Canada study permit guide for Nepali students
How the Canadian study permit works for Nepali students: DLI acceptance, provincial attestation letters, proof of funds, PGWP eligibility and arrival.
Get accepted by a designated learning institution, obtain your provincial attestation letter, prove your funds and choose a program with a clear post-study path.
How a Canadian study permit works
A study permit is the document that lets you study in Canada. You apply to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), usually online, after a designated learning institution (DLI) accepts you. Canada’s rules for international students changed several times from 2024 onwards, so it is especially important to follow current official guidance.
Check requirements, fees and processing times on Canada.ca before you apply.
Key documents
- Letter of acceptance from a DLI, showing its DLI number.
- Provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL): most new study permit applicants need one. Your institution helps you get it, and it must be included with your application.
- Proof of financial support: first-year tuition plus the living-cost amount IRCC sets, which is updated from time to time. Evidence can include bank statements, an education loan or a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating bank.
- Identity documents: a valid passport and photos.
- A study plan or letter of explanation describing why you chose the course and how it fits your goals.
- Biometrics and, if requested, an immigration medical exam with an IRCC panel physician.
Choosing a program with the future in mind
Do not choose on price alone. A cheaper program that does not lead to a work permit can cost far more in the long run.
Arriving and studying in Canada
- You receive a port of entry letter of introduction and, if needed, a visitor visa. The actual study permit is issued when you arrive at the border.
- Carry your passport, acceptance letter, PAL/TAL, proof of funds and the introduction letter in your hand luggage.
- Eligible students can usually work off campus for a limited number of hours per week during academic sessions. Check the conditions printed on your permit.
- Stay enrolled and make progress in your program, as your permit depends on it.
Questions students ask
Is the Student Direct Stream (SDS) still available?
No. IRCC ended the SDS in November 2024. Students from Nepal now apply through the regular study permit process.
Do I need a GIC?
A GIC is one accepted way to show living-cost funds, but it is not the only one. Choose the evidence that best shows your real, available funds.
How long does processing take?
Processing times change often. Check the current estimate on Canada.ca and apply as early as your documents allow.
Talk to a Shrey Education counsellor.
We can review your documents, course choice and budget before you apply.
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