Student guide
Canada attracts students who want a study permit now and a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) later. You can choose a university degree or a career-focused college diploma. Rules on provincial attestation, SDS, and work hours change — so the file must match the latest IRCC instructions, not last year’s checklist.
Main intakes
Jan · May · Sep
Student visa
Study permit
After study
PGWP (if eligible)
Study options
College or university
Why students choose Canada
- PGWP can let eligible graduates work in Canada after a qualifying programme.
- Co-op and internship terms are built into many college and some university courses.
- You can compare tuition across provinces — not every good option is in Toronto or Vancouver.
- A well-planned programme can support longer-term stay discussions after work experience. That is never a guarantee.
Popular programmes
These are common choices, not a ranking. A counsellor will match courses to your marks, budget, and career plan.
- Business & Supply Chain
- Computer Science / IT
- Health Care & Nursing pathways
- Engineering
- Hospitality
- Early Childhood Education
- Data Analytics
- Skilled trades
Intakes and when to apply
| Intake |
Starts |
When students should begin |
| Fall (main) |
September |
Apply 8–12 months ahead. Best seat and scholarship availability. |
| Winter |
January |
Apply by July–September. Common for college diplomas and some degrees. |
| Spring / Summer |
May |
Fewer programmes. Useful for pathway or waitlisted students. |
What you typically need
- Offer letter from a designated learning institution (DLI).
- Provincial attestation letter (PAL/TAL) when IRCC requires it for your level of study.
- SOP explaining why this course, this college/university, and why Canada.
- Proof of funds (GIC and/or bank evidence as per the stream you use).
- Passport, academic records, English score (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL as accepted), and biometrics.
Indicative cost
Tuition (indicative)
CAD 16,000–35,000 / year
Living (indicative)
CAD 15,000–20,000 / year
Key extra
GIC + biometrics + medical if asked
IRCC publishes a minimum living-cost figure for the study permit. Your GIC or bank proof must meet the current amount, not an old brochure.
Visa in simple steps
Canadian study permit
- Accept the offer and collect PAL/TAL if your application needs it.
- Arrange funds (GIC where used) and write a clear SOP.
- Submit the study-permit application with biometrics and any medical exam.
- Travel after approval and complete landing / study-permit issuance in Canada.
Work while you study
Off-campus work hours are set by IRCC and printed on your permit. Follow the current hour limit and work only if your permit allows it.
After you graduate
A PGWP length depends on the programme and current IRCC rules. Not every course or private campus is PGWP-eligible — check this before you pay a deposit.
Scholarships and funding
- Entrance awards at some universities and colleges (often modest tuition credits).
- On-campus jobs and co-op wages after you start.
- Education loans once the offer and fee structure are clear.
How Trencher helps
Start 9–12 months before September. Study-permit processing plus biometrics can add several weeks after you submit.
- Honest college vs university comparison and PGWP eligibility check.
- SOP, GIC/funds plan, and document checklist.
- Application tracking and interview-ready explanation of your study plan.
Figures and visa steps here are a student-friendly overview. Official amounts, work hours, and forms change. A counsellor will confirm the current embassy / university rules for your case.
