How to Apply for a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) in 2025: Your First Step to a Canada Study Permit

Planning to study in Canada? There’s a new rule in 2025 that you need to know before you even apply for a study permit: 👉 You might need something called a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL).

If you’re wondering what that is, why it matters, or how to get one, don’t worry—I’ve got you. Let’s break it down in simple terms so you can get your application right the first time.

What is a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)?

A Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) is basically a letter from the province where your Canadian school is located that says: ✅ The province approves the school you’re attending. ✅ Your study permit application fits within that province’s quota for international students.

Think of it like a green light that says: “Yep, we have space for you. Go ahead and apply for your study permit.”

Without this letter, your study permit application will be refused—even if you have an acceptance letter from your school.

Who Needs a PAL in 2025?

As of June–July 2025, most new international students applying to study in Canada will need a PAL.

✅ You DO need a PAL if:

• You’re applying for a college diploma

• You’re applying for an undergraduate degree

You’re applying for a language school or pathway program

✅ You DON’T need a PAL if:

• You’re applying for a Master’s program

• You’re applying for a Doctoral program (PhD)

• You’re applying for elementary or high school

👉 Always double-check with your school and province—some regions may apply stricter rules based on local capacity.

Why is Canada Doing This?

In simple terms:

• Canada is limiting the number of new international students because of housing shortages and concerns about low-quality schools.

The PAL system helps provinces manage how many students arrive and which schools are allowed to bring them in.

How to Get Your PAL (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Get Accepted to a DLI

• First, you need an official Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)—this means your school is on Canada’s approved list.

Step 2: Your School Requests the PAL

• Most schools will apply for the PAL on your behalf.

• Some provinces may ask you to request it directly from the provincial government website.

The process varies by province (British Columbia, Ontario, Alberta, etc.).

Step 3: Receive Your PAL Letter

• Once approved, you’ll get a Provincial Attestation Letter by email or through your school.

Step 4: Apply for Your Study Permit

Upload the PAL + your LOA when applying for your study permit online.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PAL?

⏳ It depends on the province and the time of year—right now, it’s taking anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks. That’s why it’s important to apply early—don’t leave it to the last minute!

What If You Don’t Get a PAL?

👉 Without a PAL, your study permit application will be automatically refused.

If this happens:

• Check with your school—some schools may not have spaces left under the provincial cap.

• Consider applying to a school in a different province where caps aren’t full.

Look at Master’s or PhD programs where PALs aren’t required.

Need Help? We’re Here for You.

We know this new PAL requirement adds another layer of stress—especially if you’re applying from abroad. 

That’s why we help students like you by:

✅ Checking if your program needs a PAL 

✅ Helping you request the PAL 

✅ Applying for your study permit the right way—no missing documents, no refusals

👉 Want help with your PAL and study permit? Reach out to us and let’s get your Canada journey started.

Final Thoughts

The Provincial Attestation Letter is Canada’s new way of managing international student numbers—but it doesn’t have to be confusing. Plan ahead, get your documents right, and you’ll be on your way to studying (and maybe staying) in Canada.

How to Apply for a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) in 2025