Study Permit
Study at Canadian Colleges & Universities — with Post-Graduation Work Permit Pathway
What Is a Study Permit?
A Canadian study permit is an official document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that authorizes foreign nationals to pursue academic, vocational, or professional training programs at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. Without a valid study permit, most foreign nationals cannot legally enrol in post-secondary programs lasting more than six months. The study permit is not a visa; you may also need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) depending on your country of citizenship.
The cornerstone of any study permit application is an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution — a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. Canada has thousands of DLIs, including universities, colleges, CEGEPs, and vocational schools. Choosing the right DLI matters not only for your education but also for your immigration pathway: only graduates of eligible post-secondary DLIs qualify for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
Working while studying is permitted for most study permit holders enrolled at a DLI: you may work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks. Spouses or common-law partners of eligible full-time students may also be eligible for an open work permit, depending on the level and institution of study. RCIC guidance ensures your application is complete, correctly supported, and positioned for approval.
Study Permit Streams
All study permit applications now proceed under the Regular Stream. The former Student Direct Stream (SDS) ended on November 8, 2024.
Student Direct Stream (SDS) — Ended
The Student Direct Stream ended on November 8, 2024. Study permit applications now proceed under the Regular Stream, which is open to applicants from all countries.
If you had planned to apply through SDS, the regular requirements now apply — eBUDDY can assess your application and help you build a strong file under the current rules.
Regular Stream
The Regular Stream is open to applicants from all countries. Processing times typically range from 8 to 16 weeks, though this varies based on IRCC volumes and individual circumstances.
The Regular Stream does not require a GIC or upfront tuition payment, making it more accessible for students in varied financial situations, though robust proof of funds remains essential.
- Open to applicants from all countries worldwide
- No GIC or upfront tuition requirement
- Flexible language test options (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF Canada, etc.)
- Study plan letter critical to demonstrating genuine intent
- Biometrics required for most applicants
Key Study Permit Requirements
Every study permit application must demonstrate that you are a genuine student with the financial means and intention to study and return home after your studies.
DLI Acceptance Letter
You must hold a valid letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution. The letter must confirm your program name, start date, duration, and DLI number. Without this document, your study permit application cannot proceed.
Proof of Financial Support
You must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition fees plus at least $22,895 CAD per year for living expenses (single applicant, outside Quebec; a different amount applies in Quebec). Acceptable proof includes bank statements, GIC certificates, scholarship letters, or a sponsor's financial declaration.
Ties to Home Country
Officers must be satisfied that you intend to leave Canada upon completion of your studies. Strong ties may include property ownership, employment, family responsibilities, or business interests in your home country. A well-crafted study plan letter is essential for demonstrating genuine student intent.
Language Proficiency
While language test results are not always mandatory for a study permit application, most Canadian institutions require proof of English or French proficiency as part of their admissions process.
Your Pathway from Study to Permanent Residence
A Canadian study permit is more than access to world-class education — it is often the first step in a carefully planned immigration journey toward permanent residence and citizenship.
Study Permit
Enrol at an eligible DLI and complete your program. Work up to 24 hrs/week off-campus.
PGWP
Post-Graduation Work Permit: valid up to 3 years. Gain Canadian work experience in your field.
Canadian Experience
Accumulate 12 months of skilled Canadian work experience to meet CEC eligibility.
Express Entry
Create your Express Entry profile under CEC. Canadian experience and Canadian credentials boost your CRS score significantly.
Permanent Residence
Receive your ITA and become a Canadian permanent resident. Citizenship eligibility follows in 3 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) ended on November 8, 2024. Study permit applications now proceed under the Regular Stream, which is open to all nationalities. eBUDDY can assess your eligibility and help you prepare a strong regular-stream application.
A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit that allows graduates of eligible Canadian post-secondary institutions to work anywhere in Canada for any employer after completing their studies. The PGWP duration generally mirrors the length of your study program: programs of at least 8 months but less than 2 years result in a PGWP valid for the same length as the program, while programs of 2 years or longer may qualify you for a PGWP of up to 3 years. Not all programs and not all institutions qualify — only graduates of PGWP-eligible DLI programs are entitled to apply. It is critical to verify PGWP eligibility before choosing your program, as this decision has long-term immigration consequences. Mohamed Aboud can help you navigate these rules before you commit to a school and program.
Yes. Most study permit holders enrolled full-time at a DLI are permitted to work off-campus for up to 24 hours per week during regular academic sessions, and full-time (unlimited hours) during scheduled academic breaks such as summer, winter, and spring breaks. This work authorization is attached to your study permit and does not require a separate work permit, provided you meet all conditions. Additionally, if you have a spouse or common-law partner who qualifies as a full-time student at certain levels of study, they may be eligible to obtain an open work permit in Canada. Your specific conditions are printed on your study permit, and working beyond your authorized hours can jeopardize both your status and future immigration applications.
Start Your Canadian Education Journey
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