Canada Student Visa 2025: Costs and Study Conditions in Canada

The Canada student visa offers an unparalleled opportunity for international students to benefit from a high-quality education system while experiencing life in one of the best countries in the world. As we enter 2025, and considering the current economic and cultural conditions, the demand for studying in Canada continues to rise. In this article, we will comprehensively review the requirements for obtaining a student visa, the associated costs, and the necessary steps for receiving this visa, as well as address common questions in this area

Introduction to Canada Student Visa

Why Canada is a Popular Destination for Study

Canada, with its strong educational system, prestigious universities, and multicultural society, has become one of the top choices for international students. The country offers diverse and high-quality academic programs, providing an ideal environment for learning and academic growth. One of the key benefits of studying in Canada is the opportunity to experience life in a multicultural community that attracts students from around the world, offering them a chance for cultural exchange and personal development.

Another attraction of Canada is the immigration opportunities available for graduates. After completing their studies, graduates can apply for permanent residency through various immigration programs. Additionally, Canada is one of the safest countries in the world, with a high standard of living and excellent environmental quality, ensuring that students can study in optimal conditions.

In addition, the availability of scholarships and financial aid programs helps international students reduce the costs of tuition and living. As a result, studying in Canada is an ideal choice for those seeking a quality educational experience and an opportunity for future success.

Types of Canada Student Visas

To study in Canada, there are various types of visas available, depending on the type of educational program, the applicant’s age, and family needs. Below is a brief overview of these visas:

Study Permit
A Study Permit is a permit for studying in Canada that allows students to study at recognized educational institutions (DLI). This permit is issued along with a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an eTA for entry into Canada.

Student Visa
For students under 18 who intend to study in primary or secondary schools in Canada. This visa allows parents to register their child in Canadian schools.

Accompanying Visa (Open Work Permit for Spouses and Dependents)
This visa is issued to the families of international students. The spouse or children of the student can use this visa to live in Canada with the student. Typically, the spouse is also allowed to work freely.

Student Exchange and Short-Term Program Visa
For educational programs lasting less than six months, a study permit is not required. Students can enter Canada with a tourist visa or an eTA to participate in short-term educational courses, seminars, or student exchange programs.

Research or Internship Permit
For students who intend to temporarily enter Canada for research or internships, a research visa or work permit is typically required. This visa is issued to those who are completing part of their studies or internship in Canada.

Provincial Study Permits
Some provinces in Canada, such as Quebec, have special rules for study visas. Applicants may need to obtain a special study permit from the destination province.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
To receive a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), the following changes will apply starting November 2025:

• Language Score: Applicants must provide a minimum CLB 7 score (for universities) or CLB 5 (for colleges) in all language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing).
• Program Duration: The study program must be at least 8 months long outside Quebec, and 900 hours in Quebec.
• Field of Study: For applications submitted after November 1, 2025, the field of study must be listed in the list of fields approved by IRCC.

PGWP Requirements Based on Type of Study Program:

Universities:

• CLB 7 or higher.
• Minimum program duration: 8 months.

Colleges:

• CLB 5 or higher.
• Minimum program duration: 8 months.

Aviation Schools:

• No language score required.
• Program duration: Minimum 8 months or 900 hours.

Does a Canadian Study Permit Lead to Post-Graduation Work?

Yes, a Canadian study permit can lead to post-graduation employment opportunities. One of the most important programs that allows international graduates to work in Canada is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. This program allows students who have graduated from a recognized educational institution (DLI) to work in Canada without the need to apply for a separate work visa.

The validity of a PGWP depends on the length of your study program, usually ranging from 8 months to 3 years. For example, if your study program is two years or more, you may be eligible for a three-year work permit. This opportunity allows you to gain Canadian work experience, which plays a key role in increasing your chances of obtaining permanent residency.

Additionally, through immigration programs such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Canada helps graduates with Canadian work experience to achieve permanent residency. Therefore, a study permit not only provides a pathway to employment in Canada but also offers an opportunity for permanent immigration to the country. 

Requirements for Obtaining a Canadian Study Permit

Documents Required for a Study Permit Application

To apply for a Canadian study permit, various documents must be accurately and thoroughly prepared. These documents include:

• Letter of Acceptance: You must receive a letter of acceptance from a recognized educational institution in Canada (DLI).
• Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months. Additionally, a valid passport is required for each accompanying family member.
• Proof of Financial Ability: You must demonstrate that you have the financial means to cover your tuition and living expenses. These documents may include bank statements, proof of financial support, and proof of income.
• Recent Photograph: Two passport-sized photos taken within the last 6 months.
• Police Certificate: In some cases, a police certificate may be required.
• Medical Examination: If you are from a country where a medical examination is required for a study permit, you must provide this document.
• Study Plan: A written explanation including the reasons for choosing Canada as a study destination and your overall academic goals.
• Language Test Results: If required, language test results such as IELTS or TOEFL should be included.
• Previous Educational Certificates: Including transcripts and educational certificates from high school onward.

• Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL): The PAL verifies that the student’s enrollment aligns with the provincial or territorial quota within the national limit. Each province and territory must establish a process for issuing PALs by March 31

Note that these documents must be carefully gathered and submitted along with the necessary forms at the time of application. Any missing or incorrect documents may result in delays or rejection of your application.

Note: For applications submitted after November 1, 2025, the applicant’s field of study must be included in the list of fields approved by IRCC. This requirement has been implemented to increase alignment between education and the labor market needs of Canada.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Obtaining a Study Permit?

There are no specific age restrictions for obtaining a Canadian study permit, but applicants are typically between the ages of 18 and 35. However, students under 18 can study in Canada with a student visa. In such cases, the responsibility for the visa application lies with the parents or legal guardians.

Additionally, individuals with an academic gap may face challenges in obtaining a Canadian study permit. Therefore, applicants must be able to provide reasonable explanations for their academic gap and demonstrate that they still intend to continue their studies.

Ultimately, the Canadian Immigration Office will make decisions based on the individual circumstances of each applicant. Therefore, it is important to carefully review and prepare all aspects and necessary documents.

Do I Need an English or French Language Certificate?

Yes, to obtain a Canadian study permit, applicants generally need to provide proof of English or French language proficiency. These documents are required to demonstrate the applicant’s ability to communicate in an academic and social environment in Canada.

Tests such as IELTS and TOEFL for English, and TEF for French, are considered valid certificates. Some educational institutions may have specific conditions for admitting students without a language certificate, but in general, students must prove their language proficiency for success in their academic programs.

In cases where applicants are unable to provide a language certificate, some institutions offer the option to take language courses. These courses give students the opportunity to improve their language skills before entering their main academic programs.

Valid Language Certificates include:

• For English: IELTS, TOEFL.
• For French: TEF.

The minimum language score for PGWP depends on the program level:

• CLB 7 for universities (all levels).
• CLB 5 for colleges and non-university programs.

These language requirements are essential for both Study Permit and PGWP applications.

Tuition Fees in Canada

Tuition Fees by Education Level

Tuition fees in Canada depend on the level of study, the chosen field, and the university or institution. Tuition fees for international students are generally higher than for domestic students. Below is a breakdown of tuition fees based on different education levels:

• Bachelor’s Degree
  • Fee Range: CAD 15,000 to CAD 35,000 per year
  • More Expensive Fields: Fields such as engineering and medicine typically have higher fees.
  • Less Expensive Fields: Humanities and arts programs generally cost around CAD 15,000 to CAD 25,000 per year.
• Master’s Degree
  • Fee Range: CAD 13,000 to CAD 30,000 per year
  • More Expensive Fields: Programs like Business Administration (MBA) and Law (LLM) may cost between CAD 30,000 to CAD 50,000 or more.
  • Less Expensive Fields: Social sciences and education programs usually cost around CAD 13,000 to CAD 20,000 per year.
• PhD
  • Fee Range: CAD 7,000 to CAD 18,000 per year
  • Duration: PhD programs typically last 3 to 5 years, and many students benefit from various scholarships.

Important Notes on Tuition Fees

• In addition to tuition fees, students should also consider living expenses such as housing, food, and transportation.
• Some universities and educational institutions offer scholarships and financial aid to international students, which can help reduce costs.

Estimated Costs Table

Education Level	Annual Tuition Fees (CAD)	More Expensive Fields	Less Expensive Fields
Bachelor’s Degree	15,000 to 35,000	Medicine, Engineering	Humanities, Arts
Master’s Degree	13,000 to 30,000	MBA, Law	Social Sciences, Education
PhD	7,000 to 18,000	–	–

 

• Financial Aid
• Some universities and provinces in Canada offer scholarship programs and financial aid to international students to help cover part of their tuition and living costs.
• Since fees may vary depending on the university and province, it is recommended to check the university’s website and relevant centers for precise information before applying for studies.

Factors Affecting Living Costs in Canada

Estimating living costs in Canada for students and individuals planning to stay requires a careful consideration of various factors. Living expenses are highly dependent on location, lifestyle, and type of accommodation. Below are the key factors to consider:

• Location: The cost of living in larger cities like Toronto and Vancouver is higher compared to smaller cities or suburban areas.
• Housing: Students can choose to live in university dormitories or rent an apartment. Typically, dormitory costs are lower than renting an apartment.
• Food: Food costs depend on eating habits and whether groceries are bought from supermarkets or meals are eaten at restaurants.
• Transportation: Using public transportation (such as buses and subways) is more cost-effective than owning a personal vehicle.
• Health Insurance: Health insurance costs vary depending on the province and personal needs.
• Entertainment and Leisure: Costs for entertainment, including cinema, gyms, and other activities, should also be considered.

Estimated Monthly Living Costs in Canada

Expense Type	Cost (CAD) in Large Cities	Cost (CAD) in Small Cities
Housing (1-Bedroom Apartment)	1,200 to 2,500	800 to 1,500
Student Dormitory	600 to 1,200	400 to 800
Food (Supermarket)	300 to 600	200 to 400
Public Transportation	100 to 150	70 to 100
Health Insurance	50 to 100	50 to 80
Internet and Phone	50 to 100	50 to 80
Entertainment and Leisure	150 to 300	100 to 200

Total Monthly Expenses

• Large Cities: 1,850 to 3,750 CAD
• Small Cities: 1,200 to 2,350 CAD

Important Notes

• Housing: Many students rent shared apartments to reduce housing costs. This can reduce rent expenses by half or even a third.
• Transportation: Students often benefit from student discount cards for public transportation.
• Health Insurance: Some universities offer bundled health insurance, which can help reduce costs.

Resources for Further Research

• Immigration Canada
• Official University Websites
• Cost of Living in Canada

Is it possible to receive scholarships in Canada?

Yes, international students in Canada have access to a wide range of scholarships. These scholarships, which may cover full or partial costs of tuition and living, are offered to students with talent and high academic ability. Most universities in Canada have special programs for attracting talented students and provide scholarship facilities for international applicants.

In addition to university scholarships, government organizations and private institutions in Canada also offer scholarships for international students. These scholarships can include educational grants, tuition discounts, or financial assistance for living. Therefore, international students applying for scholarships in Canada should carefully study the conditions and requirements of each scholarship and submit their applications within the specified deadlines.

Process of Applying for a Canadian Study Permit

How can one apply for a Canadian study permit?

Applying for a study permit for Canada is one of the essential steps to continue education in this country. Below are the precise, step-by-step stages of applying for a Canadian study permit:

1. Obtain Admission from a Recognized Educational Institution
   • Choose a recognized institution that is approved by the Canadian government.
   • Submit documents to the institution and receive the official acceptance letter.
   • Review the conditions of the academic program and its specific requirements.

2. Reviewing the Conditions and Requirements of the Visa

• Visit the website of the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to familiarize yourself with the study permit conditions.
• Review the potential impacts of the country of origin on the application process.

3. Collecting Required Documents

• Main Documents:
  • Admission letter from the educational institution.
  • Valid passport (with at least six months of validity).
  • Visa application form (IMM 1294).
• Financial Documents:
  • Bank account statements or documents to demonstrate financial ability.
  • Scholarship or financial aid documents if applicable.
• Previous Educational Documents:
  • Transcripts and previous academic certificates.
• Language Documents:
  • Test scores from language exams such as IELTS or TOEFL, if required.

4. Completing the Application Forms

• Download and accurately complete the application forms from the IRCC website, paying attention to the details of each form.

5. Paying the Visa Fee

• Pay the visa application fee through the IRCC website and save the payment receipt.

Submitting the Application

• Submit the documents and forms online through the IRCC website.
• If an in-person visit is required, go to the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate.

6. Tracking the Application Status

• Track the visa application status through the IRCC website and check for any new updates.

Interview or Providing Additional Information

• If an interview is required, prepare the necessary documents and information.
• Respond quickly and accurately to any requests for additional information.

7. Receiving the Visa Application Outcome

• After reviewing the application, the result will be announced via email or through the IRCC website.
• If the visa is approved, the study permit will be sent to you.

8. Preparing for Travel to Canada

• Check the validity of the visa and plan for your travel and initial stay in Canada.
• Obtain information about your accommodation and how to access the educational institution.

How long does it take to process a Canadian study permit application?

The processing time for a Canadian study permit application can vary depending on several factors. In general, the processing time ranges from 4 to 20 weeks (approximately one to five months), but many factors can influence this timeline. Below are the factors that affect processing time and tips for reducing waiting time.

General Processing Time for a Study Permit Application

• Typically, the processing time ranges from 4 to 20 weeks.
• This period may change depending on the application season and the number of applicants at that time.

Factors Affecting Processing Time

• Location of Application Submission: Processing times may vary depending on the embassy or consulate handling the application. For example, some countries may experience longer processing times due to higher demand.
• Completeness of Documents: If documents are incomplete or additional information is needed, the processing time may increase.
• Applicant’s Personal Situation: Factors such as travel history, academic background, and health status can affect the speed of processing.

Possible Delays

• Applicants should be prepared for potential delays due to a high volume of applications or the need to provide additional documents.
• Sometimes, an interview or further reviews may extend the processing time.

Tips to Reduce Visa Processing Time

• Provide Complete and Accurate Documents: One of the best ways to reduce waiting time is to submit all required documents accurately from the beginning.
• Use Expedited Services (if available): Some visa centers offer expedited services that can shorten processing time. For more information, visit the official IRCC website.

Timely Planning and Action

• Submitting the visa application on time and planning carefully helps applicants reduce stress and improve their chances of obtaining a visa.

Reliable Sources for More Information

• The official website of the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
• Embassy and visa center guides

Is it possible for a study visa application to be rejected? What reasons might cause a rejection?

Yes, a study visa application for Canada can be rejected, and this can happen for various reasons. One common reason is the incomplete or insufficient documentation, such as the inability to prove adequate financial resources to cover tuition and living expenses in Canada. If the applicant cannot provide valid and complete documentation of their financial status, such as bank statements or financial support, this could lead to rejection. Additionally, failing to meet the visa requirements, such as submitting incorrect or incomplete documents, is another important factor for rejection.

A gap in education (a break between study periods) may also lead to rejection if there is no satisfactory explanation provided, as immigration officers might have doubts about the applicant’s study intentions and their plan to return to their home country after completing studies. To increase the chances of success, applicants should submit complete and valid documentation and address any concerns raised by immigration officers. If the application is rejected, it is possible to correct the documents and reapply to improve the chances of success in the next round.

Life and Study in Canada

Is studying in Canada a good experience? Why?

Studying in Canada is considered one of the best educational experiences in the world. The country offers a high-quality and reputable education system, a safe environment, and a diverse culture, providing international students with opportunities for learning, personal growth, and professional development. The high quality of academic classes and access to advanced technologies create an ideal space for research and innovative learning, preparing students to face academic and professional challenges.

Additionally, living in a multicultural society offers students the valuable opportunity to become familiar with diverse cultures and lifestyles, building strong international relationships. Another advantage of studying in Canada is the post-graduation job opportunities. Many international students, after completing their studies, can take advantage of Canada’s immigration programs and apply for permanent residency.

Challenges of Living in Canada for International Students

Living in Canada, despite its many benefits, presents some challenges for international students. One of the primary challenges is the high cost of living in large cities like Toronto and Vancouver. Housing, food, and transportation costs in these cities can be expensive for students, making financial planning and cost management crucial to avoid financial difficulties.

In addition to financial issues, feelings of loneliness and being away from family and friends can be significant challenges for many newcomers. Adapting to a new culture and improving English (or French, depending on the province) language skills may take time and require patience and effort. Moreover, the harsh weather conditions in some parts of Canada, especially during winter, can pose a serious challenge for those unaccustomed to cold climates.

To help with adapting to the local culture and community, it is recommended that students take advantage of various opportunities to connect with others and learn about different cultures. Student activities and social events can help improve the overall experience of living in Canada and reduce feelings of isolation.

Possibility of Obtaining Permanent Residency After Graduation in Canada

Yes, international graduates from recognized educational institutions in Canada can apply for permanent residency through various immigration programs. One of the advantages of studying in Canada is the availability of special programs that allow graduates to apply for permanent residency based on their work experience in Canada and their language skills. These programs include the Canadian Experience Class and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), which many provinces offer to attract international graduates.

Studying in Canada is considered one of the best pathways to enter the labor market and gain professional experience in the country. Given Canada’s demand for skilled and specialized workers, graduates have a high chance of obtaining permanent residency. This opportunity allows students to build a stable and promising future for themselves in Canada and continue to grow personally and professionally in the country.

Obtaining Consultation for Canadian Study Visa

Given the complexities of the Canadian study visa application process and the need to prepare specific documents and requirements, it is recommended to consult with a reputable immigration agency before applying for a visa. Experienced consultants can assist you at every stage, from gathering documents to financial and academic planning, and help increase your chances of success in obtaining a visa and admission to Canada.

The Hejazi-Nia Immigration Agency, with a team of skilled professionals who are knowledgeable about immigration laws and regulations, can guide you through this process. From reviewing visa requirements to completing and submitting documents and providing guidance after arrival, this agency offers comprehensive services. The specialized consultation provided by Hejazineia will help you take informed steps with confidence in your educational immigration journey.

Final Conclusion

Embarking on an educational journey in Canada offers unparalleled opportunities for academic excellence and professional advancement. However, navigating the complexities of immigration processes and adapting to a new environment necessitates meticulous planning and informed decision-making.

At Hejazineia Immigration Corporation, we are committed to providing comprehensive support tailored to your unique aspirations. Our experienced team offers personalized guidance, ensuring that every step of your immigration process is handled with expertise and care.