Study in Canada from Pakistan
To study in Canada from Pakistan, you need a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution, usually a provincial attestation letter, and a study permit from IRCC. For applications from 1 September 2026 you must show CAD 23,448 for living costs plus tuition. You can work up to 24 hours a week during term.
Key Facts: Studying in Canada
Intakes
September / January / May
Course length
3–4 years (Undergraduate) · 1–2 years (Postgraduate)
Tuition fees
CAD 15,000 – 35,000 per year
Living costs
CAD 1,200 – 2,000 per month
Student visa
Study Permit — apply online through IRCC with a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI) and, for most applicants, a provincial attestation letter (PAL). Biometrics are given at a Visa Application Centre.
Work rights
Up to 24 hours/week off campus during regular academic terms and full-time during scheduled breaks. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): up to 3 years, depending on programme length.
Official source: IRCC — Study permit. Visa and money figures checked on 27 October 2026.
Overview
Canada is one of the most popular study destinations for Pakistani students, known for high-quality education, safe and welcoming cities, and a large Pakistani community. Canadian universities such as Toronto, McGill and UBC rank among the best in the world, while colleges offer practical diplomas and applied degrees closely linked to employers.
International students need a study permit, and most applicants also need a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL) from the province where they will study. Because the number of study permits is capped, applying early with a complete, well-documented file matters more than ever.
After graduation, eligible students can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit of up to three years. Canadian work experience gained this way can count towards permanent residency through Express Entry.
Why study in Canada?
- 1
Quality Education: Canadian degrees and diplomas are recognised worldwide, and several universities rank among the global top 50.
- 2
Universities and Colleges: Students can choose research-focused universities or career-focused colleges with co-op placements and applied programmes.
- 3
Work While You Study: Eligible students can work off campus up to 24 hours a week during regular terms and full-time during scheduled breaks.
- 4
Post-Graduation Work Permit: Graduates of eligible programmes can work in Canada for up to three years, depending on the length of their programme.
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Route to Permanent Residency: Canadian work experience can help graduates qualify for permanent residency through Express Entry and provincial nominee programmes.
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Safe and Multicultural: Canada is consistently rated one of the safest countries, with large South Asian communities in cities such as Toronto, Mississauga and Calgary.
- 7
Co-op Programmes: Many programmes include paid co-op terms, giving students Canadian work experience before they graduate.
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High Quality of Life: Strong public services, clean cities and a high standard of living make Canada a comfortable place to study and settle.
Degrees offered
Undergraduate Level
College Diploma and Advanced Diploma · Bachelor's Degree (BA, BSc, BEng — 3–4 years)
Postgraduate Level
Postgraduate Certificate / Diploma (1–2 years) · Master's Degree (MA, MSc, MEng, MBA)
Doctoral Level
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Leading universities
- University of Toronto
- McGill University
- University of British Columbia (UBC)
- University of Alberta
- McMaster University
- University of Waterloo
- University of Ottawa
- Western University
- Queen's University
- University of Calgary
Popular subjects
- Computer Science and Information Technology
- Business and Project Management
- Engineering
- Health Sciences and Nursing
- Data Analytics
- Supply Chain and Logistics
- Hospitality and Tourism Management
- Environmental Science
Entry requirements
- IELTS 6.0–6.5+ / TOEFL / PTE (varies by institution)
- Letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI)
- Provincial attestation letter (PAL), required for most applicants
- Proof of funds: CAD 23,448 for living costs plus first-year tuition (applications from 1 Sep 2026)
- Statement of purpose and academic documents
Free, no obligation
Get a free profile check for Canada
A counsellor reviews your grades, English test and budget and tells you which universities fit, in a free 30-minute consultation.
Book a free consultationHow to Apply to Canada from Pakistan
- 01
Free profile check
A free 30-minute consultation to review your grades, budget and goals for Canada.
- 02
Shortlist and apply
We shortlist universities that fit your profile and prepare and submit your applications.
- 03
Offer and acceptance
We help you compare offers, meet any conditions and secure your place.
- 04
Visa application
We prepare your Study Permit file and check every document before you submit.
- 05
Pre-departure
Accommodation, travel and arrival guidance so you are ready for your first day.
Studying in Canada: Common Questions
When are the intakes for Canada?
The main intakes are September, January and May. We recommend starting your application 12–18 months before your intended start date, so there is time for English tests, applications and the visa.
How much does it cost to study in Canada?
Tuition is CAD 15,000 – 35,000 per year. Living costs are around CAD 1,200 – 2,000 per month. Costs vary by university, programme and city, so we confirm exact fees for your shortlist at your free consultation.
Which visa do I need to study in Canada from Pakistan?
Study Permit — apply online through IRCC with a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI) and, for most applicants, a provincial attestation letter (PAL). Biometrics are given at a Visa Application Centre.
Can I work while studying in Canada?
Up to 24 hours/week off campus during regular academic terms and full-time during scheduled breaks. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): up to 3 years, depending on programme length.
What are the entry requirements for Canada?
Typical requirements are: IELTS 6.0–6.5+ / TOEFL / PTE (varies by institution); Letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI); Provincial attestation letter (PAL), required for most applicants; Proof of funds: CAD 23,448 for living costs plus first-year tuition (applications from 1 Sep 2026); Statement of purpose and academic documents. Exact requirements depend on the university and programme.
Can IEN help me apply to study in Canada?
Yes. IEN has advised students since 2009 from offices in Lahore, Gujranwala, Peshawar and Sialkot. Book a free 30-minute consultation or message us on WhatsApp, and a counsellor will check your profile for Canada.
Other Destinations to Consider
- 🇺🇸 Study in the USAThe USA has the largest choice of universities in the world, flexible degree structures, and Optional Practical Training (OPT) that lets graduates work in their field after they finish.
- 🇬🇧 Study in the UKThe UK offers shorter, intensive degree programmes at world-renowned institutions like Oxford and Cambridge, combined with a Graduate Route visa for post-study work.
- 🇦🇺 Study in AustraliaAustralia's world-ranked universities, generous post-study work visas, and high quality of life make it one of the top destinations for international students worldwide.
Start Your Canada Application
Book a free 30-minute consultation at our Lahore, Gujranwala, Peshawar or Sialkot office, or online. No obligation, no hidden fees.