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Understanding the Letter of Acceptance

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by Kathy Watkins

Acceptance Letter from a Canadian Educational Institution

Securing an Acceptance Letter from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is the initial step in the process of applying for a Canadian study permit. Here on this Immigration to Canada page, you will discover essential details about the Acceptance Letter. 

Letter of Acceptance

How to Get an Acceptance Letter for a Canada Study Visa

For anyone planning to study in Canada, securing an Acceptance Letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is crucial in applying for a Canadian study visa. To receive this letter, an applicant must first apply to the chosen DLI. Upon successful admission, the institution will issue an Acceptance Letter. This document must include the following details for the study visa application:

A pivotal point is that the Acceptance Letter should have an expiry date. If the study visa isn’t processed before this date, the student may request a letter extension from the institution to present to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

IRCC gives a template and specific guidelines for filling out the Acceptance Letter. Receiving an Acceptance Letter from a DLI does not guarantee a study visa approval. Final decisions rest with IRCC.

Immigration to Canada is your partner in navigating this process. With our assistance, you can confidently embark on your educational journey in Canada.

Exemptions from Needing a Letter of Acceptance

Certain individuals applying for immigration to Canada may not need to provide a Letter of Acceptance. 

If a foreign national receives written approval for a temporary work or study permit prior to arriving in Canada, their family members are eligible to apply for a study permit without needing a Letter of Acceptance.

Those interested in short-term educational programs lasting six months or less are exempt from obtaining a Letter of Acceptance, as a study permit is not required for such programs.

Letter of Acceptance

Applying for a Study Permit for Programs Involving Multiple DLIs

When applying for a study permit through Immigration to Canada, it’s essential to understand the requirements for programs involving more than one Designated Learning Institution (DLI). If your study program includes multiple institutions, make sure the Letter of Acceptance illustrates this clearly. Importantly, both institutions should be recognized as DLIs.

The Letter of Acceptance should be obtained from the DLI that will confer the degree, diploma, or certificate. In cases where multiple institutions jointly confer these qualifications, the acceptance letter should come from the DLI where you plan to start your studies. Ensure the Letter of Acceptance specifies: 

When you receive your study permit, it may specify the DLI that issued the Letter of Acceptance as your primary institution. However, additional institutions can be mentioned in the Remarks section of your permit.

For a seamless application experience, adhere to these guidelines and ensure your documentation clearly reflects your study itinerary. This will help facilitate a smoother transition to studying in Canada through Immigration to Canada.

Conditional Offer of Admission

Immigration to Canada may issue a Conditional Offer of Admission to prospective students, indicating that their enrollment in a study program is subject to meeting specific prerequisites. For instance, applicants might need to successfully complete a course such as English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FRSL) before advancing to a more comprehensive study program. In such cases, a study permit is granted only for the duration of the prerequisite program. Once the prerequisite is completed, students can apply for a new study permit for the subsequent academic program. 

Study Permit Renewal Process

In most cases, obtaining a second Letter of Acceptance is not necessary when renewing a study permit in Canada. However, immigration officers handling study permit renewals may request evidence that you have fulfilled the conditions of your current study permit. This evidence could include a confirmation letter from your educational institution stating that you have been actively engaged in your studies.

FAQ
How long does it take to receive an acceptance letter from a university in Canada?

The time it takes to receive an acceptance letter (Letter of Acceptance, or LOA) from Canadian institutions can vary, typically ranging from four to eight weeks after submitting your application. Factors that might affect this timeline include the application date, specific submission deadlines, missing documentation, or the institution’s admission policies.

Does receiving an LOA ensure that you'll obtain a study permit?

While an LOA is a crucial requirement for applying for a study permit, it does not guarantee approval of the permit. Other factors, such as providing the correct documentation, demonstrating sufficient financial resources, and meeting any additional test requirements, play a significant role in the study permit decision process.

Is an LOA necessary for extending a study permit?

An LOA is valid for only a limited time. If your study permit process is not completed within this timeframe, you must request an extension from your Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and provide additional documentation to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). To extend your stay and continue studying in Canada, apply for a new program in advance, as you’ll need a new LOA and proof of payment. If your LOA is lost or damaged, you can request a replacement from the institution.

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