5 Reasons Canadian Study Permit Applications are Refused

If you have been accepted to study at a university or college in Canada, this is an exciting time for you! Once you have received your letter of acceptance, the process of applying for the study permit can seem simple on the surface: fill out the forms, show proof of funds, pay the fee and submit your application.

Unfortunately not all study permit applications are approved. In 2016, 31% of all study permit applications submitted to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) were refused. The approval rate can vary based on the country of origin, for example IRCC approved 98% of study permit applications from Japan, whereas IRCC approved 17% of study permit applications from Ethiopia. These approval rates can also vary from year to year.

If a study permit application is refused, IRCC will typically provide a letter stating the reasons why it was refused. Some common reasons include an applicant’s inability to:

1. Show sufficient funds: IRCC will want to know that an applicant has sufficient funds to attend the school of their choice.

2. Pass the medical exam: If an applicant is required to take a medical exam and did not pass it, this can be a reason for refusal.

3. Convince the officer of the intention to study: If the visa officer is not convinced that an applicant intends to study in Canada, this can cast doubt on the application.

4. Produce an authentic travel document: If a travel document lacks authenticity then this can lead to a refusal.

5. Produce a letter from an approved institution: If an applicant did not submit a letter of acceptance from an approved Canadian educational institution, the application may be refused.

Preparing your study permit application can take a great deal of time and planning. Be certain to understand the reasons why your application may be refused before you apply.If your application has been refused, take the time to understand the reasons, so that you can improve your application when you re-apply.

Do you want more information on applying for a study permit?
Contact Kari Davis, RCIC at info@bisonimmigration.com or WhatsApp 647-988-7765 / 876-784-9302 to book a consultation.

Please note: The information provided is for general purposes only, you should not act upon any such information without first seeking qualified professional counsel on your specific immigration matter.