As the final pages of your academic journey turn, a new chapter unfolds in Ontario. For international students who’ve pursued their Master’s degree in this diverse province, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program’s (OINP) Masters Graduate Stream holds the promise of a seamless transition from student to permanent resident. In this guide, we’ll uncover the reasons why applying for the OINP Masters Graduate Stream could be your pathway to settling and thriving in Ontario.
What is the OINP Masters Graduate Stream
The OINP Masters Graduate Stream is a specialized immigration route for international students who’ve successfully completed their Master’s degree in Ontario. Tailored to your educational journey, this stream is designed to make your transition from student life to a professional career in Ontario smoother and more accessible.
What Can OINP Masters Graduate Stream Offer to You as a Master's Degree Holder in Ontario
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) Masters Graduate Stream offers a unique opportunity for individuals holding a Master’s degree from an Ontario university to immigrate to Ontario as permanent residents. This program serves as a pathway for eligible students who have completed their Master’s degree from a university in Ontario.
To be eligible for this stream, you must meet certain requirements. Firstly, you must have fulfilled the prerequisites to obtain a Master’s degree. Additionally, you must have completed a full-time study program that lasted at least one year and graduated from a designated learning institution in the province.
However, it’s important to note that you have to pay a seperate application fee for this stream and obtain your nomination. The cost is set at 1,500 CAD currently. In addition to this, you will have to pay the fees for permanent residency application to IRCC.
To maximize your chances of qualifying for Ontario’s Master degree program for immigration to Canada, you should ensure that you’ve spent at least one year of full-time study towards your degree at an eligible public-funded university in the province.
Overall, the OINP Masters Graduate Stream can provide Master’s Degree holders in Ontario with a valuable avenue for achieving permanent residency in the province.
How to be Eligible for OINP Masters Graduate Stream
Eligibility is the gateway, and the OINP Masters Graduate Stream has specific criteria tailored to your Master’s degree journey. Here’s what you need to qualify:
You Must Meet the Stream’s Following Criteria:
- Demonstrate an expression of interest and receive an invitation to apply.
- Complete a Master’s program of at least one academic year in an eligible university in Ontario, which includes full-time study (at least 15 hours of instruction per week) or its part-time equivalent. (See the list of eligible universities below)
- Prove your English or French language proficiency at a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7 or higher.
- Live in Ontario legally for at least a year for the past two years before applying.
- Show that you have enough financial resources to support yourself and any dependent family members upon settling in Canada.
- Demonstrate your intent to make Ontario your home.
- Reside in Ontario with legal status, such as study permit, work permit, or visitor record or live outside Canada at the time of application.
- Maintain a legal status within Canada.
- Submit your application within two years of completing the requirements for your degree, diploma, or certificate.
List of Eligible Universities in Ontario
You must have finished your master’s degree at one of these universities in Ontario to apply for Masters Graduate Stream:
- Algoma University
- Brescia University College (Affiliated with the University of Western Ontario)
- Brock University
- Carleton University
- Dominican University College
- Huron University College (Affiliated with the University of Western Ontario)
- King’s University College at the University of Western Ontario
- Lakehead University
- Laurentian University
- McMaster University
- Nipissing University
- Ontario College of Art & Design University
- Queen’s University
- Royal Military College of Canada
- Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University)
- Saint Paul University (Federated with the University of Ottawa)
- St. Jerome’s University (Federated with the University of Waterloo)
- Trent University
- University of Guelph
- University of Ontario Institute of Technology
- University of Ottawa
- University of St. Michael’s College (Federated with the University of Toronto)
- University of Toronto
- University of Trinity College (Federated with the University of Toronto)
- University of Waterloo
- University of Windsor
- Victoria University (Federated with the University of Toronto)
- Western University
- Wilfrid Laurier University
- York University
Advantage of OINP Masters Graduate Stream in the Federal Express Entry System
Upon successful application and nomination through this stream, you receive an additional 600 points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) of the federal Express Entry system. This significantly enhances your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency in Canada.
How Chitra & Associates Immigration Consultants Can Help in the Immigration Process
Navigating the immigration landscape can be complex, but Chitra & Associates Immigration Consultants can be your guiding light. Their expertise can help you navigate the intricacies of the OINP Masters Graduate Stream, from assessing your eligibility to submitting your application with confidence.
In conclusion, the OINP Masters Graduate Stream is your bridge to transforming your academic achievement into a thriving professional journey in Ontario. By understanding the stream’s nuances, meeting eligibility criteria, and potentially seeking expert guidance, you’re embarking on a path that not only values your education but also propels you toward a brighter future in Ontario’s diverse and vibrant community.
Remember, your Master’s degree isn’t just a certificate; it’s a key that unlocks the doors to Ontario’s promising opportunities and sets the stage for the next chapter of your success story.
