In Canada, the document that allows you to study is the study permit, issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Moroccan students apply for it online once they hold a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution, and receive the visa to travel with the approval.
Key takeaways
- You need a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI).
- Most applicants also need a provincial or territorial attestation letter; in Quebec, the CAQ comes first.
- Proof of funds covers tuition, living costs and travel, according to the amounts set by IRCC.
- Biometrics are given at a visa application centre after you apply online.
The steps of the study permit
- Obtain your letter of acceptance from the Canadian institution.
- For Quebec, apply for the Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ); elsewhere, obtain the provincial attestation letter through your institution when required.
- Prepare your proof of funds and your letter of explanation.
- Apply online on the IRCC website and pay the fees.
- Give your biometrics at a visa application centre, and pass a medical exam if requested.
- Once approved, travel with your letter of introduction: the study permit is issued at the border.
Documents usually requested
- A valid passport and digital photos.
- The letter of acceptance, and the provincial attestation letter or the CAQ.
- Proof of funds: bank statements, a sponsorship letter from parents, scholarship letters or proof of paid tuition.
- A letter of explanation presenting your project and your plans after your studies.
- Diplomas and transcripts, translated into French or English.
Common reasons for refusal
- Financial documents that are incomplete, too recent or inconsistent with the declared sponsor.
- A study project that is hard to follow: a program with no link to previous studies, or vague career plans.
- Missing translations or documents that do not match each other (names, dates, amounts).
- Applying too late, so that the appointment or the decision comes after the start of classes.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a study permit take?
Processing times change during the year and are published on the IRCC website. Add the time needed for the CAQ in Quebec, and apply as early as possible after your acceptance.
How much money do I need?
IRCC sets a minimum amount for living costs, on top of the first year of tuition and travel; Quebec sets its own amounts for the CAQ. Check the current figures on the official websites.
Can I work in Canada as a student?
Study permit holders can often work part-time under conditions set by IRCC, which have changed in recent years. Check the current rules before counting on it.
How ProTrain can help
ProTrain helps Moroccan students build a complete and consistent student visa file, prepare the financial documents with their parents and get ready for the appointment or interview, through our student visa support. See also our Canada page, or book a consultation in Guéliz, Marrakech, or online.
Official sources
- IRCC: study in Canada: study permit, proof of funds and processing times.
- Immigration Québec: studying in Quebec: the CAQ for studies.