Canada is fast becoming a leading study abroad destination, drawing international students with an attractive mix of quality, affordable education, an inclusive community as well as stunning sights and sounds.

The country is also a hotspot for those who wish to gain valuable working experience, allowing students who have graduated from eligible Canadian designated learning institutes (DLI) to get an open work permit.

While our education counsellors can help narrow down the universities that are ideal for you and guide you through the application process, it is always handy to find out what’s required and what to expect.

We’ve also created a university application timeline which depicts how early you can apply as well as the documents and actions required.

Usually, students choose an intake based on a range of factors such as preferred choice of study, the availability of a program in a particular university and academic records.

There are also application deadlines for each intake (below), and these can vary for certain institutions and programs with a different intake from the main ones. It would be best to speak with one of our counsellors to get tailored advice and up-to-date information.

We’ve also charted a timeline to give you an overview of the university application journey, to better prepare you for an exciting new chapter ahead.

Student Application Journey in Detail

Stage 1

Explore study abroad options

Stage 2

Make an appointment with a counsellor (8 months to 2 years to course commencement)

Stage 3

Book an IELTS (Academic) test if required

• IELTS requirement 6.5 overall, no band less than 6.0

Stage 4

Prepare necessary paperwork

• Academic documents – i.e. O Levels, A levels/IB/Polytechnic diploma, Bachelor degree etc.

• Passport Copy

• Statement of purpose for PG applications

• Reference/Testimonial – usually 2 for PG

• Resume/ CV Work Experience

• *Optional: GMAT/GRE

• Document Preparation for Canada Study Permit

• 6 months bank statement showing minimum amount of CAD 50,000 or Bank Loan document

• Letter of employment for parents, min. 6 months payslip, property documents, financial statements etc.

• Study Plan for Canada Study Permit

• Police Clearance

• Medical Check up

Stage 5

Apply to universities

• Maximum of 5 Universities and/or Colleges

Stage 6

Receive offer/LOA (Letter of Acceptance)

• Average processing time is 2-12 weeks depending on institution

Stage 7

Accept LOA

• Usually deposit required - amount payable is up to the first year tuition fee

• LOA is issued 1 - 2 weeks after acceptance

Stage 8

Apply for Canada Study Permit

• Application should take place at least 3 months prior to start of intake or up to 6 months prior to start of intake

• Students should have completed the physical visa forms along with other documents – like bank statements, property documents etc

• Medical Check Up completed

• Police Clearance completed

• Application for study permit is online amount is CAD$235 payable by credit card

• After online application is submitted, student have to book a biometric appointment.

• Study Permit processing time up to 70 working days.

Stage 9

Pre-departure seminar

• Usually held 1 month before course commencement by the individual institutions via Skype

Stage 10

Arrive in destination

Ready to kickstart your study abroad journey?

Keen to embark on an exciting study abroad adventure? Simply fill in your details and chat with our counsellors for free!

Recommended articles

Visa application assistance

IDP Education provides visa advice to ensure you are kept up to date on all the latest information on visa requirements and conditions.

Advantages of studying abroad

More than ever before, we live in a globalised world. Earning your degree overseas can have huge benefits for your career and personal development.