Do all study permit applicants use IMM 1294?

Most applicants applying from outside Canada use this form, but some applicants follow different processes depending on where they are applying from; check current IRCC instructions for your situation.

What must match between IMM 1294 and my letter of acceptance?

Program name, institution and intended start date should be consistent across the form and your letter of acceptance to avoid processing delays or requests for clarification.

Can I study at any Canadian institution with a study permit?

No. You must be accepted at, and generally intend to study at, a designated learning institution recognized by the relevant provincial or territorial government.

Where do I download the current IMM 1294 form?

From the official IRCC study permit application page on canada.ca, immediately before completing your application, since older saved copies may be outdated.

IMM 1294: Application for Study Permit

Last updated August 3, 2026 · Reviewed by Immigration Content Lead · Review cadence 60 days

Quick answer

IMM 1294 is the application form used by most applicants applying for a Canadian study permit from outside Canada. It collects details about the applicant, the intended program of study, and the designated learning institution, and is generally submitted alongside proof of acceptance and proof of funds.

Key takeaways

IMM 1294 is the standard application form for a study permit for most applicants applying from outside Canada.
It requires details about the designated learning institution and the intended program of study.
It is generally submitted with a letter of acceptance and evidence of sufficient funds.
Some applicants, depending on where they are applying from, may use a different application process.
The current version must always be downloaded fresh from canada.ca before use.
Errors or inconsistencies between the form and supporting documents can delay processing.

Purpose

IMM 1294 is the application form most applicants use to apply for a Canadian study permit, which authorizes a foreign national to study at a designated learning institution in Canada. It gathers information about the applicant's identity, background, and details of the institution and program they intend to attend, supporting IRCC's assessment of eligibility and genuine intent to study.

This is a guide to the form's purpose and use, not a reproduction of its content. Always use the current version from the official IRCC page.

When to use it

Use IMM 1294 when applying for a study permit from outside Canada in most circumstances, in line with current IRCC instructions for your application method and location.

Used for most study permit applications submitted online or on paper from outside Canada.
Paired with a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution.
Some applicants inside Canada or under specific streams may follow different application instructions; confirm current guidance.

Required information

Applicants generally need their letter of acceptance, passport details, and information demonstrating sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses before completing the form. Always download the current version of this form directly from the official IRCC form page before completing it, since IRCC rejects older versions and applications submitted on outdated forms can be returned unprocessed.

Preparation tips

Confirm you have a valid letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution before applying.
Download the current form from the official IRCC study permit page rather than an older saved copy.
Prepare proof of funds documentation that matches current requirements for your situation.
Ensure the program and institution details match your letter of acceptance exactly.

Common mistakes

Applying to a learning institution that is not on the designated learning institution list.
Submitting inconsistent program start dates between the form and the letter of acceptance.
Using an outdated version of the form downloaded from an unofficial source.
Providing incomplete proof of funds relative to current program cost expectations.

Frequently asked questions

Do all study permit applicants use IMM 1294?: Most applicants applying from outside Canada use this form, but some applicants follow different processes depending on where they are applying from; check current IRCC instructions for your situation.
What must match between IMM 1294 and my letter of acceptance?: Program name, institution and intended start date should be consistent across the form and your letter of acceptance to avoid processing delays or requests for clarification.
Can I study at any Canadian institution with a study permit?: No. You must be accepted at, and generally intend to study at, a designated learning institution recognized by the relevant provincial or territorial government.
Where do I download the current IMM 1294 form?: From the official IRCC study permit application page on canada.ca, immediately before completing your application, since older saved copies may be outdated.

Official sources

IRCC – Apply for a study permit

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Government requirements change. Confirm details against the official sources above, and read our editorial standards.