Canada is one of the most sought‑after study destinations for international students, including many from Ghana — thanks to its high‑quality education, multicultural society, and post‑study work opportunities. If you’re dreaming of studying in Canada from Ghana, this step‑by‑step guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from choosing a school to securing a student visa.
🎓 Why Choose Canada for Your Education?
Canada offers:
- World‑class universities and colleges with globally recognized degrees.
- Work while you study options (on and off campus).
- Post‑Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) opportunities to stay and work after graduation.
- Safe, friendly, and multicultural cities.
Note: Canada recently froze the eligible fields of study list for the Post‑Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for 2026, providing continuity for students planning studies and future work options.
📌 Step 1: Choose a Program & Institution
Before anything else, pick a program and school that fits your goals:
- Decide what you want to study — certificate, diploma, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral level.
- Check that the institution is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) — you must have a letter of acceptance from a DLI to apply for a study permit.
- Apply to your chosen school — most schools will require your academic records, language test scores (IELTS, TOEFL), and other documents.
👉 Explore available schools and programs via EduCanada: https://www.educanada.ca
🛂 Step 2: Get Your Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
Once you receive an Offer of Admission or Letter of Acceptance from a Canadian DLI, you’re ready to start the study permit application — this LOA is mandatory for that process.
📑 Step 3: Apply for a Canada Study Permit
What is a Study Permit?
A study permit allows you to study in Canada for programs longer than six months. It also acts as your temporary immigration document.
Who Needs One?
- If your study program lasts more than 6 months, you must apply for a study permit before travelling to Canada.
- For programs 6 months or less, you may not need a study permit, but consider one if you want the option to extend your stay.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a study permit, you must show that you:
✔ Have a valid LOA from a DLI
✔ Have sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and return travel
✔ Have a clean criminal record and (if requested) police certificate
✔ Are in good health (a medical exam may be required)
✔ Intend to leave Canada when your studies end
Note: Quebec has an additional certificate (CAQ) requirement for students studying there.
🧑💻 Step 4: Gather Documents & Apply Online
You’ll apply online through the Government of Canada’s immigration portal:
👉 Official instructions & online application:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/apply.html
Checklist:
- LOA from DLI
- Passport with validity beyond your study period
- Proof of financial support (bank statements, sponsorship letters, scholarship letters)
- Two passport‑style photos
- Study Permit application forms
- Fee payment receipt (approx. CAD $150)
- Provincial/Territorial Attestation Letter (if required)
Tip: Apply as early as possible — processing times vary by location and season.
📌 Step 5: Biometrics & Visa Processing
After submission:
- You may be asked to do biometrics (photo & fingerprints).
- If approved, you’ll receive a Letter of Introduction and, if necessary, a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) that lets you enter Canada.
🧳 Step 6: Prepare for Departure
Before travelling to Canada:
- Arrange accommodation (on‑campus or off‑campus).
- Get health insurance — provinces have different coverage for international students.
- Book your flight.
- Pack essentials and financial documents to show at the airport.
🎓 Studying & Working in Canada
Once in Canada, your study permit allows you to:
- Work on campus without a work permit.
- Work off campus (up to 20 hours/week) during semesters and full‑time during breaks.
- Apply for a Post‑Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completion (if your program is eligible).
📌 Keep in mind: The Canadian government has capped and adjusted international student permit policies in recent years. Planning ahead and being thorough with your application improves your chances of approval.
📝 Final Tips for Students from Ghana
✅ Start your application at least 8–12 months before your intended start date.
✅ Prepare strong financial evidence — this is a common reason for refusals.
✅ Contact the Canadian High Commission in Ghana if in doubt: Accra, Ghana.
✅ Consider applying to multiple institutions to increase your chances of acceptance.
🔗 Helpful External Links
- 🇨🇦 Official Canada study permit info: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration‑refugees‑citizenship/services/study‑canada.html
- 📍 Study permit application steps: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration‑refugees‑citizenship/services/study‑canada/study‑permit/apply.html
- 🎓 EduCanada (school search): https://www.educanada.ca
