Apply for a Study Permit
Understand the study permit process and prepare each required document with confidence.
Your study-permit journey
1. Offer (LOA)
Receive a Letter of Acceptance from a DLI.
2. Attestation (PAL)
Get your provincial letter — Master's & PhD at public universities are exempt.
3. Proof of funds
Show funds for tuition, living costs, and travel.
4. Apply to IRCC
Submit your study-permit application and biometrics.
5. Checks & decision
A medical exam or police certificate may be requested.
6. Arrive → permit
Your study permit is issued at the port of entry.
Steps to Apply for Student Visa
To qualify for a Canadian Student Visa, prospective students must:
- Obtain a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) such as a University or College to initiate your student visa application.
- Secure a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) from the province or territory where the DLI is located, unless the student qualifies for an exemption.
- Provide evidence of sufficient financial resources to cover the first year of tuition, living expenses, and return transportation to their home country.
- Acquire a Certificat d'acceptation du Québec (Quebec Acceptance Certificate, or CAQ) if intending to study in Montreal or elsewhere in Quebec.
- Maintain a clear criminal record, as applicants with a history of criminal activity or those deemed a security risk may be refused. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may request a police clearance certificate.
- Be in good health. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may request an applicant to complete a medical examination.
- Demonstrate to the immigration officer that he/she will leave Canada at the end of the authorized stay granted by the student visa.
- The applicant may also be required to submit any additional documents requested by specific visa offices.
You will enter Canada on a Student Visa, and upon arrival at the port of entry, you will be issued a Study Permit.
Keep in Mind
From January to June 2026, master’s and doctoral students will represent 21% of new study permits, a significant increase from 12% last year.
The IRCC has introduced a 2-week processing time for PhD applications and exempted graduate students from the attestation letter requirement, simplifying the process.
Canada is dedicated to attracting talented international students and retaining skilled graduates to support our economy and public services.
Important Notice!
Admission, immigration, and study/work permit requirements can change. Always confirm current requirements before making final decisions.
Check current requirements on the IRCC websiteHow We Help With Your Visa Application?
For your study permit and visa, we work with Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants — licensed by the CICC, never unregulated agents. Your family can apply at the same time.
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Related Links
Review related guides and tools before making decisions or moving forward.