Obtaining a Study Permit

Obtaining a study permit is essential for foreign nationals aiming to pursue education in Canada at the post-secondary level for programs lasting more than six months. The study permit is typically valid until 90 days after the completion of the study program. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you through the process.

1. Proof of Acceptance

Before submitting your study permit application to IRCC, certain prerequisites must be met to ensure a smooth process:

• Your personal details
• The institution’s name and DLI number
• Details of the program, including type, duration, and whether it’s full-time or part-time
• Tuition fees
• Expiry date of the letter of acceptance

2. Proof of Identity

You must provide:

• A valid passport or travel document
• Two recent passport-sized photos

3. Proof of Financial Support

You need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and any accompanying family members. Acceptable documents include:

• Proof of a Canadian bank account in your name, showing transferred funds
• Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian financial institution
• Bank statements for the last four months
• Bank draft convertible to Canadian dollars
• Proof of tuition and housing fee payments
• A letter from the person or institution providing funding
• Proof of funding paid from within Canada, such as a scholarship
• Proof of a student or education loan from a bank

4. Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)

As of 2024, you might need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) while applying for a Canadian Study Permit. This document confirms that the institution you are applying to has a place for you in its provincial allocation of study permits.

5. Letter of Explanation (Also known as Statement of Purpose)

A letter of explanation, or submission letter, is an essential part of your study permit application. This letter is your opportunity to explain to the visa officer any aspects of your application that may not be immediately clear from your documents. It is your chance to present your case in your own words since there is seldom an interview for these applications.

Importance of the Letter of Explanation:

• Clarify Your Intentions: Explain why you want to study in Canada and how the program aligns with your career goals.
• Address Gaps: Provide context for any gaps or unusual aspects of your application, such as breaks in your education or work history.
• Demonstrate Originality: Avoid clichés and standard phrases. Instead, make your application stand out with a personalized, original letter.

5. Additional Documents

Depending on your specific circumstances and country of residence, additional documents MAY be required, such as:

• A police certificate
• Upfront medical examination results
• Any other documents specified by the visa office