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Category Archives: Study Visa

Ese Umoh Immigration – Canada Immigration Consultant   →  Blog   →  Study Visa
November 10, 2025
November 10, 2025

Canada makes it easier for graduate students to get study permits from January 2026

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Study Visa

Dear future neighbour,

Good news for future international graduate students!

Starting January 1, 2026, master’s and PhD students at public universities in Canada will be exempt from the study-permit cap. This means if you’re planning to study at a public university, you won’t be limited by the federal enrolment quota that affects most undergraduate and college programs.

What does this mean for you?

Right now, Canada limits the number of study permits issued each year to manage housing and services. Many students also need a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) to show that their school has space within that cap.

From January 2026, graduate students at public universities will not need to worry about the cap or the attestation letter. You can apply for your study permit as soon as you have your acceptance letter.

Faster processing for PhD students

If you’re applying for a PhD, your study-permit application will be processed faster, with a target turnaround of about 14 days. This helps doctoral students start their programs on time and reduces the stress of waiting for a visa.

Who qualifies

You qualify if:

  • You are enrolling in a master’s or PhD program starting January 1, 2026, or later.

  • Your program is at a public Designated Learning Institution (DLI).

Students in private colleges, undergraduate programs, or short-term diplomas will still need to meet the cap and attestation requirements.

Why Canada is making this change

Canada wants to attract and keep highly skilled international students who contribute to research and innovation. Removing the cap for graduate programs makes it easier for talented students to study in Canada and strengthens the country’s global position in higher education.

How we can help

This new exemption makes studying in Canada easier, but the application process can still be tricky. We help students apply to Canadian universities and guide them through their study-permit applications, so you can focus on preparing for your studies while we handle the paperwork.

Quick FAQ

Q: When does the exemption start?
A: Reported to take effect January 1, 2026.

Q: Do master’s and PhD students still need a PAL/TAL?
A: For public DLIs, reported exemption removes the PAL/TAL requirement for master’s and doctoral applicants. Private DLIs remain subject to cap/attestation rules.

Q: Will PhD applicants get faster processing?
A: Reports indicate IRCC will prioritise doctoral study-permit applications with a target processing time of about 14 days for eligible applicants from outside Canada.

Q: Should I submit my application immediately?
A: If you have an offer from an eligible public university program commencing in/after January 2026, start preparing your study-permit application early and coordinate with your DLI’s international office. Confirm the exact documents the DLI recommends you submit.

Schedule a 30-minute / 60- minute consultation or contact us at:
info@eseumohimmigration.com

October 31, 2025
October 31, 2025

10 Free AI courses to start your career in AI

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Study Visa

“The future belongs to those who understand technology — not fear it.”

If you’re preparing to study abroad in Artificial Intelligence or Machine Learning—or simply want to future-proof your career – here’s something you’ll thank yourself for. These are free, high-quality, globally relevant courses you can start today. No expensive tuition required to begin. Click on your preferred course and begin.

1. Elements of AI (University of Helsinki & Reaktor)

This course explains what AI is, what it can and cannot do, it has no strong coding requirement. 
It is beginner-friendly, globally accessible, ideal first step for students looking at studying AI programmes abroad. Click here 

2. Introduction to AI and Machine Learning on Google Cloud (Google Cloud)

This course covers ML/AI tools in Google Cloud like TensorFlow, Vertex AI etc. 
It is good for students who want to show they can work with industry tools, it is an added advantage when applying for international programmes. Click here

3. Free Artificial Intelligence Course for Students (IBM SkillsBuild) (IBM)

Free AI modules for students; badge/credential upon completion.
This free course is by a big brand, it has global recognition, good for LinkedIn & portfolios when you’re abroad. Click here

4. CS50’s Introduction to Artificial Intelligence with Python (Harvard University)

A deeper dive when you’re ready to code – uses Python, covers ML & AI algorithms.

This course is by a prestigious institution, strong signalling for admissions & scholarships. Click here

5. Great Learning – Free AI Course Catalogue

A selection of free AI courses (basics to advanced) with certificate options.
Multiple topics under one provider; flexibility to pick what you need. Click here

6. DeepLearning.AI Courses (e.g., “ChatGPT Prompt Engineering for Developers”)

A platform built by AI leaders; covers prompt engineering, generative AI, specialized topics. 
This course is useful if you’re positioning yourself for scholarships or research roles abroad. Click here

7. Codecademy – “Data & Programming Foundations for AI”

Beginner path covering coding + data skills you need before full-fledged ML/AI.
Useful for students from non-technical backgrounds who want to build up before applying to abroad programmes. Click here

8. NVIDIA Self-paced Free Courses (Deep Learning, Generative AI)

Free self-paced modules on deep learning, generative AI, GPU frameworks.
Great for showing advanced interest; looks impressive on CV/portfolio for study-abroad applications. Click here

9. Google “AI Essentials” & “Prompting Essentials”

Very beginner-friendly, designed for everyone – covers generative AI tools, practical use-cases. 
Accessible, quick to complete; good for sharing as “I’ve started my AI journey”. Click here

10.Machine Learning Crash Course

Google’s fast-paced, practical introduction to machine learning, featuring a series of animated videos, interactive visualizations, and hands-on practice exercises. Click here 

How to Make These Courses Work for Your Study-Abroad Journey

  1. Choose one course this week and finish it within 2-4 weeks.

  2. Dedicate 30-60 minutes per day — consistency beats long-sudden bursts.

  3. After completion, download/share your certificate (if available) on LinkedIn + in your study-abroad application materials.

  4. Use your newly-learned skills to talk confidently in your application / interview: “I’ve already completed [course] and built a mini-project…”

  5. Link your course completion into your consultation session: “Want help showing these certifications on your study-abroad profile? I can help.”

Note:

Free courses like these are not a replacement for full degree programmes abroad but they give you a massive head-start. They show your commitment, build your foundational skills and help you stand out when applying for scholarships, internships, or graduate programmes in AI/ML abroad.

Use these courses to bridge the gap between where you are now and where you want to study and work.

Bookmark this article.

Share it with a friend.

Start today.

If you’re planning to study abroad in 2026 or 2027, our team can help you find the right school and guide you through your study permit process.


Start your journey today – email us at info@eseumohimmigration.com

Follow our instagram pages to stay updated: @studyquestabroad /@eseumohimmigration

October 28, 2025
October 28, 2025

Top Job Sites & Visa Tips for International Students

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Study Visa

Studying abroad is a dream for many but let’s be real, the cost of living overseas can make it tough.

The good news? Many countries allow international students to work part-time while studying, helping you gain experience and cover expenses.

Below is your ultimate guide to the top countries where you can study and work, plus the best job sites and visa tips to help you get started.

1. Canada

Canada remains one of the most welcoming destinations for international students. The work rules are flexible, and opportunities are plenty.

Top Job Sites:

•Indeed.ca
•LinkedIn Canada
•University career portals

Visa & Work Tips:

•You can work up to 24 hours per week during school terms (if your study permit allows).
•Must be enrolled full-time at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in a program of at least 6 months.
•On-campus jobs are often unlimited and don’t require separate work permits.

Pro Tip: Look for on-campus assistantships – they pay better and build your professional network!

2. Australia

Australia is not only known for its beaches and sunshine – it’s also one of the best countries to work and study at the same time.

Top Job Sites:

•Seek
•Indeed Australia
•LinkedIn Australia
•University job boards

Visa & Work Tips:

•With a Student Visa (Subclass 500), you can work 48 hours per fortnight during semesters.
•Work full-time during official breaks and holidays.
•Always check your visa work rights using the VEVO system.

Pro Tip: Cafés, hospitality, and university jobs are the easiest way to start.

3. United Kingdom

The UK offers top universities and a good balance between study and part-time work for international students.

Top Job Sites:

•UCAS Jobs
•Indeed UK
•Campus job boards & fairs

Visa & Work Tips:

•Student visa holders can work 20 hours per week during term time for degree-level courses.
•Full-time work allowed during official vacations.

Pro Tip: Check if your university offers “student ambassador” roles -they’re flexible and great for your résumé.

4. Germany

Germany offers low tuition fees and strong student work rights — making it one of Europe’s most affordable destinations.

Top Job Sites:

•Jobmensa
•University job portals
•Werkstudent (student assistant) listings
•Indeed Germany

Visa & Work Tips:

•Non-EU students can work 140 full days or 280 half-days per year (~20 hrs/week).
•Internships required by your study program do not count toward this limit.

Pro Tip: Look for “Werkstudent” positions — these are student assistant jobs that often pay very well.

5. Ireland

Ireland is small but mighty for international students -English-speaking, tech-driven, and generous with work rights.

Top Job Sites:

•Jobs.ie
•Indeed.ie
•Irish Student Jobs
•University career centres

Visa & Work Tips:

•Stamp 2 visa holders can work 20 hours per week during term and 40 hours per week during holidays.
•You’ll need a PPS Number and proof of enrolment to work legally.

Learn more

Pro Tip: Tech, hospitality, and customer service roles are among the easiest to land.

Note:
Working while studying abroad gives you a head start in building your career and confidence. Always confirm your visa and work rights with your destination country’s official immigration website before starting a job

Need help with your study abroad application process?

Whether you’ve already begun your admission process or are still exploring the best course or university to apply to, we’re here to support you every step of the way. From starting your application to guiding you through your visa process after admission, our services are completely free. For personalized assistance, you can also speak with our professional consultants.

Schedule a 30-minute / 60- minute consultation or contact us at:
info@eseumohimmigration.com

 

January 23, 2025
January 23, 2025

Canada Introduces Study Permit Cap for 2025: What International Students Need to Know

Author By EUIC Admin Categories News, Study Visa

Dear future neighbour,

In January 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced a new measure to manage the growing number of international students entering the country. The government announced a cap on study permit applications for the year, setting the limit at 505,162 applications.

This cap will remain in effect from January 22 to December 31, 2025, as part of broader efforts to address challenges associated with temporary residency in Canada.

Details of the Study Permit Cap

•Application Limit:

The IRCC will process up to 505,162 study permit applications in 2025. Once the limit is reached, any additional applications will be returned unprocessed, with application fees refunded. It is important to note that the cap only applies to the number of applications accepted for processing, not the number of study permits ultimately approved.

•Exemptions:

Certain groups are exempt from the cap, including:

•Applicants renewing their study permits for the same Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and level of study.

•Exchange students.

•Individuals with scholarships administered by Global Affairs Canada.

Reasons for the Cap

The introduction of the study permit cap is part of Canada’s strategy to address the rising number of temporary residents, including international students and foreign workers. This move builds on previous policy adjustments, including stricter work permit eligibility criteria and efforts to limit study permits, announced in September 2024.

The goal of these measures is to reduce the proportion of temporary residents from 6.8% of the population in April 2024 to 5% within the next three years. These changes aim to address pressing issues such as housing affordability and the rising cost of living, which have been linked to the rapid growth of temporary residents in the country.

Concerns and Criticism

While the cap seeks to manage population growth and alleviate societal pressures, critics argue that these measures do not address the root causes of challenges facing temporary residents, such as inadequate housing and worker rights. Some have called for more permanent and equitable solutions to ensure that Canada remains an attractive and inclusive destination for skilled migrants and international students.

Impact on Prospective Students

Prospective international students planning to study in Canada this year should take the cap into account when preparing their applications. It is advisable to apply early and ensure all requirements are met to avoid delays. Additionally, students should familiarize themselves with the eligibility criteria and exemptions outlined by IRCC to determine whether they may be affected by the cap.

Next Steps

Canada’s study permit cap for 2025 reflects the government’s efforts to balance the benefits of international students with the need to address challenges posed by the growing population of temporary residents. For students aspiring to study in Canada, understanding these changes and preparing accordingly will be essential to navigating the evolving immigration landscape.

Do you desire to study in Canada? Do you need help with your study permit application, work permit application, express entry or provincial nomination profile? Are you overwhelmed with the process and need to speak to a professional immigration consultant? Schedule a consultation session or send an email on info@eseumohimmigration.com to get started today.

 

April 8, 2024
April 8, 2024

IRCC announces Study Permit Allocation for all Provinces

Author By EUIC Admin Categories News, Study Visa

Dear future neighbour,

The Immigration Minister, Marc Miller announced the allocation of study permit for all provinces. IRCC made an announcement on the 22nd of January, 2024 that there will be a cap on the the number of international students that will be let into Canada in the year, 2024. To achieve this, all provinces will be given an allocation on the total number of study permits that will be approved, this allocation will be based on the population of the province.

IRCC adjusted allocations for provinces that would receive a lower allocation of study permits to lessen any negative impact.

Provinces that were poised to receive more international students in 2024 than in 2023 had their allocations capped at 10% of their population.

IRCC also topped up the allocations for provinces with an approval rate lower than 60% believing that it will help these provinces reach their expected number of approved study permits.

See below study permit allocation according to province

IRCC does not have the authority to cap the number of approved study permits but the department can cap the number of study permit applications that are processed.

However, basing the cap for study permits on a national approval rate of 60%, IRCC says that the estimated cap of study permits issued is derived from the number of study permit applications it will process. In this situation, the department hopes to process 606,000 applications.

Need help putting in a study visa application, work permit application, Expression of Interest, creating an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply or even just reviewing an application you prepared yourself? Book a consultation or send us an email on info@eseumohimmigration.com

 

 

March 28, 2024
March 28, 2024

Ontario announces International Study Permit Allocation

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Study Visa

Dear future neighbour,

The province of Ontario announced on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 that they will be giving 96% of study permit applications to public funded universities and 4% to private universities, language schools, and other institutions in the province. Career colleges will not receive any applications.

Institutions offering skilled programs such as STEM, Skilled Trades, Health Human Resources, Childcare and Hospitality will be prioritized. French-language enrollment will also be prioritized as employers compete for employees with French-language skills.

This measure is taken by the Ontario government to provide graduate with in-demand jobs and also meet with the demand of the province’s labour market.

See below criteria that will be used to issue applications to the institutions

  • Institution must prioritize programs in the high-demand fields: skilled trades, human resources in health, STEM, hospitality, and child care.
  • an institution cannot exceed the 2023 permission levels.
  • as a last safety measure, the proportion of foreign permits cannot go above 55% of the institution’s first-year domestic enrollment in 2023 (except in high-demand sectors).

IRCC announced putting a cap on study permit applications for international students January of 2024, this cap does not include those enrolled in master’s and doctoral degree programs and those in kindergarten through grade 12.

The allocation of study permits to an individual institution for 2024 and 2025 cannot exceed the number of permits Ontario issued in 2023 and the ratio of international permits cannot exceed 55% (exclusive of high-demand areas) of the institution’s 2023 first-year domestic enrollment.

Applications for 22 out of 23 universities will remain at the 2023 level. Algoma university is the only university to witness a decrease in 2023 applications.

A total of 11 of Ontario’s 24 public colleges will also maintain applications at the 2023 level. Conestoga College and other public-private college partnerships will see a huge decline in application.

Need help obtaining a visitor visa to visit Canada, or professional help putting in a study visa application, work permit application, Expression of Interest, creating an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply or even just reviewing an application you prepared yourself? Book a consultation or send us an email on info@eseumohimmigration.com

 

March 26, 2024
March 26, 2024

New Brunswick, Saskatchewan and Newfoundland and Labrador commence issuance of Provincial Attestation Letters

Author By EUIC Admin Categories News, Study Visa

Dear future neighbour,

As announced by IRCC on the 22nd of January, 2024, all provinces are required to issue Provincial Attestation Letters (PALs) based on the allocation of study permits they receive within the newly implemented cap on study permits for 2024.

All provinces were given until March 31, 2024 to begin issuing the letters to international students. New Brunswick, Saskatchewan, Newfoundland and Labrador have joined British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba and Quebec on the list of provinces that have carried out this task.

Details on getting a PAL in New Brunswick

IRCC states that New Brunswick has had a PAL process in place since March 18. International students are required to contact their Designated Learning Institution (DLI) to find out how to apply.

After application, the DLI will then request for PAL from the province which would take a duration of two weeks to get a response.

On receipt of the PAL document, students can now submit their final study permit application alongside the completed PAL document.

Details on getting a PAL in Saskatchewan

According to IRCC, the PAL process for Saskatchewan has been in place since March 13, 2024. International students are advised to contact their DLI to get their PAL.

No additional details on getting a PAL yet from any of the province’s most prominent post-secondary institutions.

Details on getting a PAL in Newfoundland and Labrador

As of March 19, 2024, Newfoundland and Labrador’s PAL system has been put in place. International students are advised to contact their DLI to apply for their PAL.

Memorial University in St. John’s has the largest number of international students of any DLI in the province. The institution says it will contact admitted students via email to collect any additional information required for the attestation letter process, this will begin with students who intend to start in the May 2024 semester.

Need professional help putting in a study visa application, work permit application, Expression of Interest, creating an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply or even just reviewing an application you prepared yourself? Book a consultation or send us an email on info@eseumohimmigration.com

 

 

 

 

 

March 19, 2024
March 19, 2024

Alberta and Manitoba commence issuance of Provincial Attestation Letters

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Study Visa

Dear future neighbour,

Alberta and Manitoba has started issuing Provincial Attestation Letters (PAL) to Designated Learning Institutions (DLI). The amount of PALs given to each province and the way they intend to distribute them isn’t known for now.

Only approved international universities in Alberta and Manitoba will be sending the PAL document via email to the student. Students can only request for PAL when they have shown a commitment to study in the Designated Learning Institution by at least paying a deposit fee after receiving an offer of acceptance.

Each DLI have specific requirements for admission into their universities, so students are expected to carefully go through the websites of these universities before requesting for PAL.

IRCC has instructed that all provinces should have fallen in line with this programme as at the last day of March, 2024.

Need help obtaining a visitor visa to visit Canada, or professional help putting in a study visa application, work permit application, Expression of Interest, creating an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply or even just reviewing an application you prepared yourself? Book a consultation or send us an email on info@eseumohimmigration.com

 

March 5, 2024
March 5, 2024

Everything you should know about getting a Provincial Attestation Letter from Quebec

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Study Visa

Dear future neighbour,

On February 13, 2024, the Canadian province of Quebec started issuing an updated letter attesting to the issuance of the Quebec acceptance certificate for studies. This letter enables candidates to apply for a study permit in accordance to the Federal government’s instructions which were released on January 22, 2024.

At this point, you don’t need to do anything further to get this letter from the province. If, however, you need an updated letter of attestation to submit your application for a study permit with the federal government. See below steps to take:

-Complete the form you will find on their website using the link below:

https://immigration-quebec.gouv.qc.ca/en/mail.php

-Then select the subject “CAQ-Updated Letter of Attestation” in the menu for the form and make sure to indicate the email address you used when you created your arrima account.

-In your message, you must indicate that you would like to receive an updated Letter of Attestation to submit your application for study permit and provide your file number. This is indicated in the right corner of the letter that you initially received.

-A new letter of attestation will be placed in your file within 10 working days

Need professional help putting in a study visa application, work permit application, Expression of Interest, creating an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply or even just reviewing an application you prepared yourself? Book a consultation or send us an email on info@eseumohimmigration.com

 

March 5, 2024
March 5, 2024

British Columbia has begun issuing Provincial Attestation Letters for International Students

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Study Visa

Dear future neighbour,

As of March 4, 2024, British Columbia has initiated the issuance of Provincial Attestation Letters (PAL). PAL is a verificaton letter provided to institutions by the provincial government, which then distribute it to international applicants.

International students wishing to study in the province are required to include PAL, received from the British Columbia government, along with their study permit application. This serves as evidence of their acceptance into a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) within the province.

Following the announcement of the cap for intake of international students in 2024 by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), British Columbia has been allocated a total of 83,000 undergraduate study permit applications by IRCC. The province highlights that, according to past acceptance rates, the federal government anticipates approximately 50,000 approved study permit applications for 2024 as a result. The province stated that letters will be distributed 53% for public institutions and 47% for private institutions.

This requirement by IRCC does not affect primary and secondary students, master’s and doctoral degree students, students already in Canada with a valid study permit or Canada work permit holders and their in-Canada family members, also students already in Canada applying for an extension as well as students whose application was received before 8:30am EST on January 22, 2024 before the announcement on cap for study permit applications was made by IRCC.

British Columbia is leading the way as the first province to initiate the issuance of attestation letters as the deadline provided by IRCC is March 31, 2024.

Need professional help putting in a study visa application, work permit application, Expression of Interest, creating an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply or even just reviewing an application you prepared yourself? Book a consultation or send us an email on info@eseumohimmigration.com

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