What Is A GIC, And How Can It Help You Study In Canada?

The scope of study in Canada is broad and diverse, offering a wide range of educational opportunities across various fields and disciplines. Canada is known for its high-quality education, world-renowned universities, and welcoming environment for international students. Canadian universities consistently rank among the top in the world, offering rigorous academic programs and cutting-edge research opportunities. Institutions like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia are globally recognized for their quality education. Many Canadian universities require international students to provide proof of sufficient funds for their first year of study in order to obtain a study permit. This requirement is meant to ensure that students have the financial means to support themselves while they adjust to life in Canada. One of the ways to fulfill this requirement is by purchasing a GIC.

What Is GIC

GIC stands for "Guaranteed Investment Certificate." It is a financial product offered by Canadian financial institutions, often used by international students who are planning to study in Canada. The GIC serves as a proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses during the student's initial period in Canada. Students are required to purchase a GIC from a participating Canadian financial institution. This money is then held for a specific period, often 12 months, during which it cannot be withdrawn.

Benefits Of GIC For Canadian Study Visa

GIC serves as official proof of sufficient funds to meet the financial requirements for a Canadian study permit application. Here are some of its benefits that international students can avail

• Provides a guaranteed source of income during the initial period of study, ensuring students have funds for living expenses.

• Monthly payouts from the GIC account facilitate budgeting and financial planning, helping students manage their expenses effectively.

• GIC is a straightforward financial product, making it accessible to students with limited investment knowledge.

• GICs are considered low-risk investments, as the principal amount is guaranteed by the financial institution.

• Having guaranteed funds for the initial period eases the transition for international students.

Points To Ponder While Buying A GIC To Study In Canada

When considering purchasing a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) as an international student, there are several important points to ponder to ensure you make an informed decision. Here are key factors to consider:

• GIC Provider:

  • Choose a reputable Canadian financial institution that offers GICs for international students.

  • Research the institution's reliability, customer service, and reputation in the market.

• GIC Terms and Conditions:

  • Understand the terms and conditions of the GIC, including the length of the investment period, interest rates, and payout schedule.

• Interest Rate:

  • Compare interest rates offered by different financial institutions for their GICs.

  • Consider whether the interest is compounded or simple, and how it affects your earnings.

• Payout Schedule:

  • Determine the frequency and amount of payouts you will receive from the GIC during your study period.

  • Ensure the payout schedule aligns with your expected living expenses.

• Holding Period:

  • Confirm the duration of time that the GIC funds will be held without withdrawal. This is usually the first year of study.

  • Understand the consequences of withdrawing the funds before the holding period ends.

• Fees and Charges:

  • Inquire about any fees associated with purchasing, maintaining, or withdrawing from the GIC account.

  • Be aware of potential penalties for early withdrawal.

• Account Access:

  • Understand how you can access your GIC account details, statements, and track your progress.

  • Check if the financial institution provides online account management.

• Flexibility offer:

  • Explore whether the GIC offers any flexibility in case your plans change or you need to access funds for emergency situations.

• Proof of GIC Documentation:

  • Ensure you receive proper documentation of your GIC purchase, including proof of investment, terms, and conditions.

• Study Permit Requirements:

  • Verify that the GIC you're considering meets the requirements set by your chosen educational institution and the Canadian government for your study permit application.

• Currency and Exchange Rates:

  • Clarify the currency in which the GIC is held (usually Canadian dollars) and consider potential exchange rate fluctuations.

• Renewal Options:

  • Check if the GIC can be renewed for additional periods if you plan to continue your studies or stay in Canada.

• Overall Financial Plan:

  • Assess how the GIC fits into your overall financial plan and consider other sources of income or funding you might have.