The short answer
To study in Canada for longer than six months you apply for a study permit with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). You need a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and proof that you can pay for your studies and living costs. Most new applicants also need a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL or TAL) unless an exemption applies.
Key terms in plain English
- LOA: the letter from your school confirming your acceptance.
- DLI: a school that a provincial or territorial government has approved to host international students. IRCC publishes the list.
- PAL / TAL: a letter from the province or territory showing you fit within its allocation of international students.
- Port of entry letter of introduction: the letter IRCC sends when it approves your application. You show it at the Canadian border to get your permit.
The route, step by step
- Choose a program at a DLI and check the program is eligible for a study permit.
- Apply and accept your offer. Read the conditions and the deposit terms.
- Get your LOA.
- Get your attestation letter if you need one. Ask your institution how this works in your province or territory.
- Prepare proof of funds in a form IRCC accepts. Check the official page, because the rules and accepted options have changed in recent years.
- Apply online and pay the fees. Give your biometrics when asked.
- If approved, IRCC sends a letter of introduction, and a visa if you need one. Keep these with your passport.
- At the border, show your documents to the officer, who issues the study permit.
Documents checklist
- To do: Valid passport
- To do: Letter of Acceptance from a DLI
- To do: Provincial or territorial attestation letter, unless you are exempt
- To do: Proof of funds, as IRCC describes
- To do: Your study plan or letter of explanation, if IRCC asks for one
- To do: Biometrics appointment confirmation
- To do: Medical exam or police certificate, if your situation requires one
Common mistakes
- Following an older blog. Programs that were once popular routes have been closed or changed. Only trust the current IRCC page.
- Skipping the DLI check. An institution that is not on the list cannot support a study permit.
- Forgetting the attestation letter. Many applications fail because the PAL or TAL is missing.
- Putting documents in checked luggage. Keep your letters in your hand luggage for the border officer.
After you land
Ask your institution about orientation and health coverage, open a bank account and, if you plan to work, apply for a Social Insurance Number. Conditions about working are printed on your permit.
Verify before you act
The official page is the only place with the current rules: Study permit on IRCC.