University, Visas & Scholarships
Complete roadmap for international students: Admissions, Study Permits, WES evaluations, and GIC updates.
IRCC has implemented the **2026 Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)** minimum proof of funds of **$20,635 CAD** for a single applicant (in addition to first-year tuition). Off-campus work hours are strictly capped at **24 hours per week** during academic terms. Undergrad program graduates from private colleges no longer qualify for PGWP.
GPA & Admission Probability Estimator
Convert your local academic percentage and evaluate admission chances for Canadian DLIs.
Study Permit (Student Visa) Requirements
To obtain a Canadian Study Permit, applicants must secure a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a **Designated Learning Institution (DLI)** and prove they can support themselves.
- 2026 GIC Update: You must purchase a GIC worth **$20,635 CAD** from a participating bank (e.g. Scotiabank, CIBC) to cover living costs.
- Work Hours Caps: Students are legally restricted to **24 hours of off-campus work per week** during academic terms. Working over this threshold is a violation that can result in deportation.
- PGWP Eligibility: Check if your chosen DLI program qualifies for the Post-Graduation Work Permit. Private career colleges and certain public-private curriculum partnerships are no longer eligible.
Expat Scholarships & Financial Aid
While international tuition is high, several prestigious funding programs exist for top academic students:
| Award Name | Target Level | Funding Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Vanier Graduate Scholarships | PhD Programs | $50,000 / year (3 years) |
| Lester B. Pearson Award | Undergrad (U of T) | Full Tuition & Residence |
| President's Scholar of Excellence | Undergrad / Masters | $10,000+ Entrance grants |
| Provincial Bursaries & TAs | Masters / PhD | $15,000–$25,000 Teaching Assist. |
Tuition Fees & Tax Deductions
International tuition in Canada typically ranges from **$20,000 to $45,000 CAD per year** for undergraduate programs.
- Tuition Tax Credits (Form T2202): Universities issue a T2202 tax slip. Students can file these amounts to accumulate non-refundable tax credits, which roll over and directly reduce income tax liability once they start working in Canada after graduation.
- LRS Withholding limits: Indian student sponsors must declare remittances under the Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS), which incurs 5% to 20% TCS withholding tax on transfers over ₹7 Lakhs.
WES Degree & ECA Evaluations
To claim immigration points (for Express Entry or PNP) or practice in licensed professions, you must evaluate your foreign degrees:
- WES (World Education Services): The most common credential evaluation agency. Requires transcripts sent directly from your home university in a sealed, stamped envelope.
- Professional Licensure: Engineering degrees must be assessed by regional bodies (e.g. PEO in Ontario), and medical degrees via the Medical Council of Canada (MCC).
Language Benchmarks
Required tests and minimum scores for study permits and university entries:
- IELTS Academic: Minimum overall band **6.5** (no band below 6.0).
- TOEFL iBT: Score **90+** (with minimum 21 in writing/speaking).
- PTE Academic: Score **60+**.
Application Documents
- Valid Passport.
- English Language Test Certificate.
- Official University Transcripts.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP).
- Letter of Recommendation (LORs).
- Proof of Funds (GIC + bank statements).