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Planning to study in Canada from Nigeria? You’re not alone. Thousands of Nigerian students dream of studying abroad, and Canada is one of the top destinations. With excellent universities, international exposure, and opportunities to work while studying, it’s a great choice — but getting your student visa right is crucial.
This guide will take you through every step of applying for a Canada student visa, what documents you need, how much it costs, and tips to avoid common mistakes.
Step 1: Get Accepted to a Canadian School
Before anything else, you must secure admission to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. You need an official Letter of Acceptance (LOA) — without it, your application will not even be processed.
Tips:
Make sure the program matches your career goals.
Check that the school is officially recognized as a DLI.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
Here’s what you’ll need:
Valid Nigerian passport
Letter of Acceptance from your Canadian school
Proof of funds (bank statements, scholarship letters, or loan approval)
Passport photographs
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Medical certificate
Police clearance certificate (if required)
Biometrics
Tip: Keep scanned copies ready for upload. Organization matters — messy applications often get delayed or rejected.
Step 3: Proof of Funds
Canada requires proof that you can cover:
Tuition for the first year
Living expenses (~CAD $20,635 per year outside Quebec)
Additional funds if you plan to bring family
Accepted documents:
Bank statements from the last 4–6 months
Affidavit of support from a sponsor
Scholarship confirmation
Education loan approval
Tip: Make sure your funds are traceable and legitimate. Canada checks this carefully.
Step 4: Apply Online
Create an account on the IRCC portal
Complete the study permit form
Upload your documents
Pay the application fee
Submit biometrics when instructed
Step 5: Biometrics and Medical Exam
Once submitted, you’ll get a biometrics instruction letter. Book your appointment at a Visa Application Centre in Nigeria. You’ll also need a medical exam from an approved physician.
Tip: Don’t delay these appointments — processing is paused until completed.
Step 6: Visa Processing Time
Processing usually takes 4–12 weeks. Apply as early as possible to avoid missing your school start date.
Step 7: Common Mistakes to Avoid
Weak SOP or unclear study plan
Insufficient proof of funds
Inconsistent academic or employment history
Missing or expired documents
Tip: Your SOP should clearly explain why you chose Canada, your course, and your future goals.
Step 8: Working While Studying
Canada allows international students to:
Work up to 20 hours/week during school
Work full-time during breaks
After graduation, you can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
FAQs
Q: Can I apply without IELTS?
A: Some institutions accept alternatives, but most require proof of English proficiency.
Q: How much bank balance is needed?
A: Tuition + CAD $20,635 living expenses per year outside Quebec.
Q: Can I bring my spouse?
A: Yes, your spouse can apply for an open work permit.
Conclusion
Applying for a Canada student visa is straightforward if you prepare early and submit complete, genuine documents. Take your time, follow this guide, and your chances of approval increase dramatically.
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