An applicant with a completed master's in software engineering (earned in China) asked whether they could get admission — and a study permit — for a second master's in computer science in Canada. The thread offered two perspectives:
- A second master's in a similar field can raise questions. One member cautioned that already holding a master's and applying for another can create issues in the visa file, since the officer may ask why the program is being repeated. Their suggestion was to consider a shorter one-year certificate/graduate program instead, which reads as clearer career progression.
- It's not a blocker if your file justifies it. Another member reported doing exactly this: they disclosed their existing master's in their application and still received a study permit. The degree itself isn't disqualifying — what matters is explaining the progression convincingly.
- Permit length follows program length, and extension is possible. In response to the worry about a one-year program giving only a one-year permit, a member confirmed you can extend a study permit from within Canada if you continue studies.
Bottom line: admission to a second master's is possible. Disclose the first degree honestly, and use your statement of purpose to explain why the new program (different specialization, different country) advances your career rather than repeating it.