Study Permit (Canada) — build a credible student story with clean, verifiable evidence.
Strong study permit files are built on program logic, financial credibility, and genuine student intent. CHK Immigration Services helps you package an officer-friendly application with a clear plan, consistent documents, and proactive explanations for common refusal triggers.
Tip: Many study refusals happen because the officer is not satisfied about your primary purpose to study, program choice, or financial credibility.
1) Do you need a study permit?
In general, if your program is more than 6 months, you usually need a study permit. If your program is 6 months or less, you may be able to study without a study permit depending on your situation.
2) PAL/TAL explained (Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter)
A PAL (or TAL) confirms you’ve been assigned a study space in the province/territory where you plan to study. Most study permit applicants must include PAL/TAL unless an exception applies.
Where PAL/TAL comes from
- Issued through the province/territory process
- Often facilitated by your school after you accept the offer
- Timing varies by province/territory and intake
What we do
- Confirm whether you need PAL/TAL
- Align LOA + PAL/TAL + start dates
- Prevent “returned application” mistakes
3) Eligibility requirements (core)
Officers generally assess whether you are accepted to a qualifying school, can pay for studies, are admissible, and have credible genuine student intent.
Study readiness
- Accepted by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Valid Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
- Program choice makes sense for your background
Financial capacity
- Tuition + living expenses
- Funds are available and traceable
- Clear sponsor support (if applicable)
Admissibility
- Truthful disclosures
- Police certificate/medical exam if required
- No unresolved red flags
Genuine student intent
- Primary purpose is to study
- Realistic plan during and after studies
- Ties and future pathway explained clearly
4) Documents checklist (typical)
Requirements vary by country and profile, but strong applications usually include:
Identity & travel
- Passport (valid for intended stay)
- Digital photo
- Travel history (if applicable)
School documents
- LOA
- PAL/TAL (if required)
- Tuition payment proof (if paid)
Financial documents
- Bank statements / savings
- Income proof (job/business)
- Sponsor proof (relationship + income + funds, if applicable)
Study plan & supporting evidence
- SOP / Study Plan (specific, evidence-led)
- Education + employment history
- Ties and future plan
5) How to apply
Most applicants apply online. The safest approach is to prepare a complete, consistent submission the first time.
Typical flow
- LOA + PAL/TAL (if required)
- Funds + source-of-funds
- SOP + supporting documents
- Submit + pay fees
- Biometrics/medical if required
Where you apply from matters
- Outside Canada (most common)
- Inside Canada (only if you qualify)
- Port of entry (limited cases)
6) After you apply
After submission, IRCC may request biometrics, medical exam, or additional documents. If refused, you will receive a refusal letter and can plan a corrected re-application strategy.
7) Minor children + custodian (proof of care)
Minor study rules depend on the child’s age, where the child is applying from, and the parents’ status in Canada. Custodian/proof-of-care documentation is often required when a minor is not travelling with a parent or legal guardian.
Common minor scenarios
- Primary/secondary schooling
- Studying for 6 months or less (some may not need a permit)
- Studying longer term (often needs a permit)
Custodian / proof of care
- Custodian appointment (when required)
- Care plan and living arrangements
- Supporting documentation for stability and supervision
8) Common refusal reasons
Study permit refusals are often tied to clarity and credibility. We focus on evidence alignment and a coherent story.
Study plan issues
- Program doesn’t match background
- Weak SOP (generic, not evidence-led)
- Unclear career outcomes
Finance issues
- Funds not sufficient/liquid
- Source of funds unclear
- Sponsor documents missing/weak
Intent issues
- Ties not explained well
- Travel history context not addressed
- Plan after studies unclear
Missing/incorrect items
- PAL/TAL missing when required
- Dates not aligned (LOA/PAL/intake)
- Inconsistencies across forms and documents
FAQ
Do I always need PAL/TAL?
Most study permit applicants need a PAL/TAL unless an exception applies. If required and missing, the application may be returned rather than processed.
What causes most study permit refusals?
Common causes include weak study plan/program logic, insufficient funds or unclear source of funds, and concerns about genuine student intent or temporary intent.
Can minor children study in Canada?
Yes. Rules depend on the child’s age, program length, and parents’ status. Custodian/proof-of-care documents may be required if the minor is not accompanied by a parent/legal guardian.
If refused, should I re-apply right away?
Re-applying without fixing the refusal reasons often leads to another refusal. A refusal analysis and structured re-application strategy is recommended.