The essentials at a glance
Applying to study in Canada from Nepal takes eight steps and about 12 to 15 months. In practice, you choose a program at a DLI, take IELTS or PTE, get your Letter of Acceptance and PAL/TAL, and prepare your funds and documents.
Then you apply online for your study permit, give biometrics, do your medical and wait for a decision. Canada has three intakes, and September fills up first.
Main points from this page
Canada is one of the top choices for Nepali students. Before you can start, you need to understand the full application process, from choosing a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) to getting your study permit.
This guide walks you through the process step by step, with an intake calendar so you know when to apply. Whether you are applying after +2 or after a bachelor’s degree, it will help you avoid the most common mistakes.
These are the three things every student needs to get started. Our counsellors at Goreto can help you prepare them the right way.
Most Canadian colleges ask for at least 60% in +2 or bachelor’s. We’ll guide you on which programs match your grades.
IELTS, PTE or TOEFL. Your school sets the score. Goreto helps you choose the right test, register and prepare so your scores are ready on time.
Show your first-year tuition plus CAD 23,448 for living costs. Our team explains exactly how much you need in CAD and NPR, and the best way to present it.
There are eight steps, from choosing a school to landing in Canada. Start 12 to 15 months before your intake, because tests, admission, PAL/TAL and the study permit each take time.
Goreto can guide you at every stage so nothing gets missed.
Pick a program that fits your past study and career plan, at a Canadian college or university on IRCC’s Designated Learning Institution list. Goreto helps you compare options that fit your grades and budget.
Book your English test early. Results usually come within a few days to two weeks, and you may want time for a retake. See the minimum IELTS and PTE scores for each study level. For French-language programs, schools usually accept TEF Canada or TCF (and sometimes DELF or DALF).
Submit your application with transcripts, test scores and the application fee (usually CAD 100 to 250 per school). Popular September programs can fill months before the deadline. If your LOA has conditions, meet them before you apply for the visa. If you study in Quebec, you also need a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) from the Quebec government before you apply for your study permit.
Many colleges ask for a tuition deposit before they issue a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL). You need it for diploma, postgraduate certificate and bachelor’s programs. Master’s and PhD students at public DLIs are exempt from 1 January 2026.
Show your first-year tuition plus CAD 23,448 for living costs, with a clear source of funds. You will also need an NOC from the Ministry of Education to send tuition abroad. See the full document checklist on our Canada student visa requirements page.
Submit your application in your IRCC account with the study permit fee (CAD 150) and biometrics fee (CAD 85). Goreto reviews every file before submission to reduce errors.
Book biometrics at the visa application centre in Kathmandu and complete your medical exam with a panel physician. The officer may ask for more documents or an interview. Check the current wait on the IRCC processing times page.
If you are approved, you receive a port of entry letter. Your actual study permit is issued when you land in Canada. Then book flights, arrange housing and join Goreto’s pre-departure briefing.
Canada has three intakes: September (Fall), January (Winter) and May (Spring/Summer). September has the most programs and scholarships, so it fills up first. The dates below are typical. Always check your school’s own deadline.
| Intake | Apply to schools | Apply for study permit |
|---|---|---|
| September (Fall) | October to February | By May or June |
| January (Winter) | May to September | By September or October |
| May (Spring/Summer) | September to December | By January or February |
Fewer programs start in May. See our guide to Canadian intakes for deadlines and program lists.
You travel with your port of entry letter, and the officer at the Canadian airport issues your study permit. Check every detail on the permit before you leave the counter, including your name, school, level of study and expiry date.
Interviews are not common, but the officer can ask for one. Know your program, your reasons for choosing Canada, who is funding you and your plans after study. Answer honestly and bring documents that support your file.
Most students are capable of studying in Canada. They just lose out because of small mistakes in the application process. At Goreto, our job is to make sure those errors never happen.
Most delays and refusals come from documents, not from the student’s ability. The most common problems are:
These are tied directly to visa approval, so we explain them in detail on our Canada student visa requirements page. For budgeting, see the cost to study in Canada.
Dhiraj combines his leadership experience with expert study abroad guidance, helping students like you choose the right universities, scholarships, and career paths. Approachable, knowledgeable, and committed to supporting you every step of your journey.
Start 12 to 15 months before your intake. You need time for IELTS or PTE, admission, the PAL/TAL, your funds and the study permit. For September, start by the previous summer.
Most do. Diploma, postgraduate certificate and bachelor’s students need one. From 1 January 2026, master’s and doctoral students at public DLIs are exempt. Your school arranges it.
Your first-year tuition plus CAD 23,448 for living costs (one person, outside Quebec). See the cost to study in Canada for the full budget in CAD and NPR.
You can reapply after fixing the issues that caused the refusal, usually funds, documents, or test scores. Goreto reviews refusal letters and helps students build a stronger case for reapplication.
Yes, but you must notify IRCC and ensure the new school is a DLI. Failing to do so may affect your status. Details are on the IRCC school transfer page.
It varies, so check the IRCC processing times page for Nepal. Incomplete documents or a missing PAL/TAL are the most common causes of delay. Goreto tracks your file and helps you answer IRCC requests quickly.
September, January and May. September is the main intake with the most programs. January is the second largest. May has fewer programs.
Not always, but it often helps. Many colleges ask for a deposit before they issue your LOA or PAL/TAL. A paid tuition receipt also makes your proof of funds stronger.
No. You need a Letter of Acceptance from a DLI, and a PAL/TAL unless you are exempt, before you apply.
Last updated:
Reference links
Important guidance note
This page provides general guidance about studying abroad. Requirements, fees and policies can change. For advice about your situation, speak with a Goreto counsellor before applying.
Book Your Free Consultation
From choosing the right country to finding scholarships and housing, our counselors will guide you at every step.
Choose the right country based on your goals
Find courses that match your career plan
Get guidance on colleges and universities
Plan your finances, scholarships & part-time jobs
Plan your abroad stay & post-study plan
Schedule a free consultation with our expert counselors to discuss your study
Schedule a free consultation with our expert counselors to discuss your study
