If you are thinking about studying in Canada in 2027, you don’t need to wait until 2027 to start preparing.
Choosing a school, getting admission and applying for a study permit all require planning, and Canada’s international student rules can change. So rather than relying on information from old applications, WhatsApp groups or social media, start building your plan around your own academic goals, finances and the current official requirements.
Here are eight things Nigerian students should do before applying.
1. Decide What You Want to Study
Start with the programme, not the country. Think about what you want to study, how it connects with your previous education and what you hope to do with the qualification afterwards.
Then look at the actual curriculum, duration, tuition and admission requirements before applying to study in Canada in 2027.
Don’t choose a programme simply because someone says it is a “good course to study in Canada.” What works for another student may not make sense for your academic background or career plans.
2. Research Your Schools Properly
Once you know what you want to study, compare your options. Look at the programme, tuition fees, location, start dates, accommodation, student support and admission requirements. This is one of the things to do before studying in Canada in 2027.
You should also confirm that the institution is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) if you need a study permit.
Most importantly, don’t choose a school based solely on its popularity online. Two Canadian institutions offering similar programmes can have very different costs, locations and student experiences.
3. Check the Admission Requirements Early
Find out what your chosen programme requires before you start spending money on an application. Depending on the institution and programme, you may need academic certificates and transcripts, proof of language proficiency, references, a personal statement or other supporting documents.
Every school has its own admission process, so check directly with the institution before applying to study in Canada in 2027
Starting early also gives you time to fix problems if a document is missing or you don’t meet a particular requirement.
4. Work Out the Real Cost
Tuition is only part of the cost of studying in Canada. Your budget may also need to cover accommodation, transportation, food, flights and other expenses associated with settling into Canada. Tuition research is one of the important things to do before studying in Canada in 2027.
IRCC currently requires study permit applicants to demonstrate funds for tuition, living expenses and transportation, without relying on work in Canada to demonstrate that financial capacity. The living-expense amount is updated annually. For applications starting September 1, 2026, one applicant from outside Quebec must demonstrate CAD $23,448 in annual living expenses, excluding tuition and transportation.
That figure is not a 2027 guarantee. If you’re applying in 2027, check the updated amount when you apply. The bigger point is to calculate your entire study plan rather than asking only, “How much is the visa?”
5. Understand the Study Permit Process
Admission and a study permit are two different things. IRCC currently requires study permit applicants to provide documents including a valid letter of acceptance from their DLI and proof of financial support. A PAL or TAL is also required in many cases, although there are exemptions. Read more.
There are also other eligibility requirements that may apply to you depending on your circumstances.
Because these rules can change, make checking the current IRCC requirements part of your application process.
6. Prepare Your Documents Early
Don’t wait until you receive admission before thinking about your paperwork. Start organising your academic records, passport and financial documents, and identify anything else your school or study permit application may require.
IRCC currently recommends submitting as many of the required documents as possible with the initial application because incomplete applications can cause delays.
Having your documents ready early also makes it easier to spot gaps before they become a problem.
7. Think About What Happens After Graduation
Don’t choose a Canadian programme without understanding what comes after it. If working in Canada after graduation is part of your plan, check whether your intended programme and institution meet the current requirements for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
The rules are not the same for every programme. Current PGWP eligibility includes requirements around the type and length of programme, language ability and, for some programmes, eligible fields of study.
And don’t let anyone promise you permanent residence simply because you study a particular course. Immigration pathways can change, and eligibility depends on your circumstances.
8. Talk to Universities Before You Apply
You can spend hours researching Canadian universities online, but sometimes the fastest way to get clarity is to speak to the institution directly.
Ask questions about your programme, admission requirements, tuition, scholarships, application deadlines and international student support. This is where education fairs can be particularly useful.
Meet Canadian University Representatives in Lagos
The Japa Partners Study Expo gives prospective students an opportunity to meet representatives from universities across Canada, the UK, USA, Europe and other destinations.
Canadian institutions participating include Sheridan, Yorkville University, Algoma University, St. Lawrence College and Laurentian University, among others.
The Expo takes place on 3 October 2026 at The Zone, Gbagada, Lagos.
If you’re planning to study in Canada in 2027, you can use the opportunity to ask questions directly and start understanding your options before you apply.
