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Why January Is the Perfect Time to Start Your Study Permit Application

Aderayo Olabisi Adepoju

13 January 2025 | Last updated 13 January 2025

{"ops":[{"insert":"If studying in Canada is part of your academic aspirations, timing is everything when it comes to your study permit application. Starting your application process in January can be a game-changer, especially if you're aiming for the September intake. Early planning not only reduces stress but also sets you up for success with shorter processing times and better preparation. Here’s why January is the perfect month to kick off your study permit application journey.\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"size":"large","bold":true},"insert":"1. Beat the Rush and Shorten Processing Times"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\nImmigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) typically experiences an influx of study permit applications closer to intake deadlines. By starting in January, you can submit your application before the rush, leading to faster processing times and a smoother experience.\n\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"The Benefit:"},{"insert":"\nAvoid last-minute delays caused by high application volumes."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Get your study permit decision earlier, allowing you to focus on other preparations."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"size":"large","bold":true},"insert":"2. Ample Time to Gather and Perfect Your Documents"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\nA study permit application requires several essential documents, including proof of acceptance, financial support, and language proficiency. Starting early in January gives you enough time to gather, verify, and refine these documents to avoid errors or omissions that could delay your application.\n\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Pro Tip:"},{"insert":"\nDouble-check all documents for accuracy and ensure translations are certified if needed."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Use January to request documents like transcripts or proof of funds from your bank."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"size":"large","bold":true},"insert":"3. Secure a Spot in the September Intake"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\nThe September intake, also known as the Fall intake, is the most popular for international students. Starting your study permit process in January ensures you’re well ahead of deadlines, increasing your chances of securing a spot in your desired program and institution.\n\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Key Advantage:"},{"insert":"\nAvoid missing out on competitive programs with limited seats."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"align":"center"},"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"size":"large","bold":true},"insert":"4. More Time to Plan Your Move"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\nRelocating to a new country involves more than just securing a study permit. You’ll need to arrange housing, book flights, and familiarize yourself with Canadian culture and climate. By starting your application in January, you’ll have a comfortable timeline to handle these critical tasks without rushing.\n\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Early Start Checklist:"},{"insert":"\nResearch on-campus or off-campus housing options."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Book affordable flights before prices peak."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Prepare for life in Canada, including health insurance and banking."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"size":"large","bold":true},"insert":"5. Access Scholarships and Financial Aid"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\nMany Canadian institutions and external organisations offer scholarships and financial aid, with deadlines often falling early in the year. Starting your application in January allows you to explore these opportunities and secure funding to ease your financial burden.\n\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Pro Tip:"},{"insert":"\nCheck scholarship eligibility criteria and application deadlines well in advance."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"size":"large","bold":true},"insert":"6. Ample Time for Language Proficiency Tests"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\nLanguage proficiency is a key requirement for studying in Canada. Starting in January gives you plenty of time to prepare for and take recognized tests like IELTS, or PTE, ensuring you meet your chosen institution's language requirements.\n\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"What You Can Do:"},{"insert":"\nSchedule your test early and leave room to retake it if needed."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"Use your test results to strengthen your study permit application."},{"attributes":{"list":"bullet"},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\n"},{"attributes":{"size":"large","bold":true},"insert":"7. Get Expert Guidance Early On"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\nNavigating the study permit process can be daunting, but starting early gives you the opportunity to seek expert help and address potential challenges before they arise.\n\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"How Shirah Can Help:"},{"insert":"\nAt Shirah, we specialize in simplifying the study permit process for international students. From document review to crafting compelling study plans, our team is here to support you every step of the way.\n\n"},{"attributes":{"size":"large","bold":true},"insert":"Start Early and Secure Your Success"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\nJanuary isn’t just the start of a new year—it’s the perfect time to take the first step toward your Canadian academic dream. Early planning gives you a clear advantage, from shorter processing times to better preparation for the September intake.\n"},{"attributes":{"bold":true},"insert":"Ready to kickstart your application?"},{"insert":" Use our predictive calculator to assess your readiness and identify areas for improvement. Don’t wait— Go to "},{"attributes":{"color":"#1155cc","link":"http://www.shirah.co/calculator"},"insert":"www.shirah.co/calculator"},{"insert":". It is free, fast and easy to use to get actionable plans for your relocation goals .\n\n"}]}

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