Canada is a premier destination for international students worldwide. To study in Canada, you will need to obtain a Canadian study permit. Follow our step-by-step guide to secure your study permit today!

Apply for a Study Permit

A study permit grants legal authorization to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. It’s essential to understand the eligibility requirements and conditions that must be met both during the application process and throughout your stay in Canada.

Key Points:

• Plan ahead due to varying processing times.
• Most Canadian post-secondary programs begin in September, January, or May, but some have different intake dates.
• Ensure you have an acceptance letter from your chosen DLI before applying for a study permit.

Did you know? Canadian schools often have different application deadlines for international students compared to domestic students. Check the deadlines for your program!

Study Permit Requirements

There are two sets of requirements for a Canadian study permit: eligibility requirements and conditions while studying in Canada.

Eligibility Requirements

• Travel Document: Valid passport or lawful travel document.
• Acceptance Letter: From a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
• Proof of Financial Support: Show sufficient funds for tuition, living expenses for the first year, and return transportation.
• Medical Exam: May be required after application submission.
• Criminal Record: Police clearance certificates may be requested.
• Supporting Documentation: Varies by country. Check the IRCC website or contact our Educational Counsellors for assistance.

Requirements While Studying in Canada

• Always be enrolled at a DLI.
• Make progress toward completing your program.
• Respect the conditions listed on your study permit.
• Stop studying if you no longer meet the requirements.
• Leave Canada when your permit expires.

Application Process

There are four stages to obtaining a Canadian study permit:

1. Check Your Eligibility: Ensure you meet the requirements and have an acceptance letter from a DLI.
2. Prepare Your Application: Gather all necessary documents specific to your country.
3. Submit Your Application:
   • Electronic Application: Through the IRCC website with scanned documents.
   • Paper-Based Application: Mailed to the Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your country.
4. If Approved, Come to Canada: You will receive a Port of Entry (POE) Introduction Letter. Present this letter at the POE to obtain your study permit.

Note: A study permit is not a visa. Depending on your citizenship, you may need a travel visa or an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada.

Visa Exempt Countries: No visa required, but an eTA may be necessary. Non-Visa Exempt Countries: A travel visa will be mailed upon study permit approval.

Did you know? The term ‘study permit’ allows you to study in Canada, while a ‘visa’ allows entry into the country.

Study Permit Exemptions

Not all foreign nationals require a study permit to study in Canada. Common exemptions include:

Short-Term Studies: Programs lasting six months or less do not require a study permit. If the program extends beyond six months, obtain a permit before the initial period ends.

Minor Children in Canada:

• Under 18 or 19 (varies by province) attending kindergarten, pre-school, primary, or secondary school.
• Refugees or refugee claimants, or children accompanying parents authorized to work or study.

Members of Foreign Armed Forces: Active-duty members do not require a study permit, but their family members may.

Studying in Quebec: International students must first obtain a Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) before applying for a study permit.