Study Permit
Study at a Canadian college or university with a valid study permit.
Prepared under the legal authority of Atty. George M. Garvida, Barrister & Solicitor
What you need
General information only. This is not legal advice.
- Letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution.
- Proof you can pay tuition and living costs. The living-cost amount is on the official page. Confirm on IRCC.
- A provincial or territorial attestation letter if the official page says your program needs one. Some programs do not. Confirm on IRCC.
- Passport, and a study plan that matches the program.
IRCC's 2027–2029 plan targets up to 150,000 new international students and 220,000 new temporary workers per year. These are government planning targets, not promises for any individual application.
What This Pathway Is
A study permit lets you attend a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. You must show an acceptance letter, proof you can pay tuition and living costs, and that you intend to leave Canada when your studies end — unless you later qualify for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) or another status.
Many international students later use the PGWP to gain Canadian work experience, which can support an Express Entry or provincial nomination application. Study permit holders must remain enrolled and make progress toward completing their program.
Initial study permit processing often takes several weeks to a few months. Extensions from inside Canada should be applied for before your current permit expires to maintain legal status.
Are You Likely Qualified?
This is a general guide, not a guarantee of eligibility. Many factors affect actual qualification — a practical next step is to start an assessment or book a free screening with our team.
- You have a letter of acceptance from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- You can prove you have enough money for tuition, living expenses, and return travel.
- You have no criminal record or medical condition that would make you inadmissible.
- You can explain your study plan and ties to your home country (or your pathway if you are already in Canada).
- You understand you must comply with study permit conditions — including active enrollment and progress in your program.
Based on what you've read, what would you like to do?