Over the past decade, Canada has become one of the top destinations for international students, thanks to its world-class institutions and strong post-study work opportunities. If you’re dreaming of studying in Canada, one of the first and most crucial steps in your journey is applying for a study permit.
Below, we’ll break down what international students need to apply for a Canadian study permit, so you can feel confident and prepared throughout the process.
Please note that this blog is intended to provide an overview of the study permit application process. For official guidance on student visas and study permits, check the Government of Canada’s website or speak with an authorized representative.
What Is a Canadian Study Permit?
A study permit is a document issued by the Canadian government that allows international students to attend designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. It’s different from a student visa, which you may also need to travel to and enter Canada. A student visa lets you enter Canada as an international student, while a study permit allows you to stay and study. While you’ll receive your student visa before you travel to Canada, your study permit will be issued when you arrive at the Canadian border (or at an airport).
Remember that you need to apply for your study permit and student visa before travelling to Canada! Study permit applications are reviewed and assessed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), a department of the Canadian Government.
Learn more about the difference between a Canadian student visa and study permit.
What You Need to Apply for a Study Permit
To apply for a study permit in Canada, you’ll need to gather several important documents and meet specific requirements. You must provide copies of all of the documents below in either English or French. If the original document is in neither of those languages, it must be professionally translated before including it in your submission.
Here’s a list of the documents you’ll need when applying for a Canadian study permit:
Proof of Acceptance
Before you apply for a study permit, you need to apply to your institution of choice and be accepted. When a Canadian academic institution accepts you into one of their programs, they will issue you a letter of acceptance and a provincial attestation letter (PAL) or territorial attestation letter (TAL). Both of these documents are critical and must be included with your study permit application.
Proof of Financial Support or Proof of Funds
To ensure international students can support themselves during their stay, the Canadian government requires study permit applicants to show their proof of funds for tuition, living expenses, and return travel. This includes financially supporting your family members as well, if they’re coming to Canada with you.
You’ll need to show you have access to at least C$20,635 (as of 2025), in addition to your travel costs and first year of tuition, in order to receive your study permit.
Documents you can use to prove your financial capacity include:
Find out more about how to get proof of financial support for your Canadian study permit application, and learn how a GIC from RBC or TD can help strengthen your study permit application.
Proof of Identity
Your passport or official travel document must be valid for the entire period you plan to study in Canada. You’ll also need to submit two recent passport-sized photos with your name and date of birth written on the back of each one.
If you’re planning to have your family join you when you study in Canada, such as your spouse or children, you’ll need to include their proof of identity documents, too.
Immigration Forms and Application Fee
As part of your study permit application, you’ll need to complete a few Canadian immigration forms. Depending on your situation, including whether you’re applying from outside Canada, you may need to complete IMM 1294 (Application for Study Permit Made Outside of Canada), IMM 5645/5406 (Family Information Form), and/or other application forms. For up-to-date information on which forms you need to complete, please consult the Government of Canada’s website.
You’ll also need to pay the study permit application fee. As of 2025, the study permit application fee is C$150, but there may be an additional C$85 fee if biometrics are required.
Statement of Purpose
Also known as a letter of explanation, your statement of purpose is your chance to show your genuine intention to study in Canada. This letter helps immigration officials and visa officers reading your application understand why you’re coming to Canada.
To write a strong statement of purpose, be sure to include:
- Why you want to study in Canada
- Your future goals
- How you chose your program
A well-written statement of purpose is one of the most important parts of your study permit application. Allow yourself enough time to draft and edit your letter, and avoid relying on AI tools to write for you.
Check out our list of more great tips on how to write a strong statement of purpose for your Canadian study permit application.
Other Documents or Requirements
Depending on your country of residence, you may be required to provide additional documentation with your study permit application, including:
- CAQ: Students who will study in Québec must also apply for a Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (Certificate of Acceptance to Québec, or CAQ), along with their study permit.
- Biometrics and Medical Exam: If required, you may need to provide a photo, fingerprints, and/or undergo a medical exam by a panel physician approved by IRCC. Make sure to book any biometrics appointments early to avoid delays.
- Language proficiency test results: Though not a mandatory document for the study permit itself, many academic institutions require proof of your English or French language proficiency before they can issue you a letter of acceptance. Commonly accepted language tests include IELTS or TOEFL for English, and TEF for French.
- Local/regional documents: Check the visa office instructions for your country or region for information about any location-specific requirements.
How to Apply for a Study Permit
Most students applying for a Canadian study permit will apply online. Submitting your application online is quick and easy. Plus, it allows you to track your application in real time.
Need help applying for a study permit? Get guided support for your application through our trusted partner OneVasco.
When to Apply for a Study Permit
You should apply for your study permit as soon as you receive your Letter of Acceptance. Study permit processing times vary by country and time of year. Check estimated study permit processing times and apply early—ideally at least four to six months before your program starts.
Applying for a Canadian study permit is a key step in your academic journey. While the process may seem complex at first, staying organized, starting early, and gathering the right documents will help you succeed.
Whether you need guidance around finding the perfect program or support through the study permit process, ApplyBoard is here to help you. Your dream of studying in Canada starts now—let’s make it happen together.
Ready to get started? Explore programs in Canada today with ApplyBoard!