Canada Study Permit
What you need to study in Canada — the Letter of Acceptance, proof of funds, and the documents that matter most.
A Canada Study Permit is required for any programme longer than 6 months at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Note: this is the permit that lets you study — a separate visitor visa or eTA is usually issued alongside it to let you travel.
Core requirements
Letter of Acceptance
From a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) — must come directly from the international admissions office.
Proof of funds
Roughly CAD $22,895 for a year's living costs (single applicant, outside Quebec, 2026 figures) — plus your first year's tuition in full.
Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)
Required for most college and undergraduate programmes. From 2026, master's and doctoral students at public DLIs are exempt.
Fees
Study permit fee: CAD $150. Biometrics: CAD $85 (valid 10 years).
How long does a decision take?
Documents you'll typically need
- Letter of Acceptance from your DLI
- Provincial Attestation Letter, if your programme requires one
- Proof of funds — GIC certificate, bank statements, or sponsor letter
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- English or French test scores (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)
- Statement of Purpose, medical exam, and biometrics