Canada Study Permit: International Student Application

Apply and be accepted to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Only DLI-listed schools qualify for study permits. Check the DLI list at ircc.canada.ca. The acceptance letter must include your full name, program details, program length, and tuition fees. You cannot apply for a study permit without this letter.

You must show you can afford tuition plus 20,635 CAD per year for living expenses (33,000 CAD if studying in Quebec). Acceptable proof includes bank statements, a scholarship letter, a letter from a person or institution funding you, or a Canadian bank account in your name. Funds must be liquid and accessible. Property ownership or investments alone are insufficient.

As of 2024, students applying from outside Canada must include a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) confirming a space has been allocated for them within the province's study permit cap. Your school issues the PAL through the provincial government. Without it, your application is returned. Exemptions include master's, doctoral, and some K-12 programs.

Create an account at ircc.canada.ca and select 'Study Permit' application. The form takes 45-60 minutes to complete. You need your passport, Letter of Acceptance, PAL (if required), financial proof, digital photos, and family information. Upload all documents as PDFs or JPEGs. The application fee is 150 CAD plus 85 CAD for biometrics.

The Statement of Purpose explains why you chose this program, this school, and Canada. Include your academic background, career goals, and how the program fits your plans. Explain why you plan to return to your home country after studies (this addresses immigration officer concerns about intent to stay). Keep it to 1-2 pages, specific and honest.

After submitting the application, you receive a biometrics instruction letter. Attend a VAC within 30 days for fingerprints and photo. The biometrics fee (85 CAD) is paid with the application. Biometrics are valid for 10 years. Book your appointment early as VACs in popular countries fill up during peak application seasons from May through September.

Students from certain countries or those studying health sciences must complete a medical exam by a designated panel physician. IRCC notifies you if an exam is required after submission. The exam includes a physical, chest X-ray, and blood work. Cost is 200-400 CAD. Results go directly to IRCC. Start the exam promptly as it adds 2-4 weeks to processing.

If approved, IRCC issues a port of entry (POE) introduction letter. This is not the study permit itself. Present the letter at Canadian immigration upon arrival. The border officer issues your study permit, verifying your documents and study plans. Carry your acceptance letter, financial proof, and the POE letter together.

International students with a valid study permit can work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks. Apply for a SIN at any Service Canada office with your study permit and passport. Co-op and internship work requires a co-op work permit obtained through your school.

You must be enrolled full-time during each academic semester. Dropping below full-time enrollment without authorization from your school's international office violates your study permit conditions. Taking an authorized leave (medical, compassionate) is permitted with documentation. Immigration officers can check your enrollment status. This guide is informational only, not legal advice.