Student Visa – EmpireFly | Certified Canada Immigration Consultant in Nigeria

October 21, 2023

The Best Canadian Universities and Colleges for International Students

Canada is one of the most popular destinations for international students who want to pursue their higher education abroad. Canada offers a high-quality education system, a multicultural and welcoming society, a safe and beautiful environment, and a range of opportunities for career and personal growth. Canada also has a reputation for being affordable and accessible, with lower tuition fees and living costs than many other countries.

But with so many options to choose from, how can international students find the best Canadian universities and colleges for their needs? There is no definitive answer to this question, as different institutions may have different strengths, specializations, reputations, locations, and admission requirements. However, there are some factors that international students can consider when researching and comparing Canadian universities and colleges, such as:

Ranking: Ranking is one way of measuring the academic quality and reputation of an institution. There are various ranking systems that evaluate universities and colleges based on different criteria, such as research output, teaching quality, student satisfaction, employability, innovation, and internationalization. Some of the most widely used ranking systems are QS World University Rankings, Times Higher Education World University Rankings, U.S. News Best Global Universities Rankings, Academic Ranking of World Universities, and Maclean’s University Rankings. Ranking can give international students an idea of how well an institution performs in comparison to others in Canada and around the world.
Accreditation: Accreditation is another way of ensuring the quality and recognition of an institution. Accreditation means that an institution has met certain standards of quality and excellence set by an external body or agency. Accreditation can be granted by provincial or territorial governments, professional associations, or international organizations. Accreditation can give international students confidence that their degree or diploma will be recognized and valued by employers, other institutions, and immigration authorities.
Programs: Programs are the specific courses of study that an institution offers. Programs can vary in length, level, content, format, delivery mode, admission requirements, tuition fees, and outcomes. Programs can be classified into different types, such as undergraduate programs (bachelor’s degrees), graduate programs (master’s degrees or doctoral degrees), diploma programs (one or two years of post-secondary education), certificate programs (short-term courses), or professional programs (programs that prepare students for a specific profession or occupation). Programs can also be categorized into different fields or disciplines, such as arts and humanities, business and management, engineering and technology, health and medicine, science and mathematics, or social sciences. Programs can give international students an opportunity to pursue their academic interests and career goals in Canada.
Location: Location is another important factor to consider when choosing a Canadian university or college. Location can affect the cost of living, the climate, the culture, the transportation options, the availability of services and facilities, the safety and security, and the overall experience of living and studying in Canada. Canada is a vast country with 10 provinces and three territories that have different geographic features, weather patterns, languages, histories, cultures, laws, and regulations. Location can also influence the admission requirements and tuition fees of an institution. For example, some provinces may require international students to have a higher level of English or French proficiency than others; some provinces may charge higher tuition fees than others; some provinces may offer more scholarships or financial aid than others; some provinces may have more immigration pathways or opportunities than others. Location can help international students find the best place to live and study in Canada according to their preferences and circumstances.

Based on these factors (and others), here are some examples of Canadian universities and colleges that are considered to be among the best for international students:

University of Toronto: Located in downtown Toronto, Ontario (Canada’s largest city), the University of Toronto (U of T) is ranked as the top Canadian university by several ranking systems ¹. U of T is known for its excellence in research, innovation, and education across a wide range of disciplines. U of T has three campuses (St. George Campus, Mississauga Campus, and Scarborough Campus) that offer more than 700 undergraduate programs and 200 graduate programs to over 90 000 students from more than 160 countries ¹. U of T also has partnerships with many leading institutions around the world and offers various opportunities for international exchange study abroad and global learning ¹. U of T has a diverse vibrant and supportive community that celebrates cultural differences and fosters global citizenship ¹.
McGill University: Located in Montreal Quebec (Canada’s second-largest city) McGill University is ranked as one of the top Canadian universities by several ranking systems². McGill University is renowned for its academic excellence research impact and student experience across a broad spectrum of disciplines. McGill University has two campuses (Downtown Campus and Macdonald Campus) that offer more than 300 undergraduate and 400 graduate programs to over 40,000 students from more than 150 countries. McGill University also has collaborations with many prestigious institutions around the world and offers various opportunities for international mobility, research, and engagement. McGill University has a multicultural, cosmopolitan, and bilingual community that embraces diversity and fosters intercultural understanding.
- University of British Columbia: Located in Vancouver, British Columbia (Canada’s third-largest city), the University of British Columbia (UBC) is ranked as one of the top Canadian universities by several ranking systems. UBC is recognized for its excellence in teaching, research, innovation, and sustainability across a wide range of disciplines. UBC has two campuses (Vancouver Campus and Okanagan Campus) that offer more than 200 undergraduate programs and 500 graduate programs to over 65,000 students from more than 160 countries. UBC also has partnerships with many leading institutions around the world and offers various opportunities for international collaboration, exchange, study abroad, and service learning. UBC has a diverse, inclusive, and dynamic community that values cultural differences and promotes global citizenship.
- Seneca College: Located in Toronto, Ontario, Seneca College is one of the largest public colleges in Canada. Seneca College offers more than 150 diploma, certificate, degree, and graduate programs to over 100,000 students from more than 140 countries. Seneca College also offers English language programs, academic upgrading programs, and pathway programs to help international students prepare for their academic studies in Canada. Seneca College has four campuses (Newnham Campus, King Campus, Markham Campus, and Seneca@York Campus) that are equipped with modern facilities and resources to support student learning and success. Seneca College has a multicultural, diverse, and friendly community that provides various services and supports for international students.
- Humber College: Located in Toronto, Ontario, Humber College is one of the most comprehensive public colleges in Canada. Humber College offers more than 200 diploma, certificate, degree, and postgraduate programs to over 85,000 students from more than 130 countries. Humber College also offers English language programs, academic upgrading programs, and pathway programs to help international students prepare for their academic studies in Canada. Humber College has three campuses (North Campus, Lakeshore Campus, and Orangeville Campus) that are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and resources to support student learning and success. Humber College has a multicultural, diverse, and welcoming community that provides various services and supports for international students.
These are just some examples of the best Canadian universities and colleges for international students. There are many other institutions that may suit different needs and preferences of international students. To find the best Canadian university or college for you, you can use our search tool to explore programs across the country including business and marketing, education, engineering, finance, health care, information technology, law, nursing, science or sustainable technologies. You can also contact us at Empirefly International Nigeria for more information and guidance on choosing the right institution applying for admission securing scholarships or financial aid obtaining student visas finding accommodation and settling in Canada. Empirefly International Nigeria is your trusted partner for your education journey in Canada.

Canada is a great choice for international students who want to pursue their higher education abroad. Canada offers a high-quality education system, a multicultural and welcoming society, a safe and beautiful environment, and a range of opportunities for career and personal growth. Canada also has a reputation for being affordable and accessible, with lower tuition fees and living costs than many other countries.

There are many Canadian universities and colleges that are among the best for international students. However, finding the best one for you depends on your academic interests, career goals, budget, preferences, and circumstances. You can use our search tool to explore programs across the country in various fields and disciplines. You can also contact us at Empirefly International Nigeria for more information and guidance on choosing the right institution, applying for admission, securing scholarships or financial aid, obtaining student visas, finding accommodation, and settling in Canada.

Don’t miss this opportunity to study in Canada and achieve your dreams. Contact us today and let us help you make it happen! Empirefly International Nigeria is your trusted partner for your education journey in Canada.

August 28, 2023

The Benefits of Studying and Working in Canada

By administrator Blog, Student Visa

Canada is one of the most popular destinations for international students who want to pursue their higher education and career goals. Canada offers many benefits for students who choose to study and work in this country, such as:

High-quality education: Canada has a world-class education system that is recognized globally for its excellence and innovation. Canada has some of the top-ranked universities and colleges in the world, offering a wide range of programs and degrees for students of all interests and levels. Canada also has a strong reputation for research and development, providing students with opportunities to learn from leading experts and participate in cutting-edge projects.
Affordable cost of living: Compared to other countries, Canada has a relatively low cost of living, making it more affordable for students to study and work in this country. Canada offers various scholarships, grants, and financial aid options for international students, as well as lower tuition fees than many other countries. Students can also save money by taking advantage of the public health care system, the public transportation system, and the tax benefits for students.
Work opportunities: One of the biggest benefits of studying and working in Canada is that international students can work while they study, without needing a separate work permit. Students can work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions, and up to 40 hours per week during scheduled breaks, allowing them to earn money, gain valuable work experience, and enhance their skills. Students can also work on or off campus, depending on their eligibility and preferences. After graduating, students can apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP), which allows them to work in Canada for up to three years, depending on the length of their program. This can help them gain more Canadian work experience and qualify for permanent residency or citizenship.
Immigration pathways: Another benefit of studying and working in Canada is that it opens up many immigration pathways for international students who want to stay in Canada permanently. Canada has several immigration programs that are designed for international students, such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). These programs allow students to apply for permanent residency based on their education, work experience, language skills, and other factors. Canada also has a fast and easy Express Entry system that ranks and selects candidates for immigration based on their comprehensive ranking system (CRS) score.
Multicultural diversity: Canada is a multicultural and diverse country that welcomes people from all backgrounds, cultures, religions, and lifestyles. Canada has a rich history and heritage of immigration, making it a tolerant and inclusive society that respects human rights and equality. Canada also has two official languages, English and French, as well as many other languages spoken by its population. Students can learn new languages, experience different cultures, make new friends, and enjoy various festivals and events in Canada.
Natural beauty: Canada is also known for its natural beauty and scenic landscapes that offer many opportunities for outdoor activities and recreation. Canada has vast areas of wilderness, forests, mountains, lakes, rivers, coasts, and islands that are home to diverse wildlife and flora. Students can explore the national parks, ski resorts, hiking trails, camping sites, fishing spots, and other attractions in Canada. They can also witness the natural wonders of Canada, such as the Niagara Falls, the Northern Lights, the Rocky Mountains, and the Bay of Fundy.

These are some of the benefits of studying and working in Canada that make it an attractive and rewarding choice for international students. If you are interested in studying and working in Canada, contact Empire Fly today for a free assessment and consultation. Empire Fly is a trusted and certified Canada immigration agency in Nigeria that can help you with your visa application, admission process, accommodation arrangement, travel planning, settlement support, and more. Start your journey to Canada with Empire Fly today!

April 17, 2023

The best ways to prepare for a study visa application to Canada for Nigerians.

By administrator Blog, Education Visa, Immigration Issues, Student Visa, visa

Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity for many students worldwide, and Canada is a popular destination for international students. With its world-class education system, welcoming culture, and diverse communities, it’s easy to see why so many students choose to study in Canada. However, the process of obtaining a study visa can be daunting, especially for those who are unfamiliar with Canadian visa requirements. In this blog post, we’ll provide a more detailed guide on the best ways to prepare for a study visa application to Canada.

Research the Requirements: The first step in preparing for a study visa application to Canada is to research the requirements. The Canadian government’s website provides detailed information on what is required for a study visa application. You will need to submit a number of documents, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, proof of financial support, and language proficiency test scores. You will also need to pay a visa application fee.
Choose the Right Program and Institution: Choosing the right program and institution is important when applying for a study visa to Canada. Canada has many reputable colleges and universities that offer a wide range of programs. Make sure you choose a program that aligns with your career goals and an institution with a good reputation. This will increase your chances of being accepted and can also make the visa application process smoother.
Gather All Required Documents: Gathering all the necessary documents is crucial for a successful study visa application. It’s important to have a clear understanding of what documents are required and to gather them well in advance of your application. Ensure you have all the necessary documents, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, proof of financial support, and language proficiency test scores.
Take a Language Proficiency: Test As English or French is the language of instruction in most Canadian institutions, international students are required to take a language proficiency test. The most commonly accepted tests are IELTS and TOEFL. Make sure you take the test well in advance of your application and achieve the required score although most schools do waive these test scores if your native Language is English.
Apply Early: Applying early for a study visa to Canada is always a good idea. This will give you plenty of time to gather all the necessary documents, take any required tests, and ensure that your application is complete. It will also give you time to make any necessary corrections or amendments to your application.
Consult with a Professional: If you are unsure about any aspect of the study visa application process, it is always a good idea to consult with a professional. There are many immigration consultants and lawyers who can help you navigate the process and answer any questions you may have which is one of our major job descriptions at Empirefly.

In conclusion, obtaining a study visa to Canada requires careful planning and preparation. By researching the requirements, choosing the right program and institution, gathering all necessary documents, taking a language proficiency test, applying early, and consulting with a professional, you can make the application process smoother and increase your chances of success. Studying in Canada is an incredible opportunity and taking the time to properly prepare for your study visa application can help you make the most of your experience.

January 21, 2023

Studying in Canada: A Step-by-Step Guide for Nigerian Students Applying for a Study Visa

By administrator Blog, Student Visa

Canada is a popular destination for students from around the world, including Nigeria, looking for high-quality education and a diverse cultural experience. One of the ways for Nigerian students to study in Canada is through a study visa. This visa allows international students to come to Canada to study at a designated learning institution (DLI). In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to apply for a study visa as a Nigerian student.

First and foremost, it is important to understand the basic requirements for a study visa. To be eligible, applicants must:

have a valid letter of acceptance from a DLI in Canada
have proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses while in Canada
have a clear criminal record and pass a medical examination (if required)
provide a letter of explanation about the purpose of their studies in Canada
meet the minimum language proficiency requirements as set by the Canadian government

Once the basic requirements are met, the next step is to gather all the necessary documents to support the application. This includes a valid passport, evidence of financial support, and proof of language proficiency. It is important to note that the visa application fee must also be paid at this stage.

It is also important to note that the application process for a study visa can take several months, so it is advisable to apply well in advance of the intended travel date. It is also important to keep in mind that the visa is usually issued for the duration of the program of study, which usually varies from 6 months to 2 years.

In addition to the above, it is also important to prepare for the interview process. During the interview, the visa officer will ask questions about the student’s plans while in Canada, their ties to their home country, and their financial situation. It is important to be honest and provide detailed and accurate information.

Another important aspect to consider is the financial requirement. The applicant must provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses while in Canada. The amount varies based on the province and the institution, but usually, it ranges from CAD 10,000 to CAD 20,000 per year.

It is also important to note that the study visa is a single-entry visa, which means that the holder can enter Canada only once and cannot leave and re-enter Canada until the visa gets expired or if the student gets a multiple-entry visa.

In conclusion, a study visa is a great option for Nigerian students looking to study in Canada. By understanding the basic requirements, gathering all the necessary documents, preparing for the interview process, and having sufficient funds, applicants can increase their chances of success. It is also important to keep in mind that the process can take several months, so it is advisable to apply well in advance of the intended travel date. With proper planning and preparation, a study visa can be a great way for Nigerian students to achieve their dream of studying in Canada.

July 8, 2022

Canadian Study Permit Applications Refused? See 5 Common Reasons Why and How to Address Them

By administrator Student Visa

Studying in Canada is a dream come true for many Nigerian students. When you receive a letter of acceptance from a Canadian school, it might seem like the hard part is over. However, the truth is that it can be a lot harder to get a Canadian study permit than you think.

OVERCOME YOUR STUDY PERMIT REFUSAL

According to information from IRCC, about 30 percent of all study permit applications are refused. Since studying in Canada is so popular, that’s tens of thousands of prospective students who have been accepted to a Canadian school, but whose study permit applications are refused.

What Can I Do If My Study Permit Application Is Refused?

If your study permit application is refused by IRCC, there are two courses of action you can take:

Appeal the refusal, or;
Address the reason(s) it was refused in a new application.

To be successful either way, you first need to understand why your application was refused. Usually, the main reason for refusal will be listed in the refusal letter you receive. You can also request access to the notes the visa officer reviewing your file made, to get a better idea of how to address the concerns brought up.

1. IRCC questions your ability to financially support yourself

When you submit a study permit application, you need to demonstrate that you have enough money to pay for the trip to Canada, pay your tuition fees, and support yourself and any accompanying family members while you’re studying.

This is called “show money”. Usually, the government asks for six months of bank statements that show that you have enough show money. If the government doesn’t believe that you have enough money to support yourself and your family in Canada, they could refuse your application.

How to address a problem with show money:

If your application is refused because IRCC questions your ability to financially support yourself, you should carefully review the financial documents you submitted with your application. Make sure that you address the concerns raised by the visa officer and submit additional documents to prove that you meet the show money requirement.

The amount of show money required is sometimes intimidating to clients who don’t want to spend such a large amount. Don’t worry! You do not need to spend the show money. You only need to show the Canadian government that the funds are available to you, if you need them.

2. IRCC questions whether you will leave the country after your studies

A study permit is a temporary visa, which means that it has a validity period and an expiration date. In your study permit application, you need to convince the visa officer that you will leave the country when your study permit expires.

That does not mean that you cannot apply to extend your study permit, or stay permanently. In fact, there are many programs designed by the government to help students stay and work in Canada following their studies, or transition to permanent residence.

What it means is that the visa officer has to trust that you will not stay in the country illegally when you are out of status. Usually, this is a problem if you don’t demonstrate that you have good reasons to want to return home.

How to address a problem of intent:

Usually, the only way to address this concern is in your personal statement. If the visa officer isn’t convinced with the narrative you’ve provided them, you need to rework your statement to try to address their concerns directly. Keep in mind the concept of dual intent. Applicants with dual intent can have the intention to come to Canada temporarily as a student or worker, while also intending to stay permanently.

Providing the visa officer with a convincing narrative for why you want to come study in Canada, and why you will return home after you graduate, is one of the trickiest parts of your application. In-depth knowledge of the kinds of things that can concern visa officers, and how to address them, can go a long way here.

3. IRCC questions your choice of program

Study permit applications are sometimes refused if the visa officer doesn’t understand the logic of your choice of program. Someone with a bachelor’s in nursing from the Philippines and four years of experience working as a nurse who wants to study hotel management, for example, could be questioned. The chosen program in Canada doesn’t seem to align very well with the applicant’s educational background or employment.

How to address a problem with program choice:

If the program you have chosen seems odd, given your past education or work experience, you need to clearly explain why you want to study it in your personal statement. This is another case where seeing the visa officer’s notes can really help.

Even if it doesn’t seem obvious, applicants usually have good reasons for choosing the programs they apply to. In the example above, maybe the nurse’s uncle recently purchased a hotel, and he or she wants to change career paths to help him manage his business. However, you have to clearly communicate your motive to the visa officer so they can understand your choice.

4. IRCC questions your letter of acceptance

Before you can apply for a study permit, you have to receive a letter of acceptance from a Canadian educational institution. The school that issues your letter of acceptance has to be a registered Canadian educational institution. You also have to meet all program requirements. If the visa officer doubts that your letter of acceptance is genuine, or that you have actually met the program requirements, he or she might refuse your letter of acceptance.

How to address a problem with your letter of acceptance:

Review the school documents that you submitted. Make sure that all of the documents are clear and easy to read, and provide any additional supporting documents that you can.

Unfortunately, there are some fake institutions designed to cheat people out of their money by issuing fake acceptance letters and charging application and tuition fees. Check to make sure that the school you were accepted to is on this list of designated learning institutions.

5. IRCC questions your travel or identity documents

If you don’t have a complete record of your travel history, or if your identity documents are unclear, IRCC may refuse your study permit application. IRCC must be able to identify if you are medically or criminally inadmissible to Canada.

How to address a problem with travel or identity documents:

If the visa officer thinks there are blank spaces in your travel history, review the documents you submitted and the visa officer’s notes to find what time periods are problematic. When you re-apply, be sure to include additional supporting evidence to cover these periods.

If the problem is with your identity documents, review your application to make sure that they were clear and easy to read.

Take the guesswork out of your application. Trust Empire Fly to help you prepare a complete study permit application that addresses the visa officer’s concerns before they even come up!