To apply for Canada Study Permit from India in 2025, you need: admission from a DLI (Designated Learning Institution), proof of funds (CAD $20,635 + tuition), biometrics (CAD $85). Apply through Student Direct Stream (SDS) for faster processing (20 days) by providing GIC (CAD $20,635), first year tuition payment, and IELTS 6.0 in all bands. Regular stream takes 8-12 weeks.
Key Facts: Canada Study Permit for Indians
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | CAD $150 (₹9,300 approx) |
| Biometrics Fee | CAD $85 (₹5,300 approx) |
| GIC Amount | CAD $20,635 (₹12.8 lakhs approx) |
| SDS Processing | 20 calendar days |
| Regular Processing | 8-12 weeks |
Study Permit vs Student Visa
Study Permit: Document allowing you to study in Canada (issued at port of entry)
Student Visa (TRV): Entry visa stamped on passport (processed with study permit)
When you apply for study permit, you automatically get the TRV if approved.
Eligibility Requirements
- Acceptance letter from a DLI (Designated Learning Institution)
- Proof of sufficient funds for tuition + living expenses
- Valid passport
- No criminal record (police certificate may be needed)
- Good health (medical exam may be required)
- Intention to leave Canada after studies
Student Direct Stream (SDS) - Faster Processing
SDS is a fast-track program for Indian students offering 20-day processing.
SDS Requirements
- IELTS Score: Minimum 6.0 in each band (Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking)
- GIC: CAD $20,635 deposited with participating bank
- First Year Tuition: Paid to your university
- Medical Exam: Upfront medical completed
- DLI Acceptance: From approved institution
GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate)
Open GIC with one of these participating banks:
- ICICI Bank Canada
- HDFC Bank
- Scotiabank
- CIBC
- SBI Canada
You deposit CAD $20,635. After arrival, you receive CAD $2,000 immediately and CAD $1,500/month for 12 months.
Documents Required
For SDS Stream
- DLI Acceptance Letter - With DLI number
- GIC Certificate - From participating bank
- Tuition Payment Receipt - First year fees paid
- IELTS Scorecard - 6.0 in all bands (TRF number)
- Medical Exam - Upfront medical from panel physician
- Passport - Valid for duration of study + 6 months
- Photographs - As per specifications
For Regular Stream
All SDS documents PLUS:
- Bank Statements - 12 months showing sufficient funds
- Income Tax Returns - Sponsor's last 3 years
- Property Documents - If using as proof
- FDs/Investments - Supporting financial documents
- Sponsor's Employment Proof
Academic Documents
- 10th & 12th Mark Sheets
- Graduation Degree & Transcripts
- Standardized Test Scores - GRE/GMAT (if required)
- Statement of Purpose - Why Canada, why this program
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Get DLI Admission
Apply and receive acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution. Ensure you have the DLI number.
- Decide: SDS or Regular
If you have IELTS 6.0 in all bands and can afford GIC + tuition, choose SDS for 20-day processing.
- Open GIC Account (SDS)
Deposit CAD $20,635 with participating bank. Takes 2-3 days to get certificate.
- Pay First Year Tuition (SDS)
Pay to your university and get receipt.
- Complete Medical Exam
Visit a panel physician. For SDS, do this upfront. Results sent directly to IRCC.
- Create IRCC Account & Apply
Create GCKey account at ircc.canada.ca. Complete application form online.
- Upload Documents
Upload all required documents. Ensure quality and completeness.
- Pay Fees
CAD $150 (study permit) + CAD $85 (biometrics) online.
- Provide Biometrics
Book appointment at VFS Global and provide fingerprints/photo.
- Wait for Decision
SDS: 20 days / Regular: 8-12 weeks. Track in IRCC account.
- Receive Letter of Introduction
If approved, you get Letter of Introduction. Actual study permit issued at Canadian port of entry.
Canada Study Permit Fees (2025)
| Fee Type | CAD | Approx INR |
|---|---|---|
| Study Permit Fee | $150 | ₹9,300 |
| Biometrics | $85 | ₹5,300 |
| GIC (refundable) | $20,635 | ₹12,80,000 |
| Non-refundable Total | $235 | ₹14,600 |
Work Rights on Study Permit
- On-Campus: Unlimited hours
- Off-Campus: 20 hours/week during classes, full-time during breaks
- Co-op/Internship: With co-op work permit
- Post-Graduation: PGWP (Post-Graduation Work Permit) up to 3 years
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Canada student visa rejection rate for Indians?
The rejection rate has been around 35-40% in recent years. SDS stream has higher approval rates due to standardized requirements.
How long does Canada study permit take?
SDS stream: 20 calendar days. Regular stream: 8-12 weeks. Apply at least 3-4 months before program start.
Is IELTS mandatory for Canada student visa?
For SDS, IELTS 6.0 in all bands (or equivalent) is mandatory. For regular stream, it depends on your program requirements.
Can I apply without GIC?
Yes, through regular stream with comprehensive bank statements. However, processing takes longer (8-12 weeks vs 20 days).
What is the cost of living in Canada for students?
Budget CAD $15,000-20,000/year for living expenses depending on city. Toronto and Vancouver are most expensive.