Canada
Study in Canada
Your Study Permit in Canada
Canada is a leading destination for international students, offering high-quality education at the elementary, secondary, and post-secondary levels — strong academic training, global exposure, and valuable opportunities for future personal and professional growth. In most cases, foreign nationals planning to study in Canada for more than six months must obtain a study permit.
01 What is a Study Permit
A study permit is an official document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions in Canada for a specific period of time.
A study permit is not a visa. Depending on your nationality, you may also need a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) to enter Canada.
A study permit may include conditions such as the institution you can attend, your program of study, and whether you are authorized to work while studying.
02 Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs)
A Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students.
All primary and secondary schools in Canada are designated by default. At the post-secondary level, however, not all institutions are approved. Before applying for a study permit, it is important to confirm that your chosen institution is a DLI.
03 Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
To apply for a study permit, you must first obtain a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a designated learning institution in Canada. The general process includes:
Choose a Designated Learning Institution
Select a school and program that meets your academic goals and is approved to host international students.
Apply to the Institution
Submit an application directly to the school with the required documents, which may include transcripts, language test results, and other supporting materials.
Receive an Admission Decision
If your application is successful, the institution will issue a Letter of Acceptance confirming your admission.
04 Eligibility Requirements
To apply for a study permit, you must meet certain requirements. In general, you:
- are accepted by a designated learning institution (DLI)
- demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover tuition, living expenses, and return transportation
- satisfy an officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay
- obey the law, have no criminal record, and provide a police certificate if required
- are in good health and complete a medical examination if required
- comply with any additional requirements based on your country of residence
05 How to Apply
Once you have received your Letter of Acceptance, you can apply for a study permit. The general process includes:
Prepare Required Documents
Gather the necessary documents, including your Letter of Acceptance, proof of financial support, and other supporting materials.
Obtain a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (if required)
Many post-secondary applicants must obtain a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL), confirming the application falls within the provincial or territorial allocation. Certain applicants may be exempt depending on current policies.
Submit Your Application
Applications are typically submitted online through the Government of Canada portal.
Provide Biometrics and Attend an Interview (if requested)
You may be required to provide biometrics or attend an interview as part of the application process.
Receive a Decision
If approved, you will receive a port of entry letter of introduction and, if applicable, a visa or eTA to travel to Canada.
06 Working While Studying
In many cases, post-secondary students with a valid study permit may be eligible to work while studying in Canada, provided they meet the conditions of their permit and current immigration requirements.
On-campus
Eligible students may work on campus without a separate work permit.
Off-campus
Eligible students may work off campus for a limited number of hours during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, per current regulations.
Co-op or Internship Placements
If your program includes a required work placement, you may be authorized to complete it as part of your studies. Additional requirements may apply.
07 Financial Requirements and Proof of Funds
When applying for a study permit, you need to show that you have enough funds to support yourself, and any accompanying family members, while in Canada. This includes covering:
- tuition fees
- living expenses
- return travel
The required amount is set by the government and may change over time. It can vary depending on your family size and where you plan to study — Quebec has its own requirements.
As part of your application, you will need to provide documents to show that these funds are available. This may include:
- bank statements or proof of savings
- a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a Canadian financial institution
- proof of a student or education loan
- receipts showing payment of tuition or accommodation
- a letter of financial support from a parent, guardian, or sponsor
- proof of scholarships, bursaries, or other funding
Additional documents may be required depending on your case and the visa office responsible for your application.
08 Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a separate work permit to work while studying?+
In many cases, eligible post-secondary students can work without a separate work permit if their study permit includes work authorization. Otherwise, a work permit may be required depending on the situation.
How long is a study permit valid?+
A study permit is generally valid for the length of your program, plus an additional 90 days. This extra time allows you to prepare to leave Canada or apply to extend your stay.
Can I bring my spouse or children with me?+
In some cases, you may be able to bring your spouse or dependent children with you to Canada while you study, depending on your level of study and current immigration policies. Family members must apply for their own immigration status, such as a visitor visa, study permit, or work permit, depending on their situation.
Can I apply for permanent residence after studying?+
After completing your studies, you may be eligible to gain Canadian work experience, which can support future immigration options, including pathways to permanent residence, depending on the programs available at the time.
Who can provide financial support for my studies?+
You may receive financial support from a parent, guardian, family member, or another individual, provided they can demonstrate that they have sufficient funds. Supporting documents, such as a letter of support and financial records, are typically required.
Ready to start your study journey?
Our licensed team can help you confirm your eligibility, prepare a strong application, and move forward with confidence.