How to Apply as an International Student
CCST Vancouver welcomes students from all over the world. Please follow these steps to complete the international student application process.
Step 1: Choose Your Program & Confirm Full-Time Status
Our institution only accepts full-time international student applications. International students may enroll in the following programs:
- Diploma in Christian Studies (Dip.C.S.)
- Advanced Diploma in Practical Theology (Adv. Dip. P.T.)
- Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.)
- Master of Divinity (M.Div.)
- Advanced Master of Divinity (Adv. M.Div.)
- Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.)
Full-Time Student Requirements:
- Diploma & Master's: Full-time students must register for a minimum of three courses in both the Fall and Spring semesters.
- Doctoral: Full-time students must register for a total of four courses in the Spring and Summer semesters.
Step 2: Submit Application & Pay Fee
- Please fill out the online application form and submit it here:
https://ccstvan.populiweb.com/router/admissions/onlineapplications/index?application_form=1 - Pay the non-refundable application fee (The international student application fee is CAD $165 - Master Level or $220 - Doctoral Level).
Step 3: Interview & Receive Admission
- Applicants who pass the initial screening will be scheduled for an online admission interview. Successful applicants will receive an "Admission Notice." The applicant must sign and return the Admission Notice to accept the offer.
- Applicants who are not successful in the review process will be notified separately.
Step 4: Receive LOA & PAL (Key Documents for Study Permit)
- After you return the signed Admission Notice and pay the required tuition deposit, our institution will issue you two key documents:
- Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
- Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)
Important: According to new IRCC regulations from 2024, you must have both the LOA and the PAL to apply for a study permit.
Step 5: Apply for a Study Permit
Students must take the "Letter of Acceptance (LOA)" and "Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)" issued by our school to a Canadian Visa Office in their country of origin to apply for a Study Permit.
Please note: In accordance with provincial regulations, theological programs are not eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program.
Official Study Permit Information:
Eligibility to apply:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/eligibility.html
Get documents:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/get-documents.html
How to apply:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/apply.html
Check processing times:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/check-processing-times.html
Application inquiries (Contact IRCC online):
https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/contacts/web-form.asp
Step 6: Arrive in Canada
Successful applicants will receive a "Letter of Introduction." This is not your study permit. You must present this letter at the Canadian port of entry (airport) to be issued your official "Study Permit."
Important: You cannot register for any courses until you have received your official Study Permit.
Step 7: Register at CCSTV & Apply for MSP
Register at School: Upon arrival, students should bring their Study Permit to the Registrar's Office as soon as possible to register. At the same time, you must pay the CAD $3,150 tuition deposit or the full-term tuition to confirm your student status and enrollment at CCST Vancouver.
BC Medical Services Plan (MSP):
- The province of British Columbia requires international students holding a Study Permit for 6 months or longer to enroll in the BC Medical Services Plan (MSP).
- You must apply for MSP immediately upon arrival in British Columbia. You cannot apply before you arrive.
- MSP Application Website:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/health-drug-coverage/msp/bc-residents/eligibility-and-enrolment/how-to-enrol
Important (MSP Waiting Period): There is a three-month waiting period for MSP (the remainder of the month you arrive, plus two full calendar months). For example, if you arrive on July 15, your MSP coverage will begin on October 1. You must purchase temporary private medical insurance on your own to cover any potential medical costs during this waiting period.
