Your CRS 328 is 177 below the latest cut-off (505)

    Close the gap with PNP, French, or job-offer points.

    Canada

    Study in Canada: Complete 2026 Guide for International Students

    9 min readMarch 20, 2026
    Quick Answer

    To study in Canada, choose a DLI, get accepted, then apply for a study permit with proof of CAD 20,635/year in funds. After graduating from a PGWP-eligible program, get a post-graduation work permit (up to 3 years) and use Canadian work experience to apply for PR through Express Entry.

    Table of Contents▼

    Canada is one of the top destinations for international students, offering world-class education and a clear pathway to permanent residency through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program.

    Step-by-Step Process

    Step 1: Choose a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)

    Only institutions on Canada's DLI list qualify for study permits. Research programs that align with your career goals and check if they're PGWP-eligible.

    Step 2: Apply for Admission

    Submit applications directly to your chosen institutions. Most require:

  1. • Academic transcripts
  2. • Language test scores (IELTS/TOEFL)
  3. • Statement of purpose
  4. • Letters of recommendation

    5. Step 3: Apply for Study Permit

    After receiving your Letter of Acceptance, apply for a study permit. You'll need:

  5. • Valid passport
  6. • Letter of Acceptance from a DLI
  7. • Proof of financial support (minimum CAD 20,635/year)
  8. • Language test results
  9. • Medical exam (if required)

    10. Step 4: Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

    After completing your program, apply for a PGWP:

  10. • 2-year program → 3-year work permit
  11. • 1-year program → 1-year work permit
  12. • Work experience gained counts toward PR applications

    13. 📋 Ready to start your immigration journey?

    Get a free eligibility assessment from our experts.

    Check Your Eligibility Now

    Costs Overview

    ItemAnnual Cost (CAD)

    |------|-------------------|

    Tuition$15,000 - $35,000
    Living expenses$12,000 - $18,000
    Health insurance$600 - $1,200

    Why Study in Canada?

  13. • Work part-time during studies (20 hrs/week)
  14. • Spouse can get an open work permit
  15. • Direct pathway to PR through Express Entry
  16. • Safe, multicultural environment

    17. Start your Canadian education journey with Garg Brothers's expert guidance.

    Check your CRS score

    60-second calculator — see if you qualify for Express Entry today.

    Try the tool

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How much does it cost to study in Canada in 2026?+
    Tuition ranges from CAD 15,000-35,000/year depending on the program and institution. Living expenses add CAD 12,000-18,000/year. Total budget: CAD 30,000-55,000/year. Some provinces like Manitoba and Saskatchewan offer lower tuition rates.
    Can I work while studying in Canada?+
    Yes. International students can work up to 20 hours/week off-campus during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks. On-campus work has no hour restrictions. Your spouse may also qualify for an open work permit.
    What is the SDS program for Canadian study visas?+
    The Student Direct Stream (SDS) offers faster processing (20 days vs 8-12 weeks) for students from India and other select countries. Requirements include IELTS 6.0+ overall, a GIC of CAD 20,635, first-year tuition payment, and acceptance from an SDS-eligible DLI.
    Can I get PR after studying in Canada?+
    Yes. After completing a PGWP-eligible program (8+ months), you get a work permit. Canadian work experience earned on a PGWP counts toward Express Entry CRS points and Canadian Experience Class eligibility, creating a direct study-to-PR pathway.
    Which provinces are cheapest for international students?+
    Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Newfoundland offer the lowest tuition for international students (CAD 12,000-18,000/year). These provinces also have active PNP streams that can accelerate your PR application after graduation.

    Need Expert Immigration Guidance?

    Book a free consultation with Garg Brothers. 98% success rate, 15,000+ visas processed.

    Get Free Assessment
    Back to all articles

    Explore Our Services

    Have More Questions?

    Browse 35+ expert answers on immigration pathways, costs, IELTS, and government programs.

    Visit FAQ Hub

    Keep going — your next step

    Tool

    CRS Score Calculator

    Try it

    Hub

    Canada Immigration Hub

    Explore

    Pathway

    Find your best pathway

    Get personalized

    Ready to apply? Get a free assessment →