Study in Canada

The basics: do you need a study permit?

If your program is longer than 6 months at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), you almost certainly need a study permit. Some short courses (6 months or less) don't require one, but check your specific situation — if you might extend your studies later, it's usually safer to apply for a permit from the start.

Step 1: Get accepted to a DLI

Not every Canadian school can host international students. Look up your school on the official DLI list before you apply for anything — acceptance letters from non-DLI schools won't get you a study permit.

Think about:

• Program reputation and co-op options — many diploma and degree programs include work terms that count toward Canadian work experience.
• City and cost of living — a program in a major city like Toronto or Vancouver often costs more to live near than one in a smaller city.
• Pathway to a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) — not all programs qualify, so check PGWP eligibility for your specific program before you enroll.

Step 2: Show proof of funds

You'll need to demonstrate you can pay for tuition and living expenses (and for any accompanying family members) for at least the first year. Acceptable proof usually includes:

• Bank statements (personal or, in some cases, a parent's/sponsor's, with a supporting letter)
• A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian bank — required for some streams
• Proof of a Canadian student/education loan
• Scholarship or sponsorship letters

Tip: Keep every document consistent — names, amounts, and dates that don't line up across your bank letter, GIC, and application are one of the most common reasons for delays or refusals.

Step 3: Apply for your study permit

Most students apply online through IRCC's portal. You'll typically need:

1. Letter of acceptance from your DLI
2. Valid passport
3. Proof of financial support
4. Statement of purpose explaining your study plans
5. Biometrics (fingerprints + photo), usually done at a Visa Application Centre
6. A medical exam, if required for your country or program

The Student Direct Stream (SDS) — and its retirement

For years, the Student Direct Stream offered faster processing for applicants from a list of specific countries who met higher financial and language requirements (like a GIC and strong IELTS/TEF scores). IRCC discontinued SDS in late 2024, folding fast processing into the regular study permit stream for well-prepared applicants. Always check the current IRCC website for the latest application stream available to your country, since immigration programs change often.

When you arrive in Canada

At the border, a border services officer will check your documents and issue your actual study permit (your visa/eTA gets you to Canada; the study permit is issued on arrival). Keep the paper or digital copy safe — you'll need it for work permits, health coverage registration, and later immigration applications.

Staying in status

• Keep your study permit valid and remain enrolled and making progress in your program — falling out of status is one of the most common (and most fixable-if-caught-early) problems students run into.
• If your permit is close to expiring, apply to extend it well before it lapses — ideally 30-60 days ahead.
• Report any change of DLI or program to IRCC as required.