Loading page
Canada's education is run by its provinces and territories, while the federal government controls study permits. Understanding that split is the key to planning well.
Canada is a bilingual country where education is a provincial and territorial responsibility. Institutions and rules vary by province, while immigration permission for study is federal.
Only institutions on the designated learning institution (DLI) list can host international students who need a study permit.
General examples only. Actual length depends on the course and institution.
Provinces and territories regulate institutions, programs and quality assurance. The federal government (IRCC) issues study permits and decides who may study.
Most students also need a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL) from their school before applying; some exceptions apply.
Universities award degrees and emphasise research. Colleges and polytechnics usually offer diplomas, certificates and some applied degrees. Eligibility for later work permits can depend on the type of program, so check before you enrol.
Each institution sets its own academic and language requirements. Accepted tests and scores differ by institution and program.
Tuition varies by province, institution and program. Use the institution's international fee page. Scholarships are mainly institutional and some provincial or federal programs; check eligibility with each.
Admission is not a visa. A letter of acceptance is required for the study permit, but it does not guarantee approval. IRCC decides the permit separately.
Education sources: Government of Canada: Study permit documents, EduCanada: Study permits and visas
Canada's case for international students rests on a few concrete features.
Many programs integrate paid work terms. Availability depends on the program and the employer market.
Large public university and college systems exist in every region, with different price and lifestyle profiles.
English and French options exist, with French dominant in Quebec.
A post-graduation work permit exists for eligible graduates; eligibility depends on program type and institution and is not guaranteed.
Examples only. This is not a ranking and not a list of our partner institutions.
Post-study and permanent-residence pathways depend on federal rules that change. Do not plan around an outcome that is not guaranteed.
Study permit
A study permit authorises you to study in Canada. It is not the same as a visa. When you apply from outside Canada, IRCC issues the entry document (a visa or an eTA, depending on your nationality) if the permit is approved.
Immigration rules change often. Each fact below shows when it was last checked and where. Figures we could not confirm from an official source are left out on purpose. This page is general guidance, not legal or immigration advice, and nothing here guarantees a visa, employment or post-study work. Most recent check: 23 October 2026.
Get a letter of acceptance from a DLI
Always required. You must apply and be approved before arriving.
Get a PAL or TAL from your school
Required for most applicants. If your application is refused, you may need a new one to reapply.
Prepare proof of funds and a study plan
You must explain why you want to study in Canada and show you can support yourself.
Check whether you need a medical exam or police certificate
These are required only in some cases.
Apply online through your IRCC account
Add any extra documents your local visa office requires.
Document requirements differ by country and visa office. After you create your document checklist in your IRCC account, add the instructions for the visa office that serves your country.
Bring your academic profile, budget and target intake. We will help you shortlist courses and check your visa documents against the official requirements.