UBC optional residency program + student visa

[kyeno1]

I imagine this might be a question for the university themselves.

UBC (University of British Columbia) has an optional residency MFA program I am applying for. Basically an online program that mirrors their regular residency MFA program. Its a full time program, and only meets physically at Vancouver once a summer, and the rest is online. (The summer meeting isn't even required, you could do the whole program from outside Vancouver, in another country)

My question is, can I do the optional residency program, and live elsewhere in Canada for cheaper rent, and still qualify for a student visa that allows me to work in Canada, and have all the same chances of immigrating to permanent residency after graduation? Or in order to get a student visa, do I have to be taking classes physically at the school.

 

[PMM]

Hi

I imagine this might be a question for the university themselves.

UBC (University of British Columbia) has an optional residency MFA program I am applying for. Basically an online program that mirrors their regular residency MFA program. Its a full time program, and only meets physically at Vancouver once a summer, and the rest is online. (The summer meeting isn't even required, you could do the whole program from outside Vancouver, in another country)

My question is, can I do the optional residency program, and live elsewhere in Canada for cheaper rent, and still qualify for a student visa that allows me to work in Canada, and have all the same chances of immigrating to permanent residency after graduation? Or in order to get a student visa, do I have to be taking classes physically at the school.

Nope


Distance learning

Distance learning can be through e-learning, correspondence, or internet courses. Distance learning is a process by which technology is used in ways where the student does not have to physically be in the place where the teaching is taking place.

Since by definition distance learning does not require one to be in Canada, a study permit cannot be issued for this type of course. For example, if a foreign national authorized to work in Canada is prohibited from engaging in studies as per a condition of their work permit, they are allowed to engage in distance learning courses.

However, some distance learning courses include an in-Canada portion to the program (e.g., special tutorials or the writing of final exams). If the overall course of study is greater than six months, then the student requires a study permit for the in-Canada portion of the program, even if the in-Canada portion is less than six months. The duration of the study permit should be for the duration of the in-Canada portion only.