Key takeaways
- Always needed: letter of acceptance, proof of identity and proof of funds
- Usually needed: a PAL/TAL, or a CAQ if you will study in Quebec
- Proof of funds: first-year tuition plus at least $23,448 for one person (applications from September 1, 2026, outside Quebec)
- Fees: $150 study permit fee plus $85 biometrics ($170 maximum for a family)
- Give biometrics within 30 days of the request if you are 14 to 79
Before you apply: get these first
- A letter of acceptance (LOA) from a designated learning institution (DLI). Your school verifies it with IRCC. See how to choose a DLI.
- A PAL or TAL (provincial or territorial attestation letter), unless you are exempt. IRCC says that to get one you need to accept your offer and pay your tuition, in part or in full. See who needs a PAL.
- A CAQ (Quebec Acceptance Certificate) if you will study in Quebec. See the Quebec CAQ guide.
- A valid passport. You need it to apply and to travel. If you are approved, IRCC asks for your original passport.
- Proof of funds ready in your name or your sponsor’s name.
The document checklist
| Document | Needed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Letter of acceptance from a DLI | Always | Not needed only for some family members of permit holders |
| Copy of passport or travel document | Always | You must have a valid passport if approved |
| 2 recent passport-size photos | Always | Name and date of birth on the back |
| Proof of funds | Always | For you and any family members who come with you |
| PAL or TAL | Most applicants | Exempt: for example, master’s and PhD at public schools, K-12 |
| CAQ | Quebec only | Instead of a PAL; most PAL-exempt Quebec students still need it |
| Letter of explanation | Recommended | Why you want to study in Canada and that you understand your responsibilities |
| Medical exam | Check if needed | IRCC says you may need one if you plan to stay more than 6 months, recently spent time in certain countries, or plan to work in some jobs |
| Police certificate | Check if needed | IRCC may ask for one |
| Custodian documents | Minors only | Under 17 and not coming with a parent or legal guardian |
| Visa office documents | Check if needed | Some local visa offices ask for more |
Source: IRCC, get the right documents for a study permit (modified October 6, 2026).
How much money do you need to show?
Outside Quebec, you must show first-year tuition, travel costs, and living costs. For applications IRCC receives on or after September 1, 2026, the minimum for living costs is:
| People in your family (including you) | Living costs per year |
|---|---|
| 1 | $23,448 |
| 2 | $29,192 |
| 3 | $35,888 |
| 4 | $43,572 |
| Each additional person | $6,318 |
Worked example
A single student going to Ontario with first-year tuition of $30,000 must show at least $30,000 + $23,448 = $53,448, plus travel. If the student has already paid $15,000 of tuition, the receipt counts, and the remaining tuition is $15,000.
IRCC accepts several kinds of proof. Examples are bank statements for the past 6 months, a Canadian guaranteed investment certificate (GIC), proof of a student or education loan, paid tuition receipts and proof of a scholarship. See the proof of funds calculator and how a student GIC works. Quebec sets its own amounts for the CAQ.
Step by step: how to apply
- Answer IRCC’s questions online. They create your personal document checklist.
- Create your IRCC secure account and upload your documents.
- Pay the fees: $150 for the study permit and $85 for biometrics ($170 maximum for a family applying together).
- Give biometrics. If you are 14 to 79, go to a collection site within 30 days of IRCC’s letter.
- Wait for processing. IRCC may ask for more documents, a medical exam or an interview.
- Get a decision. If approved, you get a port of entry letter of introduction. This letter is not your study permit. IRCC also sends you an electronic travel authorization (eTA) or a visitor visa if you need one.
- Travel. Bring your passport, the port of entry letter of introduction, a copy of your letter of acceptance, proof of funds and any documents the visa office asked for. A border services officer checks them. IRCC uses the reference number on the letter to issue your study permit.
Common mistakes that lead to refusals
- Unclear funds. Show where your money came from. IRCC asks for bank statements for the past 6 months as one form of proof.
- No clear study plan. Use the letter of explanation to say why this program and school fit your past studies and career.
- Missing the PAL. If you need a PAL, include it. If you are exempt, IRCC says you must give proof that you meet an exception.
- Wrong school or campus. Make sure the DLI number and campus on your LOA match IRCC’s list.
- Fake documents. Never use documents from an agent you cannot verify. Giving false information can lead to a refusal and a ban on future applications. See immigration scams.
After you arrive
- Check that your study permit shows the right school, dates and work conditions. If the work condition is missing, you can ask IRCC to fix it.
- Get your SIN if you plan to work. See how to get a SIN.
- Learn the work rules: 24 hours a week off campus during classes. See working while studying.
- Arrange health coverage. See health insurance for international students.
Common questions
How much does a Canadian study permit cost in 2026?
The study permit fee is $150. Most applicants also pay $85 for biometrics, or $170 at most for a family applying together.
How much money do I need for a study permit?
Outside Quebec, first-year tuition and travel, plus at least $23,448 for one person’s living costs, for applications received on or after September 1, 2026.
Do I need a PAL for my study permit?
Most college and undergraduate students do. Master’s and doctoral students at public schools, K-12 students and some other groups are exempt. Students going to Quebec need a CAQ.
Is a letter of explanation required?
IRCC lists it as recommended, not required. It helps the officer understand why you want to study in Canada.
Who needs to give biometrics?
Most applicants aged 14 to 79. You must give them within 30 days of receiving IRCC’s biometrics letter.
Do I need a medical exam?
Only in some cases. IRCC says you may need one if you plan to stay more than 6 months, recently spent time in certain countries, or plan to work in some jobs. Check IRCC’s medical exam rules.
Sources
- IRCC: Study permit, get the right documents (modified October 6, 2026)
- IRCC: Study permit, how to apply (modified September 2, 2026)
- IRCC: Proof of financial support (modified August 28, 2026)
- IRCC: Provincial attestation letter (PAL/TAL)
- IRCC: Fee list (modified September 21, 2026)
- IRCC: Minor children studying in Canada
- IRCC: Where to give your biometrics (30-day deadline)