Would it be possible to study up to 6 months without a study permit in Canada and then apply for a study permit for the second half of the year? Seems too good to be true, but at least in theory it seems to work?
No - absolutely not. If you do this, you will be studying illegally for the first six months and will be in violation of your stay in Canada. Your entire program must be six months or less in duration in order to be able to study without a study permit.
Well, I can study legally for 6 months or less without a permit (I have admission letter for such a period from my uni). So what I was thinking was, could I apply for a study permit for another term after that? What would stop me?
Well, I can study legally for 6 months or less without a permit (I have admission letter for such a period from my uni). So what I was thinking was, could I apply for a study permit for another term after that? What would stop me?
There are certain courses that do not require a study permit. However, you should ensure that the course you are pursuing falls indeed within said category. As per the regulations:
188 (1) A foreign national may study in Canada without a study permit
(c) if the duration of their course or program of studies is six months or less and will be completed within the period for their stay authorized upon entry into Canada;
Exception
(2) Despite paragraph (1)(c), a foreign national may apply for a study permit before entering Canada for a course or program of studies of a duration of six months or less.
That being said, it is usually recommended to obtain a study permit (even in cases when it is not required) as already holding a study permit will allow you to apply for another study permit from within Canada.
Would it be possible to study up to 6 months without a study permit in Canada and then apply for a study permit for the second half of the year? Seems too good to be true, but at least in theory it seems to work?
You cant extend your study. Once the course is over, you have to leave the country and apply for study permit. You might be able to do it inland, as long as you have a valid status in Canada. I am not 100% sure about the inland process.