Canada is one of the most popular destinations for international students, especially from Pakistan and India. Every year, thousands of students apply for a Canadian Study Permit to pursue higher education in world-class universities and colleges. If you are planning to study in Canada, you must carefully follow the application process to increase your chances of success.
In this guide, we provide a complete step-by-step process for applying for a Canada Study Visa (Study Permit) from Pakistan or India in 2025, along with tips, requirements, and common mistakes to avoid.
Why Study in Canada?
Before diving into the process, let’s understand why Canada is such an attractive choice:
Globally Recognized Education: Canadian universities are ranked among the top worldwide.
Affordable Tuition: Compared to the US, UK, and Australia, Canada offers quality education at lower costs.
Work While Studying: Students can work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during breaks.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): After completing studies, students can stay and work in Canada for up to 3 years.
Pathway to PR: Studying in Canada improves your chances of getting Permanent Residency (PR) through Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs.
Step 1: Choose a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
The first step is to select a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Only DLIs are approved by the Canadian government to host international students.
Tips:
Make sure the institution is on the official DLI list available on the Government of Canada website.
Confirm whether your program qualifies for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
Research tuition fees, location, living costs, and available scholarships.
Popular Canadian universities for Pakistani and Indian students:
University of Toronto
University of British Columbia (UBC)
McGill University
University of Alberta
York University
Step 2: Secure an Acceptance Letter
Once you choose a DLI, apply for admission to your desired program. After acceptance, the university will issue an Acceptance Letter, which is required for your study permit application.
Documents usually needed for admission:
Academic transcripts (Matric, Intermediate, Bachelor’s if applying for Master’s)
IELTS/TOEFL/PTE test scores (English proficiency)
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Reference/Recommendation letters
Resume (for Master’s programs)
Step 3: Prepare Financial Proof
Canadian immigration authorities require proof that you can pay for tuition, living expenses, and return travel.
Minimum Funds Required:
Tuition fees (usually CAD 15,000–25,000 per year)
Living expenses (CAD 10,000 per year for a single student)
Additional funds if you bring family members
Acceptable Proofs:
Bank statements (last 4–6 months)
Education loan approval letter
Scholarship or sponsorship letters
Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a Canadian bank (common in Student Direct Stream – SDS)
Step 4: Take IELTS or Other Language Tests
Most Canadian institutions require proof of English proficiency.
IELTS Academic: Minimum band 6.0–6.5 overall (some programs may require higher).
TOEFL: Minimum 80–90 iBT.
PTE Academic: Minimum 58–60.
French-speaking applicants may submit TEF/TCF scores.
Step 5: Apply Online for Study Permit
Once you have your acceptance letter and financial proof, apply for a study permit.
How to Apply:
Create an account on the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) website.
Fill out the study permit application form (IMM 1294).
Upload documents (acceptance letter, passport, photos, proof of funds, language scores, SOP, etc.).
Pay application fee (CAD 150) + biometrics fee (CAD 85).
Book an appointment for biometrics at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
Step 6: Biometrics & Medical Examination
Biometrics: Fingerprints and photo must be given at the nearest VAC (in Pakistan – Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi; in India – Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, etc.).
Medical Exam: Must be done with a panel physician approved by IRCC. This ensures you meet Canada’s health standards.
Step 7: Wait for Visa Decision
Processing times vary, but generally:
Student Direct Stream (SDS) applications: 4–8 weeks.
Regular Study Permit applications: 8–16 weeks.
You can track your application online. If approved, you will receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction and a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) stamped in your passport.
Step 8: Travel to Canada
When you arrive in Canada:
Present your POE letter and TRV to the immigration officer.
The officer will issue your study permit.
Keep your documents (acceptance letter, proof of funds, accommodation details) ready at the airport.
Extra Tips for Pakistani & Indian Students
Apply through the SDS stream if possible (requires a GIC, IELTS 6.0 in each band, and full tuition paid upfront). This is much faster than the regular stream.
Prepare a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining why you chose Canada, your program, and future goals.
Avoid fake bank statements or documents. Any fraud results in rejection and a ban.
Start your visa process at least 6 months before your program starts.
Common Reasons for Rejection
Insufficient financial proof.
Weak Statement of Purpose (no clear study or career plan).
Doubts about returning home after studies.
Incomplete documentation.
Low English proficiency scores.
Conclusion
Applying for a Canada Study Visa from Pakistan or India in 2025 is a step-by-step process that requires preparation, financial proof, and honesty. By choosing the right DLI, preparing documents early, and applying through SDS if eligible, you can improve your chances of approval. Studying in Canada not only gives you a world-class education but also opens doors to work opportunities and permanent residency.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Requirements may change, so always check the official Government of Canada immigration website for the latest updates.