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 — including an important change: the fast-track Student Direct Stream (SDS) was discontinued in November 2024, and every applicant now goes through the same standard process.
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 |
Important: The Student Direct Stream (SDS) No Longer Exists
The Student Direct Stream, which offered faster processing (around 20 calendar days) for eligible applicants from a specific list of countries who met certain requirements — including a GIC and a minimum IELTS score — was discontinued by IRCC effective November 8, 2024. All new study permit applications, regardless of country of origin, are now processed through the single, regular study permit stream.
If you see content online (including outdated versions of this guide) describing SDS as an active "fast-track" option, treat it as outdated and confirm current requirements directly on IRCC's official website.
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 the 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, current guideline) | CAD 22,895 |
| Living expenses for spouse/partner | CAD 4,000 |
| Living expenses per dependent child | CAD 3,000 |
Always confirm the current figure at canada.ca before budgeting — IRCC revises this amount periodically (it was last raised in 2025), and using an outdated number risks your application looking under-funded.
Funds can be shown through: bank statements, education loans, scholarship letters, a GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate), or sponsorship letters. A GIC is still a legitimate, widely used proof-of-funds option — it is simply no longer tied to any fast-track processing stream.
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 | Per your DLI's admission requirement |
| 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 the 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 |
|---|---|
| Standard study permit (online) | Varies — check current IRCC service standards before planning your travel; commonly several weeks to a few months |
| Inside Canada (extension) | 5–10 weeks (also check current estimates) |
There is no separate faster stream anymore — processing time depends on your country of application and current IRCC volumes, not on meeting SDS-style criteria.
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 | Generally up to 24 hours/week during term — confirm the current IRCC limit, as this has changed more than once in recent years |
| 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 (or longer) programmes
- Gives unrestricted work rights anywhere in Canada
- Counts toward Canadian Experience Class (Express Entry) for PR
- Note: PGWP eligibility now also depends on field-of-study rules for some programme types — confirm your programme's eligibility with your DLI before enrolling
IELTS Requirements for Canada Study Permit
IELTS serves one main purpose now that SDS no longer exists — your university's own admission requirement:
| Purpose | IELTS Minimum |
|---|---|
| University admission (most) | 6.0 – 7.0 |
| IRCC PR pathways (later) | CLB 7 = IELTS 6.0 (per skill) |
A score of 6.5–7.0 not only meets most university admissions requirements but also positions you well for future PR applications through Express Entry.
Prepare for IELTS with Gabble — most Canadian universities require IELTS 6.0–7.0 for admission. AI-powered speaking and writing feedback with instant band scores helps you reach your target.