Prepare to study in Canada 

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In Canada, each province and territory is in charge of their own education system.

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• EduCanada – information for international students about education in Canada, with study program search, costs, and more

• Ministries and departments responsible for education – information about the education system in each province and territory

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Primary and secondary schools

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Primary usually means grades 1-8 and secondary usually means grades 9-12.  All primary and secondary schools in Canada can enrol international students.

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NOTE: Find out special rules for minor children studying in Canada

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Post-secondary schools

 

Post-secondary schools are:

• colleges

• universities

• private career colleges and

• vocational and technical schools.

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Get more information on post-secondary schools:
 

• Universities Canada – profiles of Canadian universities, a large study programs database and help to plan your university education

• Colleges and Institutes Canada – profiles of colleges and institutes

• Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials – information on getting your past education assessed against Canadian standards

• National Association of Career Colleges – find out about schools that teach trades and vocations 

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Study Permit

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The study permit is a document we issue that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLI) in Canada.  If you need a study permit, your acceptance letter must be from a DLI. All primary and secondary schools in Canada are DLIs. Not all post-secondary schools in Canada are DLIs. 

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Designated learning institutions list HERE

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How to Apply for a Study Permit

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Most foreign nationals need a study permit to study in Canada. Make sure you have all the documents you need before you apply. You should apply before you travel to Canada. 

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You need these documents to apply for a study permit:

• proof of acceptance

• proof of identity

• proof of financial support

 

You may also need

• a letter of explanation

• a certificat d'acceptation du Québec (CAQ)

• a custodian declaration (minors only)

• other documents

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For more information: HERE 

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Extend your study permit

 

The expiry date on your study permit (which can be found in the top right corner of your permit) tells you when you have to stop studying and leave Canada. This date is usually the length of your study program, plus 90 days. The extra 90 days gives you time to prepare to leave Canada or to extend your stay in Canada.

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For more information: HERE