Eligibility Requirements
- Letter of Acceptance (LoA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada
- Proof of sufficient funds: CAD 10,000 per year for living expenses plus tuition fees
- No criminal record - may require police clearance certificate
- Must be in good health - medical exam may be required
- Proof of intent to leave Canada after completing studies
- Valid passport with adequate validity
- Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) for most post-secondary programs (required since January 2024)
Required Documents
10 mandatory documents Β· 1 supporting documents recommended
Mandatory Documents
Valid Passport
RequiredPassport valid throughout your study program.
Letter of Acceptance from DLI
RequiredOfficial acceptance letter from your Canadian university or college.
Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)
RequiredRequired since January 2024 for most undergraduate and college programs.
Proof of Funds
RequiredBank statements showing at least CAD 10,000 per year living expenses PLUS full tuition fees.
Biometrics
RequiredFingerprints and photo at VFS Global / VAC Dhaka. Required for applicants aged 14-79.
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
RequiredDetailed letter explaining why you chose this program and why you plan to return to Bangladesh after graduation.
Academic Transcripts and Certificates
RequiredSSC, HSC, and any university transcripts and certificates.
IELTS or English Proficiency Score
RequiredMost Canadian universities require IELTS 6.0-6.5 or TOEFL equivalent.
Medical Examination Report
RequiredCompleted by an IRCC-designated panel physician in Bangladesh. Required for study permits longer than 6 months.
Police Clearance Certificate
RequiredFrom Bangladesh Police. Shows no criminal record.
Supporting Documents (Recommended)
Scholarship or Financial Award Letter
OptionalIf you have a scholarship, include the official award letter.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Apply and Get Accepted to a DLI
Apply to Canadian Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs). Secure your Letter of Acceptance. Popular choices include University of Toronto, UBC, McGill, Waterloo, and colleges like Humber, Seneca, and BCIT.
Obtain Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)
Since January 2024, most post-secondary study permit applicants need a PAL. Your institution typically applies to the province on your behalf after you enroll and pay a deposit.
Complete Medical Examination
Book a medical exam with an IRCC-designated panel physician in Bangladesh. Results are sent directly to IRCC.
Apply Online via IRCC
Create an IRCC account at canada.ca and submit your study permit application online. Pay the CAD 150 study permit application fee plus biometric fee (CAD 85).
Submit Biometrics at VAC Dhaka
After applying online, book a biometric appointment at the Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Dhaka.
Await Decision and Travel
Processing takes 4-12 weeks. If approved, you receive a Port of Entry Letter. The actual study permit is issued by CBSA at the port of entry upon arrival in Canada.
Fees Breakdown
All fees are approximate. Exchange rates change β confirm current amounts before applying.
| Fee Type | Amount (BDT) |
|---|---|
| Study Permit Application Fee | ৳ 12,500 |
| Biometric Fee | ৳ 7,500 |
| Medical Examination | ৳ 17,000 |
| IELTS Examination | ৳ 26,000 |
| VAC Service Fee | ৳ 3,500 |
* Fees subject to change. Always verify on the official visa portal or VFS Global website before applying.
Processing Time
Study permit processing for Bangladesh applicants currently takes 4-12 weeks. Apply at least 4 months before your program start date. The PAL process adds 4-12 additional weeks. Total timeline from acceptance to arrival is typically 6-9 months.
Where to Apply in Bangladesh
Apply online through the IRCC portal at canada.ca. Submit biometrics at the Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Dhaka operated by VFS Global. Medical exam at an IRCC-designated panel physician in Bangladesh.
Interview Tips
Study permit applications from Bangladesh do not typically require a personal interview. Your Statement of Purpose (SOP) effectively serves as your written interview β write it carefully and honestly explaining your study choice, career goals, and why you will return to Bangladesh.
Common Rejection Reasons
Avoid these common mistakes that cause visa refusals:
- Insufficient funds - not showing enough money for tuition PLUS living expenses
- Weak Statement of Purpose with no clear ties to Bangladesh or career plan
- PAL not obtained before applying (post-January 2024 requirement)
- Medical exam not done or results not received by IRCC
- IELTS scores too low for the program requirements
- Previous immigration violations in Canada or other countries
Frequently Asked Questions β Canada Student Visa
Q1. How much money do I need to show for a Canada student visa?
You need to show CAD 10,000 per year for living expenses PLUS your full annual tuition fees. For a CAD 20,000 tuition course, show approximately CAD 30,000 for the first year. Bank statements from parents are accepted as financial sponsors.
Q2. What is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada?
DLIs are Canadian schools approved by provincial/territorial governments to host international students. You MUST be accepted by a DLI to apply for a study permit.
Q3. What is the Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) and why is it needed?
Since January 2024, Canada implemented a 2-year cap on international student admissions. Most post-secondary applicants need a PAL from the province confirming a study permit has been allocated. Your institution applies for the PAL after you enroll and pay a deposit.
Q4. Can I work while studying in Canada?
Yes. Study permit holders can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for up to 3 years.
Related Visa Guides
Other Canada Visas
Student Visa for Other Countries
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