Hub International Education
Study in Canada guide

Study in Canada from Nepal: Requirements, PAL and PGWP

To study in Canada from Nepal you need a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), in most cases a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL), proof of funds for tuition and living costs, and an accepted English test. Canada caps the number of new study permits each year, and Post-Graduation Work Permit rules now depend on your programme and, for some courses, your field of study.

By Hub International Education counsellors · Updated

Main intakes
September and January (some May)
Key documents
DLI offer, PAL/TAL, proof of funds
English test
Usually IELTS 6.0–6.5 or equivalent
After study
PGWP, length depends on programme

What changed for Canada since 2024

These changes mean fewer seats and more paperwork. Applying early and choosing a programme that clearly fits your background matters more than before.

  • A national cap on new study permits, shared out between provinces.
  • Most new students need a PAL or TAL from the province or territory.
  • A higher proof-of-funds amount for living costs, updated each year.
  • PGWP eligibility tied to field of study for many non-degree college programmes.
  • A weekly limit on off-campus work during term; check the current number of hours.

Study permit document checklist

  • Letter of acceptance from a DLI.
  • PAL/TAL where required.
  • Proof of funds: first-year tuition, travel and the current living-cost amount, supported by bank, loan and sponsor documents.
  • IELTS, PTE, CELPIP or TOEFL as accepted by the institution.
  • Study plan explaining your course choice and career goals.
  • Academic documents, passport, biometrics and medical exam.

Colleges vs universities

Canadian colleges offer diplomas and postgraduate certificates, often cheaper and more practical; universities offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Since the PGWP changes, college programmes need extra checking: confirm the programme is PGWP-eligible and, where required, in an eligible field before you pay a deposit.

Canada or Ireland?

Canadian master’s degrees and PG diplomas often take two years, while most Irish taught master’s take one. Ireland has no national cap on student visas, and graduates of a Level 9 master’s currently get up to 24 months of Stamp 1G stay back. Canada’s PGWP and immigration pathways remain attractive for students prepared for a longer, costlier route.

Step by step

  1. 1

    Programme check

    Confirm the institution is a DLI and the programme is PGWP-eligible.

  2. 2

    English test

    Take IELTS, PTE or another accepted test.

  3. 3

    Offer and PAL

    Accept your offer and obtain the PAL/TAL through the institution.

  4. 4

    Funds and study plan

    Prepare proof of funds and a clear, honest study plan.

  5. 5

    Study permit

    Apply online, give biometrics and complete the medical exam.

Frequently asked questions

What is a PAL for Canada?

A Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter confirms you have a place within that province’s share of the national study permit cap. Most new study permit applicants need one; your institution usually helps you get it.

How much proof of funds is needed for Canada?

You must show first-year tuition, travel costs and the living-cost amount set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. The amount is updated regularly, so check the current figure on the IRCC website.

Is every Canadian college course eligible for a PGWP?

No. Many non-degree college programmes must be in an eligible field of study, and the institution and programme must meet PGWP rules. Check eligibility before you accept an offer.

Can I study in Canada after +2 from Nepal?

Yes. You can apply for a college diploma or a university bachelor’s degree depending on your NEB +2 grades, subjects and English score.

Is Canada or Ireland better for Nepalese students?

Canada offers longer programmes and well-known immigration pathways. Ireland offers one-year master’s degrees, up to two years of stay back and a lower total cost for many students. Compare both against your budget and career plan.

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