Faster Study Permits for Graduate Students: What Changes in 2026

Starting January 1, 2026, many international graduate students will no longer need a provincial attestation letter (PAL) to apply for a study permit. This new IRCC policy removes one of the key barriers for master’s and doctoral students—making it easier to study in Canada.In this post, you’ll learn who qualifies, how the exemption works, and what else you still need to apply successfully.

What’s changing with the PAL requirement?

What is a PAL?

A provincial attestation letter (PAL) is a document issued by a province or territory that confirms your spot within the federal cap on international students. Most students applying for a study permit in 2024 and 2025 must include one.The process adds complexity and often delays, especially if you’re waiting for both a letter of acceptance and your PAL before submitting your application.

The new rule for graduate students

According to IRCC:

“As of January 1, 2026, [certain graduate students] won’t need a provincial or territorial attestation letter.”

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This exemption applies to:

• Master’s and doctoral students
• Admitted to an eligible Canadian institution

These students will no longer be subject to the intake cap and can apply directly once they have their acceptance letter.

Who qualifies for the PAL exemption?

You may be exempt if:

• You’re accepted into a master’s or PhD program
• Your school is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
• You’re applying on or after January 1, 2026

This change makes it easier for graduate students to plan ahead, submit early, and avoid delays caused by provincial quotas.

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What else do you still need to apply?

Even without a PAL, your application must meet all other study permit requirements, including:

• A valid letter of acceptance
• Proof of financial support
• A clear immigration history
• Strong intent to study and return

Your school must also be a DLI with a valid IRCC number.

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Why IRCC made this change

This update is part of Canada’s effort to attract and retain high-potential graduate students. These programs support long-term economic and research goals. By exempting them from the cap, Canada signals that it wants more skilled researchers, innovators, and professionals.It also reduces pressure on provincial systems and simplifies the path for serious academic candidates.

What if you’re applying in 2025?

If your study permit application is submitted before January 1, 2026, you still need a PAL—even if you’re starting a master’s or PhD program. Don’t delay.Once the new exemption takes effect, you can apply without a PAL as long as your program and institution are eligible.

Related reading

If you’re unsure about the PAL system or study permit rules, check out these related posts:

• How to Get a PAL for Your Study Permit
• Study Permit Deadlines: What You Need to Know
• What Happens if Your PAL is Delayed?

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Recap

If you’re pursuing a master’s or PhD in Canada, the PAL exemption is great news. You’ll face fewer delays, fewer documents, and a faster path to applying—starting January 2026.BorderPass helps international students prepare strong study permit applications that meet IRCC rules and avoid common reasons for refusal.Start your application or learn more →

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