canada phd student visa requirements

Study in Canada: Step-By-Step Guide for International Students

• December 15, 2023

Canada is home to several of the world’s top 100 universities and welcomes more than 800,000 Study Permit holders each year.  

The country offers some of the world’s best study programs and is houses of the world’s leading research facilities and academic institutions.

If studying abroad is your plan, Canada should be at the top of your list. Read ahead for a step-by-step guide to applying for a  Canada Study Permit.

Do you qualify to study in Canada? Answer our  Free Study Questionnaire

Step 1: Understand the Requirements

Successfully applying to a Canadian education institution requires an understanding of the different requirements for schools and the courses they offer.

Candidates also need to conduct a careful analysis of the rules and regulations applicable to the study permit application process. Only  recognized schools  and periods of approved study will be meaningful.

Ideally, you should start planning for your Canadian study permit at least a year in advance.  

Common requirements for all universities and institutions include an updated passport, proficiency in either English or French along with proof of passing prescribed language tests with minimum grades/bands, and proof that you can finance your study as well as the cost of living in the country.

Of course, requirements may vary between provinces, which is why this step must be performed in a careful and systematic manner.

Step 2: Choose your Course and Institution

The first step towards choosing an institution is to ascertain its status as a  Designated Learning Institution . Only DLIs can admit foreign students.

You will be required to finalize a specific major course when applying to study in Canada. The Canadian academic setup is flexible towards switching courses, although it is best to compare your options beforehand and choose a major that you are truly interested in pursuing.

Step 3: Take the Language Proficiency Test

In order to successfully gain entry into Canada, every international student will have to prove proficiency in English or French. IELTS is the preferred test for proficiency in English, with some institutions also accepting the Cambridge English: Advanced or TOEFL exam score.

For French, you can opt for DALF, DELF, or TCF, although the TEF exam is the most common option.

Choose the test, pay the fee, and book your dates well in advance. Of course, you will have to brush up your language skills to ensure your application does not get rejected.

Step 4: Apply to Universities

Now it is time to contact your shortlist of universities, obtain their application packs, and submit them well in advance. Having the choice of applying to a dozen universities can be advantageous but you will have to consider the application fee, which varies from $100 to $250.

Do not apply at random. Compare your options, identify your preferred course and institution, and select one or two alternatives as backups.

Be careful when filling in the application form and make sure you provide accurate information backed with documentary evidence. Once this is done, it is time face the excruciating wait until you receive your acceptance. Once you confirm your interest, the university will send an acceptance letter, which plays a significant role in the formalities ahead.

Step 5: Apply for a Study Permit   

Now that you have an institution ready to admit you, it is time to apply for the Canada Study Permit. Your application must be accompanied by the acceptance letter received in the previous step, your passport, and documentary proof that you have adequate finances to study in Canada.

You may also need a letter of explanation, a medical exam, a custodian declaration (for minors only), and other relevant documents.  

While a letter of explanation will help the visa officer understand your goals (by explaining why you want to study in Canada and that you understand your responsibilities as a student), a medical exam may be needed if:

• You plan to stay in Canada for more than 6 months
• You recently spent time in certain countries
• You plan to work in a job where public health must be protected

If you have applied to an institution in the province of Quebec, then you will also receive, along with the acceptance letter, a “Certificat d’acceptation du Québec” (CAQ). Make sure you include this document in your study permit application.

Book an appointment for your fingerprints and photo (biometric) as soon as you can to avoid delays.  

Step 6: Travel Time

Once the application has been processed and an interview, if required, has been conducted, the immigration officer will decide upon your study permit application. If accepted, it is now time to start planning your travel to Canada.

Your permit will have a start date, which is the date from which the permit comes into force. Keep in mind that you won’t be permitted to enter Canada before this date. Plan your travel accordingly.

Step 7: Study Time

The immigration officer will verify your permit and other documents at the port of entry before allowing you to enter Canada. This is the final step of the immigration formalities and you can now focus on commencing your journey as an international student in Canada.

What Happens After Your Studies Are Completed?

Canada’s federal government covets international graduates as ideal new permanent residents.

They are young, have knowledge of the culture, are proficient in languages, have Canadian qualifications and often have work experience.

After graduation, Canada’s  Post-Graduation Work Permit  allows students to begin their careers here.

Recent changes to the  Express Entry  selection system have made it easier for international students to make the transition to permanent residence.

There are also multiple provincial immigration streams aimed specifically at international students.

Colin R. Singer

Related articles.

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PhD Courses in Canada

• Canada Study Levels
• PhD Degrees

PhD Degrees in Canada

A PhD is the highest degree awarded at global universities. Study is based on a substantial research project in an area of academic interest, typically up to 100,000 words in length, written as a thesis which must be defended in an oral examination at the end of the program. All PhD students are assigned a supervisor, and the duration of a PhD is typically three years full-time and six years part-time.

Very few research degrees feature taught modules, and as such a student is expected to take more responsibility for their work and schedule. Universities in Canada are known for their academic excellence and state-of-the-art research infrastructure, along with their support for enterprise partnerships.  

PhD Entry Requirements

Canadian institutions are free to admit anyone to a PhD program, with admission generally conditional on the prospective student having completed an undergraduate degree with at least upper second-class honours, as well as a master's degree . English language ability proof is a must, and a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 is generally required. There is usually a first-year assessment to remain in study and the thesis is submitted at the end of the completed program.

Once you have decided on an area of research and have looked into how you will fund your study, there are a number of documents required when submitting your application. They include:

• Academic transcripts
• Academic references
• Personal statement
• Research proposal

- PhD Research Proposal

A research proposal is required by all students when applying to study for a PhD. The proposal should address the research you wish to undertake, how you will do it, and why it is important. A panel of experts must accept the proposal before your program can begin.

How much does a PhD cost in Canada?

Funding and researching a PhD can be expensive. Candidates can cost between $5,000-$20,000 per year, although this is still considerably cheaper than US or UK equivalents. Dedicated scholarships can help support your PhD, and it is rare for a PhD student not to be supported by some form of bursary, grant or scholarship .

Study a PhD in Canada

If you are interested in studying a research degree in Canada, arrange a free consultation with SI-Canada today.

Increase your chances of success when applying

SI-Canada specializes in selecting the right Canadian university or college for international students by reviewing your academic background, discussing your career goals and helping you apply. Our application services can help you achieve your dream of studying in Canada.

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Discover top Ph.D. streams and scholarships available in Canada - enhance your academic journey with a Ph.D. in Canada at renowned universities.

PhD Streams and Scholarships in Canada

Wesley Allan

Wesley Allan has been writing professionally for over five years and about immigration for a year. With a BA in English Language and Literature and Film Studies.

Reviewed by David Allon

Reviewed by:

David Allon

A professional and knowledgeable RCIC with a passion for migration and international policies. He will ensure that you are provided with the best immigration service and business guidance on your journey to Canada.

In recent years, Canada has emerged as one of the most popular destinations for international students seeking higher education. With its world-class universities, diverse culture, and excellent quality of life, it's no surprise that many students are drawn to the prospect of a PhD in Canada. Universities in Canada offer a wide range of opportunities for students at the doctoral level, including various PhD streams and a plethora of scholarships to choose from.

Whether you're an international student looking to further your education or a Canadian resident seeking to expand your knowledge and skills, this guide will help you navigate the exciting world of opportunities for a PhD Canada.

Why Pursue a PhD in Canada?

Pursuing a PhD in Canada has become increasingly attractive for international students, thanks to the country's excellent universities and generous scholarship opportunities. If you want to take advantage of these amazing opportunities, the next step in your Canadian journey is to find a scholarship program that will support your needs. Some of the best PhD scholarships in Canada are as follows:

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships are among Canada's most prestigious PhD scholarships, designed to attract and retain world-class doctoral students. These scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, and leadership qualities. The scholarship provides $50,000 per year for up to three years of study and is available to Canadian and international students.

The University of British Columbia Four-Year Doctoral Fellowship

The University of British Columbia (UBC) offers a Four Year Doctoral Fellowship to outstanding PhD students. This fellowship provides financial support of at least $18,200 per year and full tuition coverage for up to four years of doctoral studies. Both domestic and international students are eligible for this fellowship, which is awarded based on academic merit and research potential.

Ontario Trillium Scholarship

The Ontario Trillium Scholarship is available to international students pursuing a PhD in Ontario universities. This scholarship provides $40,000 annually for up to four years of study and aims to attract top international talent to the province. Candidates must demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, and strong communication skills.

The Ontario Graduate Scholarship

The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) is open to domestic and international students pursuing a graduate degree (including PhD) at an Ontario university. The scholarship provides $15,000 per year for up to two years, with one-third of the funding provided by the university. Candidates must demonstrate academic excellence, research ability, and communication skills.

University of Calgary Graduate Scholarships

The University of Calgary offers a variety of graduate scholarships to both domestic and international students pursuing a PhD in various fields. These scholarships range in value and duration, with some providing full tuition coverage and others offering a stipend to cover living expenses. Eligibility criteria and application procedures vary depending on the scholarship, so thoroughly research each opportunity.

The University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship

The University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship (UMGF) is available to Canadian and international students pursuing a PhD at the University of Manitoba. The fellowship provides funding of $18,000 per year for up to four years, with the possibility of additional funding for exceptional candidates. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and research potential.

The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships

The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation offers doctoral scholarships to outstanding Canadian and international students pursuing a PhD in the social sciences and humanities. The scholarship provides up to $60,000 annually for up to four years and includes a travel and networking allowance. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership skills, and a commitment to public engagement.

How to Apply for PhD Scholarships in Canada

Finding the right PhD scholarship in Canada may seem daunting, but several resources are available to help you. Applying for a scholarship in Canada is a relatively straightforward process, but it can differ depending on your program and institution. Here's a basic breakdown of the scholarship application process:

However, applying for a regular scholarship and a PhD scholarship can be slightly different. Here are a few things to remember when applying for a PhD.

Check Your University's Website

First, explore the websites of the universities you're interested in attending, as many offer their own scholarships and financial aid packages.

Check the Scholarship Organizations' Websites

Additionally, check out the websites of major Canadian scholarship organizations, such as the Canadian government's scholarship portal , the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE), and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC).

When applying for PhD scholarships in Canada, it's essential to carefully review the eligibility criteria and application requirements for each opportunity. Be sure to submit all required documents, including transcripts, letters of reference, and a well-crafted research proposal or statement of purpose. Keep track of application deadlines and give yourself ample time to complete the application process. 

Choose the Right Program and Supervisor

Before applying for a PhD in Canada, it's essential to research different programs and universities to find the best fit for your research interests and career goals. Additionally, you'll need to identify a potential supervisor who shares your research interests and can provide the support and guidance you'll need throughout your PhD journey.

Ensure You Have The Right Documents

The right documents are vital to ensuring a smooth application process. You must check your university or organization's website to ensure you have all the required documents as many. However, most PhD programs in Canada require the following:

Academic Transcripts

Applicants must provide official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.

Letters of Reference

Applicants must provide letters of reference from academic or professional references who can speak to their academic abilities and research potential.

Research Proposal or Statement of Purpose 

Applicants must provide a research proposal or statement of purpose outlining their research interests, motivation for pursuing a PhD, and career goals.

Standardized Test Scores

Some programs like the GRE or GMAT may require standardized test scores.

Language Proficiency

International students may need proof of English proficiency, such as CELPIP or IELTS .

It's essential to research the application requirements for each program carefully and ensure that all documents are submitted by the deadline. Additionally, it is essential to reach out to potential supervisors and faculty members to express your interest in the program and seek their guidance throughout the application process.

Prepare a Strong Research Proposal

Your research proposal is crucial to your PhD application, as it demonstrates your ability to think critically, conduct independent research, and communicate your ideas effectively. Be sure to clearly outline your research question, methodology, and expected outcomes, while demonstrating your familiarity with relevant literature in your field.

Highlight Your Academic Achievements and Research Experience

When applying for a PhD in Canada, you must showcase your academic accomplishments and research experience. Be sure to include details of any publications, conference presentations, or research projects you've been involved in.

Obtain Strong Letters of Reference

Letters play a vital role in your PhD application, providing insight into your academic and personal qualities. Be sure to ask for letters from professors or supervisors who can speak to your intellectual abilities, research potential, and work ethic. 

Prepare for Interviews

If you're shortlisted for a PhD program or scholarship, you may be invited to participate in an interview. Be prepared to discuss your research proposal, previous research experience, and motivation for pursuing a PhD in Canada. It's also essential to familiarize yourself with the university, program, and supervisor, as you may be asked about your reasons for choosing them. If you're unsure if your Canadian interview skills are up to scratch, here's a handy guide to interviews in Canada

Top Universities in Canada for PhD programs

As an international student, studying abroad is a great way to expand your horizons and gain foreign academic credentials and work experience. It can also be a stepping stone to carving a permanent future for yourself in a country that promises a better quality of life.

Canada is one of the most popular study destinations in the world and it may already be on your shortlist or you may already have started exploring university and college options in Canada . If you’re thinking or actively planning to study in Canada, you should be aware that the government has recently announced some changes to the study permit and Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) requirements .

In this article:

New 2024 rules for international students coming to Canada

Temporary cap on canadian study permits being issued, changes to post graduation work permit (pgwp) eligibility, other spousal open work permit eligibility, updated cost of living requirement for international students.

Here’s an overview of changes that may impact international students planning to study in Canada:

• Temporary federal cap on international student intake : The number of study permits being approved in 2024 is expected to decrease by 35 per cent over 2023 to 360,000. The cap for 2025 will be decided at the end of 2024.
• Changes to Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility criteria : International students beginning study programs in private colleges delivering licensed curriculum on or after September 1, 2024, will not be eligible for PGWPs. 
• Longer PGWPs for master’s graduates : Students who’ve completed master’s programs in Canada will soon be able to get three-year PGWPs.
• Changes to Spousal Open Work Permit eligibility : Only spouses of international students enrolled in master’s, doctoral, and professional programs will be eligible for open work permits.
• Updated cost-of-living requirements for students : Starting January 1, 2024, international students will need to show they have at least $20,635 (previously $10,000) to cover their living expenses (the requirement is different for students moving to Quebec ).

On January 22, 2024, the federal government announced a two-year intake cap on study permit applications being approved. It is expected that approximately 360,000 new study permits will be issued to international students in 2024—a 35 per cent decrease compared to 2023. The cap for 2025 will be determined at the end of the year.

Each province and territory will also have a cap on the number of new international students being enrolled in undergraduate programs. Provinces that have seen the most unsustainable growth in international students will see sharper cuts in their study permit allocations. For instance, in Ontario , a 50 per cent reduction in study permit approval is expected.

 Further, provinces and territories will be able to allocate study permit caps to universities and colleges in their jurisdictions. The caps will not apply to international students pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees in Canada. Existing international students who are renewing their Canadian study permits will also not be affected.

Why is Canada enforcing an international student cap?

Over the last decade, the number of study permits being issued by the Canadian government has increased significantly. Unfortunately, the infrastructure required to support this influx of international students has not kept pace, creating pressure on the housing and healthcare systems.

Moreover, some private institutions have been accepting more international students to increase their revenues without improving admission and curriculum standards. This new study permit cap is intended to give the Canadian government time to build a Trusted Institutions Framework which will encourage Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) to maintain a high standard of education and help eliminate bad actors in the education sector. This will also ensure that the international students arriving in Canada have the support they need to succeed academically and in other aspects of life.

How does the international student cap impact study permit applicants?

As an international student, you may be concerned about how this new cap might affect your chances of qualifying for a Canadian study permit . With fewer study permits being approved, it is expected that admission into Canadian DLIs will become more competitive.

If you’re applying to a master’s or doctoral program in Canada, your chances of getting a study permit will likely remain unaffected. However, students enrolling in undergraduate programs, such as bachelor’s degree, diploma or certificate programs, may find it harder to qualify for a study permit. The reduction in the number of study permits issued is also expected to be more drastic in Ontario, British Columbia , and Nova Scotia, so students interested in these provinces may face greater competition.

Students submitting their study permit applications after January 22, 2024, will also need to get an attestation letter from the province or territory they plan to study in, as added proof of their application’s legitimacy. This document will be in addition to other paperwork, including the Letter of Acceptance (LOA) and proof of financial support, that students are already required to submit. However, the federal government has given provinces and territories time until March 31, 2024, to set up a process for the issuance of attestation letters to international students. This may lead to longer processing times and cause delays in the study permit application process for some summer intake students in 2024.

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Will the study permit cap affect existing study permit holders?

No, Canada’s student visa cap will only impact international students submitting their study permit applications on or after January 22, 2024. Existing study permit holders looking to extend their study permits in Canada will not be subject to the new cap.

Will Canada’s study permit cap affect master’s or PhD students?

International students pursuing master’s or doctoral programs (graduate degrees) are currently exempt from the federal and provincial study permit caps. The caps will only apply to undergraduate programs (including bachelor’s degree, certificate, and diploma programs) being offered by colleges and universities in Canada.

A Post-Graduation Work Permit is an open work permit that may be issued to international students who’ve completed an eligible study program in Canada . Previously, most international students who completed a Canadian study program longer than eight months were eligible for Post-Graduation Work Permits.

However, starting September 1, 2024, international students who start a study program offered by a public-private partnership (PPP) institution as part of a curriculum licensing agreement will not be eligible for PGWPs after graduation. 

Why will Public-Private Partnership institution graduates no longer be eligible for work permits?

Under curriculum licensing arrangements, private colleges deliver a curriculum created by an associated public college but are subject to relatively less regulatory oversight. International students attend in-person classes at these PPP institutions and the school pays a portion of the tuition fees they collect to the associated public college. 

The Government of Canada has accused some PPP institutions of not delivering sufficient educational value to international students, and as such, has announced these measures to protect the education system and international students from bad actors who have taken advantage of them to make huge profits.

Another significant change to the PGWP program is that graduates of master’s degree programs will now qualify for a three-year work permit. Previously, the length of a PGWP was determined by the length of the applicant’s study program, and as a result, graduates of master’s programs were only eligible for one or two-year PGWPs. Increasing the length of PGWPs issued to master’s graduates will give them more time to gather Canadian work experience and qualify for permanent residence programs .

Why are changes being made to Canada’s PGWP program?

The Post-Graduation Work Permit program allows Canada to retain talented professionals who’ve graduated from Canadian universities and colleges. These international students can stay in Canada temporarily to gain work experience and contribute to the job market and economy.

Moreover, the Canadian work experience they gain makes it easier to qualify for permanent residence programs such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) , Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) , and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) .

Changes to the PGWP program will help ensure that the international students qualifying for PGWPs are equipped with the qualifications and educational background necessary to succeed in the Canadian job market. It will also encourage academic institutions in Canada to raise the bar in terms of the quality of education they offer students.

Until 2023, spouses of international students enrolled in eligible full-time Canadian study programs were eligible for spousal open work permits (SOWPs) . However, going forward, open work permits under section C42 will only be available to spouses of master’s and doctoral students and students enrolled in professional programs, such as law and medicine. Spouses of international students enrolled in undergraduate and other college programs will no longer be eligible for open work permits.

Starting January 1, 2024, the cost of living requirement for international students has been increased from $10,000 to $20,635, not including tuition fees. The minimum proof of financial support needed to study in Quebec will be $15,078 (except for international students under the age of 18, who will need to show access to at least $7,541).

Students applying for a Canadian study permit on or after January 1, 2024, will need to show sufficient proof of financial support to meet the revised cost of living requirements. Bear in mind that, as an international student, you do not need to pay these funds to the IRCC or your academic institution. You just need to have this money available to pay for your living expenses during your studies.

Why was the cost of living requirement for international students increased?

The upward revision of the cost of living requirement was done to depict a more realistic picture of students’ living expenses in Canada and to ensure that international students have access to enough funds to pay for necessities in Canada. The cost of living requirements are expected to be revised each year.

Previously, there had been reports of international students struggling to make ends meet in Canada. With the cost of housing and other living expenses in Canada increasing, having access to more funds will make it easier for international students to focus on their studies without having to worry about their finances.

As an international student hoping to study in Canada, the recently announced restrictions to the number of study permits issued each year may make the admission and study permit process more competitive. However, this will also allow the government to maintain greater oversight of academic institutions and ensure that international students receive a better quality of education. Changes to the PGWP and open work permit programs will help make it easier for foreign talent to find suitable employment in Canada and ensure that Canadian employers have access to high-quality candidates. Finally, although a higher cost of living requirement may force incoming students to re-evaluate their budget, clarity on how much money they will realistically need to support themselves in Canada will be beneficial for them in the long run. These changes will help make the international student program in Canada more robust and sustainable. 

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Can a PhD student apply for permanent residency while studying (before graduation)?

• Thread starter globalcitizenasks
• Start date Sep 1, 2022

globalcitizenasks

Hello, I am new to the forum and hope to get some advice on this matter. I am considering applying for a PhD in Ontario, and I was wondering if it is possible for a PhD student to apply for permanent residency (through EE for instance) while doing their PhD , ideally during the first or second year of starting their studies? I researched the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program, but the immigration stream they offer only allows you to apply after you have obtained your PhD. I also found an article on the topic, but no official communication from the IRCC. Thank you,  

globalcitizenasks said: Hello, I am new to the forum and hope to get some advice on this matter. I am considering applying for a PhD in Ontario, and I was wondering if it is possible for a PhD student to apply for permanent residency (through EE for instance) while doing their PhD , ideally during the first or second year of starting their studies? I researched the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program, but the immigration stream they offer only allows you to apply after you have obtained your PhD. I also found an article on the topic, but no official communication from the IRCC. Thank you, Click to expand...

Full Member

joGain said: I think you are thinking about a stream which was available almost 10 years ago. It used to allow PHD students to apply for PR after completing two years of study in Canada. Unfortunately, that stream has been discontinued. Click to expand...

scylla said: Sure, you can apply for PR through EE before you complete your PhD if you meet the work experience and other requirements. Click to expand...

globalcitizenasks said: Thank you for your prompt reply! I am assuming that a student enrolled in a PhD program falls then under one of the three federal programs administered by Entry Express, namely: Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class or Provincial Nominee Program. Is that what you mean? Click to expand...

scylla said: No, that's not what I mean. To fall under the Canadian Experience Class program, you need to have at least one year of work experience in Canada in a skilled occupation. Also that work experience cannot have been gained while studying in Canada. So unless you have previous work experience in Canada, the earliest you'll qualify for this program is a year after you finish your PhD. If you already happen to have at least one year of full time Canadian work experience in a skilled profession and that work experience falls within the last 3 years, then you would qualify. The fact you are enrolled in a PhD program is completely irrelevant as to whether you qualify or not. For the PNP program, you will need to research the programs for the province where you will be studying. You may or may not qualify for these programs while you are taking your PhD. For Express Entry / FSW, the fact you are a student enrolled in a PhD program is once again completely irrelevant. Whether you qualify will depend on whether you have at least one year of continuous work experience (this can be foriegn work experience) in a single skilled NOC, as well as other factors such as ECA, complete a language test, etc. Whether you are selected will depend entirely on how high you score. Based on the questions you are asking, my recommendation is that you dedicate more time to researching the immigration programs to understand how they work. Click to expand...

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Path to permanent residence

You may be eligible for permanent residence (along with your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children) after you graduate if you meet the following criteria:

• you are a resident of Canada (outside Quebec)
• you have a valid temporary resident status when you apply
• you have received an eligible degree or diploma while participating in the FMCSP

Additional criteria may be required.

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