To fill the student visa application form for Canada, gather your documents, use the official IRCC portal, complete the IMM 1294 form step-by-step, and double-check everything before submission. This guide breaks it all down for you—no guesswork needed.
Applying for a student visa to study in Canada can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re staring at a long application form filled with confusing sections. Many international students find themselves stuck, unsure of what to write or which documents to attach. If you’re worried about making a mistake that could delay your dreams, you’re not alone.
The good news? You’ve found the right place. This guide will show you exactly how to fill out the Canadian student visa application form—from start to finish—in a way that’s simple, clear, and easy to follow. Let’s walk through each step together with practical examples and tips to make your visa journey smooth and stress-free.
Contents
- 1 Understanding the Canadian Student Visa (Study Permit)
- 2 Documents Required to Fill the Visa Application Form
- 3 Step-by-Step Guide to Filling the Student Visa Application Form (IMM 1294)
- 4 Common Mistakes to Avoid While Filling the Form
- 5 How to Submit the Application
- 6 Biometrics, Medical Exams, and Police Certificates
- 7 What Happens After Submission?
- 8 How to Track Application Status – Canadian Student Visa
- 9 FAQs About Canadian Student Visa Forms
- 10 Bonus: Downloadable Visa Form Checklist [CTA]
- 11 Conclusion
Understanding the Canadian Student Visa (Study Permit)
A study permit is the official document that lets you study in Canada as an international student. It is not a visa, but you’ll usually get a visitor visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA) with it to enter Canada. You must apply for a study permit before traveling to Canada. This permit allows you to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and also gives you the option to work part-time while studying.
To learn more, visit the official IRCC study permit page.
What is a Study Permit?
A study permit is issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It gives permission to study at DLIs for more than six months. You need to apply for it after you’ve received your letter of acceptance from a Canadian school.
Note: If your course is six months or shorter, you don’t need a study permit, but applying for one gives you more flexibility if you want to continue studying.
Eligibility Criteria for International Students
To apply for a Canadian study permit, you must:
- Have a valid letter of acceptance from a DLI
- Show proof of financial support for tuition, living costs, and return travel
- Have no criminal record (a police certificate may be required)
- Be in good health, and take a medical exam if needed
- Prove that you will leave Canada when your permit expires
You can find the latest eligibility updates on the IRCC eligibility page.
Types of Canadian Study Permits
There is only one type of study permit, but it can be tied to different purposes:
- Regular academic programs (bachelor’s, master’s, PhD)
- Language training programs
- Vocational or diploma courses
Each program must be offered by a DLI, and you can check the list here: Designated Learning Institutions in Canada.
Documents Required to Fill the Visa Application Form
Before starting your application, you must gather all the required documents. These help prove that you meet the eligibility criteria and are ready to study in Canada. Missing one paper can cause delays or rejection.
Here’s a complete list of the key documents you’ll need:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Valid Passport | Proves identity and allows travel |
| Letter of Acceptance (LOA) | Confirms you’re admitted to a Canadian DLI |
| Proof of Funds | Shows you can pay for tuition and living expenses |
| Passport-size Photos | Needed for identification |
| Immigration Medical Exam (IME) | Required for students from certain countries |
| Police Clearance Certificate | Proves you have no criminal record |
| Statement of Purpose (SOP) | Explains why you want to study in Canada |
| Academic Certificates/Transcripts | Shows your education background |
| CAQ (Quebec only) | Needed if applying to schools in Quebec |
| English Language Test Results | IELTS or TOEFL scores to show language skills |
Learn more about document rules on the Canadian visa application checklist.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filling the Student Visa Application Form (IMM 1294)
The IMM 1294 form is your main application for a Canadian study permit. It asks about your identity, education plans, finances, and travel history. Here’s how to fill it out, section by section.
Personal Information Section
This is where you write your full name, date of birth, country of citizenship, and other basic details. Make sure they match your passport exactly. Even small spelling errors can delay processing.
- Family name and given name
- Gender and marital status
- Country and city of birth
- Nationality and passport number
- Current country of residence
Contact Information
You need to include your home address, phone number, and email address. IRCC will use this email for updates, so check that it’s working and active. Always use a permanent address where you can receive mail during the application process.
Details of Intended Study
In this part, write about your planned education:
- Name of the DLI (college/university)
- Program name and level (e.g., BSc in Computer Science)
- Start and end dates of your program
- Tuition fee for the first year
- School’s DLI number (can be found on their website or DLI list)
Background and Family Information
You must answer security and criminal background questions honestly. These include questions about previous visa rejections, criminal records, or immigration violations.
You’ll also need to provide:
- Details about your parents (names, birthdates, citizenship)
- Marital status and spouse details, if married
Travel History and Previous Visa Applications
This part asks whether you’ve:
- Traveled to other countries in the last 10 years
- Previously applied for a visa to Canada or other countries
- Been refused a visa or deported
Be honest, and explain any rejections or problems clearly. If you’re not sure how to answer, you can read IRCC’s background information guide.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Filling the Form
Even small mistakes on your visa form can cause delays or rejections. Many students make errors because they rush or don’t read the instructions carefully. Let’s look at the most common issues and how to avoid them.
Incorrect Financial Details
You must show you have enough money to study and live in Canada. That includes tuition fees, living expenses, and return travel. As of now, the minimum yearly amount for a student outside Quebec is CAD 20,635, not including tuition. You must upload clear bank statements, GIC certificates, or loan letters to support this.
A common error is underreporting funds or missing documents. Use the exact currency and avoid rounding. Also, make sure all the documents are in English or French, or include a certified translation.
Check the proof of financial support guide from IRCC for more help.
Inconsistent Academic History
Your academic history should match your documents. If your SOP, transcripts, and application form say different things, it raises red flags. Be sure to list school names, degrees, and dates in the same way everywhere. Do not leave gaps in your history unless you explain them in your SOP.
If you took a break from studies, add a line explaining the reason (e.g., “one-year work experience” or “personal break due to illness”).
Missing Signatures
One of the easiest mistakes to fix is also the most common—missing signatures. At the end of the IMM 1294 form, you must sign electronically. If you are applying on paper (rare cases), you need to sign with a pen in the marked spot.
Also, don’t forget to date the form. Forms without a valid signature and date are considered incomplete and returned.
How to Submit the Application
You can apply for your study permit online or in rare cases on paper. Most students apply online because it’s faster and easier. You’ll need to create an IRCC Secure Account, upload your files, pay the fee, and wait for updates.
Online vs. Paper-Based Application
Online applications are faster and preferred by IRCC. You can apply from any country and track your progress through your online account. The system also checks your form and alerts you to missing info.
Paper applications are slower and often used only when online access is not possible. These are mailed to a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Method | Speed | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Online | Faster (2–10 weeks) | Most international students |
| Paper-Based | Slower (10+ weeks) | Remote areas with no internet |
Learn more about both methods on the IRCC submission portal.
Creating an IRCC Account
To apply online, go to the IRCC login page. Choose GCKey or Sign-In Partner to make your account. GCKey is the most common method and works for all users.
After login, click on “Apply to come to Canada”, answer the eligibility questions, and begin your application. You’ll get a checklist of required documents based on your answers.
Uploading Documents and Paying the Fee
Once you fill out the IMM 1294 form, upload the supporting files one by one. Accepted formats are PDF, JPG, or PNG, and each must be under 4 MB.
You must pay the application fee online using a credit or debit card. The fee is CAD 150. After payment, you’ll receive a confirmation letter and an application number. Save this number—it’s needed to check your status later.
Biometrics, Medical Exams, and Police Certificates
After submitting your form, IRCC may ask for extra steps based on your country or profile. These steps help confirm your identity and check if you are safe to enter Canada.
Biometrics
Biometrics include your fingerprints and a photo. Most students must give biometrics at a Visa Application Centre (VAC). You’ll get a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL) after you pay the application fee. You must book an appointment and visit the nearest VAC to complete it.
Biometrics stay valid for 10 years, so if you gave them before, you might not need to repeat. Check your biometrics status here.
Medical Exams
Students from some countries must take a medical exam with a panel physician approved by IRCC. You’ll either get instructions after applying or be asked to do an upfront medical exam before applying.
The doctor will check your general health, do a chest X-ray, and maybe some blood tests. The clinic will send the report directly to IRCC.
Find approved doctors near you using the IRCC medical panel list.
Police Certificates
You may be asked for a police clearance certificate to show you have no criminal background. It depends on your country and your past travel history. IRCC will tell you if you need it, and where to get it.
The certificate must be recent, usually issued within the last 6 months, and translated into English or French if needed.
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What Happens After Submission?
Once you submit your application, the waiting begins. But don’t worry—you can track everything online and get updates by email. This part is where most students get anxious, so knowing what to expect can ease the stress.
Application Processing Time
Processing times vary based on your country and the time of year. On average, it takes 2 to 12 weeks. Students from some countries may have faster processing under the Student Direct Stream (SDS), which usually takes around 20 calendar days if you meet all the SDS requirements.
To check the exact processing time for your country, visit the IRCC processing tool.
How to Track Application Status – Canadian Student Visa
FAQs About Canadian Student Visa Forms
Can I apply without IELTS?
Yes, if your chosen school doesn’t need IELTS or accepts alternatives like TOEFL, Duolingo, or PTE. However, for SDS applications, IELTS is required with a minimum of 6.0 in each band. Check your school’s requirements and confirm with the SDS guide.
How long does it take to get a student visa?
It usually takes 2–12 weeks, depending on your country and application method. SDS is faster if you meet its criteria. Apply early to avoid delays, especially during peak admission seasons (May–September).
What if I make a mistake on my form?
If you haven’t submitted it yet, you can fix the mistake and re-upload. If you’ve already submitted it, you’ll need to fill out a web form on the IRCC Contact Page to explain the mistake and submit a correction. IRCC may allow you to re-upload a corrected form if needed.
Do I need an agent or consultant?
No, the process is designed to be self-service. IRCC provides full instructions. But if you’re not confident, a licensed immigration consultant can help. Be sure to check if they are authorized by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC).
Bonus: Downloadable Visa Form Checklist [CTA]
To make things even easier, here’s a printable checklist you can download and use while filling out your form. This ensures you don’t miss any key documents or steps.
Download the checklist here: Student Visa Application Checklist – PDF
The checklist includes:
- All required documents
- Notes on formats and sizes
- Key dates and reminders
- Signature verification
- Biometrics and medical steps
Use it as a step-by-step companion when filling out the IMM 1294 form.
Conclusion
Filling out the Canadian student visa application form may seem hard at first, but once you know what to expect, it becomes much easier. From preparing your documents to completing each section of the IMM 1294 form, every step counts. The key is to stay organized, double-check your entries, and submit on time.
You don’t need to feel lost or confused—just follow this guide, use the tools and links provided, and you’ll be on your way to studying in Canada. Start early, stay calm, and take it one section at a time. Your study journey starts here.