BlueZone / Study destinations / Study in Canada
Study in Canada: study permit, costs, universities and PGWP for Pakistani students
A researched guide with 2026 figures from official and industry sources. Last verified 29 September 2026.
Book free counsellingWhy Pakistani students choose Canada
- Respected universities and colleges, with co-op and paid work terms in many programmes.
- Safe, multicultural cities and a large Pakistani community, especially in Toronto and Vancouver.
- Off-campus work rights during study and a possible Post-Graduation Work Permit.
- Master’s and PhD applicants at public institutions skip the PAL from 1 January 2026.
Step by step: from offer to visa
- Choose a DLI and programmeOnly Designated Learning Institutions can host international students.
- Get your letter of acceptanceAccept the offer and pay any deposit the school asks for.
- Get a PAL if requiredMost undergraduate and college applicants need a Provincial Attestation Letter. Master’s and PhD at public DLIs do not.
- Prepare funds and documentsTuition, living funds, travel, police certificate and medical exam if asked.
- Apply online and give biometricsPay the permit and biometrics fees in the IRCC portal.
What it costs (2026)
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Study permit fee | C$150 | Non-refundable. |
| Biometrics | C$85 | Paid once, valid for a set period. |
| Living funds to show | C$23,448 | Single applicant outside Quebec, for applications from 1 September 2026. Was C$22,895. |
| Tuition | Set by each institution | Must be covered on top of living funds. Add return travel. |
| GIC | Optional | Accepted as proof of funds, no longer compulsory. |
Fees change often. Always confirm on the official government page before you pay.
Popular universities in Canada
| University | Known for |
|---|---|
| University of Toronto | Broad research, medicine, engineering |
| McGill University | Research, medicine, Montreal (French context) |
| University of British Columbia | Sciences, forestry, business |
| University of Waterloo | Co-op, engineering and computer science |
| McMaster University | Health sciences and engineering |
| University of Alberta | Energy, engineering and research |
Check the latest QS or THE rankings and subject rankings for your course.
Work rights, English and after graduation
- Eligible students can work off campus, currently up to 24 hours per week in term time. Confirm on IRCC before you rely on it.
- PGWP: up to 3 years, depending on programme length. Language and field-of-study rules apply, so check before choosing a diploma.
- Express Entry and provincial nominee programmes are the usual PR routes, and rules shift often.
- English: IELTS Academic 6.0 to 6.5 for many degrees, higher for graduate study.
Scholarships and funding
- University entrance awards from many DLIs.
- Lester B. Pearson scholarship at the University of Toronto.
- Vanier and other doctoral funding through Canadian institutions.
- Research assistantships for funded master’s and PhD places.
Frequently asked questions
How much money must I show for a Canada study permit?
From 1 September 2026, a single applicant outside Quebec must show at least C$23,448 for living costs, plus first-year tuition and return travel.
Do I need a PAL?
Most undergraduate, diploma and certificate applicants do. Master’s and PhD students at public DLIs have not needed one since 1 January 2026.
How many hours can I work?
Eligible students can work off campus, currently up to 24 hours per week in term time and full time in scheduled breaks. Check the current IRCC rule.
Is the Student Direct Stream still open?
No. It is closed, so applicants use the regular stream and provide bank statements, a loan letter or a GIC as proof of funds.
What is the PGWP?
A Post-Graduation Work Permit for graduates of eligible programmes at eligible DLIs. Its length depends on the programme, and some fields need to be on the eligible list.
When should I apply?
Start 8 to 12 months ahead. PAL allocations are limited, so early offers matter.
Sources and how we verify
Figures checked on 29 September 2026 against these pages. This guide is general information, not legal or migration advice. Rules and fees change, so confirm with the official authority before you apply.
Study in Canada with BlueZone Consultants
BlueZone Consultants guides students from Abbottabad, Mansehra, Hazara and across Pakistan through every stage of a Canada application: choosing the course and university, checking documents and attestation, preparing the offer and visa file, then planning money, housing and arrival.
Your first counselling session is free. Bring your transcripts, passport and English test result if you have one, and we will tell you honestly whether Canada fits your grades and budget.
Check your options for Canada
Talk to a counsellor, then use the guides below to prepare.