Getting a Canada study visa at age 37 after already completing a master’s degree and having only 54% in bachelor’s may sound impossible to many people.
But this is a real success story.
Today, we are sharing the inspiring journey of Niji, who successfully received her Canada study visa in January 2026 and will be traveling in May 2026 to start her Master of Management program at University of Niagara Falls Canada.
This case proves one thing clearly:
1. Age is not a barrier
2. Low percentage is not a barrier
3. Study gap is not a barrier
4. Having relatives in Canada is NOT a problem
Let’s break down her complete profile and strategy.
1. Profile Overview – Canada Study Visa at 37
Age: 37 years
Bachelor’s Percentage: 54%
Education: Master of Computer Applications (MCA)
Study Gap: 17 years (Bachelor’s completed in 2009)
Current Profession: Product Manager / Business Analyst
Location: Pune
IELTS Score: Overall 7.0 (No band less than 6)
Brother in Canada: Yes
Marital Status: Single
Despite multiple “complexities” in her case, the visa was approved.
2. 17-Year Study Gap – How It Was Managed
Many applicants panic about study gaps.
In Niji’s case:
She had a 17-year gap after her bachelor’s.
However, she was working throughout.
At the time of application, she was actively employed.
This is extremely important.
Visa officers look at:
Current employment
Career progression
Home country establishment
Return prospects
If you are currently working, it significantly strengthens your case—even if your past has gaps.
If not employed, at least show:
Freelancing
Business activity
Professional engagement
Being professionally active increases credibility.
3. Second Master’s Degree – Is It Allowed?
Yes. But with logic.
Niji already had an MCA (Master’s degree in IT field).
She applied for Master of Management, which is:
Different field
Career progression
Logical transition
Rule:
You CAN do another master’s.
You CANNOT repeat the same master’s.
After MBA, don’t apply for another MBA.
Choose complementary specialization (Business Analytics, Global Management, Organizational Leadership, etc.).
Her program choice was strategic and aligned with her professional growth.
4. Last-Minute PAL & Financial Chaos – Yet Visa Approved
This case had extreme urgency.
The University of Niagara Falls Canada informed that:
Visa application must be submitted before December 31.
They would not reissue PAL in 2026.
PAL had to be used immediately.
Challenges:
Loan was not approved yet.
Tuition fee receipt was pending.
GIC certificate was not ready.
What was done:
Fee deposited at the last moment.
Visa applied without GIC certificate.
Forex proof attached.
Later submitted tuition receipt & GIC via webform during processing.
Despite chaos and pressure, visa was granted.
This shows strong documentation strategy matters.
5. The 3 Golden Rules for Canada Study Visa
If you follow these three things, your chances increase significantly:
1. IELTS / PTE Requirement
IELTS 6.0 in each band minimum
Or PTE 60 in each module
2. Pay First Year Tuition Fee
3. Show GIC – $23,000 CAD
If these three are properly done, refusal risk reduces.
Even if refused:
Do not withdraw.
Reapply strategically.
Improve documentation.
Persistence matters.
6. Public vs Private Universities – Important 2026 Insight
Due to PAL (Provincial Attestation Letter) complications, many private universities are creating issues in issuing PAL for:
First application
Reapplication after refusal
Private universities currently facing PAL challenges include:
University of Niagara Falls Canada
Yorkville University
University Canada West
Recommendation for 2026:
If you have:
60–70% in bachelor’s
Always prefer public universities.
For Master’s in public DLI:
PAL may not be required.
Reapplication becomes easier.
Private universities should be chosen only when marks are low and no public option is available.
7. Is Canada Still Worth It in 2026?
Yes — and even more strategically.
Canada is tightening intake.
Refusal rates are high.
Fewer students are entering.
This means:
Less competition
Better job opportunities
Easier rental market
Better PR prospects long-term
Similar to how New Zealand regulates intake strictly, Canada is also restructuring its student policies.
Difficult entry often means better long-term stability.
8. Relative in Canada – Is It a Problem?
No.
Many people believe having a sibling in Canada leads to refusal.
This is a myth.
If documentation is strong and purpose is genuine, relative presence does not automatically cause rejection.
Niji’s brother is already in Canada — still visa approved.
9. Financial Summary of Her Case
First year tuition paid
GIC managed
Total liquid assets: $52,000
That is more than sufficient for approval.
10. Travel Update
Visa approved: January 2026
Visa stamped ✔
Program intake: May 2026
Travel expected: May 2026
Congratulations to Niji on her achievement!
11. Final Message: Canada Study Visa Has No Age Limit
You can apply at:
30
35
40
45
Even 50+
You can apply with:
Low percentage
Multiple refusals
Study gap
Family case
Second master’s
What matters is:
Strategy
Documentation
Program logic
Financial proof
Proper representation
If you are planning your Canada study visa and want complete guidance—from study permit to PR journey—Globexa Immigration can assist you with:
Study Visa
Spouse Open Work Permit
Parents Visa
PGWP
PR Application
Refusal Reapplication
Full Family Settlement Planning
Your age does not define your visa outcome.
Your strategy does.
If Niji can do it at 37 with 54%, you can too.
