Overview
This guide explains what IRCC currently expects for a study permit application. It is a reference checklist, not a substitute for the official document list for your country, and not advice for a specific refusal or complicated history.
Common situations
Applying from outside Canada
You will usually need an acceptance letter, proof of funds, identity documents, and a PAL/TAL when required. Check visa-office instructions for your country of residence.
Studying in Quebec
Quebec applicants usually need a CAQ from the province, not a PAL/TAL. Living-cost rules also differ from the federal table.
Master’s or PhD at a public DLI
Starting January 1, 2026, IRCC lists an exemption from the PAL/TAL requirement for certain degree-granting graduate programs at public DLIs. You still need proof if you rely on an exemption.
Already in Canada
Some in-Canada applicants may qualify for PAL/TAL exemptions, such as extending at the same DLI and level. Different rules apply if your status has expired. See our guide on study permit expired if that applies to you.
Do I need a study permit?
Most foreign nationals need a study permit to study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. Confirm exceptions on IRCC before you apply.
Core eligibility requirements
According to IRCC, you can come to Canada to study if you:
- are enrolled at a designated learning institution (DLI)
- prove you have enough money to pay for tuition, living expenses for yourself and any family members who come with you, and return transportation for yourself and those family members
- obey the law, have no criminal record, and get a police certificate if required
- are in good health and get a medical exam if required
- prove to an officer that you will leave Canada when your study permit expires
While studying, IRCC also expects you to make progress toward completing your program, respect conditions on your permit, and stop studying if you no longer meet the requirements.
What is the study permit fee?
IRCC lists the study permit fee as $CAN 150. Fees can change, so check the live page when you pay.
What documents do I need?
Typical items include:
- Letter of acceptance from your DLI
- Proof of identity (passport or travel document)
- Proof of financial support (see below)
- PAL/TAL when required, or proof of an IRCC-listed exemption
- For Quebec: usually a CAQ instead of a PAL/TAL
Use IRCC’s Get the right documents page and any visa-office instructions for your country. Requirements in India, the Philippines, Nigeria, and other countries may include extra forms or financial documents.
Do I need a PAL or TAL?
A provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL) confirms there is space for you in the province or territory where you plan to study. It is usually required. Your DLI typically helps you obtain it. Submit it with your application, not after.
PAL/TAL exemptions
Examples that often matter:
- preschool, primary, or secondary school (up to grade 12)
- degree-granting master’s or doctoral programs at a public DLI starting January 1, 2026
- certain Quebec vocational programs (DVS, AVS, or STC)
- exchange students who do not pay tuition to the Canadian DLI
- Global Affairs Canada scholarship recipients
- some in-Canada situations, such as extending at the same DLI and same level of study
If you do not provide a PAL/TAL, IRCC says you must provide proof that you meet an exception.
PAL validity: For the 2026 cap year, a PAL/TAL is valid until December 31, 2026 unless an earlier expiry appears on the letter. You cannot apply with a PAL/TAL from a previous cap year.
When a new PAL/TAL is often needed: Expired letters, prior approval or refusal, changing schools (as of January 22, 2025), most level-of-study changes, and restoring status as a student.
Tamara can review your documents, PAL/TAL questions, and proof of funds before you submit to IRCC.
How much money do I need (proof of funds)?
You must show enough money, without relying on working in Canada, for tuition, living expenses, and transportation to and from Canada.
IRCC expects proof for the first year. For longer programs, explain how you will fund the rest.
Living-cost amounts (excluding tuition and transportation)
For applications on or after September 1, 2025 (outside Quebec):
| Family members (including you) | Amount per year (CAN$) |
|---|---|
| 1 | 22,895 |
| 2 | 28,502 |
| 3 | 35,040 |
| 4 | 42,543 |
| 5 | 48,252 |
| 6 | 54,420 |
| 7 | 60,589 |
| Each additional person | 6,170 |
Quebec uses amounts set by the Quebec ministry for CAQ purposes.
Application steps
- Confirm you need a study permit and your school is a DLI.
- Check Quebec vs rest of Canada rules (CAQ, PAL/TAL, or exemption).
- Gather acceptance letter, identity documents, proof of funds, and PAL/TAL or exemption proof.
- Review country-specific visa-office instructions.
- Apply through IRCC and track processing times.
PGWP: check before you apply
Post-graduation work permit rules depend on your program, DLI, and when you submit your study permit application. If you plan to work after graduation, check PGWP eligibility before you apply.
Common mistakes
- Treating the living-funds table as including tuition (it does not)
- Applying without a required PAL/TAL, or without exemption proof
- Using a PAL/TAL from a previous cap year
- Assuming Quebec and non-Quebec rules are the same
- Ignoring visa-office-specific instructions for your country
Before you apply
- Confirmed your school is on the IRCC DLI list
- Checked whether you need a PAL/TAL, CAQ, or exemption proof
- Calculated tuition, living costs, and return travel separately
- Reviewed visa-office instructions for your country
- Confirmed the study permit fee on IRCC
- Checked PGWP rules if you plan to work after graduation
Frequently asked questions
- Do I always need a PAL/TAL?
- No. IRCC says a PAL/TAL is usually required, but publishes exemptions (for example primary or secondary school, and, starting January 1, 2026, certain public master's or doctoral programs). If you claim an exemption, include proof.
- How much money do I need for a study permit?
- Enough for tuition, living costs, and return travel. For living costs outside Quebec, use IRCC's table for your application date. For applications on or after September 1, 2025, one person is listed at $22,895 per year, excluding tuition and transportation.
- What is the study permit fee in Canada?
- IRCC currently lists $CAN 150 on the study permit page. Always re-check before payment.
- Can I apply for a study permit myself?
- Yes. Many students apply on their own using IRCC's online application. A licensed RCIC can help if your case is complex, you had a refusal, or you want a document review before submitting.
- How long does IRCC take to process a study permit?
- Processing times vary by country and volume. Check IRCC's current processing times tool for your location. Apply early if your program start date is fixed.
- What if my study permit application is refused?
- Read the refusal letter carefully. You may reapply with stronger documents or seek advice on whether an appeal or judicial review applies. Refusals are fact-specific.
- Is this legal advice?
- No. This guide summarizes official IRCC guidance. Outcomes depend on your full facts and officer assessment.
See also
References
- Study permit (overview and fee)
- Who can apply (eligibility)
- Get the right documents
- Provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL)
- Proof of financial support
Note: This guide is general information, not legal advice. Outcomes depend on your facts and IRCC’s assessment. Confirm current rules on Canada.ca before you apply.