RCIC R509156Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) R509156Canada Study Permit
Study in Canada with confidence. We provide professional guidance to eligible international students throughout the study permit application process, from selecting a designated learning institution to submitting a complete application.
Overview
What Is a Study Permit?
A study permit is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows eligible foreign nationals to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. Most international students require a study permit, whether at a university, college, or language school.
Eligibility
Eligibility Requirements
Letter of Acceptance
A valid offer from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). IRCC now verifies every letter of acceptance directly with the institution, so letters from unaccredited agents or unverified sources will be rejected.
Financial Support
Proof you can cover tuition, living expenses, and travel for yourself and any accompanying family members, at current IRCC thresholds (see the 2026 update below).
Provincial/Territorial Attestation Letter
Required for most undergraduate and graduate certificate/diploma applicants applying from outside Canada, in addition to the letter of acceptance.
Valid Travel Document
Hold a valid passport or travel document.
Health & Admissibility
Complete a medical examination (if required) and meet Canada's general admissibility rules.
No Criminal Record
A clean record is required; a police certificate may be requested.
Intent to Comply
Satisfy an officer that you'll follow your permit's conditions and leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay, unless you obtain further legal status.
What's Changed Recently (2026 Update)
Study permit rules have tightened significantly over the past two years. If you're working from older information, these are the changes that matter most:
Financial requirement is much higher — A single applicant must now show at least CAD $22,895 in living expenses for the first year — on top of tuition and return travel costs. This is more than double the old $10,000 threshold that applied before 2024.
Most applicants now need a PAL/TAL — A Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter from the province or territory where you'll study is now required in addition to your letter of acceptance. As of January 1, 2026, master's and doctoral students at public DLIs, K-12 students, exchange students, and some permit extensions are exempt — but most new undergraduate and college-level applicants from outside Canada still need one.
A national cap on study permits remains in place — For 2026, IRCC will process roughly 408,000 study permits in total — about 155,000 new applicants and 253,000 extensions — fewer than in 2025 and 2024. Getting your PAL/TAL and application in early matters more than ever.
Off-campus work hours increased to 24/week — During regular academic sessions, up from the old 20-hour cap, with full-time work still allowed during scheduled breaks.
PGWP now requires a language test — Since November 2024, graduates need CLB 7 (degree programs) or CLB 5 (college diploma programs) to qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit — this wasn't required before.
Together, these changes mean a study permit application that would have succeeded in 2023 may well be refused today. Preparation and timing matter more than ever.
Costs
Government Fees
Study Permit
Government application fee
CAD $150
Biometrics
If applicable
CAD $85
Fees are set by IRCC and subject to change. These are government fees only and do not include tuition, living expenses, or professional fees.
Support
How We Can Help
Eligibility assessment — We assess your profile against current IRCC requirements and advise on the right pathway for your study goals.
Program & DLI guidance — We help you identify qualifying Designated Learning Institutions and programs — and confirm whether you need a PAL/TAL.
Document review — We review your Letter of Acceptance, financial documents, and supporting materials to ensure a complete, accurate application.
Application preparation & submission — We prepare and organize your complete study permit application, then support you through submission and IRCC correspondence.
Post-graduation (PGWP) guidance — We guide eligible graduates through PGWP requirements, including the language test (CLB 7 for degree, CLB 5 for diploma programs) required since November 2024.
Processing times vary by country and application volume — check the IRCC website for current estimates.
Details & FAQ
Details & FAQ
Ready to Study in Canada?
With higher financial thresholds, PAL/TAL requirements, and a national cap on study permits, a complete and well-timed application matters more than ever. Talk to our licensed immigration professionals before you apply.
Study permit requirements, financial thresholds, fees, and caps are set by IRCC and change periodically. This page reflects our understanding of current IRCC policy and is a guide, not legal advice. Always confirm current requirements for your specific situation before applying.