More than 130,000 students come to study in Canada every year and even more come to Canada to learn English or French. Foreign students bring a rich culture to our classrooms. Your knowledge and skills are welcome in our schools.

Before you can apply for a study permit, you must have been accepted at a recognized school, university or college in Canada.

In most cases, you must obtain a study permit if you want to study in Canada.

To be eligible to study in Canada

• You must have been accepted by a school, college, university or other educational institution in Canada.
• You must prove that you have enough money to pay for your:
  • tuition fees
  • living expenses for yourself and any family members who come with you to Canada and
  • return transportation for yourself and any family members who come with you to Canada.
• You must be a law-abiding citizen with no criminal record and not be a risk to the security of Canada. You may have to provide a police certificate.
• You must be in good health and willing to complete a medical examination, if necessary.
• You must satisfy an immigration officer that you will leave Canada when you have completed your studies.

Exceptions

In some cases, you do not require a study permit to go to school in Canada.

• If you wish to study in a short-term (maximum six month) course or program
• Foreign representatives to Canada
• Members of foreign armed forces

Documents Needed to Apply for Study Permit

You need the following documents to apply for a study permit:

Arriving

When you arrive in Canada, you will be met by an officer from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) at a point of entry, such as an airport. The CBSA is responsible for border and point of entry activities in Canada.

• The documents you need to enter Canada
• Citizens or residents of the United States, Saint-Pierre et Miquelon and Greenland
• Understanding the terms and conditions of your study permit
• Leaving and coming back to Canada
• Health insurance

Extending your stay

Information is available on the requirements you must meet and steps you must take if you wish to stay longer in Canada.

Work permits for students

It is possible to work in Canada while you are here as a student, and there are opportunities for jobs on and off campus. You will need to apply.

• Working on campus

• Working off campus
• Working after graduation

Dual Intent

Information about the concept of dual intent and how it is dealt with in the study permit process

Study Permit FAQ

Learn more about Frequently Asked Question about Study Permits

Contact us for more information about obtaining a Study Permit.