Ministère de l’Immigration et des communautés culturelles (MICC) that allows you to study in Quebec. The educational institution you will be attending should provide you with all necessary information. Otherwise, visit the MICC website: http://www.micc.gouv.qc.ca/fr/index.asp

Your Study Permit
Apply for your study permit as soon as you gain your acceptance to a Canadian university or college program. It can take time for the application to be processed, so you want to be prepared. With your application, you will need to provide complete documentation of your acceptance to the program, proof of identity documents, proof that you will be able to support yourself financially during your stay, and any additional documents that may be required.
For complete details and application forms visit: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/applications/student.asp
Many applicants will require a temporary resident visa to Canada. Carefully review the list of visa-exempt countries. If your country of citizenship is not included on that list, you are required to obtain a temporary resident visa to study in Canada. The list can be found in the Government application guide .
Complete your application forms and submit them to the Canadian visa office responsible for your area.  After it has been reviewed, you will be informed if your application has been approved. Some applicants may be called to an interview. If you are approved, you will receive a confirmation letter that you must take with you when you travel to Canada. You will show this to an officer at the port of entry who will issue your study permit and place it in your passport.

Working While Studying
Generally, international students are not permitted to work while studying. Some exceptions to do apply:
  • If you are enrolled in a full-time degree program, you should be able to work part time on campus. Restrictions and number of hours differ provincially. Working on campus does not require a work permit. The international student advisor from your school can give you full details.
  • The provinces of Manitoba, New Brunswick and some regions of Quebec allow off-campus work permits. The international student advisor from your school can give you full details.
  • If your studies require that you work as a part of your program.
  • If you can prove that you are no longer able to obtain money required to cover your basic living expenses.
  • If you wish to remain in Canada for a maximum of 2 years after your program in order to gain work experience in your field. Note: Your application for this type of work permit must be submitted within 90 days of graduation. See the Canadian Foreign Workers Manual for more information: http://www.cic.gc.ca/ENGLISH/RESOURCES/manuals/fw/index.asp

Studying in Canada FAQ
Q: Where will I live as a student?
A: There are multiple housing options for international students in Canada
  • Most colleges and universities have student residences or dormitories. Bathrooms are often shared, and meals are served in cafeterias. Some schools have student apartments and shared student houses as on-campus housing options.
  • Some schools have programs where students live with volunteer ‘sponsor’ or ‘billet’ families who provide you with your meals, and a bedroom in their home. Inquire with your school to see if this is an option.
  • You can rent an apartment off-campus. You can rent your own apartment or share one with other students. Most colleges and universities have student classified ads where you can find apartment listings, and other students to live with which helps to keep costs lower.

Q: How will I meet people?
A: International Student Associations are available on most campuses. These student groups will provide you with helpful information about life in Canada, and often hold activities where you can make friends with other students.
Multiple other student groups and associations exist on every campus. It is important to get yourself involved in them if you truly want to meet people and get the most out of your student experience. Enjoy a sport? Try out for the school team! Are you a fan of classic literature? Join the reading group! Ask a representative from the students association for information on the student groups available to you.
There are many LoonLounger’s who are currently studying in Canada. Connect with them today!

Q: What if I need to improve my French/English?
A: Most universities and colleges have language courses, often free to international students. You could also try a language exchange with another student. For example, if you speak fluent Mandarin, but need to improve your English, perhaps an English-speaking student will be studying Mandarin and need your help!

Q: How will I pay to study in Canada?
A: You may need to obtain a student line of credit from a bank, or a student loan from the government. If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you may be eligible for a Canadian or Quebec student loan to help you pay for your education.
Many students work part-time while studying, both to obtain work experience and to make ends meet. Find out about work permits and work opportunities for foreign students.

Q: Is there any chance that my studies in Canada will not require a study permit?
A: Study permits are not needed for the following:
  • programs that are completed in six months or less and can be completed within the period of time you are authorized to visit Canada
  • courses that are not academic, professional or vocational in nature
  • courses included in tour packages as a tourism activity
  • nursery, pre-schools or kindergartens

Q: Can my spouse or common law partner come with me to Canada?
A: Yes, however specific guidelines apply. Review government requirements closely.

Q: Will I require a medical examination?
A: Some applicants will be required to take a medical examination. You will be instructed by the government officer if it is necessary.

Q: If I need to leave Canada during my studies, will I be able to re-enter?
A: Yes, but you must travel with your valid passport, study permit and, where required, your temporary resident visa. You must present these valid documents to the immigration officer upon returning to Canada.

Additional Information
There are many international students on LoonLounge that you can connect with right now. Ask questions, share advice, and build connections that will help you when you arrive in Canada as a student.
For additional information about studying in Canada, visit Studying in Canada –Study Permits by Citizenship and Immigration Canada.
The Council of the Ministers of Education, Canada’s education website, will help you find a school and a program that is right for you, teach you how to obtain a visa to study in Canada, help you calculate and budget for the costs of studying and more: https://www.educationau-incanada.ca/index.aspx?lang=eng
Additional questions? Ask them in the forum for international students.