A Canadian study permit allows an eligible foreign national to study at a designated learning institution (DLI). The application is more than an admission letter: IRCC assesses the applicant’s documents, financial situation and overall eligibility before issuing a study permit.

Start with the right school and program

For post-secondary studies, the school must be a designated learning institution. An applicant normally needs a valid letter of acceptance from the DLI before applying. Not every program at every DLI leads to the same post-graduation options, so applicants who may want to work in Canada after graduation should also review current Post-Graduation Work Permit eligibility rules.

Provincial or territorial attestation letters

Many study permit applicants must include a provincial attestation letter (PAL) or territorial attestation letter (TAL), although exemptions apply in specific situations. The rules have changed several times, so the requirement should be checked against the applicant’s program and level of study at the time of application.

Financial evidence

A study permit application should clearly show how tuition, living costs and other expenses will be paid. The supporting evidence needs to be credible and consistent with the applicant’s financial circumstances.

Study plan and temporary intent

Applicants should be able to explain why the chosen program makes sense for their education, career and future plans. The study plan should be consistent with the applicant’s background and the documents submitted with the application.

After the study permit is issued

Study permit holders must continue to comply with the conditions of their permit. IRCC requires students to remain enrolled at a DLI and actively pursue their studies unless an exemption applies. Changes in school, program or status can have immigration consequences and should be reviewed carefully.

Study permit planning checklist

• Confirm the school is a DLI.
• Review whether the program is eligible for the post-graduation outcome you expect.
• Confirm whether a PAL/TAL or Quebec documentation is required.
• Prepare clear and traceable financial evidence.
• Make sure the study plan is logical and supported by the applicant’s background.
• Review family-member and future work-permit implications separately.

CanLink assists with study permit strategy, document preparation, extensions and related immigration planning. Visit our Study Permits page.

Official resources

• IRCC: How to apply for a study permit
• IRCC: Designated learning institutions
• IRCC: Study permit conditions

Study permit and PGWP rules change frequently. Confirm the current requirements for the specific school and program before applying.