Your study abroad in Canada, step by step

It has to be valid for your whole stay. If it expires soon, renew it before applying for the visa.

English course, college, university, high school: each one has different rules, length and documents.

A course of 6 months or less does not need a study permit, but depending on your country you need a visitor visa or an eTA to enter Canada. A course longer than 6 months needs a study permit.

College and university usually ask for a test, such as IELTS. Check what the school requires before booking the exam.

The study permit application asks you to show that you can support yourself in Canada during the course.

It is the base of the study permit application.

In most cases, the study permit application also needs the provincial attestation letter. The school explains how to get it.

The application is online, on the Government of Canada website, and may include giving your biometrics (photo and fingerprints).

Ontario public health insurance generally does not cover international students. Many schools have their own plan: check with yours.

Host family, student residence or a shared apartment. For host families, NEW selects and visits the family beforehand.

Match your arrival date with the start of the course and with the airport transfer.

Passport, the port of entry letter of introduction, the letter of acceptance, proof of funds and insurance. None of this goes in checked luggage.

If you arrive in the cold, bring thermal layers and leave the heavy coat and boots to buy there.

For the first days, until you open a Canadian bank account.

With NEW, the arrival transfer is arranged by the team, and you already know who is picking you up.

Show your documents to the officer and, before leaving, check that the details on your study permit are correct.

With a local number it is easier to talk to the school, the host family and the bank.

Use a PRESTO card or tap your credit card on the reader. A fare is valid for two hours.

Bring your passport and study permit. Many banks have student accounts.

It is the number you need to work and get paid. It is free and you can apply online.

Library, grocery store, nearest subway station, free Wi-Fi: see it all on the map.