Study permit in Canada

Who needs a study permit?

In general, a study permit is required to study in Canada for more than 6 months at a designated learning institution. Programs of 6 months or less usually do not require one, and some people are exempt depending on their situation.

It is important to check your case before filing an application.

Study permit application

The main steps are:

• admission to a designated learning institution and receipt of the acceptance letter;
• the CAQ for studies, if you will study in Québec;
• the provincial or territorial attestation letter, when required outside Québec;
• preparing the documents and the proof of funds;
• the study permit application to IRCC, with biometrics depending on your situation.

Studying in Québec: the CAQ for studies

In Québec, the CAQ for studies is requested first from the Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration (MIFI), after admission. The study permit application is then submitted to IRCC. The CAQ also serves as the provincial attestation letter.

To learn more, see our page on the CAQ for studies in Québec. If your CAQ needs to be extended, see CAQ renewal.

Documents and proof of funds

Depending on your situation, documents may include:

• the acceptance letter from the educational institution;
• a valid passport and the required photos;
• the CAQ (Québec) or the provincial or territorial attestation letter, when required;
• proof of financial resources, for example bank statements, a scholarship or a student loan;
• a letter of explanation about your study plans, recommended by IRCC;
• other documents depending on the case, such as a medical exam or a police certificate.

The required amounts and the exact documents can change: they must be checked at the time of your application with IRCC (and with the MIFI in Québec). This list is not exhaustive.

How we can help

Pro Immigration can help you:

• review your situation and your study plans;
• check your admission and the applicable requirements;
• prepare and review your documents;
• review your proof of funds;
• submit your application;
• follow the file through to a decision.

We cannot guarantee that a study permit will be issued: the decision rests with IRCC.

Study permit extension

If your permit is about to expire while your studies continue, an extension may be needed. See our page on study permit extensions.

Study permit refusal

A refusal does not always mean the end of your study plans. It is important to analyze the reasons for the decision before choosing what to do next. See our article on study permit refusals and the options available.