As a foreign student, immigration services told me I can apply only at the beginning of my final year of studies. This does not necessarily apply to everyone. For example, people who pursue doctoral studies are allowed to apply long before finishing their degrees.
Being in Quebec, I passed by the Quebec government for my immigration procedure.I had to send my application to Buffalo in the U.S. (as requested). I was a bit delayed because they asked me a paper once (which was not on the list), I sent it to them after a month they again asked me another paper, I sent it again. They could have asked me the two papers together but they didn't. That caused a delay of 3 months. It therefore took me about 3 months to get my CSQ and it cost $ 300 non-refundable if you are denied ($ 390 currently).
Once obtained the CSQ, I started the immigration process in Canada. Three months after the Government of Canada confirms the reception of my file. I paid $ 500 at that time to examine my application, once again. not refundable in case of refusal. At this moment of the procedure, you can do nothing but wait.
Approximately 4-5 months later, the Government of Canada sent me a letter asking me to pass a medical examination by a licensed physician (the examination costs $ 120) by the Government and return the certificate to government. I should also pay for these finals refundable $ 900 this time, but at this point, you're almost sure to be accepted.
Approximately 2-3 months later I finally get my IMM1000, certificate that I am a landed immigrant in Canada but I cannot travel with it. I then applied for immigrant card, approximately 1 month after sending the request.
Well, being Canadian immigrant, I asked for the Quebec Health insurance card, called Carte Soleil. This card gives your the right to free health care, as any Canadian citizen.