What is the IELTS requirement for Canada student visa in 2025?
Minimum 6.0 overall (no band less than 6.0) for SDS; some colleges accept 5.5 bands for non-SDS.
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Canada Student Visa Requirements for Sri Lankan Students (2025 Guide)
What Is a Canada Student Visa?
A Canada student visa (Study Permit) allows international students to study at Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) across Canada.
If you're from Sri Lanka, you must apply for a study permit and temporary resident visa (TRV) to study legally in Canada.
Documents Required for Canada Student Visa from Sri Lanka
Here's a checklist of mandatory documents:
| Document Type | Details |
| Letter of Acceptance | From a DLI in Canada |
| Valid Passport | Should be valid for the entire course duration |
| Proof of Funds | Bank statement or GIC showing CAD $20,000+ |
| Passport-sized Photos | Recent, meeting IRCC specifications |
| Immigration Medical Exam (IME) | Approved panel physician report |
| Statement of Purpose (SOP) | Explaining academic + career goals |
| Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) | From Sri Lankan police department |
| English Proficiency Proof | IELTS, PTE, TOEFL accepted |
| Tuition Payment Receipt | Especially for SDS stream applicants |
Need help with SOPs and funds? Visit our Visa Documentation Services page.
How to Apply for a Canada Study Visa from Sri Lanka
Step-by-Step Process
- Receive Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution
- Gather all required documents (see checklist above)
- Complete the online application at IRCC Canada
- Pay CAD $150 visa fee
- Book biometrics appointment
- Submit medical test and PCC
- Wait for visa approval letter
You may also apply under the SDS (Student Direct Stream) for faster processing if you meet IELTS + GIC requirements.
Canada Student Visa Fees (2025)
| Item | Cost (CAD) |
| Visa Application Fee | $150 |
| Biometrics Fee | $85 |
| GIC (Guaranteed Investment Cert.) | $10,000 |
| Tuition Deposit (1st year) | Varies (avg. $15,000) |
| Medical Exam | ~$100 (in LKR) |
Canada Student Visa Processing Time (2025)
| Visa Type | Avg. Processing Time |
| SDS Stream | 4–6 weeks |
| Regular Stream | 8–12 weeks |
Visa approval may vary based on document quality, intake season, and biometric appointment delays.
Additional Tips for Sri Lankan Students
- Choose DLI-approved institutions only
- Prepare funds & GIC early
- Write a compelling Statement of Purpose
- Get visa help from AECC Sri Lanka to avoid rejections or delays
Conclusion
Getting a Canada student visa in 2025 is very achievable — especially if you prepare your documents, SOP, and funding in advance.
Need help preparing your visa file or choosing the right college?
AECC Sri Lanka offers end-to-end student visa support for Canada — from university application to visa filing and beyond.
