Study Permits Canada
At IPJ Immigration Solutions, our team brings over 20 years of experience guiding international students and families through the Canada study permit process. With personalized support and deep knowledge of immigration law, we help make your dream of studying in Canada a reality, with confidence.
Your Trusted Partner for Study Permits in Canada
A Canadian study permit allows you to study full-time at Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) across Canada. This includes universities and colleges for programs in STEM, business, health sciences, and arts. Canada also offers a path after graduation. Many students may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for up to three years, which can help you gain Canadian work experience and later explore Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) for residency.
Canada is known for student support services and safe communities. But study permit approval still depends on key things like strong financial proof and a clear reason to return home after studies. In some cases, special humanitarian situations may apply.
At IPJ Immigration, our women-owned RCIC team has guided thousands over 20 years. We do more than just fill forms. We help you choose the right DLI, prepare strong documents, and spot risks early so your file is clean and clear. Our hands-on approach focuses on your real story, so the student visa path feels possible and not confusing.
Who Can Apply for a Canadian Study Permit?
Prospective students with clear study goals, enough funds, and strong home ties can apply for a permit under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. There are no country quotas, so applications are reviewed based on your case, not your passport.
You might qualify with a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a DLI for programs over six months, proof of funds through a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) or bank statements, and home ties like a job, family responsibilities, or property. Options include undergraduates, graduates, vocational trainees, or language program participants.
Refugee claimants or temporary residents may be able to transition in some situations. Our experts can review your profile and tell you what route fits best. Many clients also use Student Direct Stream (SDS) when they meet the eligibility rules for faster processing.
Pathways to Canadian Study Permits
Canada’s options include degrees, diplomas, and work transitions after graduation. SDS can be faster for eligible applicants, while standard permits offer broader flexibility.
Program | Who It Serves | Processing Time | GIC Required |
Student Direct Stream (SDS) | Students from eligible SDS countries with strong English/French | 20 days | Yes |
Standard Study Permit | General international students | 8 to 12 weeks | Yes |
Visitor to Student Transition | In-country visitors switching to studies | 4 to 8 weeks | Sometimes |
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Bridge | Graduates seeking work experience | 12 to 16 weeks | No |
Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) | Partners of study permit holders | 4 to 8 weeks | No |
Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) | Quebec-bound students | Varies | Yes |
Minor Child Study Permit | Children under 18 | 4 to 12 weeks | Yes (via guardians) |
Exchange Programs | Short-term academic exchanges | 2 to 6 weeks | No |
Vocational/College Pathways | Trades and diploma seekers | 8 to 12 weeks | Yes |
Study Permit Eligibility Requirements
Key criteria are verified through document checks and sometimes interviews.
- Language: CLB 6 minimum (IELTS 6.0 overall). Higher scores can help SDS.
- Enrollment: LOA from a DLI (IRCC database). Quebec needs CAQ first ($120).
- Finances: Tuition ($20,000-$40,000/year) plus $20,635 living for 2026 via GIC or bank statements.
- Home Ties: Proof you will return, like job letters, business proof, family responsibilities, or assets.
- Health/Security: Medical exam by a panel doctor ($200-$500) for over six months, and police certificates if required.
Families may apply together. Spouses may qualify for an open work permit, and children may qualify to study. Weak proof of funds or weak home ties are common refusal reasons, so we use clear wording and strong supporting documents.
The Study Permit Application Process
Most applications are done online through the IRCC Portal. Many people get a decision within 4 to 12 weeks. Biometrics are usually required within 30 days. You can track your file using your UCI number.
- Select/Assess: Choose a DLI and confirm your program. If you are applying under SDS, arrange your GIC and meet the SDS requirements.
- Gather Documents: Passport, transcripts, LOA, proof of funds (GIC, tuition payment, statements), and ties like pay stubs or property papers.
- Submit: Upload documents and pay fees ($150 processing, $85 biometrics).
- Biometrics/Medical: Book biometrics at a VAC or embassy. Medical exams may be required depending on your case.
- Verification: IRCC reviews your academics, funds, and background.
- Decision: If approved, you get a Letter of Introduction. If you are outside Canada, you present it at the border when you arrive.
- Arrival/Permit: Officers issue the study permit at entry, and you can start studies under the rules.
Missing or unclear documents are a common reason for delays. A complete file saves time and reduces stress.
Costs and Fees for Canadian Study Permits
Total for one: $500-$1,000 CAD (tuition excluded).
IRCC Fees
$150 processing per applicant
$85 biometrics per person ($170 family)
Additional Costs
Medical: $200-$500
IELTS/CELPIP: $280-$350
Police certificates: $25-$100
Proof of Funds (2026 minimums)
$20,635 single (living)
Plus first-year tuition
$4,000 per family member
Keep funds easy to verify and easy to trace. Quebec adds about $120 CAQ fees.
Two Ways to Work With Us – Same Commitment, Different Support Levels
Every immigration journey is unique. Some prefer to be hands-on, while others need a team to manage everything.
We offer two options to match your desired level of support. Whether you want to handle parts of your application or leave it all to us, you’ll receive clear guidance and a dedicated legal team committed to your success.
Full Representation
This is our all-inclusive service, where we handle every detail of your immigration journey. From submitting your application to preparing all documentation and managing communication with the IRCC, we take full responsibility to ensure your process goes smoothly and efficiently.
Professional Audit
For those who prefer to manage their own application, this package provides expert guidance and a detailed review of your work. We provide a comprehensive strategy, a custom checklist for your documents, and a final legal audit to ensure your application is complete and error-free before submission.
How We Charge: Clear, Fair, and Transparent
We keep our pricing simple and predictable. You always know what you’re paying for, and there are no hidden fees or surprises.
What Our Clients Say
Every application represents someone’s hopes, dreams, and future. Here are just a few of the people we’ve been honored to help.
Trusted Immigration Guidance Backed by 20+ Years of Experience
We guide our clients with clear, steady expertise. For more than 20 years, our team has supported individuals and families through every stage of the Canadian immigration process — from temporary residence to permanent residence, citizenship, and complex cases that require careful strategy.
Experienced in Both Simple and Complex Cases
From straightforward applications to misrepresentation, inadmissibility, and procedural fairness letters, we bring over 20 years of experience to every situation — whether you need full representation or a guided review before submitting.
Warm, Human Support for Every Client
We take the time to understand your story, your goals, and your concerns. You’re never treated like a file number — you’re a person, and your journey matters.
ESL‑Friendly Communication
We explain every step in clear, simple language. No jargon. No confusion. Just steady, accessible guidance that supports both full‑service clients and those completing their own applications.
Thorough, Organized Application Preparation
Every form, document, and submission is reviewed with care to reduce delays and strengthen your application — including detailed reviews for clients who want expert feedback before submitting on their own.
Transparent, Predictable Process
You always know what stage you’re in, what comes next, and what we’re doing on your behalf. No surprises, no uncertainty
Clear, Steady Guidance You Can Trust
Immigration can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re preparing your application on your own. We provide calm, organized support so you always know what to expect and how to move forward.
A Women‑Led, Family‑Run Firm
Our approach is grounded in empathy, integrity, and genuine care — values that shape every interaction and every application we support.
A Lawyer and Immigration Consultants Working Together
Your application benefits from a team that combines legal insight with regulated Canadian immigration consulting. Our professionals are licensed by the Law Society of Ontario and the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants, and we maintain active memberships with CILA and CAPIC to stay current with evolving policies and best practices. This collaborative approach strengthens your strategy, reduces errors, and ensures your case is reviewed from multiple professional perspectives.
Frequently Asked Questions
These are some of the concerns clients bring to us. If you’re feeling any of these worries, we can help.
Single applicants usually need $20,635 CAD for living expenses, plus first-year tuition and extra funds for family members if they are coming with you. Funds can be shown through a GIC or clear bank statements. The key is showing the money is real, available, and belongs to you or your sponsor.
Processing time depends on where you apply from and how complete your file is. A standard study permit often takes about 8 to 12 weeks. SDS can be faster for eligible applicants. If documents are missing or unclear, the process can take longer.
Some applicants may be exempt depending on their program level and situation, such as certain graduate-level applicants and people extending their current status in specific cases. The best way to confirm is to check your exact category before applying.
Most people need LOA from a DLI, passport, proof of funds, proof of home ties, biometrics, and sometimes medical or police certificates. Quebec students also need a CAQ.
Refusals often happen because the study plan is not clear, funds are not strong enough, or home ties are not convincing. You can reapply with better documents, stronger explanations, and clearer proof that your plan makes sense.
You may qualify if you meet SDS requirements, such as a strong language score, the required GIC, tuition payment proof, and a complete document package. SDS rules depend on eligibility criteria, so it’s important to match every requirement.
How Would You Like to Get Started?
You can reach us in the way that feels most comfortable for you. If you prefer to speak with someone directly, you can book a consultation. If you’re still deciding between Guided Application Review and Full Care Representation, you can complete a short questionnaire and receive a personalized recommendation within 24 hours.
Book a Consultation
Free 15‑Minute Discovery Call
A short conversation to understand your situation and help you choose between Full Care Representation and Guided Application Review.
Paid 45‑Minute Consultation
A focused session for specific needs such as strategy, refusals, restoring status, or detailed immigration questions.
Clear, practical guidance tailored to your case.
Start With a Guided Questionnaire
Complete a short questionnaire to help us understand your comfort level, your timeline, and the complexity of your situation. A licensed consultant will review your answers and get back to you within 24 hours with a clear, personalized recommendation.
No matter which option you choose, you’ll receive clear, honest guidance from a team that cares about your future.
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