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Study Permit Canada: Requirements, Proof of Funds, and How to Apply (2026)
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Overview
About Study Permit Canada: Requirements, Proof of Funds, and How to Apply (2026)
A study permit is the IRCC document that authorizes most international students to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada for a program longer than six months. If you are researching a study permit Canada application in 2026, you need more than a letter of acceptance. Officers also weigh financial capacity, purpose of study, and whether you will leave when your authorized stay ends (or change status lawfully).
Per IRCC’s notice on 2026 provincial and territorial allocations under the international student cap, Canada expects to issue up to 408,000 study permits in 2026, including 155,000 for newly arriving international students (plus extensions for current and returning students). Treat this as a national planning figure, not a personal quota.
Most post-secondary applicants still need a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) unless they fall under an exemption. As of January 1, 2026, IRCC’s allocations notice states that master’s and doctoral students enrolled at public DLIs do not need a PAL/TAL. Other exempt groups named in that notice include primary and secondary (K–12) students, certain Government of Canada priority and vulnerable cohorts, and existing study permit holders extending at the same DLI and same level of study. Quebec-bound students follow the CAQ process in addition to the federal study permit.
IRCC updates living-expense minimums annually. For applications submitted on or after September 1, 2026, a single applicant studying outside Quebec must show CAD $23,448 in living expenses for the first year, plus tuition and transportation. Applications submitted before that date used the prior table (single applicant outside Quebec: CAD $22,895).
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) ended on November 8, 2024. New study permit applications use the regular stream. A GIC can still appear among acceptable proof-of-funds documents on IRCC’s list, but it does not reopen SDS.
After you graduate from an eligible program, you may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). PGWP eligibility depends on school, program length and level, and current IRCC field-of-study rules for certain programs. Confirm before you enrol if Canadian work experience after graduation is part of your plan.
Family-size rows and evidence detail: Canada study permit proof of funds 2026.
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Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
Check if you meet the basic requirements for study permit canada: requirements, proof of funds, and how to apply (2026).
Letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
PAL/TAL when required (master’s and doctoral students at public DLIs are exempt as of January 1, 2026 per IRCC), or a CAQ if you will study in Quebec
Proof of funds: CAD $23,448 living expenses for a single applicant outside Quebec for applications submitted on or after September 1, 2026 (plus tuition and travel). Pre–Sep 1 filings used $22,895
No serious criminality concerns (a police certificate may be requested)
Good health (a medical exam may be required)
Will leave Canada at the end of authorized stay, or change status lawfully
How It Works
Our Process
A clear, step-by-step approach to your immigration journey.
01
Consultation & Goals
We discuss your academic goals, budget, and long-term plans including potential PR pathways
02
School & Program Selection
Together, we choose the right DLI and program that aligns with your career goals and PGWP eligibility
03
Admission & PAL
We guide you through the school application, secure your acceptance letter, and obtain your Provincial Attestation Letter
04
Study Permit Application
We prepare your study permit with strong financial and purpose documentation
05
Pre-Departure Support
We help you prepare for life in Canada and plan for success after graduation
Checklist
Required Documents
Letter of acceptance from a DLI
Provincial/Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL), unless exempt; or CAQ for Quebec
Proof of funds (living expenses per the table that applies on your filing date, plus tuition and travel). On or after September 1, 2026: CAD $23,448 for a single applicant outside Quebec
Valid passport
Language test results (as applicable)
Academic transcripts
Statement of purpose / letter of explanation
Police certificate (if requested)
Medical exam (if required)
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
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This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute immigration or legal advice. Immigration laws and policies change frequently. Each case is unique and outcomes depend on individual circumstances. Consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) before making immigration decisions.