+1(514) 937-9445 or Toll-free (Canada & US) +1 (888) 947-9445

Halfway through studies, what are my options? CSQ? Open Work Permit?

chlo.eee

Full Member
Mar 18, 2016
26
2
Hi, I am hoping someone has walked down a similar path and can share some of their experience.

I am presently in Mtl studying French, my student visa expires in 3 months, and I am thinking of deferring a study offer at McGill (to begin in Fall). My financial situation has changed and International student tuition rates are taking a toll. I have to forego PGWP because it will be at least another year before I complete my current certificate studies. I looked up CSQ, and I think I stand a good chance with the point system as I have 5+ years of work experience and a bachelor's degree which gives me 6 points.

However, I am not sure if CSQ or an Open Work Permit (applying from within Canada) is a faster option. I generally want to stay in QC, work for a year before I resume my present studies, or take on that offer from McGill. Even better if the work permit allows me to study part time, at a cheaper rate (c'est possible?).

Weigh in, anyone? Thanks!
 

scylla

VIP Member
Jun 8, 2010
97,672
23,382
Toronto
Category........
Visa Office......
Buffalo
Job Offer........
Pre-Assessed..
App. Filed.......
28-05-2010
AOR Received.
19-08-2010
File Transfer...
28-06-2010
Passport Req..
01-10-2010
VISA ISSUED...
05-10-2010
LANDED..........
05-10-2010
I'll help with one question. A work permit will not allow you to study part time at McGill. To study at McGill before you are officially a PR, you need a study permit and you need to be a full time student.
 

chlo.eee

Full Member
Mar 18, 2016
26
2
Hi Scylla,
Thanks. I understand that I cannot take on new full time studies once I start the CSQ application, as the point is to enter the labour market. However, they did not say anything about part-time studies. This is where I am still hopeful. The PGCert I applied to can be done part time.
 

scylla

VIP Member
Jun 8, 2010
97,672
23,382
Toronto
Category........
Visa Office......
Buffalo
Job Offer........
Pre-Assessed..
App. Filed.......
28-05-2010
AOR Received.
19-08-2010
File Transfer...
28-06-2010
Passport Req..
01-10-2010
VISA ISSUED...
05-10-2010
LANDED..........
05-10-2010
chlo.eee said:
Hi Scylla,
Thanks. I understand that I cannot take on new full time studies once I start the CSQ application, as the point is to enter the labour market. However, they did not say anything about part-time studies. This is where I am still hopeful. The PGCert I applied to can be done part time.
Simple answer. If the certificate will take you longer than six months to complete, then you require a study permit. If it can be completed in six months or less - no study permit is required.