Acceptance Letter and Visas | Incoming Exchange Students

Congratulations you have been accepted to come to the University of Guelph on exchange. We look forward to welcoming you to our campus!

Acceptance Letter

We will send you a digital copy of your acceptance letter to your home university email. You will also be sent additional information to help you prepare for your exchange to the University of Guelph.The timeline for some of these processes will depend on what semester you are scheduled to start at U of G and when you submit your application. We will send your acceptance letter by the following dates:

• Academic Year Exchange: April 15
• Fall Exchange: May 15
• Winter Exchange: May 15 (Please note: there is a rolling nomination/application deadline for winter exchange, if you submit your application during this window, CIP will send you your acceptance letter by September 15)

Visa(s) and Travel Documents

As an international student you require valid immigration documents to live and study in Canada. Please use the resources below as a guide to help you get started and maintain your immigration and legal documents.
If you require assistance navigating this information, you may contact the Global Pre-Arrival Support (GPS) Advisors (incoming students) or the International Student Advisors (ISAs) (current students).

To ensure your visa(s) are processed in time, we advise you to start your visa application process immediately upon receiving your acceptance letter.

Travel tip: It's a good idea to bring a printed copy of your exchange acceptance letter with you on your flight in case the Canadian immigration officials ask to see it when you arrive.

Study Permit

Here are some helpful links to check if you need a study permit and how to apply:

1. Check if you need a study permit
2. How to apply for a study permit
3. Check visa processing times

Please note that exchange students coming for two semesters are exempted from needing a Provincial Attestation Letters (PAL) in order to apply for a Study Permit.

Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)

Here are some helpful links to check if you need a study permit and how to apply:

1. Check if you need a visa for eTA
2. How to apply for a TRV

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

The Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is mandatory for those that want to fly to Canada and are exempt from the requirement for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). An eTA costs $7 CAD and is valid for 5 years or until the expiry of your passport (whichever comes first). Applications will be made online and will require a valid passport, email address, and credit card. In most cases, an eTA will be issued in minutes. Learn more about the eTA.