A Master's in Canada, with the Whole Family in Mind
Nigeria → Canada | Postgraduate Study & Family Relocation Real client story — published with permission A professional from Nigeria wanted to pursue a master's degree in a health-related field at a Canadian public university while relocating with their spouse and two school-age children. Finding the right course was only part of the decision. The family also needed to plan around immigration requirements, their children's education and suitable accommodation.
At a Glance
- Client: Postgraduate applicant from Nigeria
- Destination: Canada
- Institution: Canadian public university
- Programme: Master's degree in a health-related field
- Accompanying family: Spouse and two school-age children
- Timeline: 11 months from first consultation to arrival
The client's name and the university's name are not included in this account.
The Challenge
Finding a study route that worked for the family
The client was ready to pursue postgraduate study, but their decision could not be made on academic grounds alone. They wanted their spouse and children to relocate with them, which made family immigration requirements, school admissions and the availability of family-sized accommodation important from the outset.
Before committing to a destination or programme, they needed to understand whether the study plan and the family's practical needs could work together.
Our Recommendation
Plan for dependants before finalising the destination
We recommended considering the needs of the whole family at the same time as the postgraduate application. That meant reviewing the relevant immigration requirements early, rather than leaving family arrangements until after an offer or the main study application.
This helped narrow the destination shortlist. We also recommended researching school places and accommodation alongside the university process so that these arrangements could be addressed before travel.
How We Supported the Family
Support covered several connected areas:
- Education and career planning: Considering a master's programme aligned with the client's background and professional goals.
- Postgraduate applications: Supporting the university application process and its required documentation.
- Visa information and application preparation: Helping the family navigate the administrative steps and relevant official requirements for their applications.
- Family and dependant support: Taking the spouse's and children's circumstances into account as part of the overall plan.
- Accommodation and guardianship support: Coordinating family accommodation planning and the relevant school-related arrangements.
The important difference was treating these as parts of one relocation plan, rather than separate tasks addressed at the last minute.
The Outcome
Postgraduate study and family arrangements brought together
A master's programme was confirmed on a route that accommodated the family's circumstances under the requirements applicable at the time. School places for the children and family-sized accommodation were arranged before travel.
From the first consultation to the family's arrival in Canada, the process took 11 months.
The result was not simply progress towards a postgraduate qualification. The family was able to prepare for the move together, with the children's schooling and accommodation considered alongside the student's academic plans.
What This Story Shows
For students planning to relocate with a partner or children, the most suitable course is not always the one with the most appealing title. Family immigration options, schooling, funding and accommodation can affect which destination and programme are realistic. Considering these questions early can make the decisions that follow clearer.
Current Canadian Immigration Information for Families
Canadian immigration requirements can change, and the rules that applied to this client's application may differ from those in force today.
Since 21 January 2025, eligibility for an open work permit for the spouse or common-law partner of an international student has generally been limited to partners of students in master's programmes lasting at least 16 months, doctoral programmes, and certain other eligible or professional programmes. A master's offer does not automatically give a spouse permission to work.
Each accompanying family member must meet the requirements for their own immigration status. Children coming from outside Canada to attend school generally need to apply for a study permit before entering. Applicants must also demonstrate sufficient funds for tuition, living costs for accompanying family members and return transportation.
For the latest requirements, consult Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC):
- Work permits for spouses and common-law partners of international students
- Studying in Canada as a minor
- Proof of financial support for a study permit
This information is general and is not a determination of anyone's immigration eligibility. Immigration decisions are made by the Canadian authorities. Where personalised immigration advice is needed, applicants should consult an appropriately authorised professional.
Planning Postgraduate Study with Your Family?
If you are considering postgraduate study abroad with your partner or children, we can help you explore suitable courses, prepare university applications and plan the practical steps around your family's move.
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