The Independent Songwriting & Performance (IPS) program at Seneca Polytechnic is designed for aspiring singers, songwriters and performing artists seeking to build a successful career in the music industry. This intensive eight-month certificate program develops creative, technical and entrepreneurial skills through hands-on learning and personalized instruction from industry professionals.
Students refine their songwriting, lyrical composition, vocal performance, music theory, recording preparation and stage presence while gaining practical knowledge of artist branding, music marketing and industry operations. The program culminates in a professionally mentored recording project, allowing students to showcase their talent and receive industry-focused feedback. Graduates are prepared for careers in music performance, songwriting, music production and music distribution.
- Academic Requirement: Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent Mature applicants may be considered Grade 12 English (C or U) or equivalent Music Performance Video Required
- ELP Requirement: IELTS Academic: 6.0 Overall (No band below 5.5) OR PTE Academic: 58 Duolingo: 105-110 TOEFL iBT: Minimum 20 per skill CAEL: 60 Cambridge English: 169 (No skill below 162)
- Special Requirement: Music Performance Video Required Live Video Performance of an Original Song or Cover Song Lip-synced videos are not accepted Applicants are encouraged to accompany themselves using a keyboard or string instrument If using a backing track, source and credits must be provided Final semester recording project evaluated by faculty panel Strong interest in songwriting, vocal performance and music industry careers preferred
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Students whose study permit applications are still pending may request a deferral to the next available intake, provided the request is submitted before Day 10 of classes and the program is available. Deferrals are granted only once.
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Students awaiting an IRCC decision must still meet the deferral deadline. Requests submitted after Day 10 of classes will not be approved solely because a study permit decision is pending.
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Students may alternatively withdraw and apply for a refund by submitting the required withdrawal form and supporting documentation. Applicable administrative fees may be deducted.
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If a study permit application is refused, students may defer their admission and request a new Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) to support a future study permit application. PAL issuance is subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed.
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Refund requests due to study permit refusal must include a copy of the official IRCC refusal letter and be submitted within 14 days of the refusal date.
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Only the refusal letter associated with the intake being withdrawn from will be considered for refund eligibility.
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Students whose second study permit application is refused before the start of classes may still qualify for a refund, subject to Seneca’s refund policy.
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Deferral requests are subject to program availability, and late requests may require a written appeal.
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Approved late deferrals may be subject to a CAD $200 late fee.
- Application Fee: $90
- LOA Deposit: $0
- Annual Tuition Fee: $21,110
- Total Tuition Fee: $21,110
- Course Duration: 8 Months (2 Semesters)
- Credentials: Ontario College Certificate
- Intake: September 2026 (Fall Intake)
Academic Documents
- Class 10 Marksheet
- Class 12 Marksheet
- Class 12 Certificate
Identity Documents
- Valid Passport
English Language Documents
- IELTS / PTE / TOEFL / Duolingo Score Card
Program Specific Documents
- Music Performance Video
- Song Credits Information
- Performer Information
- Backing Track Source Information (if applicable)
Supporting Documents
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Resume / CV (Optional)
Financial Documents (Visa Stage)
- Tuition Fee Receipt
- Bank Statements
- Financial Support Documents
Additional Documents
- Passport Size Photograph
- Music Competition Certificates (Optional)
- Vocal Training Certificates (Optional)
- Performance Portfolio (Optional)
- Work Experience Documents (If Applicable)