STUDY PERMITS

Non-Canadians planning on studying in Canada must obtain a Study Permit from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for courses longer than 6 months in duration. While this information is presented for reference, always refer to the IRCC website or the advice of a certified immigration consultant for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

WHAT YOU NEED TO STUDY IN CANADA

The following documents are required to apply for a study permit:

• A letter of acceptance from InFocus Film School.
• A Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) from InFocus Film School.
• A valid passport. Please ensure your passport is valid for more than one year from the program’s start date. If your passport will expire in less than a year from the program’s start, you may need to renew it before a study permit will be granted.
• Two passport-sized photos of you with your name and date of birth written on the back.
• Proof of funds. You will need financial statements, a bank draft, proof of payment, or other documentation proving you have sufficient funds to support yourself for your time in Canada.
• Criminal history records, a medical examination, or other documents may be required depending on your country of origin.
• A service fee.

More information on the required documentation is available here: REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

FINANCIAL REQUIREMENTS

International students are required to have the financial resources to support themselves during their studies. For international students studying at InFocus, the proof of financing that is required includes:

• All tuition costs
• Living expenses for your study period. This amount is set by the government and is currently $20,635 CAD per year for a student travelling alone.
• Travel expenses to return to your country at the end of your studies.

These funds must be accessible by the student while they are in Canada. Many Canadian financial institutions are now offering products designed to meet these requirements, and we recommend applying for a Canadian bank account ahead of your arrival.

If you do not currently have the required financial resources, InFocus will require evidence that a clear and obtainable plan to acquire these funds is in place before we issue your PAL.

APPLICATION PROCESS

InFocus works closely with several immigration agents and strongly recommends that you seek their advice before submitting your study permit application. They can streamline the process, and ensure that your submitted application is complete. Please email us if you would like this service.

After submitting the required documents, it may take up to 4 months to process your application. Allow for sufficient time before your course begins.

You will receive a letter of approval once your application has cleared. This is not your Study Permit. Bring this letter with you when entering Canada and the customs official handling your entry will issue your permit.

WORKING WHILE STUDYING

Note that ordinarily, a work permit does not allow you to study in Canada. If you already have a work permit, you will need to apply to change your permit to allow study.

If you are a full-time student your Study Permit may allow you to work during scheduled breaks and in a limited fashion during your studies. Please check the IRCC website for details.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON STUDY PERMITS AND HOW TO APPLY, PLEASE VISIT THE IRCC WEBSITE