The study permit is a document we issue that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. Most foreign nationals need a study permit to study in Canada. Make sure you have all the documents you need before you apply. You should apply before you travel to Canada.
Your study permit is not a visa. It doesn’t let you enter Canada. You may also need a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA). If we approve your study permit, we’ll issue one to you with your study permit.
Note: You need a provincial attestation letter to apply for a study permit
As of 8:30 am ET on January 22, 2024, most students must include a provincial attestation letter (PAL) from the province or territory where they plan to study with their study permit application.
In most cases, if you apply without a PAL, your application will be returned with fees.
Learn more about the provincial attestation letter.
Designated learning institutions
To apply for a study permit, you need an acceptance letter from a designated learning institution. A designated learning institution is a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students.
All primary and secondary schools in Canada are designated learning institutions. They aren’t included in this list. If you plan to attend a post-secondary school, make sure it is on this list.
Get your study permit faster through the Student Direct Stream (SDS)
To be eligible for faster processing through the Student Direct Stream, you must be a legal resident living in 1 of the following countries:
Antigua and Barbuda
Brazil
China
Colombia
Costa Rica
India
Morocco
Pakistan
Peru
Philippines
Senegal
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Trinidad and Tobago
Vietnam
School Enrollment
If you wish to enroll in one of Canadian School/College/University, we are here to help! Apply to study in Canada as an international student, extend your study permit and find out about working while you study or after you graduate.
Choosing a program and school
In Canada, each province and territory is in charge of their own education system.
Get more information about schools and the education system:
EduCanada – information for international students about education in Canada, with study program search, costs, and more
Schools that teach students up to the grade 12 level are known as primary and secondary schools. Primary usually means grades 1-8 and secondary usually means grades 9-12.
All primary and secondary schools in Canada can enrol international students.
What is a study permit?
The study permit is a document we issue that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. Most foreign nationals need a study permit to study in Canada. Make sure you have all the documents you need before you apply. You should apply before you travel to Canada.
Your study permit is not a visa. It doesn’t let you enter Canada. You may also need a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA). If we approve your study permit, we’ll issue one to you with your study permit.
Note: You need a provincial attestation letter to apply for a study permit
As of 8:30 am ET on January 22, 2024, most students must include a provincial attestation letter (PAL) from the province or territory where they plan to study with their study permit application.
In most cases, if you apply without a PAL, your application will be returned with fees.
Learn more about the provincial attestation letter.
Designated learning institutions
To apply for a study permit, you need an acceptance letter from a designated learning institution. A designated learning institution is a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students.
All primary and secondary schools in Canada are designated learning institutions. They aren’t included in this list. If you plan to attend a post-secondary school, make sure it is on this list.
Get your study permit faster through the Student Direct Stream (SDS)
To be eligible for faster processing through the Student Direct Stream, you must be a legal resident living in 1 of the following countries:
School Enrollment
If you wish to enroll in one of Canadian School/College/University, we are here to help! Apply to study in Canada as an international student, extend your study permit and find out about working while you study or after you graduate.
Choosing a program and school
In Canada, each province and territory is in charge of their own education system.
Get more information about schools and the education system:
Primary and secondary schools
Schools that teach students up to the grade 12 level are known as primary and secondary schools. Primary usually means grades 1-8 and secondary usually means grades 9-12.
All primary and secondary schools in Canada can enrol international students.
There are special rules for minor children studying in Canada.
Post-secondary schools
Post-secondary schools are:
Each post-secondary school has its own set of rules on how to apply, including the level of English or French you need to be accepted.
Get more information on post-secondary schools: