
- Shivika Shukla
- 2025/03/26
To obtain a study permit for a minor (or anyone) to study in Canada, acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and an official acceptance letter from that institution are required.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
What is a DLI? A DLI is an educational institution recognized by a provincial or territorial government to enroll international students.
Why is it important? Study permits are only granted to applicants enrolled in a DLI.
Application process: Once you receive an acceptance letter from a DLI, you can apply for a study permit through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Primary and secondary schools in Canada: All such schools are designated as DLIs.
Additional requirement: You must include a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) as part of your study permit application.
Exceptions from obtaining PAL/TAL or Letter of Acceptance from DLI:
Applying for Minor Study Permit from Outside of Canada
Minor children who want to study in Canada must apply for a study permit before they enter Canada. This includes minor children who come with parents who already have a valid study or work permit.
Minors coming to Canada with parents who have a valid study or work permit don’t need to provide a letter of acceptance from a school when applying for a study permit.
Who doesn’t need a PAL/TAL
Also, there are some conditions where you are exempt from providing a PAL/TAL for a Study Permit application which includes if you are applying to study in a preschool, primary or secondary school upto grade 12. All other conditions can be read on Canada’s official website cited below.
The applicant needs to ensure that he/she meets the above exceptions for obtaining a PAL/TAL or a Letter of Acceptance by a DLI by providing relevant proofs and explanations with their study permit application.
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Please note that immigration laws and regulations in Canada are updated from time to time. This article is intended for general information purpose only and may not accurately represent the current legal updates at the time of your application. All decisions and actions are solely at your risk and we strongly advise that you refer to official government resources (IRCC website) or consult a licensed immigration professional before proceeding.