Study in Canada from Pakistan: Proof of Funds CAD 23,448 and the 2026–27 Study Permit Rules
Key numbers
- Proof of funds (single student): CAD 23,448 for living costs, for applications from 1 September 2026, plus first-year tuition and travel
- Previous amount: CAD 22,895 (applications before 1 September 2026)
- Off-campus work: up to 24 hours a week during classes
- Study permit caps: in place, and most applicants need a Provincial/Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL)
Canada still attracts thousands of Pakistani students every year, but the system has changed a lot since 2024. There are national caps on new study permits, higher financial requirements, and stricter rules for post-graduation work permits. If you plan to study in Canada in 2027, here is what you need to know.
Step 1: Get admission from a DLI
You must be accepted by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), a college or university approved to host international students. Main intakes are September (largest), January and May.
- Universities: bachelor’s (4 years), master’s (1–2 years), PhD
- Colleges: diplomas and postgraduate certificates (1–2 years). Check carefully whether a programme qualifies for a post-graduation work permit.
Most institutions accept IELTS Academic, PTE, TOEFL or Duolingo. Typical requirements are IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall.
Step 2: Get a PAL/TAL
Because of the national cap, most study permit applicants must include a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) from the province where they will study. Your institution usually requests it for you after you accept your offer. Some groups are exempt, so check the latest IRCC guidance for your level of study.
Step 3: Show enough money
From 1 September 2026, a single applicant must show at least CAD 23,448 for living expenses, in addition to the first year’s tuition and travel costs.
| Family size (incl. student) | Living funds required |
|---|---|
| 1 | CAD 23,448 |
| 2 | CAD 29,192 |
| 3 | CAD 35,888 |
| 4 | CAD 43,572 |
| 5 | CAD 49,419 |
Acceptable proof includes a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian bank, bank statements, education loans and scholarship letters. A GIC is often the clearest proof for Pakistani applicants.
Step 4: Apply for the study permit
- Create an IRCC account and fill in the online study permit application.
- Upload your letter of acceptance, PAL/TAL, proof of funds, passport, academic documents, a clear study plan (letter of explanation) and any requested medical exam results.
- Pay the fees and give biometrics at the VFS centre in Islamabad, Lahore or Karachi.
- Wait for a decision. Processing times change often, so check IRCC’s website.
How much does it cost?
| Expense | Typical yearly cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| College tuition (international) | 15,000 – 22,000 |
| University undergraduate tuition | 25,000 – 45,000+ |
| Master’s tuition | 18,000 – 40,000+ |
| Living costs | From 23,448 (official minimum) |
Working while studying
Eligible students can work off campus up to 24 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks. On-campus work is generally not limited by the same cap.
After graduation: PGWP
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) lets you work in Canada after your studies. Recent rules added language test requirements and, for many college programmes, field-of-study requirements. Before you accept an offer, confirm that the programme makes you eligible for a PGWP.
Common reasons for refusal
- A weak study plan that does not explain why this programme, why Canada, and how it fits your career in Pakistan
- Funds that appear suddenly in the account with no explanation of where they came from
- A programme that does not match your previous education
- Missing PAL/TAL
Frequently asked questions
Is a GIC mandatory for Pakistani students?
Not mandatory, but it is a widely accepted and clear way to prove living funds.
Can my spouse come with me?
Spousal open work permits are now limited mainly to spouses of master’s (of a certain length), doctoral and some professional programme students. Check IRCC for the current list.
Source: IRCC – Study in Canada. Figures last checked October 2026. Rules change often, so confirm with IRCC before applying.
