Hello everyone! I have a bit of a unique conundrum. I am planning on applying to McGill for fall 2015, and by my scores, I ought to be accepted. The only real thing left is to take my SATII's. My problem is that I am currently 15, and will only be 16 when I graduate/begin school again. A lot of the research I've found says that if you are under 18 you need to be either emancipated (eek!) or have an adult that is willing to take custody of you. I'm hoping someone will have some advice? I really don't know what to do!
Also a secondary question: I have heard that you must be able to show you can pay for your education before your visa is cleared. Is financial aid factored into this? According to their website, FAFSA does apply towards McGill, although you can only get loans, not grants and the like. Would that money count towards the visa requirement?
Thanks so much for your help! - HopeRose
Replies to: International Troubles
If you are coming to Montreal alone and are under-age, McGill has a Custodianship system. After you get accepted, you must write to the Dean of Students (there's a form available on their website) asking him to act as your guardian until you turn 18. Once you get the custodianship letter from the dean, you can then apply for the CAQ/Visa (make sure you include the letter in your application).
To show financial capacity, you need to provide proof of available funds (this can include your bank statements, scholarship letters, loans, bursary letters etc). All the money, including that from financial aid, will count towards the visa requirement.
McGill also offers "US Direct Loans" and "McGill Loans" for its students that you might want to take a look at.
McGill Custodianship Form: http://www.mcgill.ca/internationalstudents/minors
McGill Scholarships and Financial Aid: http://www.mcgill.ca/studentaid/scholarships-aid
One last question: if you want to participate in a work-study job at McGill, do you need to have a work/education visa? Or is that covered under 'university business' or something of the sort?
Thank you so much for your help!