Canada is one of the most popular destinations for Nepali students, but getting admitted to a university or college is only half the journey. To actually begin your studies, you must secure a Canadian study permit by meeting all the official conditions set by IRCC. These conditions cover everything from your academic requirement for Canada student visa, your IELTS band scores, and your financial requirements for student visa Canada, to additional rules such as medical checks, police clearance, and whether dependents can accompany you.
Understanding these student visa requirements for Canada from Nepal in advance will save you time, money, and stress. Many refusals happen not because students are unqualified, but because of missing or weak documentation, unclear financial proof, or overlooked rules like the PAL/TAL attestation.
This page explains the Canada study visa requirements in a clear, step-by-step format designed for Nepali students. Instead of drowning you in details, we’ll focus on the essentials—and point you to Goreto counselors whenever expert help is needed to strengthen your file.
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.
Most colleges and universities in Canada expect at least 60% in +2 (for undergraduate) or a bachelor’s degree (for postgraduate). Programs may set higher cut-offs depending on demand
For SDS, you need IELTS Academic 6.0 in each band (Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening). Non-SDS applications may allow lower scores, depending on the institution. Book early.
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.
When applying for a Canadian study permit, Nepali students can choose between two routes: Student Direct Stream (SDS) and Non-SDS (regular study permit application).
SDS (Student Direct Stream): A fast-track program designed for students from certain countries, including Nepal, who can meet stricter requirements like higher IELTS scores, upfront tuition payment, and a CAD 10,000 GIC.
Non-SDS: The regular study permit process with more flexible financial proof and language score options, but a longer processing time.
Both options lead to the same outcome—a Canadian study permit—but the requirements and timelines differ.
The Student Direct Stream is a fast-track visa option for students from Nepal and other eligible countries. If you meet all the criteria, IRCC usually processes your application within 20 calendar days.
Requirements for SDS:
Minimum IELTS Academic 6.0 in each band (Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening)
Must deposit at least 1-year tuition fees in advance
Must purchase a CAD 10,000 Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a Canadian bank (e.g., Scotiabank, CIBC, ICICI Canada)
Faster decision time: usually 20–30 days
Higher approval rates when all criteria are met
👉 Check the official IRCC Student Direct Stream requirements
Why choose SDS?
Much faster processing (20–30 days)
Higher approval rate when all requirements are met
Less back-and-forth with visa officers
The Non-SDS route is the standard process for students who cannot meet the SDS conditions. It has a longer processing time—6 to 12 weeks on average—and requires stronger documentation to prove funds and intent.
Key Points for Non-SDS:
IELTS/TOEFL/PTE scores depend on the college or university (no fixed IRCC band requirement).
Financial proof can include bank statements, fixed deposits, property evaluations, education loans, and income documents.
Still need an LOA from a DLI, a valid passport, and to meet medical/police clearance rules.
Why choose Non-SDS?
More flexible options for financial proof.
Possible even with lower IELTS scores (if the school accepts).
A path for students who cannot arrange GIC or upfront tuition.
If you have strong IELTS scores, can pay tuition + GIC upfront, and want faster results, SDS is your best choice. If you don’t meet these strict conditions, you can still apply through Non-SDS—but approvals rely heavily on how clearly you present your finances and documents.
Whichever path you choose, you must still meet the core Canada study visa requirements that apply to every Nepali student. Let’s look at those next.
Whether you apply through the Student Direct Stream (SDS) or the Non-SDS route, there are certain Canada study visa requirements that every Nepali student must meet. These rules are set by IRCC and form the foundation of your study permit application.
You must first be admitted to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. Only DLIs are authorized to host international students, and your visa application will be refused if your college or university is not on the official list. The LOA must clearly state your program, duration of study, and conditions (if any). 👉 Check the official list of DLIs here.
A valid passport is essential for your entire period of study in Canada. Nepali students should ensure their passport will not expire before the end of their program. If it does, the study permit may only be issued until the passport expiry date. To avoid issues, renew your passport early through the Department of Passports, Nepal.
Meeting the Canada student visa IELTS band requirements or equivalent scores in TOEFL or PTE is a must. For SDS applications, IELTS Academic with at least 6.0 in each skill is compulsory. Non-SDS applicants may have more flexibility, but colleges and universities still set minimum language requirements. Booking IELTS or TOEFL in Nepal should be done months in advance, as test dates fill quickly.
The financial requirements for student visa Canada are one of the most important parts of your application. You must show that you can pay for at least your first year of tuition fees plus a minimum of CAD 10,000 for living expenses (outside Quebec). If you are bringing dependents, add CAD 4,000 for a spouse and CAD 3,000 for each child. Under SDS, you must also purchase a CAD 10,000 GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) from a Canadian bank such as Scotiabank, CIBC, or ICICI Canada.
If your study program is longer than six months, IRCC requires you to complete a medical exam with a panel physician approved by Canada. The results are sent directly to the visa office. Booking the exam early is advised, as delays in results can slow down your application.
In some cases, you may be asked to submit a Police Clearance Certificate from the Nepal Police. This proves you have no criminal record and are eligible to study abroad. Certificates can be obtained from the Police Headquarters in Naxal, Kathmandu.
All applicants must convince the visa officer that they will return to Nepal after their studies, unless they later qualify for a work permit or permanent residency. A well-written Statement of Purpose (SOP) can help explain your career goals and show how studying in Canada fits into your future plans.
There is no fixed upper age requirement for Canada student visa applicants. However, IRCC carefully reviews study gaps. If you are applying after a long break, you must provide valid reasons such as work experience, training, or career advancement. Generally, younger students—fresh after +2 or bachelor’s—face fewer complications, while mature students need stronger documentation.
These eligibility rules apply to all Nepali students, regardless of whether you apply under SDS or Non-SDS. Once you know you qualify, the next step is to prepare the documents that prove each requirement.
Meeting Canada’s study visa requirements is not just about ticking boxes. It’s about showing a complete, genuine story. From your IELTS bands to your proof of funds in CAD and NPR, every detail matters. At Goreto, we help Nepali students strengthen each requirement so your application stands firm against IRCC’s checks.
Before you apply, it’s important to know the official fees and the average time IRCC takes to process your study permit. This helps you plan your IELTS, tuition payments, and travel without last-minute stress.
Average decision time: 20–30 days (calendar days)
Works best if your IELTS is 6.0 in each band, 1-year tuition is prepaid, and CAD $10,000 GIC is arranged.
Higher approval consistency when all requirements are met.
Average decision time: 6–12 weeks (varies by season and application volume)
Suitable for students with lower IELTS scores or alternative financial proof.
Requires stronger documents and patience, as officers review more carefully.
Biometrics Fee: CAD $85 (≈ NPR 8,800)
Medical Exam: Around CAD $100–150 (≈ NPR 10,000–15,000), payable directly to the panel physician in Nepal
👉 Check the latest official fees here: IRCC – Study Permit Fees
If speed and certainty matter, SDS is usually the better choice. If you can’t meet SDS conditions, Non-SDS is still possible, but you must present strong, clear financial and academic documents. Always check updated timelines here: IRCC – Processing Times
Even strong students sometimes face refusals, not because they are unqualified, but because of avoidable mistakes in their visa file. Here are the most common issues for Nepali students — explained with real-life scenarios:
Case: A student from Chitwan submitted bank statements that showed the required amount, but most deposits were made just a few weeks before applying. The visa officer suspected the funds were not genuinely available.
Result: Application refused.
How Goreto fixes this: We guide families to structure savings well in advance, prepare supporting income documents (salary, remittances, business income), and show valid financial proof in both CAD and NPR.
Case: A Kathmandu student received a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) “conditional on final transcripts.” They applied for the visa without submitting those transcripts, hoping IRCC would ignore it.
Result: Visa refused due to incomplete admission proof.
How Goreto fixes this: We carefully review your LOA, ensure all conditions are met, and only file once your admission status is 100% valid.
Case: A student had an overall 6.0 IELTS but one band (Writing) was 5.5. Under SDS, the application was automatically ineligible.
Result: Refused under SDS, wasted months waiting.
How Goreto fixes this: We pre-screen scores before filing, recommend Non-SDS when needed, and help students with re-test planning or university options that accept slightly lower scores.
Case: A Lalitpur student copied an SOP template from the internet. The visa officer found it generic, with no clear career link to Nepal.
Result: Refused for “lack of genuine study intent.”
How Goreto fixes this: We work with you to draft a strong, personal SOP that highlights your academic history, future career goals, and why Canada is the right step — so officers see a genuine plan.
Case: A Pokhara applicant submitted everything but forgot the new Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) required since 2024.
Result: Automatic refusal.
How Goreto fixes this: We coordinate with your institution to secure the PAL/TAL on time and attach it properly to your file.
Most refusals come down to documents and presentation, not capability. Goreto’s role is to ensure your file tells a clear, genuine story that meets every Canada study visa requirement
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.
You need a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution, valid passport, IELTS/TOEFL results, proof of funds for tuition + CAD $10,000 living expenses, medical exam, and police clearance if required.
For SDS, you need IELTS Academic 6.0 in each band. For Non-SDS, requirements vary by college or university. Some accept overall 6.0 with one 5.5, but approval depends on your complete profile.
There’s no official upper age limit. However, students with long study gaps must justify them with work experience or training. Fresh +2 and bachelor graduates generally face fewer complications.
Yes. Dependents can apply for an open work permit (for spouses) or study permit (for children). However, you must show additional funds to support them.
SDS applications are usually processed within 20–30 days. Non-SDS takes 6–12 weeks, depending on the season and volume.
You can reapply, but it’s critical to address the refusal reasons in your new application. Goreto counselors analyze refusal letters and rebuild your file with stronger documents.
From choosing the right country to finding scholarships and housing — our counselors will guide you at every step.
Choose the right country based on your goals
Find courses that match your career plan
Get guidance on colleges and universities
Plan your finances, scholarships & part-time jobs
Plan your abroad stay & post-study plan
Schedule a free consultation with our expert counselors to discuss your study
Schedule a free consultation with our expert counselors to discuss your study
