Do I need a study permit for courses under 6 months in Canada?

Generally no. Under IRPA s.30(2), foreign nationals may study in Canada without a study permit if the program is 6 months or less.

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Study in Canada

From study permits to post-graduation work permits — your complete guide to studying and building a future in Canada.

Last verified: March 2026 · Source: IRCC, IRPA, IRPR

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How do I get a study permit in Canada?

A Canadian study permit (governed by IRPA s.11 and IRPR s.211–s.220) authorizes a foreign national to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Most programs over 6 months require one. The process has 4 stages:

1
Get accepted by a DLI
Apply to a Designated Learning Institution. Receive your Letter of Acceptance (LOA) — this is required for your study permit application.
2
Gather documents
LOA, proof of identity (passport), proof of financial support ($10,000+ CAD per year outside Quebec), and any other required documents.
3
Apply online at IRCC
Submit your study permit application through the IRCC online portal. Pay the $150 CAD government fee. Biometrics may be required.
4
Receive your study permit
IRCC processes your application (4–16 weeks). Upon approval, you receive a Port of Entry Letter of Introduction. Your actual study permit is issued at the border when you arrive in Canada.

Study Permit vs Visitor — Quick Comparison

Factor	Study Permit	Visitor (no permit)
Program length	Any (required if 6+ months)	Up to 6 months only
Work rights	On-campus + 24hrs off-campus	Cannot work
PGWP eligible	Yes (if DLI + 8+ month program)	No
Government fee	$150 CAD	$100 CAD (TRV if required)

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What is a PGWP and how does it lead to PR?

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) under IRPR s.205(c)(ii) is an open work permit issued to graduates of eligible Canadian DLI programs. It's the critical bridge between student and permanent resident for most international graduates.

PGWP Eligibility

Graduate from an 8+ month program at an eligible DLI. Apply within 180 days of receiving your completion letter. No previous PGWP held.

PGWP Duration

Matches your program length. Programs under 2 years: equal to program length. Programs 2+ years: up to 3 years maximum.

Path to PR via CEC

Work on your PGWP in a skilled occupation (TEER 0–3) for 1 year, then apply for Express Entry Canadian Experience Class (typically 6 months to PR).

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Get a custom Immigration Pathway Report: your best DLI program options for PGWP eligibility, CRS score projection after graduation, and a complete roadmap from study permit to permanent residence.

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Frequently Asked Questions — Studying in Canada

Do I need a study permit for courses under 6 months?

Generally no. Under IRPA s.30(2), you may study in Canada without a study permit if the program is 6 months or less and will be completed within your authorized stay. However, short-course exemptions do not lead to PGWP eligibility — if your goal is to eventually apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit, you must hold a valid study permit at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) from the start of your program.

What is a DLI and does my school need to be one?

A Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. Under IRPR s.211.1, your acceptance at a DLI is required to obtain a study permit. Most Canadian universities, colleges, and vocational schools are DLIs. Always verify your school's DLI status on IRCC's official website before applying — private institutions vary.

Can I work while studying in Canada?

Yes. With a valid study permit at a DLI, you can work on-campus without restrictions (IRPR s.186(f)). Off-campus work is permitted up to 24 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks (IRPR s.186(v)), provided your permit allows it. Check your study permit conditions carefully — some permits explicitly restrict off-campus work and require a separate authorization.

What is the PGWP and how do I get one?

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit for graduates of eligible Canadian DLI programs (IRPR s.205(c)(ii)). You must apply within 180 days of receiving confirmation of program completion. The PGWP length matches your program duration — up to 3 years for programs 2+ years long. It's the primary pathway from international student to permanent resident via Express Entry's Canadian Experience Class.

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Admissibility Screener

Free tool — check if you can enter or stay in Canada

Important: This tool provides general information based on publicly available Canadian immigration law (IRPA). Results are not a determination of admissibility. Only a CBSA officer at a port of entry can make admissibility decisions. For complex legal situations, professional guidance may also be beneficial.