Study Permits
Are you interested in studying in Canada? Summit Immigration Consulting Group can assist you in obtaining your Study Permit. The study permit is a document issued by the Government of Canada that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada.
About Study Permits
Most foreign nationals need a study permit to study in Canada. Most students require a study permit, but not all. We will assess your goals and study plans to determine your eligibility and the best options for your educational journey in Canada.
Important: A study permit is a document that allows you to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. It's not a visa - you may also need a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada.
Our experienced team will guide you through the entire process, from initial assessment to obtaining your study permit and preparing for your educational journey in Canada.
Eligibility Requirements
Once we assess your file, we always let clients know that they can come to Canada to study once they meet these requirements:
Enrolled at a DLI
You must be enrolled at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada to apply for a study permit.
Key Points:
- Acceptance letter from an accredited college or university
- Valid enrollment at a DLI recognized by the Canadian government
Proof of Financial Support
You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses.
Key Points:
- Minimum $20,635 CAD available for living expenses
- Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) is the most common way
- Bank statements showing sufficient funds
Clean Background
You must have no criminal record and be in good health to study in Canada.
Key Points:
- No criminal record
- Police certificate (if required)
- Medical examination if required
- Good health status
Intent to Leave Canada
You must convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada when your study permit expires.
Key Points:
- Ties to your home country
- Clear study plan and career goals
- Evidence of return intentions
Required Documents
You'll need several documents as part of your application for a study permit. Don't apply for a permit without these documents:
Acceptance Letter
Official letter from an accredited Canadian college or university
Provincial Attestation Letter
Required letter from the province where you'll be studying (Quebec Acceptance Certificate in Quebec)
Proof of Identity
Valid passport copy and other identity documents
Proof of Funding
Evidence of at least $20,635 CAD for living expenses
Other Documents That May Be Needed
You may be asked for additional documents, like a letter of explanation, proof of a medical exam, or a custodial declaration for minor students. You'll find all the details on the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
Letter of Explanation
Detailed explanation of your study plans and career goals
Medical Examination
Proof of medical exam if required for your country of origin
Custodial Declaration
Required for minor students (under 18 years old)
Language Proficiency
IELTS, TOEFL, or other language test results if required
2025 Study Permit Cap Updates
Important changes to the study permit system for 2025:
2025 Study Permit Cap
Study permit cap revised to 437,000 permits, including master's and PhD students.
Provincial Allocation
IRCC allocates portions of the cap to provincial and territorial governments.
DLI Distribution
Provinces distribute allocations among Designated Learning Institutions.
Advanced Degree Priority
Master's and PhD students included in the overall cap allocation.
In 2025, the study permit cap was revised to 437,000 study permits, which will include master's and PhD students as well.IRCC will allocate a portion of the overall study permit cap to provincial and territorial governments, who will then distribute this allocation among DLIs in their jurisdiction.
Study Pathways to Permanent Residence (PR)
International students who complete post-secondary education in Canada have many opportunities to extend their stay and acquire permanent residency. Many federal and provincial immigration programs value candidates with Canadian education and work experience.
Express Entry
Former international students are well-positioned for Express Entry, especially the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
Key Benefits:
- Canadian education and work experience highly valued
- CRS points for Canadian education
- Access to Canadian Experience Class program
- Fast-track to permanent residence
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Many PNP streams specifically target former international students or reward Canadian education.
Key Benefits:
- Province-specific programs for graduates
- Priority processing for Canadian graduates
- Additional pathways to permanent residence
- Regional opportunities across Canada
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
Work in Canada for up to three years after graduation, gaining valuable Canadian work experience.
Key Benefits:
- Up to 3 years of work authorization
- No job offer required initially
- Open work permit - work for any employer
- Bridge to permanent residence programs
Quebec Immigration
Quebec operates its own immigration system with programs specifically for international students.
Key Benefits:
- Quebec-specific immigration programs
- Popular destination for international students
- Montreal as a major educational hub
- Specialized immigration pilot programs
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
After completing your education in Canada, you can gain Canadian work experience by obtaining a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) which, depending on your Canadian academic program, may enable you to work in Canada for up to three years. With a PGWP, you can pursue a number of federal and provincial permanent residence avenues.
Ready to Start Your Canadian Education Journey?
Summit Immigration Consulting Group is a recognized name in Canadian immigration. Our legal team has the expertise to handle your study permit application from start to finish. Get started with a consultation today to discuss your educational goals and eligibility for studying in Canada.