Reasons Why Canada Student Visas Get Rejected

Canada is a leading study destination offering advanced and top-notch education programs to students from different directions on the map. International students who study in Canada need a study permit and a Canadian student visa to enter the country. The process of applying for and obtaining a Canadian student visa or study permit is initiated after securing admission to a Designated Learning Institute (DLI). As per the records of IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada), around 6,40,000 international students hold student visas in Canada. Each year marks an increase in the number of these visa holders. The rise in visa applications has also led to an increase in the number of rejections. The percentage of rejection of such visas is reported to be around 30% every year. Various reasons for the rejection of Canadian student visas need to be addressed by international students to ensure smooth sailing in their dream of studying abroad.

Reasons Why Canada Student Visas Get Rejected

1. Financial Instability

This is one of the things that will be examined as you apply for a student visa. Your financial independence and your ability to pay at least one year’s tuition at the college you are enrolling in without depriving yourself of the basic amenities will be checked by the officers who are to issue the visa. If you are financially independent, then your student visa will be granted. 

Typically, in Canadian universities, the tuition fees start from CAD 15,000. The government expects international students to be financially stable enough to foot their schooling expenses like the tuition fee. Also, enough evidence will have to be provided to prove it. It is beneficial when you provide proof of adequate finances for more than one year and then include additional financial documentation with your application for a study permit in Canada. Although it is possible to study and work in Canada, getting the right documents to prove your financial stability before you are granted a student visa is important. 

2. Incomplete Documents

When applying for a student visa, you must submit the right documents. This includes the right travel document so that you do not get rejected. The officers will examine your travel documents to check for any loopholes in your travel history. Additionally, the authorities will also verify your identification through your documentation. If you have prior travel experience and do not have proper documentation, it can ruin your chances. It is, therefore, advisable to provide sufficient documentation that captures your travel history. Your identification documents should also be uncomplicated and easy to read to avoid ambiguity. It is also important to arrange your documents chronologically to make them presentable. 

3.  Intent To Return To Home Country

There is always an expiration date on student visas. This is why visa officials always confirm first if international students want to return to their home country after completing their studies. On the other hand, international students can have the intention of staying back to work and earning money after the completion of their studies, and this is one of the reasons why their student visa might not be approved. When international students' intention and enthusiasm to return to their home country are low, their visas might get rejected. It is therefore advisable for international students to talk enthusiastically about the opportunities present in their home country and how they can also contribute positively, rather than wanting to use studying abroad as a pass to just get out of their home country. 

4. Poor Academic Performance

The visa officers also screen the overall academic records of international students. Students must have good grades. However, it does not end there. Students are also to have a high score on English proficiency tests like IELTS and TOEFL, which is very important. Moreover, students should produce clear and straightforward academic records because if there are inconsistencies in the academic records, they will be questioned. If they are not properly handled, they can affect the chances of not getting the visa. 

5. Inconsistency In Professional Experience And Proposed Course Of Study 

The student visa for an international student might be denied if there are inconsistencies in the past course of study, professional experience, and the proposed course of study. Your selected area of specialization should tally with your past qualifications and work experience. If they are not the same, you must be able to explain convincingly why you want to change your career path. Also, note that anything included in your application must have valid evidence or proof. 

6. Acceptance Letter

A letter of acceptance is issued to every student by the Designated Learning Institute (DLI)  when they get admitted into the school. International students are, therefore, supposed to submit their acceptance letters to the visa officials. Any student who does not submit any acceptance letter will be rejected. International students should, therefore, not be required to bring a copy of their letter of acceptance alongside the minimum eligibility criteria proof as instructed by the Canadian government. In addition to the acceptance letter, any supporting personal document or statement can be attached to the application. 

7. Choice Of Program

The officials at the visa office often pay very close attention to the choice of program international students are applying for. The choice of program, previous educational background, and professional experience must tally. Some of the academic-related reasons for visa rejection in Canada include: 

1. Career Gap
2. Applying for PG Diploma after Masters
3. Applying for PG Diploma with very high GPA in Bachelors
4. Second Masters (non-MBA)
5. Program inconsistent with prior education, like applying for an engineering program with a nursing degree. 

International students need a strong personal statement and other relevant records aligning with their educational background.

Tips to Avoid Visa Rejection in Canada

Having highlighted some of the reasons why Canada student visas get rejected, below are some of the important tips to help improve your chances:

1. Research and find the documents you must submit to obtain the visa. You can find helpful information on the website of the Government of Canada.

2. Fill out the visa form carefully with accurate information. Also, do not leave any blank spaces. 

3. After this, students must upload a copy of the offer letter they have received from a recognized university or college in Canada. 

4. Salary slips or bank statements will be submitted as proof that the applicant has work experience. 

5. Do not forget to mention all travel histories. Additionally, include any visa rejections if there are any. 

6. Also, answer the questions you will be asked on the CIC website while you are applying online.

7. Those applying under SPP (Student Partners Program) should show proof of finances. Also, they should obtain a Guaranteed Investment Certificate by transferring CAD 10,200 to Scotia Bank.

8. While writing the statement of intent, mentioning your academic achievements and intention to study in Canada is important. Be authentic, truthful, and convincing. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should you do if a Canada student visa is rejected?
If your first application was rejected due to specific documentation errors or omissions, resolve the reasons for your rejection before reapplying. Or, if your visa application was rejected after your visa interview, ask the border services officer for a reason and correct those issues when you reapply.

Is Canada giving student visas easily?
Information from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) shows they reject around 30% of study visa applications. Even if you get your student visa, there are rules you still need to follow to maintain your status as an international student. Don't worry, though.

What is the success rate of a Canada student visa?
Last year, SDS applicants had a 63% approval rate, while non-SDS applicants had 19%. In early 2023, the gap further increased, with Indian students applying for a Canadian study permit achieving a 73% approval rate, which is seven times higher than the 10% approval rate for non-SDS applicants during the same period.

How many times can you apply for a Canada visa after rejection?
If we refuse your application to come to Canada, you can apply again at any time unless your decision letter says you can't. You should only apply again if you can include information you didn't include before.

What is the fastest way to get a student visa for Canada?
Get your study permit faster through the Student Direct Stream. If you're a legal resident in certain countries, you may be able to get your study permit faster by applying online through the Student Direct Stream.

Conclusion

International students aspiring to study in Canada must be well-prepared to navigate the visa application process successfully. Common reasons for visa rejections, such as financial instability, incomplete documentation, and program mismatches, can be mitigated by thorough research and careful attention to detail. Following the tips, including strong financial proof and an authentic statement of intent, can significantly improve one's chances of obtaining a Canadian student visa and pursuing a high-quality education in Canada.