From CIC website:
Security information:
If you want to study in Canada, you and any family members who come to Canada with you, and who are 18 years of age and over, may have to provide police certificates.
Police certificates
You may need a criminal record check if you are coming to Canada as a live-in caregiver, tourist, student or temporary worker. If you are applying for permanent residence, you must have one done.
Police certificates are required to determine if applicants have a criminal record. They also help visa officers make sure applicants are not a security risk to Canada.
