A Canadian study permit is the official document that allows international students to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. This guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining one in 2026 — from eligibility to what happens when you land.
What Is a Canadian Study Permit?
A study permit is not technically a visa — it is a permit issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows you to study in Canada. Most international students also need a visitor visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada, in addition to the study permit.
| Document | Who Needs It |
|---|---|
| Study permit | Most international students (mandatory for programmes over 6 months) |
| Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) | Students from countries that require a visa to enter Canada |
| Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) | Students from visa-exempt countries (not USA) |
| USA citizens | Study permit only; no TRV or eTA required |
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a Canadian study permit, you must:
- Have been accepted at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Prove sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and return transportation
- Have no criminal record and be willing to provide a police clearance if required
- Be in good health and willing to undergo a medical exam if required
- Convince the visa officer you will leave Canada when your study permit expires (intent to return home)
- Meet language requirements of your DLI
Proof of Funds Required
IRCC requires you to show you can financially support yourself throughout your studies:
| Requirement | Amount (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Tuition for first year | Full amount |
| Living expenses (per year, 2024 rules) | CAD 20,635 |
| Living expenses for spouse/partner | CAD 4,000 |
| Living expenses per dependent child | CAD 3,000 |
Funds can be shown through: bank statements, education loans, scholarship letters, GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate), or sponsorship letters.
Student Direct Stream (SDS) — Faster Processing
Canada offers the Student Direct Stream for students from eligible countries, providing faster processing (20 business days target):
SDS Eligible Countries (2026)
Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, Vietnam
SDS Requirements
| Requirement | Standard |
|---|---|
| IELTS score | Minimum 6.0 overall |
| GIC | CAD 20,635 deposited in a Canadian financial institution |
| Tuition payment | First year tuition paid in full |
| Medical exam | Completed before applying |
| Police certificate | From country of residence (last 10 years) |
Note: SDS requires IELTS Academic specifically — TOEFL is not accepted for SDS.
Study Permit Application Process
Step 1: Receive Acceptance Letter
You need a letter of acceptance from a DLI before applying.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
| Document | Detail |
|---|---|
| Letter of acceptance | From your DLI |
| Valid passport | Must be valid beyond your intended stay |
| Photos | Meeting IRCC specifications |
| Proof of funds | Bank statements, GIC, scholarship letters |
| IELTS/TOEFL scores | For SDS or as supporting evidence |
| Statement of purpose | Why you are studying in Canada |
| Proof of ties to home country | Property, job offer, family — demonstrates intent to return |
| Medical exam results | If required (IRCC will advise) |
| Police certificate | If required |
Step 3: Apply Online
Most applicants apply through the IRCC online portal. You will create a GCKey account or sign in with a Sign-In Partner.
Application fee: CAD 150 for study permit; CAD 85 for biometrics (if required)
Step 4: Biometrics
Most applicants need to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at a local Visa Application Centre (VAC). Pay CAD 85 and attend an appointment.
Step 5: Wait for Processing
| Application Type | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| SDS (eligible countries) | ~20 business days |
| Standard (online) | 4–20 weeks |
| Inside Canada (extension) | 5–10 weeks |
Step 6: Receive Your Letter of Introduction
Once approved, you receive a Letter of Introduction — the actual study permit is issued at the port of entry when you arrive in Canada.
Arriving in Canada — Port of Entry
When you arrive:
- Present your Letter of Introduction to a CBSA officer
- The officer issues your actual Study Permit
- Your study permit will show your study period and any conditions
Work Rights on a Canadian Study Permit
| Work Type | Permitted Hours |
|---|---|
| On-campus | Unlimited |
| Off-campus | 24 hours/week during term |
| Off-campus | Full-time during scheduled breaks |
Co-op and internship work (CPT equivalent): Part of your academic programme — apply for a co-op work permit.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) — Planning Ahead
The PGWP is the major post-study benefit:
- Available after completing a programme of 8+ months at a DLI
- Duration: up to 3 years for 2-year programmes
- Gives unrestricted work rights anywhere in Canada
- Counts toward Canadian Experience Class (Express Entry) for PR
IELTS Requirements for Canada Study Permit
IELTS scores serve two purposes:
- University admission: Required by your DLI (typically IELTS 6.0–7.0)
- SDS application: IELTS 6.0 minimum required for faster study permit processing
| Purpose | IELTS Minimum |
|---|---|
| University admission (most) | 6.0 – 7.0 |
| SDS (faster processing) | 6.0 |
| IRCC PR pathways (later) | CLB 7 = IELTS 6.0 |
A score of 6.5–7.0 not only meets most university admissions requirements but also strengthens your SDS application and positions you well for future PR applications.
Prepare for IELTS with Gabble — IELTS 6.0 is the SDS minimum, but 6.5–7.0 gives you more programme options and a stronger application. AI-powered speaking and writing feedback with instant band scores.