What is a Canada Study Permit?
A study permit is a document issued by Canadian immigration authorities that serves as permission for foreign students to study in Canada.
International students cannot study in Canada without getting a valid study permit.
Apart from this, students who get a study permit are allowed to enroll in Designated Learning Institutions. A Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is an educational institution that has received approval from a provincial or territorial government to host international students.
Process of Studying in Canada/ Steps to apply for Study Visa to Canada
To study in Canada, start by selecting a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and securing a Letter of Acceptance (LOA). If required, obtain a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL). Gather essential documents, including proof of funds, a valid passport, and a Statement of Purpose (SOP). Apply online through IRCC, pay the necessary fees, and provide biometrics if requested. Some applicants may need to attend an interview. After approval, you’ll receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter and, if applicable, a visa or eTA. Upon arrival in Canada, present your documents to a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer, who will issue your study permit. Ensure compliance with study permit conditions, such as maintaining full-time status and renewing it before expiry if needed.
Intakes in Canada
Fall Intake in Canada: A Popular Choice
The September intake, often referred to as the fall intake, is the most sought-after period for international students to begin their studies in Canada. This popularity stems from the diverse range of courses, scholarships, and wider acceptance rates during this time.
To successfully apply for the fall intake, students typically start preparing a year in advance. This early preparation allows ample time to finalize university choices, take necessary tests, gather essential documents and streamline the application process
Winter Intake in Canada: A Second Chance
The January intake, often referred to as the winter intake, provides an alternative option for students who miss the fall intake deadline or prefer a later start to their academic journey. While less popular than the fall intake, it still offers opportunities for those seeking to study in Canada.
Application deadlines for the winter intake typically fall between September and November, with the academic term commencing in January. It’s important to note that the range of programs available during the winter intake is generally more limited compared to the fall intake.
Summer Intake in Canada: A Less Common Option
The summer intake in Canada typically runs between May and August, with application deadlines falling around January or February. This intake is less common compared to the fall and winter intakes and is primarily offered for short-term courses and diplomas in fields like language, business, or engineering.
| Study Program | Average fees(in CAD*) |
| Undergraduate Program | $12,000 to $25,000 per year |
| Postgraduate master’s Program | $24,000 to $35,000 per year |
| Doctoral Degree | $7,000 to $10,000 per year |
Proof of funds needed to support yourself and your family
| Number of family members (including the applicant) | Amount of funds required per year (not including tuition) |
| 1 | CAN$20,635 |
| 2 | CAN$25,690 |
| 3 | CAN$31,583 |
| 4 | CAN$38,346 |
| 5 | CAN$43,492 |
| 6 | CAN$49,051 |
| 7 | CAN$54,611 |
New Requirement for Canadian Study Permits: Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)
Starting January 22, 2024, most international students planning to study in Canada at the college or undergraduate level must include a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) with their study permit applications. This new rule, introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), marks a notable change in the application process.
- Purpose of PAL: The letter confirms that the student’s enrollment complies with provincial or territorial enrollment quotas.
- Mandatory Submission: Applications submitted without a PAL will be returned unless they fall under specific exemptions.
- Exemptions: Certain student categories and programs may not require a PAL.
- Validity: PALs are typically valid until January 21, 2025.
This new requirement adds an important step to the study permit process, making it essential for international students to stay informed and ensure their applications meet the updated guidelines.
List of Forms
- Application for Study Permit Made Outside of Canada [IMM 1294]
- Family Information Form – Visitors, Students, and Workers [IMM 5707]
- Statutory Declaration of Common-law Union – [IMM 5409]
- Use of a Representative Form – [IMM 5476]
- Authority to Release Personal Information to a Designated Individual – [IMM 5475]
- Custodian Declaration Form – [IMM 5646]
- Document Checklist: Study Permit [IMM 5483] (Refer below)
Study Permit Canada: Document Checklist
- Letter of acceptance (LOA)
- Provincial attestation letter (PAL) or territorial attestation letter (TAL)
- Proof of financial funds
- Letter of explanation
- Medical certificate
- Copy of fee payment (processing fee, application fee)
- A Photocopy of the information page of your valid passport or travel document
- Other additional/ supporting documents
Your Future in Canada Starts Here
Turn your dream of studying in Canada into reality – Let us guide you through the Study Permit process with confidence and ease.
New rules for transferring schools as an international student in Canada
Scenario | What to do |
Moving from one Post-Secondary Institution to another | Reapply for an extension of the current study permit if transferring to another post-secondary level at a DLI. |
Transfer to a Program in the Same DLI | Retain the existing study permit and proceed with the transfer, as long as all conditions are met. |
Moving from Secondary to Post-Secondary Education | Apply for a new study permit by extending the current one. |
Switching DLIs in Quebec | Apply for a new study permit and secure a new CAQ, unless transferring between vocational training centers (new CAQ required). |
Changing Schools at the Primary or Secondary Level | No new study permit is needed if your current one is valid, unless specific conditions state otherwise. |
Moving from Primary to Secondary Education at the Same School | You can continue studying under your current permit, provided it remains valid and has no restrictive conditions. |
Stay back period in Canada and Post Graduation Work Permit:
A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) offers international students the opportunity to gain valuable Canadian work experience after completing their studies. The duration of your PGWP depends on the length of your academic program:
- Less than 8 months: Not eligible for a PGWP.
- 8 months to less than 2 years: PGWP duration matches your study program length.
- 2 years or more: PGWP duration is 3 years.
Combining Programs for a Longer PGWP:
If you’ve completed multiple programs, you may be eligible for a longer PGWP. Both programs must be at least 8 months long, and you can’t have previously received a PGWP for the first program.
Leverage Your PGWP: A PGWP can be a stepping stone towards permanent residency. It allows you to gain Canadian work experience, build professional networks, and potentially qualify for various immigration programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, as an international student in Canada, you have the opportunity to work while pursuing your studies. The Canadian government allows students to work on and off-campus during their academic program. A temporary rule was approved, permitting students to work more than 20 hours per week but only until December 2023. You can work part-time during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as summer or winter holidays. This can help you gain valuable work experience, supplement your income, and contribute to your living expenses while studying.
Yes, it is possible to change your study program or college after receiving an offer or even after entering Canada. However, there are certain conditions and procedures you need to follow.
First, you should consult with the international student advisor or the admissions office of your current institution to understand the requirements for program or college transfers. Each institution has its own policies, and you may need to provide a valid reason for the change and meet specific academic or administrative criteria.
It’s important to make informed decisions and ensure a smooth transition to your new program or college.
No, you are not required to pay the full tuition fee before receiving an offer of admission or getting your visa approved. However, you may be asked to pay a deposit to secure your spot in the program once you have been accepted.
Yes, Canada allows the accompanying family members of international students to join them during their studies. Spouses or common-law partners, as well as dependent children, can apply for a study permit or a visitor visa, depending on the duration of the study program.
These permits allow the family members to stay with the student and may also provide them with the opportunity to work or study in Canada. However, it is important to meet the eligibility requirements and provide the necessary documentation to support the family members’ visa applications. For that, contact a well-versed Immigration Services.
Yes, many educational institutions in Canada provide free guidance and support for study visa applications. They have dedicated international student advisors who can assist you throughout the visa application process, helping you understand the requirements, gathering the necessary documentation, and providing guidance on filling out the application forms accurately.
These advisors have expertise in visa procedures and can address any concerns or queries you may have. It’s always recommended to reach out to the international student services department of the college you are applying to for personalized assistance with your study visa application.
How can Sangam Immigration help you
- Advise you on the documentation that will be required for the Study visa
- Provide guidance on the demonstration of sufficient funds required for the visa application
- Complete the application process
- Review and submit your documents needed for the visa application