Canada study permit process requires acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), financial proof, and optionally SDS for faster processing. This checklist covers the entire journey.

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Step 1: Get acceptance from DLI

Receive an acceptance letter from a Canadian DLI. Your school must be on the IRCC-approved DLI list. Confirm your acceptance and pay the tuition deposit.

Variable

Step 2: Prepare financial documents

For SDS: Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAD 20,635 plus first year tuition paid. For regular stream: 6+ months bank statements, education loan, or sponsorship letters.

1-2 weeks

Step 3: Check SDS eligibility

SDS is available for applicants from India, China, Philippines, Pakistan, Vietnam, Morocco, Senegal, and select other countries. Requires IELTS 6.0 overall (no band below 6.0).

1 hour

Step 4: Complete application

Apply online through IRCC MyAccount. Upload acceptance letter, proof of funds, passport, passport photos, and Letter of Explanation. IELTS TRF number required.

1-2 hours

Step 5: Pay fees and submit

Pay CAD 150 study permit fee plus CAD 85 biometrics fee. Submit the completed application. Download confirmation with application number.

30 min

Step 6: Give biometrics

Book biometrics appointment at VAC within 30 days. Biometric instruction letter (BIL) will be sent after submission. Valid for 10 years.

1 hour

Step 7: Track and respond

Monitor IRCC account. Respond to any requests within the timeframe. SDS processes in 20 calendar days; regular stream takes 8-12 weeks.

Ongoing

Step 8: Submit passport for stamping

When passport request is received, submit to VAC with return courier. Processing after approval takes 1-2 weeks.

1-2 weeks

Step 9: Arrive in Canada

Present your POE (Port of Entry) letter at immigration. The officer issues your study permit. Enrol in your program full-time. Maintain full-time status.

Before start date

Step 10: Apply for PGWP (after graduation)

Apply for Post-Graduation Work Permit within 180 days of graduation. PGWP valid for up to 3 years depending on program duration. Open work permit.

After graduation

Canada Study Permit Checklist 2026