Canada Study Permit Guide International Student Information
Learn about studying in Canada as an international student. Understand study permit requirements, application process, costs, work rights, and the pathway to permanent residence through post-graduation work permits.
What is a Canada Study Permit?
A study permit is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. It is not a visa—you may also need a visitor visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA) to enter Canada.
🎓 Why Study in Canada?
- World-class education - Many Canadian universities rank among the best globally
- Work while studying - Work up to 20 hours/week during studies
- Post-graduation work - PGWP allows 1-3 years of work after graduation
- Pathway to PR - Canadian work experience significantly boosts Express Entry chances
- Multicultural environment - Canada welcomes international students
⚠️ Important Updates
Canada has made significant changes to the international student program, including caps on study permits and stricter requirements. Provincial attestation letters are now required in most cases. Check the official IRCC page for the most current requirements.
Study Permit Requirements
To be eligible for a Canadian study permit, you generally need to demonstrate:
Acceptance Letter
You must have an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Not all schools qualify—check the official DLI list.
Proof of Funds
Show you can support yourself financially. Approximately $20,635 CAD per year (in addition to tuition), plus first year's tuition.
Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)
Most provinces now require a PAL confirming your spot counts toward provincial caps. Check if your province requires this.
Return Intent
Demonstrate ties to your home country and intent to leave Canada after studies (though many students later apply for PR through proper channels).
Medical Exam
You may need a medical exam depending on your country of residence and program length. Check if your country requires upfront medical exams.
Police Certificate
Some applicants need police clearance certificates. Required if you've lived in certain countries or for certain programs.
Language Proficiency
While IRCC doesn't always require tests, your school likely does. IELTS 6.0-6.5 is common. Some schools accept TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo.
Visa/eTA
Depending on nationality, you may also need a visitor visa or eTA to enter Canada. The study permit alone doesn't allow entry.
How to Apply for a Study Permit
Get Accepted by a DLI
Apply and receive an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution. Start this process early—it can take months.
Get Provincial Attestation (if required)
Most provinces now require a PAL. Your school should help you obtain this. Check provincial requirements.
Gather Documents
Collect all required documents: acceptance letter, PAL, proof of funds, passport, photos, and any additional documents for your country.
Apply Online
Create an account on the IRCC online portal and submit your application with all documents and fees.
Biometrics
Most applicants need to give biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at a designated collection point. You'll receive instructions after applying.
Wait for Decision
Processing times vary by country—check current times on IRCC's processing times page. Apply well in advance of your program start date.
Estimated Costs
💰 Study Permit Application Fees (CAD)
Verify current fees on the official IRCC fee page.
Other Costs to Consider
Tuition Fees
Varies widely by program. Undergraduate: $20,000-40,000/year. Graduate: $15,000-35,000/year. Some programs cost more.
Living Expenses
IRCC requires proof of approximately $20,635/year (updated annually) for living costs outside Quebec. Actual costs vary by city.
Health Insurance
Some provinces provide health coverage for students; others require private insurance. Budget $600-1,000/year if needed.
IELTS/Language Tests
Usually required by schools: $300-400 for IELTS. Some accept alternatives like TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo.
Working During & After Studies
Working While Studying
Most study permit holders can work in Canada:
- On-campus: Unlimited hours at your school
- Off-campus: Up to 20 hours/week during academic sessions
- Full-time during breaks: Work unlimited hours during scheduled breaks
- Co-op/internship: Work terms as part of your program (may need co-op work permit)
⚠️ Work Hours Policy
IRCC periodically adjusts off-campus work policies. During certain periods, students were temporarily allowed to work more than 20 hours. Always check current work authorization rules to ensure compliance.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
The PGWP allows graduates of eligible Canadian programs to work in Canada after graduation. This is a key pathway to permanent residence.
PGWP Duration
Based on program length: 8-month to 2-year programs get PGWP equal to program length. 2+ year programs can get 3-year PGWP.
Eligibility
Must graduate from eligible DLI program of at least 8 months. Must apply within 180 days of receiving final marks/graduation confirmation.
Pathway to PR
Canadian work experience gained through PGWP significantly boosts CRS score for Express Entry. 1 year of Canadian experience can add 70-80+ points.
One-Time Only
PGWP is generally a one-time opportunity. Plan accordingly and use the time to gain experience for PR applications.
🛤️ Study → Work → PR Pathway
- Complete study program at DLI (1-4 years)
- Apply for and receive PGWP (1-3 years)
- Gain skilled Canadian work experience
- Apply for Express Entry with boosted CRS score
- Receive ITA and apply for Permanent Residence
Note: This is a common pathway but not guaranteed. Immigration outcomes depend on individual circumstances and changing policies.
🔗 Official Government Links
Disclaimer
This page provides general educational information only. Study permit requirements and policies change frequently, regularly. Always verify information with official IRCC resources. This website is not affiliated with IRCC, any government, or any educational institution.