📚 How to Apply for a Canada Study Permit – Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

Studying in Canada opens the door to world-class education, multicultural experiences, and excellent post-study opportunities.
If you’re ready to begin your journey, here’s a complete step-by-step process to apply for a Canada Study Permit.

✅ Step 1: Get Your Letter of Acceptance (LOA)

Before applying, you must receive a Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
Ensure the LOA mentions:

• DLI number
• Program duration
• Tuition fee details
• Start and end dates

✅ Step 2: Gather Your Required Documents

Here are the essential documents you need for your study permit application:

• Valid passport
• Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
• Proof of funds (bank statements, GIC, loan letter)
• Tuition fee payment receipt
• IELTS/TOEFL/PTE results (for SDS applicants)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Passport-size photos
• Medical exam confirmation (if required)
• Previous education documents
• Any work experience documents (if applicable)

✅ Step 3: Take a Medical Exam (if required)

If you’re from a country that requires a medical examination for Canadian immigration, book an appointment with a panel physician approved by IRCC.
You’ll receive a medical confirmation document to upload with your application.

✅ Step 4: Create an IRCC Account

Visit https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html

• Choose GCKey or Sign-In Partner to create your account
• Start a new application under “Apply for a Study Permit”

✅ Step 5: Complete the Application Forms

Fill out all required forms accurately, including:

• IMM 1294 – Application for Study Permit
• IMM 5645 – Family Information
• Additional documents based on your case

✅ Step 6: Upload Your Documents

Scan and upload each document as PDF files. Name them clearly (e.g., “Passport.pdf”, “LOA.pdf”).

✅ Step 7: Pay the Application Fee

You will need to pay:

• Study permit application fee: CAD $150
• Biometrics fee: CAD $85 (if applicable)

Payment is made securely online via the IRCC portal.

✅ Step 8: Submit Biometrics (if required)

After submitting your application, you may receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL).
Book your appointment at the nearest VAC (Visa Application Centre) and provide your fingerprints and photo.

✅ Step 9: Wait for a Decision

Track your application through the IRCC portal.
You might be asked for additional documents or a passport request.

✅ Step 10: Receive Your Visa Approval

If approved, you will receive:

• Letter of Introduction (LOI)
• Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or eTA (if required)

Carry both when you travel to Canada, along with all key documents.

🎯 Need Expert Help?

The process may feel overwhelming — but you’re not alone!
SENTPO helps students from around the world successfully apply and get approved for their Canadian study permits.

👉 Contact us today or browse more helpful articles on our blog.