Study Permit

Study Permit

A study permit is a written authorization issued by an immigration officer allowing foreign nationals to study in Canada. Generally, foreign nationals must obtain a study permit in order to study in Canada. The basis of eligibility to apply for a study permit is to have a Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution in Canada.

Study without Study Permit

  • attending preschool;
  • completing a distance learning program;
  • following audit courses (where a student is permitted to attend an academic course without obtaining credits);
  • taking courses included in tour packages as a secondary activity for tourists;
  • taking a course which is not academic, professional or vocational in nature that is of general interest and can be completed within the period authorized upon entry to Canada;
  • taking a course or a program of study which is six months or less that can be completed within the period authorized upon entry into Canada;
  • dependent children of work or study permit holders studying at the primary or secondary level (restrictions apply).

Eligibility to Apply for A Study Permit

  • For post-secondary level, an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution must be demonstrated. All primary and secondary institutions in Canada are automatically designated and do not appear on the DLI List.
  • Have intention to leave Canada at the end of studies.
  • Providing satisfactory proof of financial support.
  • Provide Police Clearance Certificate if required by the country of application or visa office.
  • Will not be a risk to the security of Canada.
  • Are in good health (a medical examination may be requested).
  • Have a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL), if required for the level of study.

Work While Studying

Some students are authorized to work in Canada while they study.  This is restricted to post-secondary level students attending classes full-time. 

Those with authorization to work are allowed to work off-campus up to 20 hours per week, and full-time during regular scheduled breaks, such as winter and summer holidays.

Some study programs also require co-op work experience. It is possible to get a co-op work permit that allows students to work full-time and gain experience to meet the requirements of their study program.