Specialized Education Techniques

Most international students whose program lasts more than six months need a Canadian study permit. A complete application normally starts with a letter of acceptance from a DLI and, in most cases, a provincial or territorial attestation letter; students studying in Quebec generally need a CAQ. Applicants also provide identity and financial evidence and may need biometrics, a medical examination, police or local visa-office documents. The study-permit fee is CAD 150 and biometrics cost CAD 85 per individual when required. Processing time is not a fixed national number: it depends on the country of application, completeness, verification and application volumes, so the live IRCC processing-time tool must be used immediately before publishing or applying.

Valid passport or travel document: Identity and travel document for the applicant and accompanying family members.

Letter of acceptance: Official LOA from the DLI; postsecondary institutions validate the LOA with IRCC.

PAL/TAL or exemption proof: Provincial or territorial attestation letter in most cases, or evidence that an exemption applies.

Quebec Acceptance Certificate: Applicants studying in Quebec generally need the CAQ or attestation of issuance.

Proof of financial support: Evidence for tuition, living expenses and transport, plus a plan for the full study period.

Academic and language evidence: Transcripts, qualifications, translations and language results supporting admission and study plans.

Study-purpose explanation: Truthful explanation of course choice, finances, background and how the program fits the applicant's plan.

Biometrics: Fingerprints and photo when required; individual fee is CAD 85. CAD 85 if required

Medical examination: Required in some cases based on residence, planned work or IRCC instructions.

Police or character documents: May be requested to establish admissibility.

Family or minor documents: Relationship, custody, consent and custodianship evidence where applicable.

Varies by country and application

CAD 150, plus CAD 85 biometrics per individual when required