Why Your Canada Study Permit Gets Rejected and How to Avoid It

Canada continues to be one of the most popular destinations for higher education and international exposure. However, securing a study permit has become increasingly challenging for Indian students. In 2024 alone, 290,000 applications were rejected, and the approval rate dropped to 48% from 60% previously. For Indian applicants, the approval rate has fallen even further.

High Rejection Rates for Indian Students
Data shared by Canada’s Immigration Department with Reuters revealed that as of August 2025, the study permit rejection rate for Indian students had surged to 74%, compared to 32% in August 2023. Many applicants feel their documents are complete, yet their applications are still denied.

Why Applications Get Rejected

1. Doubt About Leaving Canada – Many applications are rejected because visa officers suspect students will not return home after completing their studies. Even if you plan to work on a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), your application must clearly show your intention to return to India.
2. Insufficient Funds – Students must demonstrate they have adequate finances to cover tuition and living expenses. At a minimum, applicants should have CAD 22,895 available for study in Canada.
3. Incomplete Documentation – Applications lacking critical documents like the Letter of Acceptance from the university or academic transcripts are often rejected. Non-English or non-French documents require certified translations.

Tips to Avoid Rejection

1. Write a Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Clearly explain why you want to study in Canada, why you chose your course, and how you plan to return to India after completing your degree.
2. Proof of Funds – Show at least six months of consistent bank statements proving sufficient savings. Avoid depositing large amounts immediately before applying, as it may appear suspicious.
3. Double-Check Documents – Verify that all required documents, including the Letter of Acceptance, are submitted and properly translated if needed.

Following these steps significantly increases your chances of approval. Additionally, regularly check the IRCC website for updates to ensure compliance with the latest requirements.