Canada study permit study plan: how to write your letter of explanation

How to write the study plan (letter of explanation) for a Canada study permit: what officers look for, the funds to show from September 2026, and the mistakes that lead to refusals.

What officers look for

Officers check that you are a genuine student who will leave Canada when your permit ends. The study plan explains why this programme, why this school, why Canada rather than at home, and how it fits your past studies and your career.

What to include

• Your education and work history
• The programme, school and start date
• Why this programme and why Canada
• Your career plan after graduating, at home or abroad
• Your ties to your home country
• How your tuition and living costs are paid
• Anything unusual: study gaps, a change of field, a past refusal

Funds to show

For applications from 1 September 2026, the living-cost amount for one applicant outside Quebec is CAD 23,448, plus your first-year tuition and travel. Family members add more. Quebec sets its own amounts. Confirm the current figures on canada.ca.

Documents

A letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution, a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL) in most cases, proof of funds, your passport, and biometrics. Some applicants also need a medical exam and police certificates.

Mistakes to avoid

• A programme that looks like a step down from your previous studies, without explanation
• A generic letter that could be about any school
• Funds that appear suddenly with no explanation
• No clear plan for after graduation

Vizaleo is an independent service, not affiliated with any government or visa centre. Requirements change: always confirm on the official page.