# Canada study permit from India, explained

> A Canadian study permit starts with a Letter of Acceptance from a DLI. Here is the route, the attestation letter, proof of funds and arrival steps.

- Category: Visas & permits
- Country: Canada
- Verified on: 2026-10-20
- Source: [IRCC — Study permit](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit.html)
- Page: https://travelsorted.grihaam.online/resources/canada-study-permit-from-india

## 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

1. **Choose a program** at a DLI and check the program is eligible for a study permit.
2. **Apply and accept your offer.** Read the conditions and the deposit terms.
3. **Get your LOA.**
4. **Get your attestation letter** if you need one. Ask your institution how this works in your province or territory.
5. **Prepare proof of funds** in a form IRCC accepts. Check the official page, because the rules and accepted options have changed in recent years.
6. **Apply online** and pay the fees. Give your biometrics when asked.
7. **If approved**, IRCC sends a letter of introduction, and a visa if you need one. Keep these with your passport.
8. **At the border**, show your documents to the officer, who issues the study permit.

## Documents checklist

- [ ] Valid passport
- [ ] Letter of Acceptance from a DLI
- [ ] Provincial or territorial attestation letter, unless you are exempt
- [ ] Proof of funds, as IRCC describes
- [ ] Your study plan or letter of explanation, if IRCC asks for one
- [ ] Biometrics appointment confirmation
- [ ] 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](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit.html).

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General information, not legal or immigration advice. Confirm current rules, fees and thresholds on the official source above.