Study Permit
International students who wish to study in Canada must obtain a Study Permit issued by the Government of Canada. A study permit allows foreign nationals to stay in Canada temporarily for educational purposes and specifies the Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and program in which the student is enrolled.
In addition to granting permission to study, a study permit may also allow international students to work part-time during their academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, provided they meet the eligibility requirements. It is important for students to comply with all conditions outlined in their permit, including maintaining full-time enrollment and making satisfactory academic progress.
Eligibility Requirements for a Study Permit
To apply for a Canadian study permit, applicants must meet the eligibility requirements set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Generally, applicants must:
- Obtain a Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Provide a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) if required
- Demonstrate their intention to leave Canada at the end of their authorized stay
- Show proof of financial support to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation
- Have no criminal record and be willing to provide police certificates if requested
- Be in good health and complete a medical examination if required
- Meet Canada’s general admissibility requirements
- Students who plan to study in the province of Quebec must also obtain a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) before applying for a study permit.
Documents Required for a Study Permit Application
Applicants typically need to provide the following documents when applying for a Canadian study permit:
- Valid passport
- Completed study permit application forms
- Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL), if required
- Proof of financial support (bank statements or financial documents)
- Passport-size photographs meeting Canadian visa specifications
- Statement of purpose or letter of explanation (if applicable)
- Police clearance certificate (if requested)
- Medical examination results (if required)
- Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ), for students studying in Quebec