Studying in Canada will be a life-changing journey for applicants. However, to succeed, proper pre-departure guidelines should be followed. Here is an 8-step pre-determined checklist that every student travelling to Canada should know and follow. These guidelines help students have a smooth transition into student life in Canada.
Confirm Your Acceptance from a Canadian Institution
- The journey to study abroad begins when an admission letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is obtained.
- This letter is a key requirement for applying for a study permit in Canada.
- Make sure the applied university is officially accredited to avoid processing delays.
Apply for Your Study Permit
- Once the admission is confirmed, gather all the required documents to apply for your Canadian study permit.
- The documents usually required are:
1. Acceptance letter from DLT
2. A valid passport
3. Financial documents
- The Application can be made online through the IRCC portal. The progress of the application can also be tracked through the account.
Organize and Back Up Key Documents
- Both the digital and physical copies of the required documents should be made available.
- These documents include
1.A passport
2.Approved Visa
3.Educational documents
4.Insurance copies
5.Vaccine certificates
- These documents should be kept safely either on a USB drive or cloud storage. This will prevent the loss of documents and make them accessible in times of emergency.
Arrange Health Insurance Coverage
- Health insurance coverage varies for each province.
- Some provinces offer public insurance for international students, while other provinces require students to enrol in private plans or school-based programs.
- Upon reaching the destination province, research the available health systems and obtain insurance accordingly.
Secure Suitable Housing
- Accommodation should be planned well in advance.
- Students can explore options such as homestays, private rentals, or dormitories.
- Housing must be chosen based on the factors such as:
1. Budget
2. Lifestyle
3. Access to campus
- This will ensure that the student has a safe and comfortable living environment.
Set Up a Canadian Bank Account
- It is essential to set up a Canadian bank account, as it facilitates the management of tuition fees, living expenses, and income from part-time jobs.
- Students can compare the banking options available.
- They can choose a bank that offers no-fee accounts. It is also profitable if the bank offers newcomer-friendly services.
Open a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)
- If the application is made through the Student Direct Stream, a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) becomes mandatory.
- The GIC serves as proof of funds for the visa and offers monthly disbursements to manage living expenses in Canada
- Students should choose a bank that provides a simple GIC process, customized for foreign students.
Familiarize Yourself with Canadian Life
- Students must familiarize themselves with Canadian life. This includes:
- The Canadian culture
1. Weather
2. Daily norms
3. Local news
- It is also essential to stay in contact with other international students, which eases the transition.
How Croyez Immigration Can Help You Prepare
Our consultants at Croyez Immigration will assist in getting a visa. We also help in every step of your journey to Canada.
- Shortlisting the University
- Visa and GIC guidance
- Support in finding accommodation
- Insurance and banking
- Assistance in pre-departure orientation.
Our transparent process and services, timely updates, and proven success rate make us a trusted partner in bringing your Canadian education dream to reality. Begin your study journey with us and proceed with confidence.