Study Permit Checklist

Interactive step-by-step checklist for your Canadian study permit application. Track your progress as you gather documents and complete each step.

Last verified: September 1, 2026 · Sources: IRCC

2026 cap: Canada has set a national limit of 408,000 study permit approvals for 2026. Most applicants must have a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) — your school should help you obtain one. If you are required to have a PAL/TAL and do not have one, your application will not be processed. Exempt categories include K-12 students and master's/doctoral applicants at public institutions. Source: canada.ca 2026 study permit allocations, Sept 2026.

Province of study

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Before You Apply

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Get accepted to a DLIYou need a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution
Obtain a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)Required for most study permits. Exempt: K-12 students; master's/doctoral at public DLIs (exemption effective Jan 1, 2026). Your school or province issues this letter.Since Jan 1, 2026: master's and doctoral programs at public DLIs are PAL-exempt. K-12 is always exempt. Private DLI students must still obtain a PAL. Source: IRCC PAL page.
Get a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)Demonstrate you have at least $23,448 CAD (effective Sept 1, 2026) in living funds for your first year. A GIC from a participating bank is one accepted way to show this; bank statements or other liquid assets may also qualify.
Take a language testUsually required by your school (not by IRCC for the permit). IELTS, CELPIP (English) or TEF, TCF (French). Book early — results take 2–3 weeks.
Get a medical examFrom an IRCC-designated panel physician. Required for some countries.

Documents to Prepare

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Valid passportMust be valid for the duration of your studies
Letter of Acceptance from DLIOfficial LOA with your DLI number
Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)If required for your program
Proof of financial supportBank statements, GIC receipt, scholarship letters, or sponsor letters
Language test resultsOriginal or official electronic results
Passport-size photosPer IRCC specifications
Statement of Purpose / Study planExplain why you chose Canada and this program
Medical exam resultsIf required based on your country of residence
Police clearance certificateIf requested by IRCC

Application

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Create or sign in to IRCC online accountApply online through your IRCC secure account on canada.ca
Complete the study permit application formIMM 1294 — Application for Study Permit
Pay the application fee$150 CAD study permit fee
Pay biometrics fee$85 CAD
Submit your applicationOnline through your IRCC account

After Submission

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Give biometrics at a VACVisit your nearest Visa Application Centre
Attend interview if requestedIRCC may request an interview as part of the review
Receive Port of Entry (POE) letterThis is NOT your study permit. You receive the actual permit at the Canadian border.
Book travel and accommodationPlan your arrival before your program start date

This checklist is for general guidance only. Requirements may vary based on your country, program, and individual circumstances. Always verify with IRCC for the most current requirements.