Study Visa · Master's (Graduate)

Pursuing a master’s degree in Canada gives students access to advanced education, research opportunities, scholarships, and a clear path to work and permanent residence after graduation.

Benefits of a master’s degree in Canada

• High-quality education and research facilities
• Affordable tuition compared to other Western countries
• Globally recognized degree
• Research-based scholarships in many programs
• Post-graduation work permit and permanent residence pathway

Master’s program structure

A master’s program in Canada typically lasts one to two years and includes 45 to 60 credits. Programs are offered in two formats:

• Course-based: students complete coursework and may finish with a project; no supervisor is required in advance
• Thesis / research-based: students complete coursework plus a research thesis supervised by a professor; a supervisor must agree to supervise before admission

Online master’s programs

Many Canadian universities offer master’s programs both on-campus and online. However, to be eligible for a Canadian study permit, the program must be in-person and full-time. During the COVID-19 pandemic, temporary exceptions allowed online study for in-person programs, but normal in-person requirements have now returned.

Required documents

• Translated bachelor’s degree and transcripts, plus Persian copies
• Resume / CV
• Letter of motivation related to the field of study
• Language test result (sent officially from the test center after admission)
• Two or three recommendation letters from professors or employers, depending on program requirements
• Valid passport scan

Language requirements

English-language universities in Canada accept a range of test scores. Commonly accepted English tests include IELTS, TOEFL, CAEL, PTE, EFAS, IEAP, CPE, CAE, and Duolingo (accepted by some universities during COVID-19 disruptions). French-language universities accept French tests such as TEF, TCF, and DELF/DALF.

Application steps for a master’s program

• Visit the university website and create an account in the graduate application portal
• Enter personal information including name, address, and phone number
• Select the program and intended intake term
• Enter academic history, work experience, research background, and language scores
• Provide contact details for two or three referees with academic emails
• Upload all required documents in the application portal
• Enter payment information and submit the application
• Save the application number for all future correspondence
• Wait for the application review and decision
• After receiving the offer letter, send official translated transcripts by the deadline specified by the university

Study permit fees

The main government fees for a Canadian study permit application are:

• Study permit application fee: CAD 150
• Open work permit for accompanying spouse: CAD 255
• Visitor visa for accompanying family member: CAD 100
• Visitor visa for accompanying minor: CAD 100
• Biometrics fee: CAD 85