The PAL Requirement and Graduate Exemption
Since January 2024, most new international students applying for a Canadian study permit have been required to submit a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) from the province where they plan to study. The PAL system was introduced to manage intake volumes under the federal study permit cap. Effective January 1, 2026, the PAL requirement was extended to master's and PhD applicants, who had previously been exempt, but a new Provincial Attestation framework allows graduate students to continue accessing study permits under a dedicated allocation.
The graduate-student framework operates differently from the undergraduate PAL system. Master's and doctoral applicants are treated under a separate attestation stream that recognizes the distinct role of graduate research and advanced study in the Canadian academic ecosystem.
Who Qualifies as a Graduate Applicant
Graduate attestation treatment applies to applicants who have been accepted into a master's degree program or a doctoral degree program at a designated learning institution in Canada. Both research-based and coursework-based graduate programs generally fall within this category, as long as the credential awarded is a master's or doctoral degree.
Research vs. Coursework Programs
Research-based graduate programs with thesis or dissertation components are clearly covered. Coursework-based master's programs, including professional master's degrees, are also generally included. Students should verify program categorization with their institution if there is any doubt about whether the program qualifies for graduate treatment.
Postgraduate Diplomas and Certificates
Postgraduate diplomas and certificates that do not confer a master's degree are generally not treated as graduate programs for attestation purposes. These credentials, even when pursued after a bachelor's degree, fall under the undergraduate PAL system and are subject to the standard provincial allocation.
Documentation Required
Applicants under the graduate stream must provide documentation demonstrating their acceptance into a qualifying master's or doctoral program. The acceptance letter from the designated learning institution is the primary document and should clearly identify the credential to be awarded.
Letter of Acceptance
The letter of acceptance should be issued by the institution's graduate studies office or admissions department and should specify the program name, the credential (master's or doctoral), the start date, and the expected program duration. Generic acceptance letters that do not specify graduate-level programming may not be sufficient.
Supporting Academic Documentation
Transcripts, degree certificates, and other academic documentation supporting admission to the graduate program should accompany the application. Institutions typically provide a complete admission package that can be submitted to IRCC as supporting evidence.
Application Process
Graduate applicants follow the standard study permit application process through the IRCC online portal, with the addition of documentation showing graduate program admission. The application is processed according to the applicable processing times for the applicant's country of residence.
Online Submission
Applications are submitted through the IRCC secure account system. Applicants create an account, complete the study permit application forms, upload supporting documents including the graduate admission letter, and pay the application fee.
Biometrics and Medical Examination
Most applicants are required to provide biometrics at a Visa Application Centre and may need to complete a medical examination depending on their country of residence and intended length of stay. These steps apply to graduate applicants in the same way as other study permit applicants.
Transition Rules and Edge Cases
Applicants who submitted applications before January 1, 2026, under the previous exemption rules are typically processed under the rules in place at the time of submission. Applications submitted after the effective date fall under the current graduate attestation framework.
Program Changes After Arrival
Students admitted under the graduate attestation framework who later wish to transfer to an undergraduate program or to a non-qualifying graduate credential may be required to obtain a new attestation under the undergraduate PAL system. Program changes after arrival can affect study permit conditions and should be coordinated carefully with the institution and IRCC.
Joint and Dual Degree Programs
Students in joint or dual degree programs that combine graduate and undergraduate elements may face additional complexity in determining which attestation stream applies. The primary credential awarded and the institution's characterization of the program usually determine treatment.