I have received my study permit, from which u can also expect the same.
1) Initially you will get a temporary seat allotment letter which will take less than a month after the date of application. After that u'll get one month to pay the confirmation fees. Within a week u'll get ur confirmation letter.
2) Assessment of the latest education is necessary, so only degree assessment will do. You'll be asked to just submit the results of previous education too but not its assessment.
3) Study permit depends on the location from where u apply so check the average processing times online. I had applied from Mumbai, India, so it took exactly 5weeks as told while applying.