Study in Canada for Saudis: Steps, Permit and Costs

Studying in Canada from Saudi Arabia follows a clear path: choose an approved institution, receive a letter of acceptance, then apply online for a study permit with proof of funds. Some details change quickly, such as the provincial attestation letter and the proof-of-funds amounts, so we checked those on the Government of Canada website.

This guide walks Saudi students through the route from choosing a school to travelling, and shows who decides what: the institution decides admission, and the government decides the permit. Almorad, an admissions office in Riyadh, prepares your file and follows it up without promising any outcome.

Steps to Study in Canada From Saudi Arabia

The general order is admission first, permit second. You cannot apply for a study permit before you hold a letter of acceptance from an approved institution, and the full process is on the official application page.

1. Decide your level and field: language, diploma or college, bachelor, or graduate study.
2. Choose a designated learning institution (DLI) and a program that fits your goal and budget.
3. Apply for admission and prepare your academic records and any required language result.
4. Receive the letter of acceptance, and the provincial attestation letter if your case requires one.
5. Prepare proof of funds, a letter of explanation and the other documents.
6. Apply online for the study permit and complete biometrics.
7. After approval, arrange housing and travel.

Designated Learning Institutions (DLI)

A study permit requires enrolment at a designated learning institution, which is the first eligibility condition on the official eligibility page. Confirm the institution is approved before paying any fee; a well-known name is not a substitute for checking.

Some short or unapproved programs can create permit problems and may not lead to a post-graduation work permit. Ask the school directly about the specific program, and review work permit rules before you decide.

Letter of Acceptance and Attestation Letter

The Canadian government lists the letter of acceptance as a core document and says a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL) is needed for most students in most provinces. Quebec applicants need a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) instead.

The official page exempts some groups, including pre-university students and master's or doctoral students at public institutions from 1 January 2026. It also states that a 2026 letter is valid until 31 December 2026 and must be submitted with the application, not afterwards. Your institution handles how the letter is issued.

Proof of Funds

Canada requires proof that you can cover tuition, living costs and travel for the whole program without working there. On the official proof-of-funds page, the living-cost amount for one person outside Quebec is CAD 23,448 per year for applications made on or after 1 September 2026, excluding tuition and transport.

So calculate real tuition and living costs for your city rather than relying on the minimum. Quebec has its own authority and figures, linked on the same page.

Working During and After Study

Students may work off campus up to 24 hours per week during the academic term and without a weekly limit during scheduled breaks, under conditions such as full-time study at a DLI, as shown on the off-campus work page. Do not plan your budget around work income, since it does not count toward proof of funds.

A post-graduation work permit depends on program type, field and location, so check it before choosing a program.

Quick Comparison by Study Level

Choosing a Province and Field

Provinces differ in tuition, living costs and language of instruction, and Quebec has its own system. Start from your field, then compare institutions, not from reputation alone.

If your field is technical or managerial, our articles on studying cybersecurity abroad, studying engineering abroad and studying business administration abroad may help. For the application itself, read the Canada study permit guide. If you plan to apply for a scholarship, see how to secure university admission for a Saudi scholarship. To compare language tests, read the IELTS, TOEFL and Duolingo comparison. You can also visit our Canada page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a study permit to study in Canada?

Usually yes for longer programs, and most applicants must hold it before travelling, according to the study permit page. Check your own case on the official page.

How much is the study permit fee?

The official page lists CAD 150, with a separate biometrics fee when required. Check the page before paying because fees can change.

Must I study at an approved institution?

Yes. Enrolment at a DLI is a core requirement, so confirm the institution and program are approved before paying.

Is the attestation letter required for everyone?

No. The government exempts groups such as master's and doctoral students at public institutions from 1 January 2026, and Quebec applicants need a CAQ. See the PAL page for details.

Can I work while studying?

Yes, under conditions, up to 24 hours per week off campus during term. Work income does not count toward proof of funds.

Does Almorad guarantee the permit?

No. We prepare and follow up your file; the final decision belongs to the institution and the government.

Prepare Your File With Almorad

If you are looking for a study abroad advisor to organise admission and visa steps, browse universities and programs, contact us or message us on WhatsApp. For help with the application itself, see our visa services.