Getting a student visa even if majority of classes are online

[leaf777]

I'm an international applicant from Asia and I'm planning to pursue a 12-month-long graduate certificate program in Winter 2022 in Bishop's University. Majority of the classes are held online with the option for face-to-face classes for 2 summers. I know that programs offered online after Fall 2021 would not be eligible for PGWP, and I don't mind taking classes online, but I DO want to take the face-to-face classes offered during the summer. I'm wondering: would I be granted a student visa just to attend the summer classes? or do I have a better chance getting a visitor's visa since i'll only need to be on campus during the summer (less than 6 months even if the purpose is to study)?

 

[Naturgrl]

You need a study permit for the duration of your program. Even if less than 6 month program, you still need a visa. Can’t tell you chances because all depends on your profile.

 

[leaf777]

You need a study permit for the duration of your program. Even if less than 6 month program, you still need a visa. Can’t tell you chances because all depends on your profile.

Thanks for the response. I understand the need for a study permit, but if I apply for a student visa just to attend in-person classes during the summer with the intention of returning to my home country once summer ends, then I'd only need to provide proof of funds enough for 3 months, right? Re profile, I'm in my late 20s, already have a master's degree (it's why I'm pursuing a graduate certificate), four years of professional experience as a university teacher, and been to Australia twice and Hong Kong once. Funds won't be a problem if it's just for the summer/3 months. I'm a bit weak on home ties, because I don't own any property and I'm a registered as a self-employed professional (private tutor and education consultant) in my country. So far, all I can think of as home ties are family, gov't/social insurance, life insurance, stocks/investments, and renewed lease on my apartment. Though I'm aiming to take the graduate certificate because it would really help me in my line of work, especially with the clients I'm holding now.

 

[Naturgrl]

Thanks for the response. I understand the need for a study permit, but if I apply for a student visa just to attend in-person classes during the summer with the intention of returning to my home country once summer ends, then I'd only need to provide proof of funds enough for 3 months, right? Re profile, I'm in my late 20s, already have a master's degree (it's why I'm pursuing a graduate certificate), four years of professional experience as a university teacher, and been to Australia twice and Hong Kong once. Funds won't be a problem if it's just for the summer/3 months. I'm a bit weak on home ties, because I don't own any property and I'm a registered as a self-employed professional (private tutor and education consultant) in my country. So far, all I can think of as home ties are family, gov't/social insurance, life insurance, stocks/investments, and renewed lease on my apartment. Though I'm aiming to take the graduate certificate because it would really help me in my line of work, especially with the clients I'm holding now.

You need to show proof of funds for the duration of your program, not just when you are in Canada. If you have a masters degree then education progression is not there. You need to show career progression.