Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has released updated policy guidance for international students receiving scholarships or participating in exchange programs. These changes are particularly relevant for students applying under Global Affairs Canada (GAC)-funded programs, the Rotary Youth Exchange, and various private academic exchange partnerships.
Who Is Affected?
These new updates apply to:
- International students receiving Canadian or international scholarships
- Participants in Global Affairs Canada (GAC) programs
- Rotary Youth Exchange participants
- Students coming under short-term exchange programs
Scholarship Holders – Key Points
Students who are sponsored or funded through official scholarships may be assumed to meet the following conditions:
- Accepted into a recognized institution and program
- Meeting the required language criteria
- Having financial support covered for tuition and potentially living expenses
However, IRCC officers still have the discretion to request documents based on each application.
🧾 What Students Need to Prove:
- Proof that your scholarship covers tuition and living costs
- If not fully covered, you must show additional financial documentation
- If your scholarship includes family members, additional funds are required
Tip: Check your scholarship letter carefully—it must specify exactly what expenses are covered.
Refusals
IRCC may refuse a study permit if:
- The financial proof is insufficient
- The scholarship does not clearly cover both tuition and living expenses
So, don’t rely only on your award letter—make sure it’s detailed and aligns with IRCC’s financial requirements.
Global Affairs Canada (GAC) Scholarship Holders – Major Update
As of June 26, 2024, students funded by Global Affairs Canada (GAC) are exempt from the Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) requirement.
📄 Students must include their official scholarship letter in their study permit application to qualify for this exemption.
✅ If your scholarship is from GAC, you do not need to get a PAL from your province. This simplifies your application process.
📘 What Happens If You’re Inadmissible?
If a GAC scholarship recipient is refused a visa or study permit, IRCC will notify Global Affairs Canada directly.
GAC-Funded Scholarship Programs – Summary Table
| Program | Region | Duration | Level | Research? | Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ELAP | Americas (excl. US) | 4–6 months | Undergrad/Grad | Possible | ELAP |
| CCSEP | China | 4–12 months | Faculty/Professional | Yes | CCSEP |
| SEED | ASEAN | 4–8 months | Undergrad/Grad | Possible | N/A |
| UMAP | Asia-Pacific | 1 week–8 months | College/Grad | Possible | N/A |
| Fulbright | USA | 2 weeks–36 months | Grad/Postdoc | Yes | FKFP |
| Killam | USA | 4–10 months | Undergraduate | Possible | FKFP |
| PCBF | Francophonie | 1–4 years | Grad/Postdoc | Yes | N/A |
| CIDS 2030 | Dev. Countries | 1–4 years | College/Uni | Yes | N/A |
| SICS | Global | 4–6 months | Undergrad/Grad | Possible | N/A |
📌 *Note: Students under the Study in Canada Scholarships (SICS) are also eligible for a *Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
Rotary Exchange Students
- Open to 15–18 year-olds
- Sponsored by Rotary Clubs in Canada
- Study permit required, valid until August 31 of the following year
🧳 These students live with host families and attend school for a full academic year. IRCC issues study permits accordingly.
Other Exchange Programs
There are many short-term exchange programs funded by private organizations or educational institutions.
🟢 Study permit not required if:
- Stay is less than 6 months
- Program does not include work rights
🔴 Not eligible to work on or off-campus even if at the post-secondary level.
Data Sharing with GAC
- GAC is authorized to exchange personal data with IRCC.
- This ensures efficient coordination between scholarship providers and immigration officers.
These updates provide much-needed clarity for students applying through scholarship and exchange programs. By streamlining certain requirements and aligning with Canada’s international education goals, IRCC continues to make Canada a top destination for global learners.
📢 Always double-check your eligibility, funding documents, and program requirements before applying.
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