Study Permit Eligibility Check

Answer the following questions to quickly see if you meet the basic requirements for a Canadian study permit.

Study Permit Eligibility — Key Requirements

RequirementWhat IRCC Looks For
Letter of Acceptance (LOA)From a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Must show program name, start date, and DLI number.
Proof of financial supportTuition + $10,000 CAD for the first year of living expenses (or more for Quebec). Bank statements from last 4–6 months.
Language proficiencyVaries by program and institution. Not always required by IRCC directly, but DLI usually requires IELTS 6.0–6.5+.
Statement of Purpose (SOP)Convincing explanation of why you chose this program, this school, and why you intend to return home after studies.
Ties to home countryProperty, family, employment, or financial commitments that show you intend to return.
Clean immigration historyNo prior study permit refusals (without addressing reasons), no overstay history.

Related Guides

Related Guides & Resources

Who Needs a Canadian Study Permit?

You need a study permit to study in Canada if your program is longer than 6 months at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Some short programs and certain exchange students may be exempt, but most international students require a study permit before arriving in Canada.

Core Requirements for a Study Permit

What Affects Study Permit Approval?

IRCC officers assess every application holistically. Beyond meeting the minimum requirements, they look for credibility — that your story is consistent and believable. Common reasons for refusal include insufficient funds, a weak or vague study plan, lack of ties to the home country, or applying to a program that does not match your academic background. A strong application addresses all of these proactively.

Student Direct Stream (SDS)

If you are applying from an eligible country (including India, China, Philippines, Vietnam, and others), you may qualify for the Student Direct Stream (SDS), which offers faster processing (usually within 20 calendar days) in exchange for stricter upfront requirements — including a GIC of at least CAD $10,000 and an IELTS score of 6.0 or higher in each band.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work while on a study permit in Canada?

Yes. If you are a full-time student at a DLI, your study permit automatically authorises you to work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks (like summer). You do not need a separate work permit for this.

How long does a study permit take to process?

Processing times vary by country. Standard processing typically takes 4–12 weeks. SDS applicants from eligible countries can expect decisions within 20 calendar days. Always apply well in advance of your program start date.

Can a study permit lead to permanent residence?

Yes — many international graduates qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing their program, then use Canadian work experience to apply for PR through Express Entry (Canadian Experience Class) or a Provincial Nominee Program.

What happens if my study permit application is refused?

If your application is refused, IRCC will send a refusal letter explaining the reasons. You can reapply, but you should address every concern mentioned in the refusal letter before submitting a new application. Email us at for help reviewing your refusal and strengthening your next application.

Related Tools & Guides

Study Permit Requirements (2026)

Full breakdown of all documents, funds, LOA requirements, and what IRCC looks for.

Read Guide →

Financial Proof for Study Permit

Exactly what bank statements, GIC, and sponsor letters IRCC expects to see.

Read Guide →

How to Write a Study Plan / SOP

Step-by-step guide to writing a strong Statement of Purpose for your study permit.

Read Guide →