Canada has introduced a significant update for international graduate students, making it easier to pursue master’s and doctoral programs in the country. Starting January 1, 2026, international students no longer need to submit a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) when applying for a study permit. This change removes a key administrative hurdle and provides faster access to higher education in Canada.
Who This Change Affects
This update primarily benefits master’s and doctoral students planning to study at public designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. Previously, students were required to obtain a PAL/TAL to confirm that they were counted within the province or territory’s international student cap. This step often involved additional fees and deposits to the educational institution, increasing the upfront cost of studying in Canada.
What is a DLI (Designated Learning Institution)?
A Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is a school or educational institution approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. Only students attending a DLI are eligible to apply for a Canadian study permit.
Key Points About DLIs:
- Government-approved: Each DLI is officially recognized by the provincial or territorial government.
- Required for study permits: Acceptance from a DLI is mandatory for your application.
- Types of DLIs: Universities, colleges, private career colleges, and some vocational schools.
- DLI Number: Each DLI has a unique number that must be included in your study permit application.
- Why it matters: Only graduates from DLIs can apply for post-graduation work permits in Canada.
What Has Changed
- PAL/TAL no longer required: Graduate students do not need to submit this letter for study permit applications.
- Exemption from student caps: Students are no longer counted toward provincial or territorial international student limits, removing previous restrictions.
- Faster processing: Doctoral students can now access expedited processing, sometimes as quickly as two weeks.
- Lower upfront costs: Students no longer need to pay deposits to obtain a PAL/TAL.
Impact on International Students
This change is a major advantage for international graduate students:
- Simplified application process: No additional administrative steps are required to get a study permit.
- Faster approval times: Expedited processing allows students to plan studies with certainty and avoid delays.
- Reduced financial burden: Removing PAL/TAL deposits lowers the initial cost of studying in Canada.
- Greater accessibility: Students are no longer restricted by provincial or territorial caps, increasing opportunities for qualified applicants.
Why It Matters
Canada continues to be a top destination for international graduate education. These updates reflect the government’s commitment to:
- Supporting international student growth in master’s and doctoral programs
- Reducing unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles
- Promoting faster, more affordable access to Canadian higher education
For students considering studying in Canada, this change removes barriers, reduces costs, and speeds up processing, making Canada an even more attractive destination for graduate-level study.
Summary
This update is a positive development for international students, making it easier, faster, and more affordable to study at the master’s and doctoral levels in Canada.
Contact Us
For guidance on Canadian graduate programs, study permits, and international student support:
📞 DHA Phase 3 Branch: +92 310 7203666
📞 Garden Town Branch: +92 310 7205666
📞Gujrat Branch: +92 326 9616034
📩 Email: info@wacconsultants.com