Regulated Immigration Guidance
Immigration advice is provided through a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant accountable to Canada's professional regulator.
Study in Canada
Study in Canada
Understand the study permit process, key requirements, and whether your circumstances may meet the basic criteria.
What a study permit means
A study permit is the document most international students need to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada for more than 6 months. It is not a visa on its own, and it does not guarantee entry to Canada at the border.
If your program is 6 months or less, you generally don't need a study permit at all — a different travel authorization may be enough. Pentagon can help confirm which applies to you.
Main requirements
A study permit application generally needs to show all of the following.
Acceptance at a DLI
A letter of acceptance from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution.
Provincial/territorial attestation
A PAL/TAL (or Quebec Acceptance Certificate), unless your program is exempt — for example, K-12 study or a master's/doctoral program at a public institution.
Exemptions apply to some program types and levels.
Proof of financial support
Funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and return transportation, for yourself and any accompanying family members.
Good standing and health
No criminal record (a police certificate may be required), and general good health (a medical exam may be required).
Temporary intent
Evidence that you intend to leave Canada when your study permit expires.
How it works
Your Study Permit Journey
Every situation is different, but the shape of a study permit application generally looks like this.
Prepare
Secure your DLI acceptance letter, gather your PAL/TAL or exemption evidence, and organize your proof of funds.
Apply
Submit your study permit application with your complete, verified documentation.
Decision & travel prep
IRCC reviews your application. Once approved, prepare for travel and entry to Canada.
Study & stay compliant
Make progress in your program and follow the conditions listed on your permit throughout your studies.
Important things to know
Who doesn't need a study permit
You generally don't need a study permit if: your program lasts 6 months or less; you're a family or staff member of an accredited foreign representative; you're a member of a foreign armed force on official duties under the Visiting Forces Act; you hold Registered Indian status in Canada; you're a minor child in specific family/refugee circumstances attending certain schools; or you're a work permit holder studying short-term under the current public policy allowing this.
PAL/TAL exemptions in more detail
As of January 1, 2026, degree-granting master's and doctoral programs at public institutions are exempt from the PAL/TAL requirement. Other exemptions include preschool/primary/secondary study, federally designated military colleges, certain Quebec vocational programs, exchange students not paying tuition to a Canadian institution, and a small number of other specific categories.
Current financial requirement
For applications submitted on or after September 1, 2026, IRCC generally requires CAD $23,448 per year in available funds for a single applicant (outside Quebec), plus CAD $6,318 for each additional accompanying family member — in addition to tuition and travel costs. Quebec sets its own amount for students destined for Quebec institutions.
Study Permit Eligibility
See if you may be eligible for a Canadian study permit
Answer a few quick questions about your circumstances and receive an instant initial assessment.
Your Study Permit Assessment
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Why Pentagon
Why Pentagon Immigration Services?
Regulated guidance, realistic strategy and a clear client experience for every stage of your immigration matter.
Clear Consultation & Case Strategy
Structured consultations help clarify your circumstances, priorities and practical next steps.
Strategic Case Assessment
We assess eligibility, evidence, risks and available options realistically—without promising an approval.
Experience With Complex Cases
Our practice includes refused applications and complex immigration matters that require careful review and strategy.
Transparent Fees
Fees and the scope of professional services are explained clearly before applicable work begins.
Secure Digital Client Experience
Online consultation, document and communication workflows are designed to keep your matter organized and accessible.
Ready to start your Study Permit journey?
Book a consultation with a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant to review your complete situation.