Online Master's Program while on Work Permit

[JapaneseInMB]

Hi everyone!

I am on PGWP, and I have applied for Paper-based PNP from Manitoba.
I am currently interesting in taking an online (fully online) master's program at Athabasca university. Athabasca university isn't eligible for a study permit since it offers the full program online.

From IRCC's website, I found who does not require a study permit. It seems that I do not need a study permit since I am completing a distance learning program.

Are there activities for which a study permit is not required?
Yes, there are activities that do not require a study permit. Generally, a study permit is not required for:

• attending preschool;
• completing a distance learning program;
• following audit courses (where a student is permitted to attend an academic course without obtaining credits);
• taking courses included in tour packages as a secondary activity for tourists;
• taking a course which is not academic, professional or vocational in nature that is of general interest and can be completed within the period authorized upon entry to Canada;
• taking a course or a program of study which is six months or less that can be completed within the period authorized upon entry into Canada.

I have also read on Athabasca University's website that I can take an online course or a program on work permit. Below is what is stated exactly on their website.
" According to IRCC, if you are in Canada on a work or visitors permit, you can take an online course or program – even if your permit says you can’t attend school. All non-Canadian students living in Canada must apply using the print application form. "
https://www.athabascau.ca/admissions/international-students/#on-a-work-or-vistors-permit

Does anyone have any similar experience? I mean, I could certainly apply for online master's program outside Canada. There are some US or UK universities with fully online master's program, but if possible, I would like to get one within Canada.

Please advise!

 

[JapaneseInMB]

Hi everyone. After some research, I was able to find some information for this specific case.
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/resources/tools/temp/students/consider.asp

The below statement from IRCC covers my case perfectly.
"Since by definition distance learning does not require one to be in Canada, a study permit cannot be issued for this type of course. For example, if a foreign national authorized to work in Canada is prohibited from engaging in studies as per a condition of their work permit, they are allowed to engage in distance learning courses."

Just for anyone who is interested!

 

[Sunraj]

Hi did you end up perusing this ? Did it cause any problems with next steps (aka applying for PR) ?

 

[rajinderk5366]

Hi did you end up perusing this ? Did it cause any problems with next steps (aka applying for PR) ?

I m interested in same ... My brother is coming on work permit & he wants to do masters online too .. please share if u got any answer

 

[Akashsandhu8108]

Hello anyone have answer , can we do distance online study in another country while on work permit in canada?

 

[canuck78]

Hello anyone have answer , can we do distance online study in another country while on work permit in canada?

Yes

 

[Akashsandhu8108]

Are you sure , because on my work permit specifically written that I can’t study.

 

[Kamya18]

I am interested in this too. What if you have to take part time course in total of 135 hours? Can you do it while on work permit?

 

[amar_lko]

Can we study online masters program from India while on work permit in Canada ? I believe since program is outside of Canada it should not be any issue.