HomeImmigration StepsStudy permit

Study permit

For studying in Canada at a designated learning institution (DLI). Apply before you travel. From outside Canada you must apply online, except in special cases.

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Sir Daniel Wilson Quadrangle, University of Toronto — Photo: Victoria Heath · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons

Step-by-step checklist

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1. Get a letter of acceptanceWhat to expect: From a designated learning institution. In most cases you also need a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL). Quebec uses a CAQ instead.
2. Apply onlineWhat to expect: Upload your documents and pay the fees in the IRCC Portal or your IRCC account.
3. Give fingerprints and photoWhat to expect: You have 30 days from the date on your biometrics letter.
4. IRCC processes your applicationWhat to expect: Processing starts after IRCC gets your biometrics. Check the current processing time with IRCC’s tool.
5. DecisionWhat to expect: If refused, IRCC sends a letter that tells you why.
6. Travel and arriveWhat to expect: An officer checks your identity at the border before you are allowed to enter.

Documents you usually need

Letter of acceptance from a DLI
Provincial/territorial attestation letter (most cases) or Quebec CAQ
Passport copy
2 recent passport-size photos
Proof of funds
Letter of explanation (recommended)
Medical exam and police certificate, if asked

Government fees

CAD

Study permit	$150
Biometrics (one person)	$85

Fees as listed by IRCC on 2026-10-30. Fees change; always check the official fee list. IRCC fee list ↗

After you apply

Biometrics letter: 30 days to give fingerprints and photo.
If approved, you travel and the officer at the port of entry checks your documents.
If refused, you get a letter with the reasons.

Processing times change every week. Check today’s times on IRCC’s official tool. Check processing times ↗

Official sources:

Checked against IRCC pages on 2026-10-30.

General information only. This is not legal advice and does not check whether you are eligible. Your own checklist in your IRCC account is what counts. Last checked 2026-10-30.

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