Canada Study Permit Eligibility 2026
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need a PAL to apply?
IRCC introduced the Provincial Attestation Letter requirement in January 2024 to manage the number of international students and ensure each province's allocation is respected. Post-secondary applications cannot be processed without a PAL. K-12, master's, PhD, and exchange students are exempt.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada · Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) requirement for study permit applicantsHow do I get a PAL?
Each province issues PALs differently. Typically, your Designated Learning Institution (DLI) applies on your behalf to the provincial government. Ontario and British Columbia have online portals; other provinces use paper or email processes. Ask your DLI for their specific workflow.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada · PAL/TAL: Provincial and territorial contactsWhat proof of funds is acceptable?
As of September 1, 2025, a single applicant outside Quebec must show CAD 22,895 for living expenses plus first-year tuition, with higher amounts for each accompanying family member. Acceptable proof includes a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian bank, Canadian bank account statements, proof of a Canadian student loan, and bank statements covering the past 4 months. IRCC officers verify the source of funds, not just the balance.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada · Study permit: Proof of financial support and acceptable documentsCan I bring my spouse and children on a study permit?
Yes, but eligibility for accompanying work permits has been tightened. As of 2024, spouses of international students can apply for an open work permit only if the student is in a master's, PhD, or professional program. Children can generally accompany a student parent and attend school.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada · Open work permit for spouses of international students (2024 changes)Do I need a PAL if I study in Quebec?
No. Quebec manages its own international student selection through the Certificat d'acceptation du Québec (CAQ), issued by the Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration (MIFI). The CAQ must be obtained before the federal study permit application. Quebec also sets its own proof of funds thresholds, published annually by MIFI.
How does this calculator work?
The checker evaluates the province of your DLI, your level of study, your DLI acceptance letter and PAL/TAL status, your available funds and first-year tuition in CAD, your family size, and whether you intend to study in Quebec. It reports whether you meet each requirement and shows your province's 2026 PAL/TAL-required application-space allocation.