Canada Study Permit: Requirements, Documents and Steps
A study permit lets you study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. You apply online, usually before you travel, with a letter of acceptance, a PAL or TAL in most cases, proof of funds and your passport. We check each document before you submit.
since 1991
Who can get a study permit?
You can get a study permit if you are enrolled at a DLI, can prove funds for tuition, living costs and return travel, have no criminal record, are in good health and can show an officer that you will leave Canada when the permit ends (IRCC).
What does the application include?
You need a letter of acceptance, a PAL or TAL in most cases (a CAQ for Quebec), proof of identity, proof of funds and a letter of explanation. Add a medical exam or police certificate if IRCC asks. See our PAL guide, the costs and proof of funds guide and the Study in Canada hub.
Key rules at a glance
- Online application: you must apply online, in Canada or outside. Paper is only for people with a disability or certain identity documents.
- School check: your school validates your letter of acceptance. If it does not respond, IRCC returns your application and refunds the fee.
- Funds: you must show money for the first year and explain how you will pay for the full program.
- Length: a study permit is usually valid for your program plus 90 days.
Which situation matches yours?
Pick the situation that matches yours below.
A study permit fits if
- You will study for more than 6 months at a DLI.
- You have a letter of acceptance and, in most cases, a PAL or TAL.
- You can show funds and a clear plan to leave when you finish.
Another route fits if
- Your program is 6 months or less: you may not need a permit. See the short-term study guide.
- You are a minor: read the study as a minor guide.
- You are already studying: see how to extend or change your permit.
See the Study in Canada hub and the PGWP guide for your post-study options.
Why study permit applications get refused
Five problems cause most trouble. Source: IRCC.
Doubt that you will leave
Officers must be satisfied that you will leave when your permit expires. Weak ties, a vague plan or a program that does not fit your history can raise doubt.
Not enough funds
You must prove tuition, living costs and return travel for the first year, and how you will pay for the rest.
Missing PAL, TAL or CAQ
Most students need one. A missing, expired or reused letter can stop the file.
Letter of acceptance not validated
Your school must validate the letter. If it does not respond in time, IRCC returns your application.
Unclear documents
Source of funds, sponsor letters and bank statements must be clear and consistent. False information can lead to a 5 year ban under IRPA s.40.
Not sure your file is strong enough?
We review your school choice, funds and letters before you pay the fee.
Deadlines you cannot miss
Biometrics: 30 days
If IRCC asks for biometrics, you have 30 days from the date on the letter. You only need to give them once every 10 years.
Submit your PAL or TAL with your application, not after. Each applicant needs one, even if you apply as a family.
Your permit is usually valid for the program plus 90 days. Apply to extend before it expires if you need more time.
Documents to gather
Your online application builds a checklist. Start with these.
How a study permit application works, step by step
Six stages from your offer to your decision.
Get your offer
Get your letter of acceptance. Your school validates it.
Get your PAL or TAL
Ask your school how to get it. Quebec needs a CAQ.
Prove your funds
Gather bank, loan, scholarship or sponsor proof.
Apply online
Upload all documents and pay the fees.
Give biometrics
Do this within 30 days of the letter.
Prepare to travel
Check your entry documents and your permit conditions.
Study permit costs
From IRCC pages. Last updated: October 2026.
Why clients choose Amir Ismail & Associates
35+ years of hands-on immigration experience and 25,000+ successful cases, from offices in Toronto, Dubai and Karachi. Our team includes Rijah Amir, also a licensed RCIC, so every file gets a second expert review.
Licensed expert guidance
Advice from CICC-licensed RCICs, not sales staff or unlicensed agents.
A strategy built for your profile
We identify the fastest realistic pathway for you, not a template.
Application accuracy
Documentation review that prevents costly errors and refusals.
Timely updates
We track every draw, policy shift and IRCC announcement for you.
End-to-end support
From eligibility checks to landing, we guide every step.
Proven track record
2026 Canadian Choice Award winner, trusted since 1991.
What our clients say
Real reviews from clients we have guided to Canada and beyond.
Study permit FAQs
What is a study permit?
A study permit is a document IRCC issues that lets you study at a designated learning institution in Canada. Most foreign nationals need one. You should apply before you travel to Canada.
How much does a study permit cost?
IRCC lists the study permit fee as CAD$150. Biometrics cost CAD$85 if needed. Check the IRCC fee list before you pay.
Who can apply for a study permit?
You must be enrolled at a DLI, prove funds for tuition, living costs and return travel, have no criminal record, be in good health and show you will leave Canada when your permit expires.
Do I need a PAL or TAL?
In most cases yes. The PAL or TAL comes from your school and confirms a space for you in the province or territory. Quebec needs a CAQ instead. Read our PAL guide.
Can I apply for a study permit online?
Yes, and you must. You can only apply on paper if you have a disability that prevents online applications or hold certain identity or travel documents.
What documents do I need?
You need a letter of acceptance, a PAL or TAL, proof of identity, proof of funds and a letter of explanation. You may also need a medical exam, police certificate or custodian papers.
What is a letter of explanation?
It is a letter that explains why you want to study in Canada and that you understand your responsibilities as an international student. IRCC recommends it.
Can I apply at the airport?
In some cases you can apply at a port of entry, but most people must apply before they travel. Check IRCC rules for your situation first.
How long is a study permit valid?
It is usually valid for your program length plus an extra 90 days. That time lets you prepare to leave or apply to extend your stay.
Can I study without a study permit?
Yes, if your program lasts 6 months or less, and in a few other cases. Read our short-term study guide.
Can I work with a study permit?
It depends on the conditions on your permit. Read our work while studying guide.
What if my study permit is refused?
You can reapply with new proof or ask the Federal Court to review the decision. There is no appeal. You also need a new PAL or TAL. See our study permit refused guide.