SPP and Non SPP Visa Requirements to Study in Canada

Archana S Image Archana S

Mar 4, 2024 | 4 min read

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Are you planning to pursue your higher education in Canada? If so, then you must know about SPP and non-SPP requirements to study in Canada. Continue reading to get complete information!

SPP and Non SPP Visa Requirements to Study in Canada

A large number of top-ranked universities in Canada offer quality education across a wide range of disciplines. International students can apply to top colleges in Canada through SPP or non-SPP. Canadian colleges that participate in SPP programs also accept non-SPP applications. The major difference between these two types of visa applications is the number of documents required. Learn about the SPP and non SPP requirements to study in Canada through this article.

Table of Contents

Student Partnership Program (SPP)

An SPP is an agreement between selected Canadian colleges and the High Commission of Canada in India that offers international students quick and easy student visas. Under SPP, visas are processed quickly, and you have to provide fewer documents.

In 2009, this program was launched in an effort to streamline the visa process for aspirants willing to study at specific Canadian universities. Currently, there are more than 50 participating institutions under SPP.

Documents Required for SPP Visa Application

Following are the important documents required for an SPP visa application:

  • An acceptance letter from SPP participating college
  • An IELTS score sheet with a minimum overall band of 6.0 for undergraduate programs and 6.5 for postgraduate programs is required
  • A mark sheet with at least a 55% score is required for undergraduate programs
  • For postgraduate courses, a bachelor's degree or three to four years of advanced diploma with a minimum of 50% or higher is required
  • Proof of work experience
  • Proof of payment of the tuition fee
  • Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) worth $10,000 to cover living expenses
  • Medical test results by approved panel doctors
  • Visa fee of $150

How to Apply for SPP Colleges?

Well, there is no specific application process for SPP colleges in Canada. If you apply to a Canadian university participating in the SPP programs and meet certain eligibility requirements, you will be selected for the program.

If selected, you will need to undergo a medical test at a medical centre approved by the Canadian Government. You will then need to purchase a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of $10,000 to cover your living expenses for the first year.

 If you wish to obtain an SPP visa, you should apply for admission at least three months before the deadline to ensure you have sufficient time to take the medical test, purchase the GIC and complete any other formalities required.

Advantages of Student Partnership Program (SPP)

There are many advantages of studying at SPP colleges in Canada. Some of these advantages are mentioned as follows:

  • Less documentation required for visas
  • Visa processing is faster
  • Increased chances of selection
  • The number of visas rejected is low
  • Backlogs are permitted
  • Proof of income tax is not required

List of SPP Colleges in Canada

There are several non-SPP colleges in Canada offering programs at undergraduate and postgraduate levels in a wide array of disciplines. Some of the top SPP colleges in Canada are listed below:

General (Non-SPP)

The other option for applying to Canadian universities is through non-SPP visa applications, where there are different requirements and visa processes since more detailed documents are required. Colleges participating in the SPP program also accept non-SPP applications.

One of the main differences between SPP and non-SPP applications is the need for more detailed proof of funding. The Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) is not required for non-SPP applications.

Documents Required for Non-SPP Visa Application

The necessary documents required for a non-SPP visa application are listed below:

  • An acceptance letter from college
  • An IELTS score sheet with a minimum overall band of 6.0 for undergraduate programs and 6.5 for postgraduate programs is required
  • For undergraduate programs, the 12th-grade mark sheet is required
  • For postgraduate courses, a bachelor's degree or three to four years of advanced diploma with a minimum of 50% or higher is required
  • Proof of work experience, along with payslips of last three months
  • Proof of payment of the tuition fee
  • Evidence of funds to cover living expenses (investments, education loan, bank savings, etc.)
  • Proof of income can be provided by Form 16 or income tax returns of either the student or sponsor
  • Medical test results by approved panel doctors
  • Visa fee of $150

List of Non-SPP Colleges in Canada

As you are now aware of the non-SPP visa requirements, let’s take a look at a few of the non-SPP Canadian colleges that you can apply for. Listed below are some of Canada's top non-SPP colleges and universities:

Post Study Work Permit in Canada

The work permit norms for international students remain the same regardless of whether they have graduated from an SPP or Non-SPP college in Canada. Candidates are granted a maximum work visa duration equal to the course duration that they have studied in the country. Here are some points that you must keep in mind to apply for a post-study work permit:

  • You must apply within 90 days of completing your course. 
  • You must be enrolled in a full-time study program in Canada.
  • The duration of the course must be at least 8 months. 
  • You must possess a valid canada study permit.

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