Five Common Reasons Your Study Permit Could Be Rejected—and How to Avoid Them

Applying for a Canadian study permit can be an exciting step toward achieving your academic goals. However, the process comes with challenges, and unfortunately, study permit refusals have been on the rise this year. A strong, well-prepared application can make all the difference between approval and rejection.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through five common reasons why study permits are rejected and provide actionable tips to help you avoid these pitfalls.

1. Insufficient or Inadequate Proof of Funds

One of the primary reasons for study permit refusals is not meeting the financial requirements. This could happen if:

• You don’t have enough funds.
• You fail to provide adequate proof of your financial resources.
  
  

What Are the Financial Requirements?

IRCC requires applicants to show that they can cover tuition, travel, and living expenses in Canada. For a single applicant outside Quebec, the required funds for 2024 (excluding tuition and travel) start at $20,635 CAD. These amounts increase with accompanying family members.

2024 Proof of Funds Requirements (Outside Quebec):

Quebec-Specific Requirements for 2024:

How to Strengthen Your Proof of Funds:

• Provide a clear history of financial statements.
• Include additional proof, such as:
• Parent’s employment details.
• Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs) from Canadian banks.
• Proof of student loans or scholarships.
• Bank drafts in convertible currencies.
  
  

2. Lack of Ties to Your Home Country

Immigration officers need assurance that you will return to your home country after completing your studies. Weak ties to your home country could lead to refusal.

How to Demonstrate Ties:

• Provide evidence of strong personal, professional, or financial connections to your home country.
• Include:
• Proof of current employment (job letter, salary details).
• Evidence of property or assets in your name.
• Family ties or commitments.
  
  

3. Weak or Missing Letter of Explanation

A letter of explanation can help immigration officers understand your goals and motivations for studying in Canada. While optional, a well-written letter can significantly boost your chances.

What to Include:

• Introduction: Explain your chosen course, school, and reasons for picking Canada.
• Academic and Professional Background: Highlight how your previous experiences align with your academic goals.
• Future Plans: Clearly state your career aspirations and how studying in Canada fits into them.
  
  

4. Incomplete Application or Missing Documents

Applications missing key documents are not processed and are returned to applicants.

Key Documents to Include:

• Proof of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
• Valid passport or travel documents.
• Proof of funds (refer to the table above).
• Letter of explanation (optional but recommended).
• Medical exam results (if applicable).
  
  

5. Schools Not Validating Letters of Admission (LOAs)

As of December 1, 2023, DLIs must validate Letters of Admission (LOAs) in IRCC’s portal. If not validated within 10 days of application submission, the study permit application is marked incomplete and returned.

How to Ensure Validation:

• Follow up with your chosen DLI immediately after submitting your application.
• Regularly check on the validation process to ensure timelines are met.
  
  

Final Thoughts

Understanding and addressing these common reasons for study permit refusals can help you submit a stronger application. Ensure that your application is complete, demonstrates financial readiness, includes a compelling letter of explanation, and highlights your strong ties to your home country.

With careful preparation, you can boost your chances of achieving your dream of studying in Canada.