What is the new study permit cap for 2025/2026?

For 2025, Canada will issue approx 437,000 new study permits. This drops to 155,000 in 2026. This cap applies to undergraduate and college students. Master's and PhD students are currently **exempt** from these caps.

Do I need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)?

Yes, most undergraduate and diploma students now need a PAL from their province to apply for a study permit. **Master's and PhD students are exempt** from the PAL requirement.

How much funds do I need to show for living expenses?

As of 2025, you must show at least **CAD 20,635** in addition to your first year's tuition. This is usually done via a GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate).

What is a 'Co-op' program?

Co-operative education integrates classroom theory with practical work experience. You alternate academic terms with paid work terms. It's fantastic for gaining Canadian work experience before graduation and often leads to full-time job offers.

University vs. College - What's the difference?

Universities focus on academic, professional degrees (Bachelors, Masters) and research. Colleges focus on practical, career-oriented training (Diplomas, Advanced Diplomas, Post-Grad Certificates) with hands-on learning. Colleges are cheaper and faster routes to the workforce.

What are the part-time work rules?

As of late 2024, the temporary 40-hour waiver has ended. The standard rule is **20 hours per week** off-campus during academic sessions. You can work full-time (40+ hours) during scheduled breaks (Summer, Winter holidays).

What is a SIN Number?

The Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a 9-digit number you need to work in Canada or get government benefits. You can apply for it for free at a Service Canada office immediately after arriving with your study permit.

Is housing expensive in Canada?

Yes, there is a housing crisis in major hubs (Toronto, Vancouver) where rent for a room can be CAD 1,000-1,500+. Many students opt for basement apartments or share rooms. Smaller cities (Halifax, Winnipeg, Calgary) are significantly more affordable.

Does a 'Private College' give a PGWP?

Usually, NO. Only DLI (Designated Learning Institutions) public colleges and universities offer PGWP. Private career colleges generally do not, except for specific degree-granting programs in some provinces. Always check the DLI list on the IRCC website.

Can I take a break during studies?

Be careful. To maintain PGWP eligibility, you must study **full-time** continuously (except scheduled breaks like summer). Unscheduled gaps or dropping to part-time without an 'authorized leave' can jeopardize your future work permit.

How long is the PGWP?

If your program is < 8 months: No PGWP. If 8 months to < 2 years: PGWP valid for course length. If **2 years or more**: You get a **3-Year PGWP**. Exception: Since Feb 2024, graduates of Master's programs (<2 years) may also be eligible for a 3-year PGWP.

What are popular scholarships for Indian students?

Top options include the **Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship** (UofT), **Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships** (PhD), and the **Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)**. Application deadlines are usually 8-12 months before intake.

Can I bring my spouse?

Under new 2024 rules, **only spouses of Master's and PhD students** (and some professional programs) are eligible for an Open Work Permit. Spouses of undergraduate/diploma students are generally no longer eligible unless the student is in a specific high-demand field.

A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) is a mandatory deposit (currently ~CAD 20,635) in a Canadian bank (CIBC, Scotiabank, SBI Canada). It serves as proof of funds. You get ~$2,000 upon arrival and the rest in monthly installments over 1 year.

What is the PAL (Provincial Attestation Letter)?

As of 2024, most undergraduate students need a PAL from the province (e.g., Ontario, BC) to apply for a study permit. This is part of the new cap on international students. **Master's and PhD students are Exempt** from PAL.

What is the process for study permit?

You need to apply for a standard study permit. You will need: Letter of Acceptance (LOA), Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) if applicable, proof of funds (GIC + Tuition), and medicals.

Are there new rules for PGWP eligibility?

Yes, starting Nov 1, 2024, college/diploma graduates must graduate from programs linked to "labor market shortages" to be eligible for PGWP. University degree graduates (Bachelor's, Master's, PhD) are generally eligible regardless of their field of study.

Is the Spousal Open Work Permit still available?

Eligibility has tightened. Now, mostly spouses of Master's and PhD students are eligible. Spouses of undergraduate students are generally **not eligible** unless the student is in a specific high-demand professional program.

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Study in Canada for Indian Students

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1 - 2 YearsMasters or PG Diploma

Up to 3 YearsPGWP Visa

CAD 20k - 40kAvg Tuition Fee

CAD 65k+Avg Salary

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Fact Checked

Updated: Jul 2026

Why Canada?

Why Study in Canada for Indian Students in 2026?

As an Indian student, whether you plan to study in Canada after 12th or after graduation, Canada offers affordable fees, up to 3 years of PGWP, and a clear pathway to PR.

3-Year PGWP

Graduates from eligible programs get up to 3 years of open work permit. The best route to Permanent Residency.

Top Ranked Unis

Home to University of Toronto, McGill, and UBC. World-class research facilities and faculty.

Affordable

Comparison to US, Canada offers significantly lower tuition fees and living costs.

Top Universities in Canada for Indian Students in 2026

World-renowned institutions for Indian students

Indian students can get admission to some of the world's most renowned universities in Canada. As a trusted consultancy in Hyderabad for Canada studies, VmapU helps you secure admission without any hassle — from shortlisting to visa. We have supported students from Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, Kolkata, and many other cities and towns across India — with expert counselling available online, wherever you are.

Cost of Studying in Canada for Indian Students

Affordable universities with quality education

The cost of studying in Canada is often lower than you think — especially compared to the US. As one of the best study abroad consultants in Hyderabad, VmapU has helped students get placed in the best and most affordable universities in Canada with end-to-end services. Below is a list of some affordable universities for Indian students.

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