Getting accepted to a Canadian institution is just the beginning for international students with dreams of studying in Canada. For many, this opportunity hinges on the success of their study permit application which authorizes them to join a designated institution in Canada. The process is known to be taxing on both time and resources and has a noticeable rejection rate. Success here requires proper preparation and an understanding of the Canadian immigration system.
This article will attempt to underline the most common pitfalls encountered by study permit applicants in 2022 and the current situation surrounding this permit.
What are the IRCC’s requirements for Study permit applications?
An international student must first apply for a Canadian Study permit to be eligible to study in Canada. The requirements for this permit are as follows. The applicant must:
- Be enrolled at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) that is approved to host international students. The acceptance letter from the institution will be required when making your application.
- The applicant must also be able to afford their tuition and transportation costs and support themselves and any family member in Canada. The required figures for provinces, bar Quebec, are as follows:
| Persons coming to Canada | Funds required exempting tuition | Funds required per month |
| Applicant | CAD 10,000 | CAD 833 |
| First family member | CAD 4,000 | CAD 333 |
| Every additional family member | CAD 3,000 | CAD 255 |
- Obey Canadian laws and have no previous criminal record.
- Be in good health
- Convince visa officers of their intention to return to a home country after the expiration of their study permit. When applying, this can be done by making a compelling case in the Letter of Explanation (LoE).
What are some of the most common reasons for a rejected application?
Your application can be rejected for failing to meet the conditions above. Some of the most common mistakes that lead to the dreaded rejection notice are tackled in detail below.
- Unconvincing Letter of explanation (LoE)- Applicants are required to submit a Letter of explanation detailing their reasons for choosing Canada and their understanding of the role and responsibilities as an international student. This letter is often the difference between success and failure. Failing to convince immigration officials of your intentions through this letter will likely result in rejection.
- Insufficient Finances- International students must prove they have the finances to support themselves during their stay. Failing to meet the financial requirements stated by the IRCC will lead to the disqualification of your application.
- Inconsistent academic records and study program choice- You can expect Immigration officials to scrutinize all details of your academic history. Any perceived irregularities, unexplained gaps and choosing a study program unrelated to your field can result in the rejection of your application.
- Low language scores- International students are expected to display some degree of proficiency with the medium of instruction- either English or French. Having low language test scores are grounds for disqualification.
- Study permit Backlogs- The IRCC may reject applications if they are overburdened with backlogs. As of November 2022, 27% of all study permit applications were in the IRCC’s backlog.
- Incomplete application or inaccurate information- Missing details or exaggerating any academic and personal information can be grounds for disqualification. To avoid this, carefully study the IRCC’s guidelines and provide all required documents along with your application.
- Intention to migrate- Officials will refuse your application if they suspect you’ll stay on after the expiration of your study permit. Be sure to emphasize your connections and career prospects back home to stand a chance.
What is the success rate for Canadian study permit applications?
The IRCC finalized over 671,000 study permit applications between January 1st and November 30th, 2022, surpassing the previous record held in 2021.
In 2021, Canada had a total study permit approval rate of 60% or 329,213 of 550,903 applications approved. Applications from India also had a 60% approval rate, with 137,535 of the 230,860 applicants in 2021 receiving their permits. Japan had the highest overall approval rate at 99%
Canada’s rising academic status is sure to propel these numbers even higher, and following the current trajectory, Canadian study permits will become even more accessible to students worldwide.
