Study in Canada from Saudi Arabia
Studying in Canada from Saudi Arabia follows a clear path: choose an approved institution, get a letter of acceptance, then apply online for a study permit with proof of funds. The institution decides admission and the government decides the permit; Almorad prepares and follows up your file.
Last updated: 2026-10-08
Steps to Study in Canada
Admission comes first, then the permit; you cannot apply for a study permit without a letter of acceptance from an approved institution:
- Decide your level and field: language, diploma or college, bachelor, or graduate study.
- Choose a designated learning institution (DLI) and a program that fits your goal and budget.
- Apply for admission with your academic records and any required language result.
- Receive the letter of acceptance, and the provincial attestation letter if your case needs one.
- Prepare proof of funds, a letter of explanation and other documents.
- Apply online for the study permit and complete biometrics.
- After approval, arrange housing and travel.
Designated Learning Institutions (DLI)
Enrolment at a DLI is the first eligibility condition for a study permit. Confirm the institution and the specific program are approved before paying any fee; some short or unapproved programs may not lead to a post-graduation work permit.
Letter of Acceptance and Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)
A PAL/TAL is needed for most students in most provinces, and Quebec applicants need a CAQ instead. Pre-university students and master's or doctoral students at public institutions are exempt from 1 January 2026. A 2026 letter is valid until 31 December 2026 and must be submitted with the application.
- Language or short programs: depends on your case; check program length and permit eligibility.
- Diploma and college: required in most cases; check program approval and post-graduation work.
- Bachelor: required in most cases; check tuition, province and entry grades.
- Master and PhD: exempt at public institutions from 1 January 2026; check supervisor, research fit and language result.
Proof of Funds
The living-cost amount for one person outside Quebec is CAD 23,448 a year for applications from 1 September 2026, excluding tuition and transport. Budget for real costs in your city rather than the minimum; Quebec has its own figures.
Working During and After Study
You may work off campus up to 24 hours per week during term and without a weekly limit during scheduled breaks, under conditions such as full-time study at a DLI. Work income does not count toward proof of funds.
A post-graduation work permit depends on program type, field and location; the application fee is CAD 255.
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 reputation alone.
FAQ
Do I need a study permit to study in Canada?
Usually yes for longer programs, and most applicants must have it before travelling. Check your case on the official page.
How much is the study permit fee?
CAD 150 per the official page, plus a biometrics fee when required.
How much money must I show?
CAD 23,448, excluding tuition, for applications from 1 September 2026.
How many hours can I work off campus?
Up to 24 hours per week during term.
Is the attestation letter required for everyone?
No. Master's and doctoral students at public institutions are exempt from 1 January 2026, and Quebec applicants need a CAQ.
Does Almorad guarantee admission or a visa?
No. We prepare and follow up your file; the final decision belongs to the institution and the relevant government authority.
Related guides and pages
- Canada study permit guide
- University admission for the Saudi scholarship
- IELTS vs TOEFL vs Duolingo
- Studying engineering abroad
- Studying business administration abroad
- Studying cybersecurity abroad
- Canada visa from Saudi Arabia
- Browse universities
Why Choose Almorad?
Almorad checks your documents against the official requirements above and guides you through each step of your application. Book a free consultation with our team.
Almorad provides visa services (tourist, business and other types) for many more countries than those where we offer university and institute admission. Browse visa services
