Do all study permit applicants need a provincial attestation letter?

In most cases yes, as a result of national intake management measures, though some exemptions exist. Current exemption categories should be confirmed on IRCC's study permit page.

Is a medical examination always required for a study permit?

Not always. It generally depends on the country of residence, the length and type of the program, and other factors IRCC assesses on a case-by-case basis.

What counts as acceptable proof of funds?

Common forms include bank statements, a Guaranteed Investment Certificate from a participating financial institution, or documentation from a financial sponsor, without a fixed universal amount stated here.

Can this checklist replace IRCC's official document checklist?

No. This is a general planning tool; the personalized document checklist generated when starting an actual application should always be followed as the authoritative list.

Study Permit Application Checklist

Last updated August 3, 2026 · Reviewed by Immigration Content Lead · Review cadence 45 days

Quick answer

This on-page checklist organizes the documents and preparation steps commonly involved in a study permit application, including a letter of acceptance, proof of funds and identity documents. It is intended as a planning tool to use alongside the official, program-specific document checklist IRCC provides for each application.

Key takeaways

A letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution is the foundation of a study permit application.
Proof of funds must show the ability to cover tuition and living costs, without any dollar figure guaranteed here.
A study plan or statement of purpose is often requested to show genuine intent to study.
Biometrics and, for some applicants, a medical examination may be required depending on circumstances.
Provincial or territorial attestation letters apply in most cases due to national study permit intake limits.
This checklist supports planning; it does not replace the personalized checklist generated at application time.

What This Checklist Covers

This page covers the general categories of documents and preparation steps for a study permit application, from securing an acceptance letter through to gathering financial and identity evidence. It is written for prospective students planning ahead of submitting an online application through IRCC's system.

What's Inside

Letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution, confirmed as valid and current.
Proof of identity: a valid passport and, where applicable, additional travel documents.
Proof of funds: bank statements, a Guaranteed Investment Certificate, or a financial sponsor's documentation.
A provincial or territorial attestation letter, where the applicant's situation requires one.
A statement of purpose or study plan explaining the program choice and future plans.
Language test results, if required by the institution or program.
Custodianship arrangements and documents, for minor applicants where applicable.
Biometrics appointment confirmation and, if requested, a medical examination appointment.

How to Use This Checklist

Secure the letter of acceptance first, since most other steps depend on it. Work through the funds and identity categories next, then check the current application guide on IRCC's website for the exact personalized document list generated when the application is started, since requirements can vary by country of residence and study level. Where any element is unclear, particularly proof of funds calculations or attestation letter requirements, consulting the institution's international office or an RCIC is worthwhile.

Update Schedule

This resource is owned by the Immigration Content Lead and reviewed every 45 days to reflect changes to study permit requirements, such as attestation letter rules. It is updated in place at this same URL rather than republished elsewhere.

Frequently asked questions

Do all study permit applicants need a provincial attestation letter?: In most cases yes, as a result of national intake management measures, though some exemptions exist. Current exemption categories should be confirmed on IRCC's study permit page.
Is a medical examination always required for a study permit?: Not always. It generally depends on the country of residence, the length and type of the program, and other factors IRCC assesses on a case-by-case basis.
What counts as acceptable proof of funds?: Common forms include bank statements, a Guaranteed Investment Certificate from a participating financial institution, or documentation from a financial sponsor, without a fixed universal amount stated here.
Can this checklist replace IRCC's official document checklist?: No. This is a general planning tool; the personalized document checklist generated when starting an actual application should always be followed as the authoritative list.

Official sources

Study permit - Canada.ca

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