Canada Study Permit
Plan your studies in Canada with a clear and well-prepared application. We assess your circumstances, identify the relevant requirements, and help organize a complete study permit application.
What Is a Canada Study Permit?
A Canadian study permit is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada that allows eligible foreign nationals to study at a designated learning institution in Canada.
Most international students need a study permit before beginning their studies. Applicants generally need a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution and must demonstrate that they meet the applicable financial and immigration requirements.
Who May Need a Canada Study Permit?
Most foreign nationals need a study permit for a course or program lasting more than six months.
Post-Secondary Students
For international students accepted into a college, university, or other eligible post-secondary program in Canada.
Secondary School Students
For eligible international students planning to attend a Canadian secondary school.
Students Extending or Changing Their Studies
For students who may need to extend their study permit or apply for a new permit because of changes to their studies or post-secondary institution.
How Elen Visa Can Help
We provide structured support throughout the preparation and submission of your study permit application.
Study Plan and Case Assessment
We review your proposed program, educational background, career goals, immigration history, and overall circumstances.
Review of Admission and Required Documents
We review your letter of acceptance and identify the supporting documents generally required for your study permit application.
Financial Document Review
We help review and organize evidence relating to tuition, living expenses, transportation, and available financial support.
Application Form Preparation
We assist with preparing the required forms and checking that the information provided is complete and consistent.
Study Plan and Explanation Letter Guidance
We assist with preparing clear written explanations about the chosen program, educational objectives, and other relevant circumstances.
Submission and Application Follow-Up
We assist with submitting the application and monitoring relevant updates or additional document requests.
Documents Commonly Required
Required documents vary depending on the applicant’s circumstances, chosen institution and program, and intended province or territory of study.
Valid Passport
A clear copy of a valid passport, including the identity page and relevant visa or travel-stamp pages.
Study Plan or Letter of Explanation
A clear explanation of the chosen program, educational objectives, career plans, and reasons for studying in Canada.
Letter of Acceptance
A valid letter of acceptance from the designated learning institution where the applicant intends to study.
Academic and Educational Records
Relevant diplomas, degrees, transcripts, certificates, and other documents demonstrating the applicant’s educational background.
Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter, When Applicable
A provincial or territorial attestation letter may be required. Applicants intending to study in Quebec generally require a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ).
Travel and Immigration History
Copies of previous visas, permits, entry and exit stamps, refusal letters, and other relevant immigration records, when applicable.
Proof of Financial Support
Evidence showing sufficient funds for tuition fees, living expenses, and transportation to and from Canada for the applicant and any accompanying family members.
Additional Supporting Documents
Other documents may be required depending on the applicant’s personal history and circumstances, including proof of a medical examination or a police certificate, when required.
Our Process
A clear, structured process for preparing your study permit application.
1
Initial Consultation
2
Admission and Document Review
3
Application Preparation
4
Submission and Follow-Up
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about Canadian study permits and the application process.
Do I need a letter of acceptance to apply for a study permit?
Yes. In most cases, you need a valid letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution. If the institution is not a designated learning institution, the study permit application may be refused.
Do I need a provincial or territorial attestation letter?
A provincial or territorial attestation letter is required in many study permit applications, although exemptions may apply. Applicants studying in Quebec generally need a Quebec Acceptance Certificate.
What financial evidence may be required?
Applicants generally need to show that they have sufficient funds for tuition, living expenses, and transportation to and from Canada. The required evidence depends on the applicant’s circumstances and whether family members are accompanying them.
Can I reapply after a study permit refusal?
Yes. You may generally apply again unless the refusal letter states otherwise. A new application should address the refusal reasons and include relevant new information, documents, or changed circumstances.
Can I extend my study permit in Canada?
Yes. If you want to continue studying after your current permit expires, you must apply for an extension. IRCC recommends applying at least 30 days before expiry. If you apply before the permit expires and remain in Canada, you may generally continue studying under the existing conditions while a decision is pending.
Can I change my school or study program?
Changing programs at the same designated learning institution may be possible if your study permit conditions remain valid. To change to a different post-secondary institution, you generally need to apply for a new study permit by extending your current permit. The new school must be a designated learning institution.
How long does study permit processing take?
Processing times vary according to the country of application, application volume, file completeness, and whether additional information is required. Current estimates should be checked through IRCC’s official processing-time tool, and published times are not guarantees.
Ready to Prepare Your Study Permit Application?
Book a consultation to discuss your proposed program, educational background, financial documentation, and the requirements that may apply to your study permit application.
Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant
RCIC: R731318
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