Step-by-step guide for international students to obtain a Canadian study permit and student visa

Step 1:

Determine
eligibility

Step 2:

Obtain a letter of
acceptance

Step 3:

Gather required
documents

Step 4:

Complete the
online application

Step 5:

Biometrics
appointment

Determine eligibility

Before applying for a study permit, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria:

Accepted by a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada

Able to prove sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, return transportation and if there is a family member accompanying you

Be a law-abiding citizen with no criminal record

Be able and willing to complete a medical exam if necessary

Be prepared to discuss your postgraduation plans with the immigration officer, including the expectation to ll leave Canada at the end of your studies

Official university letterhead with institution information and official contact
Exact amount of tuition fees
Program start and finish dates
Registration due date

Personal information including name, date of birth, current residential address
Verification of space within the province or territory’s study permit allocation

Obtain a letter of acceptance and a provincial attestation letter (PAL)

Gather required documents

Prepare the necessary documents for your study permit application:

Valid passport or travel document
Proof of acceptance from a DLI
PAL
Proof of financial support to cover tuition and up to $20,000 CAD (US$14,000) in living expenses:
Tip: Consider opening a GIC account with a Canadian bank. Learn more.
Letter of explanation covering:
- Why you want to study in Canada
- Your career path
- That you understand your responsibilities as a student
- Opportunities upon completing Canadian study
Other documents (as required)
- Custodian declaration (for minors)

Complete the online application

Apply online for your study permit through the Government of Canada’s website. You’ll need:

- An electronic copy of your documents
- A valid credit or debit card to pay the application fee

MPOWER has partnered with BorderPass* (borderpass.ca) to provide students access to premium Canadian immigration services at minimal cost. BorderPass streamlines your immigration journey and maximizes your study permit chances by providing access to Canadian lawyers with trustworthy advice. We’ve negotiated an exclusive deal with BorderPass to offer you their study permit application service at a discounted price of CA$350/US$275.

*MPOWER has referral agreements with the third parties noted on this page and may earn referral fees from this relationship.

Study permit support

Expert guidance
Legal support
Pre- and post-arrival immigration
Permanent residency pathways
Exclusive benefits

Canadian immigration lawyers provide comprehensive study permit application preparation, review and filing services.

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Biometrics appointment

After submitting your application, you may be required to give your biometrics (fingerprints and photo). You’ll receive instructions on where and how to complete this step.

If required, schedule and complete a medical exam with a panel physician approved by the Canadian government.

The processing time can vary. You can check the status of your application online. If your application is approved, you’ll receive a port of entry (POE) letter of introduction and, if applicable, a temporary resident visa (TRV). Upon arrival, present your POE letter of introduction, TRV (if applicable), and all required documents to the border services officer.

DISCLAIMER – Subject to credit approval, loans are made by Bank of Lake Mills or MPOWER Financing, PBC. Bank of Lake Mills does not have an ownership interest in MPOWER Financing. Neither MPOWER Financing nor Bank of Lake Mills is affiliated with the school you attended or are attending. Bank of Lake Mills is Member FDIC. None of the information contained in this website constitutes a recommendation, solicitation or offer by MPOWER Financing or its affiliates to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments or other assets or provide any investment advice or service.

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Canadian visa and study permit support