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Is study plan a must?

vhptanh@97

Star Member
Nov 29, 2018
193
72
Hi. My sister is an international student in the U.S. right now, and she now wants to transfer to Canada to study. Universities in Canada are more affordable than ones in the U.S. as she wants to go for double major now, and the duration for a post-grad work permit in Canada is longer, 3 yrs vs 1 yr in the U.S. (for a business major). Can these two be used as reasons for why she wants to transfer from the U.S. to Canada? Or these two aren't good enough as they both show weaknesses in financial proof and tie with the home country?

However, when she applies online, there is no study plan required for the application. I wonder if writing a study plan is a must to apply for a study permit, or is it optional?

Thanks much for your help.
 

Bs65

VIP Member
Mar 22, 2016
13,190
2,419
She needs to justify why she needs to study in Canada and how any chosen courses are relevant both to her current qualifications and improve her prospects on return to her home country. Just applying on the basis courses are cheaper in Canada and the fact a PGWP is 3 years are not solid reasons for getting an approval.

In fact even mentioning a PGWP option as a reason could be seen as a negative when the priority needs to be seen as course selection , PGWP is just a potential bonus at the end which may or may not be granted.
 
Last edited:

vhptanh@97

Star Member
Nov 29, 2018
193
72
Do not mention PGWP. It is a clear indication that the applicant does not intend to return back upon completing studies. Bottom line, you will be refused if it is mentioned.
Thanks much for your response. SO is it necessary to include a study plan? as there is no requirement about the study plan while doing application online
 

bongoman

VIP Member
Dec 3, 2014
4,176
811
See the paper application instructions for your country, it is usually optional, but without it you will have a hard time showing that you are a genuine student and that you will go home after graduation.
Being an international student in another country already is even worse because it is difficult to show ties to home country.
 
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