Anyone wishing to study in Canada who is not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident must obtain a study permit before entering Canada. Those students in Canada on a visitor's visa must leave Canada and re-enter with the Study Permit. Depending on your country of citizenship you may also be required to obtain an entry visa. Students should contact the nearest Canadian embassy, high commission or consulate once they are accepted to Columbia Bible College. Find Canadian Embassies around the world.
To obtain your study permit, the following documentation will be required:
- Offer of admission to Columbia Bible College and information about the expected time to complete the program.
- Evidence of adequate funds - the visa officer will expect you to be able to support yourself (and family where applicable) during your program of study. You may be required to bring financial documents to prove you have the necessary funds (bank statements, scholarship & bursary awards and/or pledges of support from other organizations/individuals).
- Return ticket or evidence that funds will be available for that purpose.
- Proof of medical clearance (depending on country of residence).
- Proof of a minimum of 3 months of health insurance to cover your initial time in Canada.
Once this documentation is in order, Canadian Immigration authorities will issue an entry visa and study permit or letter of introduction. If you are given a letter of introduction, you should give this to the Immigration Officer when you enter Canada and they will issue the study permit.
If you have a spouse and/or children and your spouse and/or children accompany you, you must apply for their immigration documents at the same time. If your child/children will be attending school (grade 1 and above) you need to apply for a study permit for them also. A letter of admission from the school is not required. If your spouse intends to work in Canada, you must apply for an employment authorization for him/her at the same time.
As of 2020, the Immigration Services Fees (all listed in Canadian Funds and are paid at the time of border crossing) are:
- Study Permit $150
- Employment Authorization $150
Further Information
Outside of Canada
Contact the nearest Canadian Embassy, High Commission, Consulate or the Canadian Bureau of International Education. Canadian Embassies around the world
In Canada
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
Canadian Bureau of International Education
Under no circumstances should you leave for Canada until you have received confirmation from Columbia Bible College that you have been admitted and until you have obtained your entry visa and study permit. It is not possible to change from visitor to student status within Canada - you must leave the country to do this.