Canadian Higher Education: Provincial Student Aid and Study Permits
Financing post-secondary studies and securing student immigration status in Canada involves provincial loan bodies and IRCC.
Canadian post-secondary students fund tuition and living costs through integrated federal-provincial financial assistance programs (such as OSAP in Ontario, StudentAid BC, or Alberta Student Aid), which disburse a combination of non-repayable grants and loans. International students accepted to Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) must secure an official Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) and obtain an IRCC study permit. Our guides detail loan application timelines, off-campus work authorization, and the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) pathway.
All Students Guides (CAN)
2 guides
You need an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution. You also need a provincial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL). This has been required since 2024. And you need proof of $23,448, plus your first-year tuition. This is for one person, for applications on or after 1 September 2026. The figure is from IRCC, reported by Hindustan Times. Apply online through the IRCC portal. If you are approved and you are abroad, you get a letter of introduction. If you need one, you also get a visa to travel.
7 steps · 4–12 weeks (varies by country) · $150 permit + $85 biometrics; $23,448 proof of funds (from 1 Sept 2026)2025-Latest
Student aid is provincial. Ontario runs OSAP. Other provinces run their own programs. All of them combine federal loans and grants with provincial parts. Apply as soon as applications open, in spring for fall study. Funding is based on income. The CRA checks your tax return, and your parents' returns too. So file your taxes first.
6 steps · 1 hour application; 4–6 weeks processing · Free to apply2025-Latest
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions and essential rules for students in Canada.
How many hours can international students work off-campus in Canada?
Eligible full-time post-secondary international students holding a valid study permit with work authorization can work off-campus up to 24 hours per week during regular academic sessions. They can work full-time during scheduled breaks.
When does interest start accruing on Canadian federal student loans?
The Government of Canada permanently eliminated interest on Canada Student Loans and Canada Apprentice Loans. Repayment of the principal balance begins 6 months after completing your studies.
What is a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
A PGWPPost-Graduation Work Permit — The open work permit letting international graduates of eligible Canadian programs work for any employer.Click for official info ↗ is an open work permit allowing graduates from eligible Canadian Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) to work in Canada for up to 3 years. Work experience gained under a PGWP can help qualify for Canadian permanent residence through Express Entry.