What You Can Do When Your Study Permit Has Been Refused.
Canada boasts a multicultural and diverse society that welcomes thousands of international students every year! Unfortunately, some study permit applications that are received are often refused for a number of reasons. This blog post will discuss why the refusal rates for study permits tend to be so high and what you should keep in mind when you apply.
First, what is a study permit and what are the requirements?
A study permit is an official document that permits foreign nationals to attend an academic institution in Canada. If your study permit application is approved, you will be given a letter to present at the Point of entry, and either an ETA or a temporary resident visa which allows you to travel to Canada.
To be eligible for a study permit you must:
have already been accepted by a designated learning institution
prove you have the financial security to fund your tuition, living expenses, and transportation costs
adhere to the law and have a clear criminal record
be in good health (and qualify as a fully vaccinated traveller, unless you have an exemption)
establish that you will leave Canada upon the completion of your studies
Individuals often apply for a study permit on their own without realizing how long the application process can be and the amount of personal information and documentation required to build a strong case. You may be wondering, how exactly do I build a strong case?
Well, a good place to start is to understand the common reasons for refusal:
Illogical study plan. You must paint a clear picture for an immigration officer to understand your educational and professional goals, and why studying in Canada is necessary for you to complete them. Be sure that your study plan explains your academic history (including any gaps), the choice behind your program of interest, and why you would like to pursue an education abroad rather than locally.
Financial insecurity. It is no secret that international students are confronted with significant tuition fees. Thus, you must provide solid evidence that you have enough funds to cover your schooling but also to live off.
Insufficient ties to home country. Immigration officers want to see that you have strong connections that tie you back to your home country, such as family, friends, community involvement, personal assets, and investments. Although your desire to study in Canada may be based on a variety of reasons, never cast your home country, and the possibility of returning, in a negative light
Lack of intent to return home. Study permits are temporary visas. So, it is crucial that you convince the immigration officer of your full intent to return home once your study period is complete. In your study plan, explain and include any documentation to help illustrate what you will do upon your return to your native country. What will your job prospects be like? How will studying in Canada help you accomplish a set goal back home?
Incomplete application. Triple check that you have completed the study permit application in its entirety and have attached all required documents. Be sure to consider any potential concerns in your application, whether that be a lack of travel history, gaps in your academic journey, or employment circumstances.
Tips to avoid study permit refusals:
Conduct extensive research, plan ahead and begin saving the money needed to fund your study abroad.
Create a checklist of all application requirements. Useful information to form your checklist can be found here!
Carefully fill out each field of the application. Review your application with fresh eyes and have someone you trust look it over as well.
Include any documentation that supports the content of your application (e.g., acceptance letter, bank statements, travel histories, valid identifications, etc).
Dedicate plenty of time to writing and editing your study plan letter/statement of interest.
Seek guidance from a licensed immigration consultant. Many individuals who apply on their own lack the expertise and understanding of how rigorous and demanding applying for a study permit can be.
What are my Options after a refusal?
In the event that your study permit application is refused, you will receive a letter explaining why. The letter usually includes the general reasons for the refusal; however, you hold the right to request the immigration officer’s notes that informed their decision.
If you feel that your application was refused for valid reasons, you may submit a new application. Be sure to keep the officer’s notes in mind and to include why your previous application was denied in your new application. If you feel that your application was refused for invalid reasons, you may submit an appeal to Federal Court, and/ or have your application reconsidered through a request for reconsideration.
You don’t have to apply alone
Applying for a study permit is a monumental step in the life of a learner excited to further their education. Nonetheless, the process can be long, stressful, and costly. So, why go through it alone? An immigration consultant, such as Jade, is equipped with the knowledge to help students navigate the application process and maximize their chances of avoiding a refusal.
Our Services
Calver Immigration Consulting Inc. is rated Canada's number one boutique immigration consultancy. We serve clients across Canada and internationally. Our Registered Canadian Immigration Consultant has over 10 years of experience in Canadian Immigration law and over four years of experience serving those in Canada and abroad.
We can assist with applications for both temporary and permanent residency in Canada. We handle applications for study permits, permanent residency, family class sponsorship, visitor visas, work permits, and Canadian citizenship. We also handle criminal inadmissibility cases by developing remedies for refusal.
Moving To Canada - 2022's Guide to Life in Canada.
I’ve written this guide to help you with the big picture planning, detailing everything you need to know and do before, during and after this amazing process. This is more information than any other consultant is willing to share upfront at such a low rate!
Comments