How do I apply for a study permit if I plan to study in Ontario?
Study permit applications are submitted to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) — this is a federal process, not an Ontario one. You apply online through IRCC's portal (or by paper in limited circumstances) and must show an acceptance letter from a designated learning institution (DLI), proof of financial support for tuition and living costs, and evidence you will leave Canada when your studies end (if applying from outside Canada).
Processing times vary by country of origin and time of year. You should apply well before your program starts, since delays are common during peak periods. Some applicants also need to provide biometrics and pass a medical exam.
Ontario is home to many DLIs — universities, colleges, and private career colleges — but the permit itself is issued by the federal government. A lawyer can review your application package before you submit to reduce the risk of refusal.
Key takeaways
- Study permits are issued by IRCC, the federal immigration authority
- You need a DLI acceptance letter, financial proof, and other documents
- Apply early — processing times fluctuate significantly
- Legal review before submission helps catch errors that could cause refusal