Are Study Gaps Acceptable In Canada?

Yes, study gaps are generally accepted in Canada as long as they are explained and justified. The Canadian education system is flexible enough for students to take gap years. Additional paperwork and compelling reasons for taking a gap year must be submitted while applying to colleges.

International students should also be aware that if their study gap exceeds six months, they may need to apply for a new study permit upon enrolling in a new program.

A study gap of more than six months will be considered a “change in the study program” and can affect the student’s eligibility for a post-graduation employment permit.

Students with gap years prefer to pursue higher education in Canada since they have a high probability of receiving a work permit for 1-2 years. It is simple to renew the work permit from within Canada before it expires.

The work visa in Canada benefits you in various ways, including providing you with steady employment with safety and medical benefits.

What is the acceptable study gap in Canada?

The length of the study gap allowed in Canada varies depending on the degree. International students with study gaps in Canada are increasing over the years. Hence, students who want to study abroad will not have any challenges.

In addition, certain Canadian universities and colleges admit applicants with more than the allowed study gaps (in exceptional circumstances). For accepted applicants with additional gap years, the university expects valid reasons.

The maximum acceptable study gap for undergraduate and diploma programs is 2 years. For postgraduate programs, it is 5 years. However, some universities may be willing to consider longer gaps depending on the circumstances.

Program Allowed Gap Years
Diploma 2 years
Undergraduate 2 years
Postgraduate 5 years

Accepted Reasons for Study Gap

Most students with gap years who desire to study abroad have challenges explaining their study gap; the following are some of the reasons approved by Canadian institutions and colleges.

1. Moving

Some students have to move to another country for different reasons. So, if the students had to move to another country or city, this is a valid reason for the study gap.

2. Family Reasons

Family issues are one of the most stressful aspects, and they are not negligible. The reason is quite considerable for institutions because it is not a minor issue. Some students’ parents might be going through a hard phase in their lives. Hence, the parents will need their kids with them. It is a valid reason for consideration.

3. Work Experience

Some students enter the marketplace after graduation to obtain experience. It aids the student’s professional development, and with further graduation, the student may be able to make the best impression throughout their job search.

This argument is acceptable in Canadian colleges and universities, with pay slips and an experience letter.

4. Medical Problems

Students face problems with medical conditions and accidents which make them stay behind their schedule and Canadian institutions accept the reasons only with a valid medical certificate.

5. Restart

The concept of entrance examinations became popular among Indian students. Some students study for tests for more than a year, but unfortunately, not all of them pass the examination. As a result, students prefer overseas for a better education as a second opportunity.

6. Finance Aid

Generally, studying in Canada is expensive. That is not something that all students can afford. It may take them a year or more to provide proof of funding, which is a mandatory requirement.What Are The Required Documents to Justify Study Gap in Canada?

When applying to a university in Canada and the visa process, students must explain the reason for their study gap in their application. They should also provide relevant documentation, such as letters of reference or proof of employment.

● Pay slip -If the applicant has past job experience and is applying for college, they must include a pay slip or offer letter from the employer they worked for during the gap.
● Certificates- The applicant can also attach the certificates on what skill or course they have done during the gap.
● Medical certificates- If the candidates have been involved in an accident or have had medical concerns, they must provide medical certificates signed by licensed doctors or hospitals.
● Mark sheet -If the applicants have taken a year to prepare for entrance exams and cannot make it, they should attach their result forms or hall tickets as proof of a study visa.

Conclusion.

Taking a gap year and using it wisely is a futuristic approach to your career, and not spending it productively is a year wasted resulting in colleges rejecting your application. If you want to study abroad but are unsure where to start. Get in touch with our team at 3RDI Consulting to assist you in planning and executing this process.

For expert advice, get in touch with Kavitta Mehtta at 3RDiConsulting.