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

How to apply to a school, college or university

Once you have chosen a place to study you will need to apply to that school, college or university. Every school has different rules on how to apply.
Make sure you apply early for your course of study. University and college students should apply a year before they want to start their studies.
Contact the school where you want to study to learn how to apply. They will give you the right application forms and be able to tell you about:

• the cost of applying;
• tuition fees;
• health insurance;
• rent and how much it will cost to live in Canada;
• language tests.

You need a letter of acceptance in order to apply for a Study Permit.

Who can apply

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.

Work permits for students

How do I find out if I can work while studying in Canada?

Foreign students can work in Canada during their studies, and after they graduate. In most cases, you will need to apply for one of the student-related work permits, which are required if you want to work in a co-op/internship placement, off campus, or after graduating from your studies (Post-Graduation Work Permit Program).