Canada Visa Interview Questions and Answers 

 

Are you preparing for your visa interview and you are curious to know the common questions? Here is a list of top 30 Canada student visa interview questions and answers ( downloadable PDF version attached ). Studying in Canada is an amazing opportunity to explore new cultures, broaden your horizons, make lifelong friends all the while securing an Internationally recognized degree. However, immigration is never easy. The process is generally demanding and can be confusing particularly for students who will be asked several Canada immigration questions. 

 

This article will serve as a helpful guide, teaching you mannerisms and ways to efficiently handle Canada immigration visa interview questions and answers. If you are nervous about the questions you will be asked and you are eager to scale this interview successfully, this is the right place because possible visa interview questions will be addressed alongside their sample answers. Our article is filled with all you need to know. 

 

However, if you are too occupied to spare time to read the article online, feel free to scroll down and download Canada student visa interview questions and answers PDF for your perusal much later on. 

 

Table of contents 

1. What the visa process entails 

2. Requirements for student visa in Canada

3. Possible visa interview questions and answers

4. Top reasons for rejection of Canada Student Visa

5. Canada student visa interview questions and answers pdf 

What the Visa process entails 

The application system for student visas is as follows; 

1. Make an application for any study analysis program

2. Approach at the embassy or Consulate

3. Gather your necessary documents 

4. Pay the visa fee

5. Dress professionally and attend the interview

 

Requirements for Students Visa in Canada

For your Canada student visa application, you may generally need the next:

 

1. Valid passport

2. Copies of 10th, 12th and degree vouchers attested ( a formally attested transcript signed by a notary)

3. Academic References x 2

4. Recruiter references x 2

5. Statement of purpose

6. Certificates of extracurricular achievement

7. A letter of acceptance via your school.

8. Evidence of payment per month

9. Financial funds

10. Passport size pics

11. Study permit and visa

Your university will make you aware of more requirements ahead for the application form.

Canada Student Visa Interview Questions and Answers 

Together, let's unravel the best solution to a successful visa interview, ensuring your dream of study in Canada becomes a reality. Don't have time to read online? Here is a thoroughly compiled list of Canada Visa Interview Questions and Answers PDF for you to download and read later.  

 

1. How are you doing? 

Hint: There's no need to feel nervous especially because these are everyday questions and the Consular just wants you to feel comfortable. Your answer should be brief and short. 

Sample Answer

I'm fine or I'm fine, thank you, how about you?

 

2. Have you ever been to Canada before?

Hint; Be truthful and say yes or no. The Consular can not be deceived owing to the fact that he has all your previous travel records. Note if you've been there before, you should endeavor to remember the date of arrival and departure, reason for travel alongside other relevant information. 

 

Sample Answer

Yes, I have been to Canada once in 2019, on a tourist visa. 

 

No, I have not been to Canada before. 

 

3. Why did you choose Canada?

Hint; Mention the research you have done and the insights you got about Canada and the university in detail. Highlight what attracted you the most to choose this country. 

 

Sample Answer

I want to go there to pursue my Bachelor's or Master's degree. This is because Canada provides access to world class teaching, up to date research facilities and global recognition is available there. I will be completely advantaged in terms of practical exposure by being in contact with people from diverse cultures and nations. 

 

4. Do you have friends and family in Canada?

Hint; You should respond in a yes or no fashion. If your answer is yes, you have to state your relationship with them. If your answer is no, make sure to answer without any hesitation and express your interest to meet new people and make new friends. 

Note that all that is relevant in this category is your immediate family members. There's no need to mention a distant uncle, aunt or cousin, if you have any. 

 

Sample Answer 

Yes, I have an older brother who lives and schools in Ontario. 

No, I do not have any relatives or friends  in Canada.

 

5. Where will you be accommodated upon arrival?

Hint; You can provide the address of your stay and mention whether it is a temporary arrangement or if you plan on living there until the end of your course or program. If you are going to stay in a college, or hostel, rent an apartment or stay with family, provide them with details about your accommodation. 

 

Sample Answer 

I have been provided with hostel accommodation by my school. 

 

I will be staying with my older brother in his apartment in Vancouver till I sort my hostel accommodation. 

 

6. What about your living expenses and accomodation fee? 

Hint: This is standard procedure to ensure that you will still have enough funds to cater for yourself during the duration of your stay in Canada, even after paying the tuition fee. The interviewers also want to know how much has been set aside for this purpose and if it will be sufficient. 

 

Sample Answer

The living expenses and accommodation fee allotted for the duration of my stay in Canada are provided in the bank statement. This is the required amount advised for a student to live comfortably in the country. Also, if there's anything else I might need my sponsors will provide for me. 

 

7. How long do you plan on staying in Canada?

Hint; When an interviewer asks how long you would be staying in Canada, what they really want to know is how long your course of study is. As a matter of fact, the only response you should give is the duration of your course. Do not include the years you wish to stayback after studies, that's if you're considering it. 

 

Sample Answer

I intend to stay in Canada for 2 years, which is the duration required to complete a master's program. 

 

8. Who will cover your study costs? 

Hint; if you have a scholarship, now is the time to say it. If not, mention the name of your sponsors. You may add that your father and mother or uncle or aunt are supporting you to further your education in the university as depicted in the financial documents. 

However, if you are self sponsored, you should also mention it as well. Bear in mind that more questions will definitely arise. Be prepared to answer these questions truthfully. 

 

Sample Answer

 My Father and mother have taken up the responsibility of funding my education abroad. 

 

I am self sponsored. 

 

9. Did you take any loans?

Hint; Your interviewer wants to know if you have enough funds to cater for your education and cost of living in Canada, and how you intend to get that funding, is one of the standard Embassy interview questions and answers for student visa Canada you should expect to be asked. It is your duty to let the visa officer know that you are financially able to fund your education, by telling them which loans you have or do not have. 

 

Sample Answer

Yes I have a loan (insert type of loan and which organization) 

 

No I do not have a loan

 

10. What is your sponsor’s income?

Hint; Usually visa officers want to verify the financial capability of the sponsors and this question follows after you have revealed that you will be sponsored by your parents. This is to ensure that the child is not left stranded halfway through and left to fend for himself. So when this question is asked, do well to truthfully portray your sponsor as financially capable of funding your studies abroad. 

 

Sample Answer

My Father is an Engineer and my Mother is a business woman 

 

My uncle is a Lawyer with his own firm 

 

My aunt is a nurse with the Public Health Organization in my state. 

 

11. What savings does your sponsor have? 

Hint: Ensure that your answer focuses on proof of having sufficient funds. Go through the financial documents thoroughly and mention the savings as per the documents. 

 

Sample Answer

My Father has the amount of  XXX (insert currency) in savings. 

My Mother has a fixed deposit of XX (insert currency) for the sole purpose of my studies. Collectively, they have sponsored my education and immigration process. 

 

12. Do you have siblings? 

Hint; The visa officer asks this common question because they seek to know if your parents or sponsor have any other child, children or dependent they have to support while still funding your education and if they have the capacity to do so.

 

Sample Answer

Yes I have 3 other siblings. 

 

No, I do not have other siblings. I am an only child. 

 

No, I am the only dependent. 

 

13. How well do you speak English?

Hint: English proficiency is very important, especially since you are going to an English speaking country. It is a requirement for some countries such as the US, UK hence it is a common question amongst visa officers. Your interviewer speaking to you in English already knows that you understand English, hence they are curious to know if you understand it by their standards. 

In response you have to tell them the English proficiency tests you may have written prior to the interview and for the immigration process. Please endeavor to be honest. 

 

Sample Answer

Sir/Madam I speak good English and I've studied in English for the better part of my life. Prior to the interview, I took a few English proficiency tests to improve my English language, speaking, writing and understanding ability

I took the IELTS exam and scored an average of 7.5

I took the SAT and scored 1200

I took the GMAT and scored 700 

I took both TOEFL and GRE tests and I'm patiently waiting for the results. 

 

14. Why did you choose this particular university?

Hint: This category aims at helping you to convince your interviewer on how much work you've put into making this decision and how focused you are. You should go through the website of your university or college carefully noting down some highlighted features such as World ranking, the research facility, the faculty profile, Alumni profile, etc. 

 

Sample Answer

I was eager to study in a university which can give me quality education so while searching various universities I came across the University of Toronto. I discovered that they have one of the best packages for international students, they have good research facilities and profer hands on practical experience for my field of study. 

Upon application, they offer a fully funded merit scholarship that covers tuition, books, incidental fees and full residency support for the duration of my course. All these and more I would conveniently benefit from. I found out about this school from my online research. 

 

15. Which course did you choose and why?

Hint: You should be very clear about your passion for this course. Explain in details sincerely what your plans after studies are, how the course adds value to your profile and why you are interested in doing the course. 

You should also ensure to go through the course content carefully. You should take note of everything such as duration, curriculum, tuition, credit points, commencement and end date. 

 

Sample Answer

This course is related to my previous studies as I have done my Bsc and I would like to continue my education in the same or similar field. 

Moreover, I am interested in Psychology and The University of British Columbia's vision aligned with my future the most. 

 

16. Which other university did you apply to?

Hint: The interviewer wants to know for certain how intentional you are towards your studies. Usually students apply to more than one in the possibility that if they don't get accepted by one, they'll have an equal chance with the other schools. Now in the scenario whereby you applied to 4 universities, got rejected by 1, accepted by 1 and kept on the waitlist by 2, you should say that the University that admitted you was your first choice. 

 

Sample Answer 

I applied to four universities and got calls from two of them but I decided to go with ABC because of the hands-on clinical training carried out in the field of Nursing (other) that interests me the most. 

 

17. Why don’t you study this course in your native country?

Hint: What is it that Canada has that your home country doesn't? Your country is known for their accredited educational system so why are you traveling out now? These are the things the interviewer means by this question. 

You should know what difference the course will bring you if done from Canada instead of your home country. 

If the course is not available in your home country you should let the interviewer know, and if it is, you should explain carefully, highlighting the differences in the course structure and quality of education between the two countries. 

 

Sample Answer

Yes my country is reputed globally for their accredited and reasonable educational system but it still can't be compared to that of Canada. However, my desired course is not taught in my country(only use if applicable to your case) and when it comes to course structure and quality of education, Canadian schools are more advantageous. Equally, obtaining a degree from one of the world class institutions is a feat I hope to achieve one day.

 

18. Are you getting any school fee waiver?

Hint: Mention if you have any tuition fee waiver, the percentage off, teaching assistantship or research assistantship. No interviewer will deny you a visa because you didn't get a scholarship, so answer truthfully as their aim is to find out how you intend to fund your education abroad. 

 

Sample Answer

Yes I got a scholarship (name of scholarship, percentage off and it's benefits)

 

No I did not get a scholarship 

 

19. Why do you think the university is awarding you a scholarship?

Hint: This category requires you to be confident and affirmative in your response. Especially, owing to the fact that you earned the scholarship because of your hard work and dedication. 

 

Sample Answer

 I believe I merited the scholarship because the university found me worthy and my hard work speaks for itself. My GMAT and TOEFL scores are also above average. I am an outlier and I pride myself knowing that I have maintained this position throughout the period of my college or university education. 

 

20. What is the location of your university? 

Hint: Ensure you do enough research on your university before the interview. You're expected to know the exact location of your school and the different locations of the campuses (if any). 

When giving your response, be confident and make sure to give accurate details. 

 

Sample Answer

The University of Ottawa is located at Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. 

 

21. What is your Undergraduate Academic GPA or Percentage? 

Hint: The visa interviewer wants to know if you are academically sound enough to excel in your chosen course. It is only natural for universities to favor student visa applicants who attain a certain score in their final exams. 

 

Sample Answer

For my undergraduate program, I made a 7.56 GPA, graduating with a First Class Distinction in my course. 

 

22. Tell us about your Academic background?

Hint: What courses have you studied in the past? Does it align with the course you are going to study now? Did you switch majors? These are all details you are expected to give when asked, one of the most essential embassy questions and answers for student visas.

 

Sample Answer

For the most part of my education,I have been a science student, majoring in health and social sciences in high school. 

During my undergraduate studies,I took a double major in biology and psychology. I also have my bachelor's degree. 

 

23. Why do you have a low score?

Hint: This category only applies if you have a low score. This is relevant because certain colleges or universities require a specific grade in order to admit you into their school. 

 

Sample Answer

During my undergraduate final year, I lost a parent or relative and this was a very raw experience for me. Things were extremely difficult this period because I was dealing with both the grief of the loss of my parent/relative and the constant pressure to complete my final project and defend it, hence the low score.

 

24.  Tell me something about your past?

Hint: Be prepared to tell them what you've been doing between previous schools till date. Make sure your answers are focusing on your skills and achievements. Endeavor to be honest. 

 

Sample Answer

After completing my studies, I enrolled into an academy to learn skills such as Graphic design, digital marketing, content writing and copywriting. With these skills I have worked remotely as a freelancer for the past 2 years till date. 

 

25. What are your future plans? Do you intend to remain in Canada?

Hint; This is a common question visa interviewers ask. The visa interviewers want to find out what plans you have (if you have any after graduation. Your answers should reflect clarity of thought, clarity of your intentions and strong ties to your home country. If you plan to further your education or get a job, or start up a firm or even go back home. Tell them honestly. 

 

Sample Answer 

After graduation, I will return to my country to set up my own firm and create opportunities for the youths in my community. I will use the knowledge from what I have learnt in school to impact them. 

 

26. Do you plan to work while studying in Canada?

Hint; If your visa allows you to work while studying, express your desire to work there and boost your career or to support yourself. 

If your visa doesn't allow you to work in Canada, inform the officer that you have no intentions of working in Canada and would like to return once this course or program is completed. Ensure that you are conveying confidence hó8 and truthful massage. 

 

Sample Answer

If I am given a study permit that allows me to work, then yes, I will take up jobs but if not then I will not work. 

 

27. Will you visit home during vacations and holidays? 

Hint; In this category, the visa interviewer wants to access your ties to your home country. You can say that you plan to come and visit your family and friends back in your home country. 

It is imperative to answer correctly and convince the examiner that you're not going to stay back to earn money so that they don't trap you and reject your visa application. 

 

Sample Answer

Yes I will be traveling back home during the holidays to spend valued time with my family and celebrate important holidays with them. I believe catching up on missed time will be very therapeutic for me. 

 

28. Are you traveling alone or with someone? 

Hint: You could tell them if you would be going alone or someone is accompanying you. 

Sample Answer

Yes, I will be traveling with my guardian who resides there, since he's familiar with the place. 

No, I will be embarking on the trip by myself. 

 

29. Why should we give you a student visa? 

Hint: Expect that this very question will be thrown at you, so you should endeavor to prepare a good answer. When asked make a strong case of why you should be given a visa and make sure to not panic and be confident in poise and reply. 

Make a good job of convincing the interviewer that you have no desire to remain in the country after studies and that you will return back to your home country. 

 

Sample Answer 

An opportunity to study in Canada will be a major leap to set the trajectory of my path to success. The knowledge I will gain from my university will be applied to my community and I will use this medium to create job opportunities and help alleviate some of the economic crisis that we are undergoing in my country. 

A visa is my door to advancement and growth. Also, I believe that just being admitted into any prestigious university in Canada means that the school believes I have something important to contribute to their program. 

 

30. What will you do if your visa gets rejected?

Hint: Here the interviewer seeks to find out if you are desperate. If you answer in a manner that is evasive or false,you will be suspected as not being genuine and your previous answers will interpreted as lies. However, there is no right answer to this question. It's up to you to provide a sincere and authentic answer. 

 

Sample Answer

My dream is to study in Canada but in the case where my visa application is rejected, I will accept the decision of the embassy and reapply another time. This time around I will ensure that I am fully prepared, my documents are complete and I will try to do better than I did today. 

 

Top Reasons for Rejection of Canada Student Visa 

 

According to the records of IRCC ( Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Canada) around 6,040,000 international students are holding student visas in Canada. Each year marks an increase in the number of visa holders. With the rise in visa applications, the number of visa  rejections has equally increased. 

 

At Least 30% rejection of student visas occurs every year due to the ever growing popularity of Canadian universities. It has also been discovered that applications are far more than the admission capacities of these universities and sometimes even applicants with good records get rejected. 

 

It is in your own benefit to figure out some of the various reasons behind a rejected visa and minimize the chances of refusal.  Below are some of the most common reasons for rejection of student visa interview questions and answers for canada. 

 

1. Financial Incapability 

The visa officers check to see if you are financially independent enough to fund your studies abroad. They check for your ability to pay at least one year's tuition fee at the college you are enrolling in before issuing you a study visa for Canada. If you are capable enough without starving yourself, you will be granted a visa. 

 

It is advised that you include proof of adequate finances for more than one year and additional financial documentation with your application for a study permit in Canada. Students who are successful in their applications typically have financial documentation demonstrating their ability to live in Canada for a specific amount of time without working. 

 

2. Poor Academic Performance 

Visa officers are responsible for thoroughly screening your academic records. Good grades are very important for approval, but that is not all. The approval or rejection of a visa application will highly depend upon the scores of English language proficiency tests like IELTS and TOEFL. Also, if your academic records are inconsistent, it will be questionable. Hence, international students must take necessary precautions to avoid these issues by early preparation and with the assistance of counselors. 

 

3. Inadequate Identity or Travel Documents 

Visa officers have the right to to reject your visa application if you have an incomplete record of travel documents or unclear identity documents. The officers will examine your documents in search of any problems like gaps in travel history or criminal conviction. If there's evidence of any, your application will be rejected. 

 

Also, if your identification does not match your documents and cannot be verified, your application will be rejected. 

Additionally, if you stated on your study permit application form that you have prior travel experience but do not have sufficient documentation to support this claim (e.g, a previous passport with visas or stamps of entry and exit from the countries you visited) your application may be denied.

 

4. Choice of Program

The visa officers pay close attention to whether your chosen study program matches with your future professional aspirations or your prior educational background (and work experience, if applicable). They will raise an issue if they notice that you are suddenly changing your field of interest or line of study.

 

Some common academic-related  reasons for rejection of student visas are; 

• Applying for Post Graduate Diploma after Masters

• Career Gap

• Second Masters (non-MBA) 

• Program is not aligned with prior education (applying for a Business program with a Nursing Degree) 

 

5. Lack of Intent to Return to Home Country 

A student visa is a non-immigrant visa that means it has an expiry date and you are expected to return back to your home country upon completion of your studies. Hence, the visa officials will want to confirm if international students will want to remain in Canada or return to their home country. When asked about this, eagerly communicate that you do not plan on staying back in Canada after graduation. If you don't successfully convince them, you will be disqualified immediately. 

 

Canada Student Visa Interview Questions and Answers PDF

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