A step-by-step guide to applying for a Canadian study permit

Canada is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities and colleges, attracting thousands of international students every year. Whether you’re planning to pursue an undergraduate degree, graduate programs, or even short-term courses, you’ll need a study permit to live and study in Canada. The process can seem complicated, but don’t worry!

In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about getting a Canadian study permit, from eligibility requirements to application steps you need to follow.

Key takeaways

A study permit is necessary for an international student studying in Canada. It is different from a student visa.

To be eligible for a Canadian study permit, you must be accepted by a DLI, meet health and security checks, show financial support, and intend to return to your home country.

The cost of a study permit is CAD 150, with an additional CAD 85 for biometrics.

The required documents include an acceptance letter, proof of identity, proof of financial support, an intent letter, and possibly a medical exam.

The application process involves checking eligibility, securing acceptance, preparing documents, applying online via the IRCC, and submitting biometrics.

What is a Canadian study permit?
Who can apply for a Canadian study permit?
Who can't apply for a Canadian study permit?
How much does a Canadian study permit cost?
What are the document requirements to apply for a Canadian study permit?
How to apply for a Canadian study permit?
How to submit the documents for a Canadian study permit?
When can I apply for a Canadian study permit?

What is a Canadian study permit?

A Canadian student permit, also known as a study permit, is a document that allows international students to live and study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada for a specific period. It gives you the legal right to study in Canada for a certain period.

A study permit is different from a student visa. You may still need a Canada student visa (called a "temporary resident visa") in addition to your study permit, depending on where you’re from.

Your study permit will be valid for the length of your study program, plus an extra 90 days to allow time for you to either leave Canada or apply for an extension. You can only study at the school listed on your study permit, and you have to maintain full-time student status to keep your permit valid.

Also read: Which Canadian student visa do I need?

Looking to study in Canada?

Who can apply for a Canadian study permit?

You can apply for a Canadian study permit,

After you have been accepted into an institution that is recognised by the Canadian government as a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). These are schools that are approved to host international students.
After you have met health and security requirements. You will have to undergo a medical exam and provide a police certificate to show you’re not a security risk.
After proving that you have enough money to support yourself (pay tuition, living expenses, and return travel) while studying in Canada.
After proving your intent to return to your home country after finishing your studies, unless you apply for another type of Canadian visa/permit or seek an extension.

Who can't apply for a Canadian study permit?

You can not apply for a Canadian study permit,

If you are under a different type of Canadian visa (like a visitor visa) or if you intend to study in Canada but do not meet the eligibility requirements.
If you have certain criminal records or medical conditions.
If you’re coming to Canada for a program with duration of 6 months or less.

How much does a Canadian study permit cost?

The cost of a Canadian study permit is CAD 150 (Canadian Dollars).
Additionally, there's a biometrics fee of CAD 85 for fingerprints and a photo.
So, the total cost comes to CAD 235

What are the document requirements to apply for a Canadian study permit?

To successfully navigate the Canada study permit process step by step, it's important to understand all the requirements and prepare your documents carefully.

Proof of acceptance

You must provide an official letter from a DLI in Canada. This letter confirms that you’ve been accepted into a full-time program of study at the school.
The letter should include details like your program start and end dates, the name of the institution, and your student identification number.

Below, we list some of the most popular universities in Canada for international students.

Also read: How to apply for universities in Canada?

Proof of identity

You’ll need a valid passport to show your identity. If your passport is from a country where visa applications require biometric information, you’ll likely need to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo).

Proof of financial support

You must show that you have enough money to cover your tuition fees, living expenses, and return travel costs while studying in Canada. This can include:

Bank statements to show that you have enough funds to support yourself (typically, you need to show at least CAD 10,000 per year for living expenses, plus tuition fees).
Proof of scholarship or financial aid, if you have one.
If someone else is funding your education (like a parent or guardian), you’ll need an affidavit of support and proof of their financial ability to help.

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Letter of intent

You may be asked to write a study plan or letter of intent, explaining why you want to study in Canada, why you chose that particular program and school, and your future career goals. This helps Canadian immigration officers understand your intentions and whether you’re a genuine student.

Medical exam

If you plan to stay in Canada for more than 6 months, or if you’ve lived in certain countries for extended periods, you may need a medical exam. This ensures that you don’t pose a public health risk.
You’ll need to visit a doctor who is approved by the Canadian government to perform the medical exam.

How to apply for a Canadian study permit?

If you’re applying for a study permit, you must apply online, whether you’re outside of Canada or already in Canada.

You’re only eligible to apply on paper if you

have a disability that prevents you from applying online
hold an identity or travel document for non-national residents, refugees or stateless persons

All permit applications are completed through the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) website.

To help you prepare everything you need to complete the permit application process, we provide a Canada study permit process step-by-step guide below.

A step-by-step guide to getting a Canadian study permit:

Check eligibility: Ensure you meet the criteria for the Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and the program you're applying to
Secure an acceptance letter: Obtain a letter of acceptance from a DLI
Prepare your documents: Gather necessary documents, including proof of acceptance, proof of identity, proof of financial support, and any other required documents
Create an online account: Create an account on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website
Complete the application form: Fill out the study permit application form online
Pay the application fee: Pay the required fee for the study permit application
Submit biometrics: Provide your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) if required
Submit your application: Submit your completed application online
Wait for processing: Wait for your application to be processed by IRCC
Receive decision: You'll receive a decision on your application via email
Prepare for arrival: If your application is approved, prepare for your travel to Canada
Arrive in Canada: Present your study permit and other documents at the port of entry

The Canada student permit process step by step involves confirming your acceptance at a Canadian university, gathering necessary documents, and submitting your application through the official immigration website.

How to submit the documents for a Canadian study permit?

You can submit your documents online through the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) website or submit a paper application depending on your situation.

Keep these in mind when submitting your documents:

Make sure you upload all required documents in the correct format (PDF, JPG, etc.) and keep copies for your records.
Having the documents ready is key to avoiding delays in your study permit application.
Be sure to carefully follow the instructions provided by the Canadian government and double-check your documents before submitting them.

When can I apply for a Canadian study permit?

You can apply for a study permit as soon as you have your acceptance letter from a DLI, and it's usually recommended to apply well in advance—ideally, a few months before your program starts.

Generally, things run smoothly if you are prepared and organise your documentation before starting your application. But, sometimes there can be delays, and it can even take up to 3 months to obtain your study permit.

By starting the application early, you can give yourself time to overcome any issues that might come up during the process.

Understanding the Canada study permit process is crucial for international students aiming to study in Canada. Canada offers great opportunities for international students, including high-quality education, a mix of cultures, and a friendly atmosphere. By making sure you meet the eligibility requirements, gather all the necessary documents, and follow the correct steps, you'll be on track to get your study permit and begin your studies in Canada.

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