Study Permit Questions: Gap Between Post-Grad Courses, Processing Time, and IRCC Letter Tips (Part 1/5)

[Lompst]

Hi all, I have a few questions about IRCC and student visas, and I’d appreciate any input you might have:

1. For study permit processing from the United Arab Emirates, the official IRCC website says it takes about 7 weeks. Is that usually accurate, or should I expect something closer to 10–11 weeks in practice?
2. I’m planning to take two separate post-graduate programs, both related to my field. However, there would be an 8-month gap between the end of the first and the start of the second. From what I understand, IRCC may flag gaps over 5 months. Am I allowed to stay in Canada during that time, or would I need to leave and return later? And how would this affect my PGWP eligibility?
3. To avoid the 8-month gap issue, I’m considering starting the first program in September instead. Today is June 1st, 2025 — if I act quickly, is it still realistic to get all my documents and IRCC approval in time? I already have my PTE exam results and nearly all documents any university would need, I just need to notarize some documents when the time is right
4. I have completed several self-taught technical projects during my university studies, and one of them was my final year project, something relevant to my course but was not taught to us during my education. Can highlighting these in my application strengthen my case with IRCC (e.g. showing personal growth or academic relevance)?
5. What are the most important things to include in my Letter of Explanation (LOE) to avoid delays or a possible rejection from IRCC?
6. I also have an application to Permanent Residency in Australia currently running, currently in the Expression of Interest (EOI) stage, and I've been in the wait line for 10 months so far. My Migration Agent for Australia said it is crucial to mention that. Do I mention that in the Letter of Explanation, or where do I mention that?

Thank you so much for your attention

 

[Naturgrl]

1. Expect it to take longer.
2. You would need to apply for a study permit for the second program. You can stay as a visitor but cannot work. You would be eligible for PGWP for the second program.
3. No. Do you have PAL and LOA?
4. You can but not really relevant.
5. How you are justifying the program with career and education progression and higher pay when you return home. What are your ties to return home? Have lots of cash in the bank to show you can pay tuition and afford it.
6. Not relevant. Not same country.

What are the programs and DLIS?

 

[Lompst]

OK so both programs are post-grad diplomas, as my grades weren't high enough for a masters degree (and even PGDs are giving me a hard time). I am trying to aim for one in Artificial Intelligence, and another in Software Development. Artificial Intelligence makes sense because I have graduated with a Mechatronics degree about 2 years ago, and the other is in software development, mainly because soon enough every Robotics Engineer will somehow be expected to write code for applications to control their robots from phones, laptops, etc. Personally I'd prefer a 2 year PGD in Software Dev but I am struggling to find that

As for the DLIs, I am still searching up where I want to go. There are a few strict rules I need to follow so it's a little challenging. I'm trying to stick to low cost provinces, like Alberta or Manitoba, and take on a part time job during studies, because I will struggle to survive otherwise

I am currently looking at Bow Valley for a Post-Grad Software Diploma, and either Keyano or SAIT for the Post-Grad Artificial Intelligence Diploma

 

[Naturgrl]

OK so both programs are post-grad diplomas, as my grades weren't high enough for a masters degree (and even PGDs are giving me a hard time). I am trying to aim for one in Artificial Intelligence, and another in Software Development. Artificial Intelligence makes sense because I have graduated with a Mechatronics degree about 2 years ago, and the other is in software development, mainly because soon enough every Robotics Engineer will somehow be expected to write code for applications to control their robots from phones, laptops, etc. Personally I'd prefer a 2 year PGD in Software Dev but I am struggling to find that

As for the DLIs, I am still searching up where I want to go. There are a few strict rules I need to follow so it's a little challenging. I'm trying to stick to low cost provinces, like Alberta or Manitoba, and take on a part time job during studies, because I will struggle to survive otherwise

I am currently looking at Bow Valley for a Post-Grad Software Diploma, and either Keyano or SAIT for the Post-Grad Artificial Intelligence Diploma

You have a degree so focus on PGrad programs, not a diploma. You still need to show proof of funds, as working 24 hours per week will not even cover living expenses. Don't understand why you would take two programs of different lengths. You will need study permits for each program, and cannot study at the second program until approved if at different DLIs. This could mean a break of many months without working.

Why Canada for these programs? You need to justify the costs of 2 programs and show that you will make xx more money when you return home. Seems like a waste of money if funds are an issue.

 

[Lompst]

OK so to clarify a few things:

Why two programs: The goal isn’t to bounce between unrelated fields — it’s to build a strong specialization. I hold a Mechatronics degree, which is heavily interdisciplinary. Mechatronics is a mix of Mechanical Engineering, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, and some Software Engineering.

AI is relevant for machine learning, automation, and perception systems; Software Development ensures I’m industry-ready for practical deployment, especially in embedded or mobile control systems. In that sense, both support a single career trajectory.

Why Canada: Mainly because of its applied learning model, access to industry, and the PGWP — all of which provide a pathway to gaining international experience before returning home. I have to go home anyway, as my parents are both staying at my home country. My home country’s job market increasingly demands internationally trained professionals with full-stack experience (hardware and software), and the wage difference post-Canada study is significant. Plus, Canadian credentials are more recognized than online certificates or non-Western PGDs, which will give me a higher hand when it comes to job hunting back home.

On program length & cost: Ideally I’d take one 2-year PGD in Software Development, as that's my biggest weak spot. But if that’s not available, I may need to do a 1-year AI program followed by a software-focused one — I’m trying to avoid a study gap, which is why I'm now looking into September 2025 intake options even though it’s tight.

Proof of funds: Yes, I’m aware part-time work alone won’t cover living expenses. I will be demonstrating sufficient funds for tuition and living, and part-time work is mainly to supplement minor costs and integrate locally.

I’m still narrowing down DLIs and mapping which intake makes most sense, but I’ll make sure everything aligns with IRCC expectations before submission.

As for the 'PGrad programs, not a diploma' part, these are Post-Graduate Diplomas not just regular Diplomas. From what I understand, even IRCC recognizes these PGDs as legitimate post-secondary education that qualifies for a PGWP, provided the institution is a DLI and the program is at least 8 months in length.

Thanks again — it’s helpful to go through this kind of scrutiny on the internet before submitting anything official.