Study in Canada from Pakistan

Why students consider Canada

• Universities and colleges with strong applied, technical and research programmes.
• College diplomas and certificates as well as university degrees.
• Bilingual country with English- and French-language institutions.
• Clear official guidance published by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Common study pathways

Types of institutions

To get a study permit you need a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) — a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students.

General admissions considerations

Requirements are set by each institution and course. Most applications ask for:

• Transcripts and certificates matched to the programme's requirements.
• Proof of English (or French) proficiency where required.
• Statement of purpose, references or portfolio for some programmes.
• After acceptance, documents required by IRCC for the study permit application.

English language requirements

Institutions set their own language requirements. Check each programme's admissions page; IRCC may also ask for language evidence for some applications.

Tuition and living costs

Tuition varies by province, institution and programme. IRCC sets proof-of-funds requirements for study permit applicants, which have been updated in recent years — always use the current figure published by IRCC.

Scholarships

Scholarships are mostly institutional (entrance awards and graduate funding). Research-based graduate programmes may include funding through supervisors or assistantships. See our scholarship guidance service.

Student visa process — overview

1. You need a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
2. Most study permit applicants also need a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL). IRCC updated its PAL/TAL instructions for 2026 (published 6 February 2026).
3. For 2026, IRCC introduced a new exception for master's and doctoral degree students enrolled at public DLIs. Check IRCC's full instructions to see whether it applies to you.
4. You usually need to give biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) as part of the application.

How Consult Cell helps

• Shortlisting courses and institutions that match your grades, goals and budget
• Explaining each university's requirements and deadlines
• Reviewing your personal statement and application documents
• Guiding you through the student visa steps and document checklist
• Interview preparation and pre-departure guidance

Frequently asked questions