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Canada has become one of the top destinations for Nigerian students seeking quality international education. With world-renowned universities, post-graduation work opportunities, and a clear pathway to permanent residency, studying in Canada offers more than just a degree — it offers a future.
This guide covers everything Nigerian students and parents need to know about the Canada Student Visa, officially called a Study Permit — from eligibility requirements and costs to the application process, common rejection reasons, and what happens after graduation.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute immigration or legal advice. Requirements and processes change frequently. Always verify current information on the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website at canada.ca. Individual results vary based on personal circumstances.
Table of Contents
- Understanding the Canada Study Permit
- Why Study in Canada?
- Eligibility Requirements
- Choosing a School and Program
- Costs of Studying in Canada
- Financial Requirements and Proof of Funds
- Documents You Need
- The Application Process
- Biometrics and Medical Exam
- Common Rejection Reasons and How to Avoid Them
- After You Arrive in Canada
- After Graduation: Work Permit and PR Pathways
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. Understanding the Canada Study Permit
A Study Permit is a document issued by the Canadian government that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. It is not a visa itself — if you need a visa to enter Canada (which Nigerians do), you’ll receive both a study permit approval and a visitor visa or Electronic Travel Authorization to actually enter the country.
The study permit is typically valid for the length of your study program plus an additional 90 days. This extra time allows you to either prepare to leave Canada or apply for a work permit or other status.
Most study permits allow you to work part-time while studying — up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks like summer and winter holidays. This helps students support themselves and gain Canadian work experience.
Study Permit vs. Student Visa
Many people use “study permit” and “student visa” interchangeably, but they’re technically different. The study permit is the document that allows you to study in Canada. The visa (Temporary Resident Visa or TRV) is what allows you to enter Canada. When approved, Nigerian students receive both — the study permit approval letter and a visa stamp in their passport.
2. Why Study in Canada?
Canada offers unique advantages that make it particularly attractive for Nigerian students.
Quality Education
Canadian universities and colleges consistently rank among the best in the world. Degrees and diplomas from Canadian institutions are recognized and respected globally. Whether you’re pursuing engineering, business, healthcare, technology, or arts, Canadian education provides strong academic foundations and practical skills.
Affordable Compared to Alternatives
While studying abroad is a significant investment, Canada is often more affordable than the United States or United Kingdom for comparable quality education. Tuition fees vary widely but are generally competitive, and the cost of living outside major cities can be quite reasonable.
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Work While Studying
Study permit holders can work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during breaks. This allows students to earn money to offset living expenses, gain Canadian work experience, build professional networks, and improve their employment prospects after graduation.
Post-Graduation Work Permit
After completing your studies, you may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allowing you to work in Canada for up to three years. This is one of the most valuable benefits of studying in Canada — it provides a bridge to permanent residency.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
Canadian work experience gained through the PGWP makes you highly competitive for permanent residency through Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, and other immigration pathways. Many Nigerian students who came to Canada as students are now permanent residents or citizens.
Safety and Diversity
Canada is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world. It’s also one of the most diverse and multicultural, with large Nigerian communities in cities like Toronto, Calgary, and Edmonton. You’ll find familiar food, churches, and community organizations that help ease the transition.
3. Eligibility Requirements
To obtain a Canada Study Permit, you must meet several requirements.
Acceptance at a Designated Learning Institution
You must have a letter of acceptance from a school that is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Not all Canadian schools can accept international students — only those on the DLI list. You can check if a school is a DLI on the IRCC website. Most universities and public colleges are DLIs, but verify before applying.
Proof of Financial Support
You must prove you have enough money to pay your tuition fees, living expenses for yourself and any family members who come with you, and return transportation. The Canadian government sets minimum amounts you must demonstrate, which we’ll cover in detail in the financial requirements section.
Clean Criminal Record
You must be law-abiding and have no criminal record. You’ll need to provide a police clearance certificate from Nigeria and from any other country where you’ve lived for six months or more since turning 18.
Good Health
You must be in good health and may need to complete a medical examination. Nigerian applicants are generally required to undergo a medical exam as part of the study permit process.
Intent to Leave After Studies
You must convince the immigration officer that you will leave Canada when your study permit expires. However, this requirement is somewhat flexible for students compared to visitor visa applicants, as Canada recognizes that many students may want to transition to work permits or permanent residency through legitimate channels.
Ties to Nigeria
While not as heavily weighted as for visitor visas, demonstrating connections to Nigeria can strengthen your application. This includes family ties, property, and other reasons you would return home if your plans in Canada don’t work out.
4. Choosing a School and Program
Your choice of school and program significantly impacts your study permit application and your future opportunities in Canada.
Designated Learning Institutions
Only schools on the DLI list can accept international students for study permit purposes. The DLI list is available on the IRCC website and includes most public universities and colleges, many private colleges (but not all), and some secondary schools for younger students.
When researching schools, verify the DLI number. Each designated institution has a unique DLI number that you’ll need for your study permit application.
Types of Institutions
Universities in Canada offer bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. They’re typically more expensive than colleges but may offer more research opportunities and prestige. A bachelor’s degree usually takes four years, a master’s one to two years, and a PhD three to five years.
Colleges offer diplomas, certificates, and some bachelor’s degrees. Programs are often more practical and career-focused, ranging from one to three years. College programs can be excellent pathways to Canadian careers, often at lower cost than universities.
Program Selection Considerations
When choosing a program, consider its relevance to your career goals and whether the skills are in demand in Canada, its length since longer programs mean more time in Canada and longer post-graduation work permits, its location including cost of living and job market in that city, its tuition costs and available scholarships, and the school’s reputation in your field.
Programs That Strengthen Immigration Prospects
While you should study what genuinely interests you, some fields have stronger job markets and immigration pathways in Canada. Technology and IT programs like software development, data science, and cybersecurity have excellent job prospects. Healthcare programs including nursing, medical laboratory, and healthcare administration are in high demand. Skilled trades such as electrical, plumbing, and welding offer strong opportunities. Business programs in accounting, finance, and supply chain management provide good foundations. Engineering programs in civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering are consistently sought after.
5. Costs of Studying in Canada
Understanding the full costs helps you plan your finances and prepare your proof of funds.
Tuition Fees
Tuition for international students varies significantly by institution and program. As a general guide, college diploma programs range from $15,000 to $25,000 CAD per year. Undergraduate university programs range from $20,000 to $40,000 CAD per year. Graduate programs range from $15,000 to $35,000 CAD per year. MBA programs range from $30,000 to $60,000+ CAD per year. These are approximations — always verify with your specific institution.
Living Expenses
The Canadian government requires you to demonstrate at least $20,635 CAD per year for living expenses (outside Quebec) or $25,690 CAD for the first year plus $4,903 for each additional year in Quebec. Actual costs vary significantly by city. Toronto and Vancouver are the most expensive, with living costs potentially exceeding the minimum requirement. Smaller cities and towns can be significantly cheaper.
Living expenses include accommodation (rent ranges from $500-$2,000+ per month depending on location and type), food and groceries ($300-$500 per month), transportation ($100-$150 per month with student discounts), phone and internet ($50-$100 per month), health insurance (usually $600-$900 per year), books and supplies ($500-$1,000 per year), and personal expenses varying by lifestyle.
Other Costs to Budget For
Before you even arrive, you’ll need to budget for study permit application fees of $150 CAD, biometrics fee of $85 CAD, medical exam costs of approximately $200-$400, flights from Nigeria to Canada (often $1,500-$3,000 depending on season), and initial settlement costs for deposits, furniture, and winter clothing.
6. Financial Requirements and Proof of Funds
Proving you can afford your education is one of the most critical parts of your application.
Minimum Required Amounts
You must demonstrate funds for your first year of tuition as shown in your acceptance letter, plus living expenses of $20,635 CAD for yourself (outside Quebec), plus $4,388 CAD per year for a spouse or partner if applicable, plus $3,806 CAD per year for each dependent child if applicable, plus return transportation costs.
For example, if your tuition is $18,000 CAD and you’re applying alone, you need to show at least $18,000 plus $20,635, totaling $38,635 CAD or its Naira equivalent.
Acceptable Proof of Funds
Immigration officers accept several forms of financial evidence. Bank statements from your account for the past four to six months are essential. Fixed deposit certificates and investment statements can supplement bank accounts. A letter from your bank confirming your accounts and balances carries weight. If parents or sponsors are funding your education, include their bank statements, a letter explaining their relationship to you and commitment to fund your studies, and evidence of their income.
Proof of paid tuition or a receipt showing you’ve already paid some or all tuition demonstrates commitment. Proof of scholarships, bursaries, or awards helps if you’ve received financial aid.
What Immigration Officers Look For
Officers want to see that funds are genuine and legitimately obtained, that you have a clear source for the money (family savings, investments, sponsor income), that funds are accessible and not locked away, and that the financial history makes sense. Large deposits right before applying raise red flags.
Common Financial Documentation Mistakes
Avoid showing a sudden large deposit just before applying — funds should be seasoned over months. Don’t rely solely on loans that must be repaid during studies. Ensure sponsor documents clearly show their ability and willingness to support you. Don’t underestimate the total amount needed and apply with insufficient funds.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Many Canadian institutions offer scholarships for international students. Research scholarship opportunities at your target schools and apply early, as they’re competitive. Scholarship awards can reduce the amount of personal funds you need to demonstrate.
7. Documents You Need
A complete, well-organized application significantly improves your chances of approval.
From Your School
You need your Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution. This must be an original letter from the school showing you’ve been accepted to a specific program, the program start and end dates, your DLI number, and tuition fees and any deposits paid.
Identity Documents
You need a valid Nigerian passport that won’t expire during your studies — ideally valid for the length of your program plus one year. Include two recent passport photographs meeting Canadian specifications, a completed application form (IMM 1294), and your family information form (IMM 5645).
Financial Documents
Include your personal bank statements from the last four to six months, proof of tuition payment if already paid, scholarship letters if applicable, and if sponsored, include sponsor’s bank statements, income proof, and a letter of support explaining your relationship and their commitment.
Supporting Documents
Prepare a police clearance certificate from Nigeria. This is obtained from the Nigeria Police Force and takes several weeks, so start early. If you’ve lived in any other country for six or more months since age 18, you’ll need a police certificate from that country too. You’ll also need medical exam results, though these are usually done after you receive instructions from IRCC.
Prepare educational documents including your WAEC/NECO results, previous degree certificates and transcripts, and English proficiency test results (IELTS or equivalent).
Write a Statement of Purpose (highly recommended) explaining why you chose this program and institution, your educational background and how it prepares you for this program, your career goals and how this program fits them, and your plans after graduation.
8. The Application Process
The application process involves several steps over several weeks to months.
Step 1: Get Accepted to a DLI
Research schools and programs that match your goals. Verify the institution is on the DLI list. Apply to your chosen schools — application processes and deadlines vary. Receive your Letter of Acceptance, which you need before applying for a study permit.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
Collect all required documents as listed above. Request your police clearance certificate early as it takes time. Get your educational documents ready including transcripts and test scores. Prepare your financial documents and ensure they meet the requirements.
Step 3: Create Your Online Account
Go to the IRCC website and create an account using GCKey or a Sign-In Partner. Start a new study permit application. You’ll be asked questions to determine if you’re eligible and what documents you need.
Step 4: Complete Your Application
Fill out all forms completely and accurately. Answer every question honestly — misrepresentation can result in bans. Upload all your documents in the requested formats. Double-check everything before submitting.
Step 5: Pay the Fees
| Fee | Amount (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Study Permit Application | $150 |
| Biometrics | $85 |
| Total | $235 |
Pay using an accepted payment method and save your receipt.
Step 6: Submit and Wait
Submit your application electronically. You’ll receive a confirmation that your application was received. Wait for instructions regarding biometrics and medical exam.
9. Biometrics and Medical Exam
After submitting your application, you’ll need to complete biometrics and possibly a medical exam.
Biometrics
You’ll receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL) telling you to provide fingerprints and a photo. Biometrics are collected at VFS Global Visa Application Centres in Lagos or Abuja. Book your appointment promptly after receiving your instruction letter. Bring your passport, the BIL, and appointment confirmation. Biometrics are valid for 10 years, so you won’t need to provide them again for future Canadian visa applications within that period.
Medical Exam
Nigerian applicants are generally required to complete a medical examination. You must use a panel physician approved by IRCC — a list is available on the IRCC website under panel physicians in Nigeria, with locations in Lagos and Abuja.
The medical exam includes a physical examination, chest X-ray for tuberculosis screening, blood tests, and urine tests. The physician sends results directly to IRCC. The exam costs approximately $200-$400 CAD equivalent. Schedule your exam promptly when instructed to avoid delays.
Upfront Medical Exam Option
You can actually complete your medical exam before applying by using the upfront medical exam process. This can speed up processing since your medical results are already on file when IRCC reviews your application. However, medical results are valid for only 12 months, so time it appropriately.
10. Common Rejection Reasons and How to Avoid Them
Understanding why applications fail helps you submit a stronger application.
Insufficient Financial Resources
If IRCC believes you can’t afford your studies, you’ll be refused. To avoid this, ensure you demonstrate funds meeting the minimum requirements with room to spare. Show a clear, legitimate source for the funds. Include several months of bank history, not just a current balance. Explain any large recent deposits with documentation.
Doubts About Genuine Intent to Study
If the officer doubts you’re a genuine student, your application will fail. This can happen if you’re enrolling in a program unrelated to your background or career goals, if you’re significantly older than typical students without good explanation, if your Statement of Purpose is weak or generic, or if you’re taking a step back in education without clear reasons.
To avoid this, clearly explain why you chose this program and how it fits your career plans. Address any apparent inconsistencies in your education history. Write a detailed, personalized Statement of Purpose.
Unclear Immigration Intent
While students can legitimately hope to immigrate to Canada eventually, focusing too heavily on immigration rather than education raises concerns. Your application should emphasize your educational goals and career plans. Immigration should not be the primary stated reason for studying in Canada.
Insufficient Ties to Home Country
While less critical than for visitor visas, having no apparent reasons to return to Nigeria if your plans don’t work out can weaken your application. Mention family connections, property, career prospects, or other ties to Nigeria. Explain how your Canadian education will benefit your career in Nigeria.
Incomplete or Inconsistent Application
Missing documents, unanswered questions, or information that doesn’t match across documents causes refusals. Complete every section of the application. Ensure consistency in names, dates, and details across all documents. Include all required documents and organize them clearly.
Previous Visa Refusals
Previous refusals for Canada or other countries don’t automatically mean you’ll be refused, but they can negatively impact your application. Be honest about previous refusals — hiding them is misrepresentation. Explain what has changed since your last application.
11. After You Arrive in Canada
Getting your study permit is just the beginning. Here’s what to expect when you arrive.
At the Airport
When you land in Canada, you’ll go through immigration. Have your documents ready including your passport with visa, study permit approval letter, Letter of Acceptance, proof of funds, and proof of accommodation. The border officer will ask questions about your studies and may issue your actual study permit (the approval letter becomes a permit at the border).
First Few Weeks
Get your student ID from your school and attend orientation. Apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) if you plan to work — you can do this at a Service Canada office. Open a Canadian bank account, with major banks including RBC, TD, Scotiabank, BMO, and CIBC. Get a Canadian phone number. Set up health insurance — some provinces cover international students, others don’t, so verify your coverage.
Working While Studying
Your study permit typically allows you to work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks. Some students work on-campus at university facilities, while others work off-campus at restaurants, retail, or in their field. Co-op and internship programs may allow full-time work as part of your program.
Working helps cover expenses and builds Canadian experience, but don’t let work interfere with your studies. Maintaining your student status is essential — failing academically can jeopardize your permit.
Maintaining Your Status
To keep your study permit valid, you must remain enrolled and make progress toward completing your program. Maintain satisfactory academic standing per your institution’s requirements. Respect the work limitations of your permit. Don’t work if your permit doesn’t authorize it. Keep your passport and documents up to date. Renew your study permit before it expires if your program continues.
12. After Graduation: Work Permit and PR Pathways
This is what makes studying in Canada particularly valuable — the pathway to staying permanently.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
After completing your program, you may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit. The PGWP allows you to work for any employer in Canada in any job. It’s an open work permit, meaning you’re not tied to a specific employer.
PGWP duration depends on your program length. Programs of eight months but less than two years result in a PGWP valid for the same length as your program. Programs of two years or more result in a PGWP valid for three years. Programs less than eight months don’t qualify for PGWP.
To be eligible, you must have studied full-time at a DLI, completed a program of at least eight months, applied within 180 days of receiving written confirmation of program completion, and had valid student status throughout your studies.
Gaining Canadian Work Experience
Your PGWP time is valuable — use it to gain skilled Canadian work experience. This experience makes you eligible for permanent residency programs and adds significant points to your Express Entry CRS score. Try to work in jobs classified as TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 in the National Occupation Classification, as these count toward immigration requirements.
Pathways to Permanent Residency
With Canadian education and work experience, you have several PR pathways available.
Express Entry is the fastest pathway if you qualify. Canadian education adds CRS points, and Canadian work experience adds significant points. Many former students achieve CRS scores high enough for Express Entry invitations.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are excellent for international graduates. Many provinces have streams specifically for graduates of their institutions. A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points, virtually guaranteeing an Express Entry invitation.
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is an Express Entry category specifically for those with Canadian work experience. With one year of skilled Canadian work experience, you can apply through CEC.
Timeline: Student to Permanent Resident
A typical timeline might look like this: Year 1 through 2 or 4 for studies in a diploma or degree program, then one to three years on your Post-Graduation Work Permit building experience, then six to twelve months for PR application processing. Total timeline is typically three to seven years from starting your studies to becoming a permanent resident, though many achieve it faster.
13. Frequently Asked Questions
How long does study permit processing take?
Processing times vary but typically range from several weeks to a few months for Nigerian applicants. Check the IRCC website for current processing times and apply early.
Can I work while studying?
Yes. Most study permits allow up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks. This is automatically included on most study permits — you don’t need a separate work permit.
Do I need IELTS for a study permit?
IRCC doesn’t specifically require IELTS for the study permit itself, but most schools require English proficiency tests for admission. IELTS, TOEFL, and Duolingo English Test are commonly accepted. Check your school’s requirements.
Can my family come with me?
Yes. Your spouse or common-law partner can apply for an open work permit allowing them to work full-time. Your dependent children can study in Canada, usually without study permits for minor children attending elementary or secondary school.
How much bank balance do I need?
You need to show tuition for your first year plus living expenses of at least $20,635 CAD per year plus any amounts for family members. The total depends on your tuition — calculate carefully and show more than the minimum if possible.
What happens if I’m refused?
You can reapply with a stronger application addressing the reasons for refusal. There’s no waiting period to reapply, but simply resubmitting the same application won’t help. Understand why you were refused and fix those issues.
Can I change schools or programs in Canada?
Yes, you can change schools or programs, but you must notify IRCC and ensure your study permit remains valid. Some changes may require applying for a new study permit.
What’s the difference between college and university?
Universities generally offer degrees (bachelor’s, master’s, PhD) and are often more research-focused. Colleges offer diplomas and certificates, are more practical and career-focused, and are often less expensive. Both can lead to PGWP and immigration.
Do I need to show intent to return to Nigeria?
Unlike visitor visas, study permits don’t heavily emphasize intent to return, as Canada recognizes students may transition to work permits and PR. However, showing ties to Nigeria and explaining your plans strengthens your application.
Can I apply to multiple schools?
Yes, you can apply to multiple schools. Once you receive acceptances, choose one and use that Letter of Acceptance for your study permit application.
Step-by-Step Action Plan
12+ Months Before Intended Start
Research schools and programs that match your goals. Verify institutions are on the DLI list. Check English language requirements and start preparing for IELTS if needed. Research costs and start saving or securing funding.
9-12 Months Before
Take your English proficiency test if required. Begin school applications, as many have early deadlines. Request transcripts and other documents from previous schools. Organize your financial documentation.
6-9 Months Before
Receive your Letter of Acceptance. Start gathering study permit documents. Request your police clearance certificate — this takes time. Ensure your passport is valid for the length of your program plus one year.
3-6 Months Before
Create your IRCC online account. Complete and submit your study permit application. Pay all fees. Complete biometrics when instructed.
1-3 Months Before
Complete your medical exam when instructed. Monitor your application status. Once approved, book your flight. Arrange accommodation in Canada. Prepare for departure, including researching your destination city and packing appropriately.
Before Departure
Confirm your accommodation. Purchase appropriate health insurance. Inform your bank of travel plans. Pack important documents in carry-on luggage. Prepare for Canadian weather — especially winter.
Resources
Official Government Resources
The main IRCC website is canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship. Study permit information is at canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada.html. The DLI list is available at canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/prepare/designated-learning-institutions-list.html. Processing times can be checked at canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/check-processing-times.html.
Finding Schools
EduCanada at educanada.ca provides official Canadian education information for international students. Individual school websites provide program-specific information and admission requirements.
Biometrics and Medical Exams
VFS Global Nigeria handles biometrics at visa.vfsglobal.com/nga/en/can, with locations in Lagos and Abuja. Panel physicians for medical exams are listed on the IRCC website under panel physicians Nigeria.
Police Clearance
The Nigeria Police Force handles police clearance certificates. Apply at the Criminal Investigation Department in your state or through the online NPF portal if available.
Disclaimer
This guide provides general information about the Canada Study Permit application process for Nigerian students. It does not constitute immigration or legal advice.
Requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Always verify current information on the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website (canada.ca).
Every application is assessed individually based on its own merits. Meeting the requirements does not guarantee approval.
Consider consulting a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) for advice specific to your situation. Verify any consultant’s registration at college-ic.ca.
The author is not affiliated with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada or any government agency. This information is provided for educational purposes only.
Last updated: 2025
Studying in Canada can be the first step toward building a new life. Prepare thoroughly, apply carefully, and give yourself the best chance of success.
Good luck with your application!
