Explanation: the Study Permit (Student Direct Stream, SDS) Requirements

• Application for Study Permit Made Outside of Canada (IMM1294) (required)

This application form uses special features. You can’t view it using your Internet browser. These features help us validate the form in our system. To view the  form, you need to:

1. 1. use your computer (Mac or PC). The form won’t open on mobile devices (iPads, tablets, mobile phones, etc.)
   2. install Adobe Reader 10 (or higher)
   3. download the PDF file to your computer. Save the file in a place you can remember.
   4. make sure you use Adobe Reader to open the form. Sometimes if you try to open the form directly, it will use your Internet browser to try to open it.

Note: If you are applying online, you don’t need to print and sign the form. Leave the signature section empty.

• Use of Representative (IMM5476) (required)

You must provide a completed Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476).

A representative (either paid or unpaid) can conduct business on your behalf.

In other words, a representative can obtain information on the status of an application, request file separation or transfer, provide updated information on your behalf, request that an action be taken by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, or change an address.

You may only select one person to act as your representative.

• Client Information (required)

If you would like to provide more information about your application that you have not already provided, you can attach a letter of explanation to your application.

• Digital photo (required)

Temporary residents (students, workers, visitors), Express Entry and Canadian citizenship certificate

• • The photo must show a full front view of the head and tops of shoulders, with the face in the middle of the photo.
  • Size of the head, from chin to crown, must be between 31mm and 36mm.
  • Image size: at least 420 x 540 pixels.
  • We accept JPEG or JPEG2000 format.
  • File size: approximately 240 kB, no more than 4 MB.
  • Image must be in colour (24 bits per pixel) in RGB colour space, the common output for most digital cameras.

Temporary residents and Express Entry

• • The final frame size of the photo must be at least 35mm x 45mm.
  • If you scan an existing photo, the minimum resolution must be 600 pixels per inch.

Canadian citizenship certificate

• • Final frame size of the photo must be 50mm x 70mm.
  • Upload a colour digital photo taken by a commercial photographer (We don’t accept black and white photos).
  • Scanned photos are not accepted.
  • Photo must be taken within the last 6 months.
  • Don’t use a smart phone to take the photo.
  • Don’t change the digital photos in any way.
  • You must also upload the photographer’s information (name, address and date the photo was taken) to the “Client Information” item, under Optional Documents. We accept the photographer’s receipt or a text file.

• Proof of IELTS language test results (required)

You must submit a copy of:

• • your International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

• Recent Education Transcript (required)

If you’re applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit, you must provide a final transcript from your school that confirms you’ve completed your study program.

If you’re applying for a visa to return to Canada and you have a valid work or study permit, you must submit your most recent school transcript.

Your transcript must be on your school’s official letterhead or printed from your school’s website and should include information like:

• • the classes you attended;
  • when you took these classes;
  • your final marks (if you completed the study program);
  • the reasons why you didn’t complete your study program; and
  • anything else that could be relevant.

• Letter of Acceptance from a post-secondary Designated Learning Institution (required)

You must submit a copy of:

• • your Letter of Acceptance from a post-secondary Designated Learning Institution

• Proof of upfront medical exam (required)

  You require a medical exam. Learn how to get an upfront medical exam. In order to submit your online application, you will need to upload the information printout sheet or the IMM 1017B Upfront Medical Report form. Your doctor will give you one of these forms when you complete your medical exam.

  If you cannot get a medical exam before the deadline to submit your application, you may submit proof that you have scheduled an appointment.

• Family Information (IMM5645) (required)

You must complete the Family Information form. This form requests information about your spouse or common-law partner, your parents, your children, step children and adopted children, and your brothers and sisters (including step-siblings and half-siblings). This information will become part of your immigration record and may be used to verify your personal information in future applications.

• Representative’s Submission Letter (required)

If you have indicated that you are using the services of a paid representative, provide the representative’s submission letter.

This letter can be obtained from your paid representative, and must be attached to your application.

Applicant’s Study Plan or Letter of explanation (if not using representative)
This letter helps the visa officer to understand you and your goals. It explains

• • • why you want to study in Canada
    • that you understand your responsibilities as a student

You should include this letter if you decide to apply for a study permit, even if you don’t have to get a study permit for your program.

A Study Plan stating:

• • • why you wish to go to Canada to study at the school and in the program for which you have been accepted
    • your overall educational goals
    • how this program will increase your employment opportunities.