Master's and PhD Study Permit Guide

Canada remains one of the world’s top destinations for master’s and doctoral students seeking high-quality education, world-class research opportunities, and a clear path to long-term settlement. While the recent 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan introduced reductions to the number of international students in Canada, this cap does not apply to graduate-level studies. In fact, Canada continues to actively welcome master’s and PhD students because of their academic, economic, and long-term contributions to Canadian society.

If you are planning to pursue a master’s or doctoral program in Canada, this guide walks you through every step of the study permit process, including faster processing options for PhD students and helpful tips to avoid delays.

1. Choose the Right School and Graduate Program

Your study permit application begins long before you submit documents to IRCC. The foundation is choosing a school that is officially authorized to host international students.

Explore Graduate Programs

Canada offers a diverse range of master’s and doctoral programs across research universities, polytechnics, and specialized institutions.

Search for Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs)

You must choose a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Only DLIs can issue letters of acceptance (LOA) required for your study permit.

Find Scholarship Opportunities

Many institutions offer:

• Graduate assistantships

• Teaching and research scholarships

• Entrance awards

• Funding for PhD candidates

Financial support not only strengthens your application but also helps demonstrate sufficient funds.

2. Apply to the School and Obtain Your Letter of Acceptance (LOA)

Before you can apply for a study permit, you must first apply and be accepted into a DLI.

Every institution has its own application process. Schools typically require:

• Transcripts

• CV

• Statement of Purpose

• Academic writing samples

• Reference letters

• Proof of language proficiency

Once admitted, the school will issue your Letter of Acceptance (LOA), a mandatory document for your study permit application.

Important: Apply early. You cannot begin your study permit application without your LOA, and graduate admissions can be competitive.

3. Get Your Documents Ready

IRCC requires specific documents when applying for a study permit. Requirements may vary depending on your visa office, but most applicants need:

• Valid passport

• Letter of Acceptance (LOA)

• Proof of financial support

• Proof of tuition payment

• Demonstrated ties to your home country

• Passport-sized photographs

• Study plan

• Police Certificate and Medical Exam (if applicable)

No Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) Required for Graduate Students Starting January 1, 2026

Beginning January 1, 2026, students attending public institutions do not need to submit a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL), simplifying the process for master’s and PhD applicants.

Before submitting your application, ensure you understand all the required documents for your region.

4. Preparing Applications for Your Accompanying Family Members

Your family members can apply to join you in Canada. Their applications should be submitted together with yours to benefit from streamlined processing.

Eligible family members include:

• Spouse or common-law partner

• Dependent child

• Dependent child of a dependent child

They may apply for:

• A visitor visa

• A work permit

• A study permit

Submitting all applications as a package helps IRCC review your family’s circumstances together.

5. Apply for Your Study Permit

The study permit application must be submitted online through your secure IRCC account. Ensure that your application is complete, accurate, and consistent with the information in your academic and financial documents.

Faster Processing for Doctoral (PhD) Students

IRCC offers a dedicated, faster processing stream for PhD students and their accompanying family members.

Who Is Eligible?

You may qualify if you:

• Enrolling in a doctoral program

• Apply from outside Canada

• Submit your application online.

• Include all required documents and fees.

Eligible Family Members

Your family members may also receive faster processing if they:

• Apply to accompany you.

• Submit applications together with yours.

• Apply for visitor visas, work permits, or study permits.

How to Ensure Faster Processing

To take advantage of expedited timelines, you must:

1. Prepare All Required Documents Before Applying

Missing documents will delay your file and remove you from the faster processing stream.

2. Provide Certified Translations

Even if your visa office accepts documents in several languages, IRCC requires certified translations for all documents not in English or French.

3. Submit a Complete Application

You must:

• Include every document listed in the IRCC checklist.

• Pay all required fees, including the biometrics fee if applicable.

Incomplete applications automatically lead to delays.

4. Give Biometrics Within 2 Weeks

If biometrics are required:

• IRCC will issue a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL)

• You must provide biometrics within 14 days.

5. Ensure Your Family Members Follow the Same Requirements

Their documents, translations, completeness, and biometrics must meet legal standards.

Processing Times for Doctoral Students

IRCC begins processing after:

1. Your application is confirmed complete.

2. You give your biometrics.

3. Your school verifies your LOA (may take up to 10 days).

After LOA verification, IRCC aims to finalize the application within two weeks.

Why Graduate Students Continue to Be Prioritized in Canada

Under the 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan, Canada aims to balance population growth with sustainable infrastructure planning. While undergraduate admissions are experiencing tighter controls, master’s and PhD applicants remain exempt from the national student cap.

Canada continues to welcome graduate students because they:

• Support innovation and research.

• Contribute to the labour market in high-skilled sectors.

• Integrate successfully into Canadian society.

• Become strong candidates for permanent residence.

Applying for a study permit as a graduate student, especially at the master’s or PhD level, requires careful planning, accurate documentation, and a clear demonstration of your academic and financial preparedness.

As a regulated Canadian immigration consultant, I support applicants through every step of the process, ensuring that your application is complete, well-prepared, and aligned with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Regulations, as well as the IRCC’s latest requirements.

If you need assistance with your study permit application, feel free to reach out.