Question 1

Are there any visa approval issues currently with Canadian student visas in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there are significant visa approval challenges for Canadian student visas right now. - Rejection rates are at record highs: In 2025, about 62% of study permit applications were rejected. - Indian applicants face even higher rejections: In August 2025, 74% of Indian student visa applications were denied, up from 32% in 2023. - Main reasons: Stricter immigration policies, a cap on study permits, increased fraud detection, and strained India-Canada relations. - Student Direct Stream (SDS) exception: Approval rates for Indian students under SDS rose to 98% in 2024, despite overall concerns. Visa rules and approval rates are subject to change. For the best chance of approval, ensure your application is complete and well-documented. If you need guidance, connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.

Question 2

Can we get a work visa right now for foreign countries in Canada for a Master's?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can apply for work visas to various countries, but eligibility and requirements depend on each country's policies and your profile. Most countries require: - Job offer from an employer abroad - Relevant educational qualifications (such as your bachelor’s in commerce) - Sometimes work experience and employer sponsorship Processing times and specific rules vary by country and are subject to change. Since you are interested in a master's in Canada, you may also consider study-to-work pathways like the PSW (post-study work visa) after graduation. If you want tailored guidance on work or study visa options, please connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.

Question 3

Is the budget for studying in Canada similar to the UK and Australia, and what are the visa approval challenges for Canada for a Postgraduate?

Accepted Answer

Canada is generally more affordable than the UK and Australia for studying abroad, but visa approval for Canada has become more challenging. - Canada: Tuition for postgraduates is typically CAD 24,000 - 30,000/year, with living costs CAD 10,000 - 18,000/year (subject to change). - UK: Postgraduate tuition ranges £12,000 - 45,000/year, with living costs £12,276 - 16,000/year. - Australia: Postgraduate tuition is AUD 32,000 - 50,000/year; living expenses AUD 21,041 - 25,000/year. Recently, Canada has tightened its student visa rules, leading to higher rejection rates for Indian applicants due to stricter document checks and fraud prevention measures. Strong, clear financial documents and a detailed study plan are now especially important for Canadian visa applications. If you need help preparing your application, contact your LeapScholar counsellor.

Question 4

What is the GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) amount required for Canada student visa?

Accepted Answer

The minimum Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) amount required for a Canada student visa is CAD 22,895 as of June 2026. This covers your first year of living expenses, as set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). - GIC is separate from tuition fees - you must also show funds for tuition and other costs. - The GIC must be purchased from a participating Canadian bank; funds are released to you in monthly installments after you arrive in Canada. Financial requirements are subject to change. For personalized guidance, connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.

Question 5

Can I work 24 hours per week during studies and get a post-study work permit for one to three years depending on the course duration in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can work up to 24 hours per week during regular academic sessions in Canada, and full-time during scheduled breaks like summer or winter holidays. For the post-study work permit (PGWP): - 8 months to less than 2 years: PGWP valid for the length of your study program. - 2 years or more: PGWP valid for 3 years. The PGWP is a one-time opportunity and you must apply within 180 days of completing your program. These rules are subject to change. If you need guidance on your specific situation, please connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.

Question 6

Can I show my mother and father as sponsors for my study abroad application in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can show your mother and father as sponsors for your study abroad application. This is a common and accepted practice. For your Canada study permit, you’ll need to provide: - Sponsorship letter from your parents confirming their financial support. - Proof of funds such as their bank statements or employment letters to show they can cover your tuition and living expenses. - Proof of relationship like your birth certificate. Listing your parents as sponsors demonstrates strong financial backing for your studies. If you need help preparing these documents, connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.

Question 7

Do I need to open any GSC account or deposit money like that for studying abroad in Ireland/Canada?

Accepted Answer

Canada requires you to open a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) account and deposit a set amount (currently CAD 20,635 for 2025) if you apply under the Student Direct Stream (SDS). This acts as proof of funds for your first year and is released to you in installments for living expenses. Ireland does not require a similar deposit or account. However, opening a local bank account is strongly recommended for managing daily expenses and receiving funds. If you have questions about opening a GIC or a bank account, your LeapScholar counsellor can guide you through the process.

Question 8

Will my spouse be allowed to work on a dependent visa in Canada for a Master's?

Accepted Answer

Yes, your spouse can work in Canada while you study, if you meet certain conditions. As an international student enrolled full-time in a master's program, your spouse is typically eligible to apply for an open work permit. This permit allows them to work for any employer in Canada, without needing a job offer. - Relationship: Must be your legal spouse or common-law partner. - Your status: You must hold a valid study permit and be enrolled full-time at a recognized institution. - Application: Your spouse applies for the open work permit, usually after you receive your study permit. Immigration policies are subject to change. For next steps, connect with your LeapScholar counsellor for guidance on your specific situation.

Canada Student visa Questions

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