Step 4 of 5

Apply for a Study Permit

With your Letter of Acceptance in hand, the study permit is next — and the stage where regulated, lawful advice matters most.

Your study-permit journey

From your offer of admission to your arrival at the border, here is the path — with the visa stage guided by licensed RCICs.

1. Offer (LOA)

Receive a Letter of Acceptance from a DLI.

2. Attestation (PAL)

Get your provincial letter — Master's & PhD at public universities are exempt.

3. Proof of funds

Show funds for tuition, living costs, and travel.

4. Apply to IRCC

Submit your study-permit application and biometrics.

5. Checks & decision

A medical exam or police certificate may be requested.

6. Arrive → permit

Your study permit is issued at the port of entry.

Steps to Apply for Student Visa

To qualify for a Canadian Student Visa, prospective students must:

Obtain a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) such as a University or College to initiate your student visa application.
Secure a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) from the province or territory where the DLI is located, unless the student qualifies for an exemption.
Provide evidence of sufficient financial resources to cover the first year of tuition, living expenses, and return transportation to their home country.
Acquire a Certificat d'acceptation du Québec (Quebec Acceptance Certificate, or CAQ) if intending to study in Montreal or elsewhere in Quebec.
Maintain a clear criminal record, as applicants with a history of criminal activity or those deemed a security risk may be refused. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may request a police clearance certificate.
Be in good health. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may request an applicant to complete a medical examination.
Demonstrate to the immigration officer that he/she will leave Canada at the end of the authorized stay granted by the student visa.
The applicant may also be required to submit any additional documents requested by specific visa offices.

You will enter Canada on a Student Visa, and upon arrival at the port of entry, you will be issued a Study Permit.

How to Work in Canada as an International Student

Gain Work Experience while Studying

One of the major advantages of studying in Canada is that international students with a valid Canadian Study Permit may be eligible to work (up to 24 hours per week during regular academic sessions, and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as the winter and summer holidays or spring break) for an employer outside the campus of the educational institution where he/she is registered.

Gain Work Experience after Graduation

After completing your studies in Canada, you have the opportunity to gain Canadian work experience by applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This permit may enable you to work in Canada for up to three years, depending on your program.

Stay Updated with IRCC's News

As of April 1, 2026, eligible post-secondary international students no longer need a separate work permit to participate in student work placements required by their program, such as co-op placements and internships. Students may work for employers approved by their designated learning institution as part of their program requirements. International students with pending decisions on their co-op work permit applications will not need to take any action. IRCC will withdraw all eligible and active co-op work permit applications. The full eligibility criteria are available on IRCC website.
Faster processing for doctoral students: Get your application processed in 2 weeks if you're a doctoral student. Apply with your family: Your family can apply to come to Canada with you.
Since January 1, 2026, students planning to attend a graduate program in a public institution no longer need a provincial or territorial attestation letter when applying for a study permit. Further details are available on IRCC website.

The information on this page is current at the time of publication and is subject to change.

Last updated on April 9, 2026.

Handled by RCICs

For your study permit and visa, we work with Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants — licensed by the CICC, never unregulated agents. Your family can apply at the same time.

Important Notice!

Admission, immigration, and study/work permit requirements can change. Always confirm current requirements before making final decisions.

Have Questions or Need Help?

Get free counselling from our team of Canadian Education Counsellors and talk through your program options, budget, academic background, and next steps in Canada.

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