Canada is one of the top choices for international students, including thousands from Nepal every year. But before you can start your journey, you need to understand the full application process to study in Canada — from choosing a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) to securing your admission and applying for a study permit.

Since 2024, most new international study permit applicants are required to include a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) with their application. Some categories (such as permit extensions, certain exchanges, and K-12 students) are exempt. Because rules differ by province and program, always confirm requirements with your chosen school and check the latest updates from IRCC.

This guide explains how to apply for study in Canada step by step. From selecting programs and scholarships to preparing documents, financial proof, and pre-departure planning. Whether you’re applying after +2 or for a postgraduate degree, the process will help you apply with confidence and avoid common mistakes.

The Essentials Before Applying to Canada

These are the three key things every student needs to get started — and our counsellors at Goreto can help you prepare them the right way.

Academic Records

Most Canadian colleges ask for at least 60% in +2 or bachelor’s. We’ll guide you on which programs match your grades.

Language Test

IELTS or TOEFL is usually required. Goreto helps you choose the right test, register, and prepare so your scores are ready on time.

Financial Proof

You need to show funds for tuition and living costs. Our team explains exactly how much is needed in CAD and NPR, and the best way to present it.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Study in Canada

Applying to Canada may feel complicated, but once you break it into steps, it’s much easier. Here’s the full process, and remember, Goreto can guide you at every stage so nothing gets missed.

🎓 Choose a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)

Select a Canadian college or university approved to host international students. Goreto helps you compare options that fit your grades and budget.

📄 Apply and Receive Your Letter of Acceptance (LOA)

Complete your application, submit documents, and wait for your admission letter. We handle the paperwork and deadlines for you.

🗂️ Gather Your Documents

Prepare transcripts, passport, IELTS/TOEFL, proof of funds, and (if required) a PAL/TAL. Goreto ensures your file is complete.

🖥️ Apply for a Study Permit

Submit your online application to IRCC with all documents and fees. Our team reviews everything before submission to reduce errors.

🧑‍💻 Provide Biometrics & Medical

Visit a visa application centre (VAC) to give biometrics. Some students also need a medical exam. We’ll guide you through booking and requirements.

✈️ Get Your Decision & Plan Travel

Once approved, prepare for Canada; Book flights, arrange accommodation, and join pre-departure sessions. Goreto supports you until you land.

Each step looks simple on paper, but missing even one detail can delay or reject your application. That’s why most students choose consultants like Goreto. They manage the heavy lifting, keep documents error-free, and give you peace of mind while you focus on your studies.

Getting all your documents ready is one of the biggest parts of the application process. Missing or wrong paperwork is one of the most common reasons for delays. Visit our Visa Application Requirement page for all the details.

Getting all these documents correct is not just a formality — it is the foundation of a successful study permit application. Many Nepali students lose valuable months fixing errors in transcripts, bank statements, or attestations.

With Goreto, you don’t have to take that risk. Our team checks every file, guides you through attestation in Nepal, and ensures your application package is complete before it ever reaches Canadian immigration.

Most students are capable of studying in Canada — they just lose out because of small mistakes in the application process. At Goreto, our job is to make sure those errors never happen.

Dhiraj Kandel
Senior Advisor, Goreto Educational Consultancy

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

The study permit process for Canada looks simple, but even a small mistake can cause delays or rejection.

Some of the biggest reasons students get refused are not about the process itself, but about meeting Canada’s visa requirements. These include:

  • Weak or unclear proof of funds

  • Ignoring conditions on your Letter of Acceptance (LOA)

  • Missing the new PAL/TAL requirement

Because these are directly tied to visa approval, we’ve explained them in detail on our dedicated Visa Requirements for Nepali Students to Study in Canada page. If you’re unsure whether you meet the financial, academic, or IELTS requirements, we strongly recommend checking that page before starting your application.

Dhiraj Kandel

Dhiraj Kandel

Sr. Student Advisor

The educations quality in Canada meets all the standards expected by employers in all fields of work. The Canadian education system is also recognized by employers globally for having really high standards. and producing graduates that are ready to face real world challenges.

FAQs on the Application Process to Study in Canada

Most students start 12–15 months in advance. Applications to universities usually open in the fall, and you need extra time for IELTS, documents, and the study permit.

Yes, most new study permit applicants must include a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL). Some categories like extensions and K-12 are exempt. Always confirm with your institution and check IRCC’s PAL/TAL guidelines.

You must show enough money for tuition + living expenses + travel. IRCC updates the amounts regularly — check the latest proof of funds requirement. Goreto will also convert this into NPR so you can plan better.

You can reapply after fixing the issues that caused the refusal, usually funds, documents, or test scores. Goreto reviews refusal letters and helps students build a stronger case for reapplication.

Yes, but you must notify IRCC and ensure the new school is a DLI. Failing to do so may affect your status. Details are on the IRCC school transfer page.

Processing times vary, but usually 8–12 weeks. Delays happen if documents are incomplete or if PAL/TAL is missing. Goreto monitors your file status and helps you respond quickly to IRCC requests.

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Dhiraj Kandel

Dhiraj Kandel

Sr. Student Advisor

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Prakash Regmi

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