Well, the method of payment the college accepts should be on the college website. An international wire transfer is what most people do. Well if you are applying from India under SDS then no you cannot apply before paying the GIC amount. It's beneficial to pay the GIC before the visa application as it will show the visa officer that you have a sufficient amount of financial support for your monthly needs. Otherwise, if you apply without actually providing the GIC certificate the VO will have no way of knowing if you have the necessary financial support or if you are willing to be a bonafide student.
