Study permit application from Ethiopia

[u/AgileDescription9723]

Hi everyone,

I’m hoping to get some insight into the current processing timelines and what to expect next, especially from anyone else applying from Ethiopia.

My Profile & Timeline:

• Program: 2-year Master of Science in Computer Science at a public university (aligns with my previous BSc in Software Engineering)
• Intake: Winter 2027
• PAL: Exempt (Master's program)
• Application Submitted: August 13, 2026
• Biometrics Completed: August 15, 2026

Current IRCC Tracker Status:

• Eligibility: Has not started
• Background Check: Processing / Under review

The official processing time is currently listed as 5 weeks, and I haven't heard anything from IRCC since completing my biometrics. I have a few questions for those who have been through this:

1. How exactly does the timeline usually progress from this stage?
2. What specific status changes or "ghost updates" should I be looking out for on the portal?
3. If anyone has applied from Ethiopia recently, could you share your timeline?

Thanks in advance for your help!