If you’re planning to study in Canada, you’ve probably come across the term Letter of Explanation (LOE). It is a document that often leaves students wondering: “What exactly is it?” or “Do I really need one?” While many applicants confuse it with a Statement of Purpose (SOP), the LOE serves a completely different purpose. 

What is a Letter of Explanation?

A Letter of Explanation (LOE) is a formal document included with your Canadian study permit application. Unlike an SOP, which highlights your academic goals, personal journey, and reasons for choosing a particular course or institution, an LOE is written specifically for the visa officer. Its purpose is to clarify, justify, or provide context for certain parts of your application that might not be immediately clear from your forms or documents. In short, your LOE is about why something in your application needs further explanation.

Why You Might Need an LOE

Even though an LOE isn’t always mandatory, it’s highly recommended, especially if your application includes any points that need clarification. You might need an LOE if you:

• Have an academic or employment gap in your history.
• Are you changing your field of study or career path?
• Have had previous visa refusals from Canada or another country.
• You’re resubmitting an application after a refusal and need to address officer’s concerns.
• Need to explain financial arrangements or the source of funds.
• Want to demonstrate your genuine intent to study in Canada and comply with visa conditions.
• Wish to clarify supporting documents or discrepancies in your application.

Essentially, if there’s anything in your background or paperwork that might raise a question, an LOE is your opportunity to explain it clearly and confidently.

How to Write a Letter of Explanation

Your LOE should be clear, factual, and focused on addressing specific issues, not a repetition of your SOP or personal story. Here’s a recommended structure:

• Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and explain the purpose of your letter (to clarify certain aspects of your study permit application). Mention your name, the program, and the institution you’ve been accepted to.

• Explain the Circumstances: Address each issue or concern in a separate paragraph. Be honest, concise, and maintain a positive tone. For example: 

• If you had a gap in studies, explain what you did during that time (e.g., employment, caregiving, personal reasons).
• If you’re missing a document, explain why and mention any efforts to provide supporting evidence.
• If you’re applying from another country, clarify your current situation and connection to your home country.

• Show Genuine Intent and Ties to Home Country: Even though the LOE isn’t an SOP, it’s still important to reaffirm your genuine intent to study in Canada and your commitment to return home after completing your studies.

• Reassure Compliance: Mention that you will fully comply with the conditions of your study permit and any immigration requirements. This reassures the visa officer of your credibility.
• Conclusion: End with a brief statement thanking the visa officer for considering your application and expressing confidence in your compliance with study permit conditions.

Your Letter of Explanation is a professional clarification. It gives you the chance to help the immigration officer understand your unique situation and make a fair decision on your study permit. It connects the facts in your application to the real story behind them. For more information, connect Entri Fly!