Explore how Pakistani students can study in Canada with complete details about student visa requirements, eligibility, fees, application process, scholarships, and official resources.
Why Study in Canada from Pakistan?
Canada is one of the most popular study destinations for Pakistani students due to its high-quality education, welcoming multicultural environment, and globally recognized degrees. Canadian universities consistently rank among the top in the world, offering cutting-edge programs across fields like Engineering, IT, Health Sciences, Business, and Social Sciences.
Benefits of Studying in Canada for Pakistani Students
- Internationally recognized degrees
- Affordable tuition compared to the U.S. or UK
- Opportunities to work part-time during studies
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) pathway
- Path to Canadian permanent residency
- Safe, inclusive, and multicultural society
- Access to top universities and community colleges
Canada Student Visa (Study Permit) Requirements for Pakistani Students
To study in Canada, Pakistani students must obtain a Study Permit, which acts as a student visa. The following are the main requirements:
General Eligibility Criteria
- Valid passport
- Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada
- Proof of financial support (minimum CAD $10,000 per year + tuition)
- No criminal record (police clearance certificate)
- Medical examination (from an approved panel physician)
- Ties to home country (to prove intent to return after studies)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Immigration history, if any
Required Documents for Canada Study Permit Application from Pakistan
Checklist of Documents
- Valid Passport (with at least 6 months validity)
- LOA from a Canadian DLI
- Recent passport-size photographs (as per CIC guidelines)
- Proof of funds (bank statements, scholarships, GIC, income sources)
- Tuition fee payment receipt
- Police clearance certificate
- Medical examination results
- IELTS/TOEFL score
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Custodian declaration (if under 18)
- Form IMM 1294 (Application for Study Permit)
- Any additional documents requested by IRCC
Financial Requirements for Pakistani Students
Students must show enough financial capacity to cover their expenses in Canada. As of 2025, students need:
- CAD $10,000 for living expenses (for one year)
- CAD $833/month for every additional month
- Tuition fees for one year (varies by institution, typically CAD $15,000–$25,000)
- Travel cost estimate: CAD $1,500–$2,000
- GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) of CAD $10,000 is mandatory for SDS stream
How to Apply for a Canada Study Permit from Pakistan
Step-by-Step Process
- Choose a course and apply to a DLI in Canada
- Receive a Letter of Acceptance
- Take medical examination from an IRCC-approved panel physician
- Gather all necessary documents
- Open a GIC account and deposit CAD $10,000
- Pay the tuition fees (at least one year in advance)
- Create an account on the IRCC portal
- Complete and submit the Study Permit application (Form IMM 1294)
- Pay the visa fee (CAD $150)
- Schedule biometrics appointment and submit fingerprints
- Wait for processing and approval
Visa Processing Time from Pakistan
The standard processing time for a Canadian student visa from Pakistan is:
- Standard Stream: 7 to 12 weeks
- SDS (Student Direct Stream): 20 calendar days (if eligible)
English Language Requirements
Most Canadian institutions accept:
- IELTS (Overall 6.0 with no band less than 5.5)
- TOEFL (Minimum 80 iBT)
- PTE or Duolingo may be accepted by some institutions
Popular Courses and Universities for Pakistani Students
In-Demand Fields
- Computer Science & IT
- Business & Finance
- Health Sciences
- Engineering
- Environmental Studies
- Data Science & AI
Top Universities in Canada
- University of Toronto
- McGill University
- University of British Columbia
- University of Alberta
- University of Waterloo
- Simon Fraser University
Scholarships for Pakistani Students in Canada
Pakistani students can apply for multiple scholarship opportunities:
- Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- University-specific entrance scholarships
- Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and PR Pathway
After completing their program, students can apply for a PGWP (up to 3 years), allowing them to work in Canada. Work experience gained through PGWP can help them apply for permanent residency under programs like Express Entry or PNPs (Provincial Nominee Programs).
FAQs About Studying in Canada from Pakistan
What is the minimum bank balance for a Canada student visa from Pakistan?
At least CAD $10,000 (plus tuition fees) for one year, or equivalent in PKR.
Can I work while studying in Canada as a Pakistani student?
Yes, up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during scheduled breaks.
What is the SDS stream for Canada student visa?
Student Direct Stream (SDS) offers faster processing for eligible Pakistani students who meet specific criteria, including IELTS and GIC requirements.
Do I need to take IELTS to study in Canada?
Yes, most Canadian institutions require IELTS, though some may accept TOEFL or Duolingo.
How much does it cost to study in Canada for Pakistani students?
Tuition ranges from CAD $15,000 to $25,000 per year, with additional living and travel costs.
Can I take my family with me on a student visa?
Yes, your spouse or common-law partner and children can apply for open work or study permits.
Which Canadian cities are best for Pakistani students?
Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, and Ottawa are popular for education, diversity, and opportunities.
What happens if my visa gets refused?
You can reapply with improved documentation and clarification of reasons for the previous refusal.
How long can I stay in Canada after graduation?
You can stay and work under the PGWP for up to 3 years depending on your program length.
Can I get PR in Canada after studying?
Yes, many international students qualify for PR through Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or PNPs.
Do Canadian universities offer online or hybrid programs?
Yes, many offer flexible learning options post-COVID, though in-person study is required for PGWP.
Official External Links
| Tuition-Free Universities in Europe | Study Abroad Without Fees – NayaPK.blog | Tuition-Free Universities in Europe | Study Abroad Without Fees – NayaPK.blog |
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| DAAD Scholarship Program for Pakistani Students | Study in Germany for Free – NayaPK.blog | DAAD Scholarship Program for Pakistani Students | Study in Germany for Free – NayaPK.blog |
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| Affordable Study Abroad Options | Budget-Friendly Countries for Pakistani Students – NayaPK.blog | Affordable Study Abroad Options | Budget-Friendly Countries for Pakistani Students – NayaPK.blog |
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| Scholarship Guide for Pakistani Students 2025 | Study Abroad Scholarships for Pakistanis – NayaPK.blog | Scholarship Guide for Pakistani Students 2025 | Study Abroad Scholarships for Pakistanis – NayaPK.blog |
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| IELTS vs TOEFL | English Proficiency Test Comparison for Study Abroad Success – NayaPK.blog | IELTS vs TOEFL | English Proficiency Test Comparison for Study Abroad Success – NayaPK.blog |
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| Study in Germany from Pakistan | Complete Admission & Visa Process Guide – NayaPK.blog | Study in Germany from Pakistan | Complete Admission & Visa Process Guide – NayaPK.blog |
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| How to Choose the Right Career After High School | Career Guidance for Students – NayaPK.blog | How to Choose the Right Career After High School | Career Guidance for Students – NayaPK.blog |
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| Job Interview Tips for Fresh Graduates in Pakistan | Entry-Level Career Advice – NayaPK.blog | Job Interview Tips for Fresh Graduates in Pakistan | Entry-Level Career Advice – NayaPK.blog |
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