My study permit application was refused — what are my options?

A study permit refusal from IRCC is a federal decision and it can be frustrating, but it is not always the end of the road. IRCC will send a refusal letter that usually includes reasons for the decision. Common grounds include insufficient proof of financial support, ties to home country that IRCC found unconvincing, incomplete documentation, or concerns about genuine student intent.

Your options include reapplying with a stronger application that addresses the identified gaps, or in limited circumstances, challenging the decision through judicial review at the Federal Court. Judicial review is complex, time-sensitive, and not suitable for every case — you need leave from the court before the review proceeds.

Before reapplying or pursuing judicial review, have an immigration lawyer review both your original application and the refusal reasons. Many refusals stem from presentation issues that can be corrected in a new application. Acting quickly matters if you have enrollment deadlines.