Canada is at the top of the list of nations with international students who plan to obtain a Canadian study visa in 2025. The figure of over 1 million foreign students in Canada as of 2025 is anticipated, and Nigeria ranks among the top ten. Canada attracts international students with its highly ranked universities, relatively lower tuition fees, post-study work visas, and route to permanent residency.
But seeking to study in Canada is tiresome with all the forms to complete, complying with stringent financial requirements, translating biometrics, visa requirements, etc. That is where an expert study abroad consultant such as Ileiwe Education comes in.
This A-Z guide would take you through each step that forms part of securing your Canada Study Visa in 2025, covering facts, figures, and expert opinions to ease your process.
Why study in Canada in 2025?
Canada has a mix of high-quality education, multiculturalism, and migrant-friendly policies. The following are some good reasons:
World-ranked universities: University of Toronto, McGill, and UBC figure high on the international scale year after year.
Cost of education: Fees for education, living costs, etc., are lower compared to the US or UK.
Work-study options: International students can work part-time for up to 20 hours per week alongside study or full-time during semesters.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Allows graduates to work in Canada for up to 3 years.
Permanent residence pathway: Canada’s immigration program (Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs) facilitates the integration of graduates after studies.
Under CIC News (2024), more than 80% of international students intend to pursue permanent residence post-graduation — proof of Canada as the top destination for studying and immigrating to.
Types of Canada Study Visa
The majority of international students require a Study Permit, rather than a visa, to study in Canada. The main ones include:
Regular Study Permit: Students enrolled in institutions designated as learning institutions (DLIs).
Student Direct Stream (SDS): Streamlined stream of visa processing for students from specific countries, such as Nigeria, with more documentation and higher financial documentation.
Short-Term Study Visa: For study for a duration of six months or less.
Your Ileiwe advisor will help you determine which route will be best suited for your study plan and history.
Canada Study Visa Eligibility Requirements (2025)
You’ll need to meet these primary requirements to qualify for a study permit:
Proof of acceptance by Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
Valid passport (need to cover your duration of studies).
Proof of financial support — at least CAD 20,635 per year to cover living expenses (as updated by IRCC in 2024), and tuition fees, as well as travel.
Letter of explanation (SOP) to talk about your reason for studying.
Medical exam and biometrics for Nigerian applicants.
Police clearance certificate (if necessary).
Ileiwe’s expert consultants ensure your documentation meets IRCC standards and that nothing critical is missed during submission.
Step-by-Step Application Process for a Canada Study Visa
Here is a rundown of the Canada student visa application process in 2025:
Step 1: Get Admission
Apply to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and receive your Letter of Acceptance (LOA). Ileiwe is partnered with top-ranked Canadian universities and colleges and helps you choose the most appropriate one for your education and budget.
Step 2: Preparation of Financial Proof
Present proof that you can finance your tuition fee, living expenses, and housing. The documents can be:
Bank statements (6-month history)
Sponsorship letters (guardians or parents)
Proof of student loan or scholarship
Step 3: Gather Supporting Documents
Gather required documents:
Valid passport
Passport photos
Letter of intent / Statement of Purpose
Academic transcripts and certificates
IELTS or TOEFL scores (if required)
Step 4: Online Application Submission
Create an account on the IRCC website and submit your online application. Upload documents and pay CAD 150 application fee and CAD 85 biometric fee.
Step 5: Medicals and Biometrics
Visit your nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC) for biometrics. Approved clinics conduct your medical examination.
Step 6: Wait for Decision
Processing usually takes 4–8 weeks. During this period, the IRCC may request additional documents.
Once approved, you’ll receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction and a temporary resident visa stamped in your passport.
Canada Study Visa Success Rates for Nigerians
Recent data paints a hopeful picture for Nigerian students:
In 2019, acceptance of Nigerian study permits in Canada stood at below 20%.
It reached about 40% in 2023 (CIC News, TheCable, 2024).
Nigeria is now one of the top 10 fastest-growing sources of foreign students to Canada.
A testament to the worth of professional advice — as best-prepared applications are far more likely to succeed.
At Ileiwe, we’ve recorded a 95% success rate for students we’ve guided through the Canadian visa process in the last two years.
Common Reasons for Canada Visa Rejection (and How to Avoid Them)
Insufficient funds
Present clear, verifiable bank documents. Ileiwe helps structure your proof of funds to meet IRCC standards.
Weak Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Write a compelling narrative on your academic goals, future plans, and ties to Nigeria.
Incomplete documents
Verify all documents uploaded.
Ambiguous reason for visit
Ileiwe walks students through the dance of honesty and intent — proving your intent is study, not immigration.
Scholarships and Financial Aid Options
Paying for your studies while in Canada doesn’t need to break the bank. Nigerian students can apply for scholarships such as:
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
University of British Columbia International Leader of Tomorrow Award
Government of Canada Banting Fellowships
BusinessDay NG states that Nigerians’ scholarships in 2021 rose to 43,200 from 12,845 in 2020 — a sign that properly documented applications now have a good chance.
Ileiwe helps you find and apply for such early opportunities.
Following Visa Approval — What Next
Following your visa approval, get ready to reside in Canada:
Book your flight and arrange airport pickup (Ileiwe’s support team assists with this).
Secure accommodation — many schools offer on-campus housing.
Register for a SIN (Social Insurance Number) for part-time jobs.
Attend Ileiwe’s pre-departure briefing, where you’ll learn cultural adaptation, budgeting, and safety tips.
Why Work with Ileiwe — The Best Study Abroad Consultant in Nigeria
Thousands of Nigerian students have trusted Ileiwe to guide their journey abroad. Here’s why:
Proven Track Record: 95% student visa approval success.
Seasoned Advisors: Our advisors have an insider’s understanding of visa officers’ requirements.
Individualized Strategy: We don’t provide generic tips — every student is unique.
Start-to-Finish Support: Admission to visa, flight, and after-arrival guidance.
Transparency: No hidden fees, empty assurances, or cookie-cutter advice.
Our goal is not just to send you abroad to study but to make you a success abroad.
Canada Study Visa 2025: Recent Developments You Should Know
New Financial Requirements (2024): Minimum proof of funds now CAD 20,635 for living expenses.
Biometrics required for all Nigerian applicants.
Online-only processing: No paper applications accepted anymore.
SDS expansion: Nigerian students can now apply through the Student Direct Stream for faster processing (effective Q4 2024).
PGWP extended policies: Studies of 2+ years now automatically make graduates eligible to get a 3-year work permit.
Tips for a Smooth Study Visa Journey In Canada
Start your visa process at least 4–6 months before your program begins.
Use Ileiwe’s document checklist to avoid missing items.
Attend our visa prep webinars to understand the interview and documentation.
Keep your communication professional on IRCC portals.
Track your application using Ileiwe’s progress dashboard.
Final Thoughts
Your Canadian Study Visa 2025 doesn’t need to be a headache. Proper documentation, expert guidance, and an understanding of the process are all you need to bring your study-in-Canada dream to life.
We at Ileiwe facilitate all the steps in an easy manner, from determining the top school for you to obtaining your visa and adjusting abroad. We can be your reliable partner on this journey to academic triumph globally.
