Study in Canada
From study permits to post-graduation work permits, your complete guide to studying and building a future in Canada.
Last verified: June 2026 · Source: IRCC, IRPA, IRPR
Free · No Account · 2 Minutes
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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 (a single applicant outside Quebec generally must show $22,895 CAD for living expenses as of September 1, 2025, plus tuition and travel; confirm the current amount on canada.ca), 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 (confirm current fee on IRCC). Biometrics may be required.
- 4
Receive your study permit
IRCC processes your application (processing times vary; check current times on canada.ca). Upon approval, you generally receive a Port of Entry Letter of Introduction, and your actual study permit is typically 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) |
Free Study & Immigration Tools
No account required. All tools use official IRCC data.
Canada Study Permit Guides
Detailed walkthroughs based on IRCC policy and IRPA/IRPR regulations.
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
Generally, after at least 1 year of skilled work (TEER 0-3) on your PGWP, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residence through the Express Entry Canadian Experience Class. An officer always decides; confirm current criteria on canada.ca.
Immigration Overview · $79.99 CAD
Your Study-to-PR Overview
Get an Immigration Overview: DLI program options for PGWP eligibility, CRS score projection after graduation, and a complete reference from study permit to permanent residence.
- ✓PGWP eligibility analysis
- ✓CRS score projection (post-PGWP)
- ✓Express Entry draw history for your profile
- ✓Full government fee breakdown