Step-by-Step Guide to Writing an LOE for Canada

What is a Letter of Explanation (LOE)?

A Letter of Explanation (LOE) is a short, formal letter (usually 1–2 pages) that helps you explain special circumstances in your study permit application for Canada. Unlike a personal essay or statement of purpose, it focuses less on your goals and more on why certain situations occurred, such as:

• Gaps in your studies
• Applying from a different country
• Missing or expired documents

Additionally, an LOE shows your intent as a student and your ties to your home country. Using a neutral and positive tone is recommended.

Why Include an LOE?

Even though an LOE is optional, it can strengthen your application. For example:

• It helps immigration officers understand unusual circumstances.
• It provides a chance to explain gaps, delays, or part-time studies.
• It shows your commitment to studying in Canada and your connection to your home country.

Including supporting documents, like letters from an employer, school, or healthcare provider, can make your explanation clearer. To make things simpler, combine the LOE and supporting documents into one PDF, with the LOE as the first page.

Who Should Include an LOE?

You should consider including an LOE if any of these situations apply:

• Some documents are missing or expired
• You have a conditional admission from a Canadian college or university
• You are applying from a different country than your citizenship
• You took an authorized leave from studies
• You took longer than expected to complete a program
• You are studying part-time and need to explain why
• Immigration officers have questions about your application
• You need to clarify why certain study permit requirements were not met

Even if none of these apply, including an LOE can still be helpful to show your study plan, travel history, and ties to your home country.

How to Write an Effective LOE

To write a strong LOE, follow these tips:

1. Focus on the purpose – Explain the specific reason for writing the LOE, like a gap year or missing documents.
2. Keep it short and clear – One to two pages is enough.
3. Use a neutral or positive tone – Avoid overly emotional language.
4. Include supporting documents – Attach any relevant proof to strengthen your explanation.
5. Organize your timeline – If helpful, list important events in order to make your situation easy to understand.

Why It Matters

Immigration officers must believe your main purpose in Canada is studying, even if you hope to gain Canadian work experience later. A well-prepared LOE can:

• Reduce chances of your application being refused due to travel history or missing information
• Strengthen your credibility as a genuine student
• Address any concerns officers may have about your documents or situation

In fact, in 2024, over 75% of study permit refusals involved issues with applicants’ travel history, so a clear LOE can make a big difference.

Conclusion

• Start early – Give yourself time to draft, attach supporting documents, and review for clarity.
• Check your school’s guidelines – Some institutions provide instructions for writing an LOE.
• Be honest and precise – Avoid exaggeration, but clearly explain your situation.

With careful preparation, your LOE can significantly improve your study permit application and help you take the next step in your study abroad journey.

Get in touch with SPS Global

Receive professional advice on any of your questions regarding Canadian immigration. get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Global. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).