Study in Canada FAQ for International Students

Anyone planning to study in Canada for more than six months at a designated learning institution (DLI) must apply for a study permit.

No. If your course lasts 6 months or less, you can study without a permit. However, applying for one may help if you want to extend or switch programs.

A DLI is a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. You must have an acceptance letter from a DLI to apply for a study permit.

You must show you have at least $20,635 for yourself, plus additional amounts for each accompanying family member. This does not include tuition or travel.

IRCC accepts bank statements, tuition and housing receipts, GICs, student loans, financial support letters, or scholarship letters from recognized sources.

You’ll need a DLI acceptance letter, financial documents, passport copy, passport-sized photos, explanation letter, police certificate (if required), and possibly medical exam results.

A PAL is a letter issued by a province or territory confirming your acceptance quota. It’s mandatory for most study permit applications outside Quebec.

A Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) is required for students planning to study in Quebec. It’s issued by the provincial government before applying to IRCC.

Yes. You must show proof of funds for them. Spouses may apply for open work permits, and children may need their own study permits.

Yes, most full-time students with a valid permit can work up to 20 hours per week during academic terms and full-time during breaks.

You must inform IRCC. You may lose your work eligibility and could be required to leave Canada. Violations may result in a six-month reapplication ban.

Yes, you may take a leave of up to 150 days if approved by your institution for medical, family, or academic reasons. You cannot work during this period.

IRCC may request proof like transcripts, enrolment letters, or medical documentation. Failure to comply may lead to removal from Canada.

Yes, certain groups like refugees, diplomatic staff, military personnel, and some government dependants may be exempt from active study requirements.

Yes, if you complete an eligible full-time program of at least 8 months at a DLI and meet all conditions, you can apply for a PGWP valid up to 3 years.

Programs delivered through public–private partnerships or curriculum licensing (starting after May 15, 2024) are no longer eligible. Some fields of study are now restricted.

You may apply within 90 days of expiry if you also apply to restore your status. Otherwise, you must leave Canada.

Yes, for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), you need at least 1 year of skilled work experience in Canada. Other pathways like PNPs may differ.

After gaining work experience via PGWP, you can apply for PR through Express Entry’s Canadian Experience Class. Points are awarded based on age, language, education, and work.

Most provinces offer PNP streams for graduates who studied in the province, often requiring a job offer or relevant work experience.

Yes. Most institutions have strong English and French support services to help international students succeed academically and integrate socially.

Canada offers lower tuition than the U.S., U.K., or Australia, with a high quality of life. Scholarships, part-time work, and PGWP opportunities help reduce financial stress.

Yes. Canadian degrees and diplomas are highly respected and provide strong employment and immigration opportunities globally.

Beyond education, Canada offers safety, cultural diversity, work experience opportunities, and accessible immigration pathways for permanent residence.

First, apply and get accepted by a DLI. Then gather your documents, including PAL or CAQ, proof of funds, and a strong explanation letter before applying online to IRCC.