How to Complete IMM 1294 for a Study Permit

Canada is one of the most popular destinations for international students, with over 800,000 study permit holders in the country. To study in Canada for a program longer than six months, you need a study permit. Form IMM 1294 is the primary application form for this permit. This guide walks you through each section of the form and explains what supporting documents you need.

Eligibility Requirements

Before completing IMM 1294, confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements:

• You have a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
• You can prove you have enough money to pay for tuition, living expenses, and return transportation (see financial requirements below)
• You have no criminal record and can provide a police clearance certificate if required
• You are in good health and willing to complete a medical exam if required
• You can convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada when your study permit expires

Financial Requirements

As of the most recent IRCC updates, you must demonstrate access to at least the following amounts (in addition to tuition):

• Outside Quebec: $20,635 per year for living expenses (for a single student)
• In Quebec: Different amounts set by the Quebec government
• Additional amounts for each family member accompanying you

Acceptable proof of funds includes:

• Bank statements for the past four months showing sufficient funds
• A guaranteed investment certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian bank
• Proof of a scholarship or funding from your school
• A letter from a person or institution providing you with money (accompanied by their bank statements)

Completing IMM 1294 Step by Step

Section 1: Personal Information

• Full name (as it appears on your passport)
• Date and place of birth
• Citizenship and country of current residence
• Passport number, issue date, and expiry date
• Contact information (address, phone, email)

Section 2: Study Details

• Name and address of the DLI where you will study
• DLI number (found on your letter of acceptance and the IRCC DLI list)
• Student ID number assigned by the school
• Program name and field of study
• Program start and end dates
• Level of study (certificate, diploma, bachelor's, master's, doctoral)

Section 3: Financial Information

• Total cost of tuition for the first year
• Your estimated living expenses
• Sources of funding (personal savings, family, scholarship, GIC, student loan)
• Total funds available

Section 4: Employment History

List your employment history for the past 10 years, similar to what is required on IMM 5669. Include job title, employer, location, and dates.

Section 5: Education History

List your educational background, starting with the most recent. Include institution names, locations, dates, and qualifications obtained.

Section 6: Background Questions

Answer questions about criminal history, previous immigration refusals, medical conditions, and military service. Answer honestly; a "yes" answer does not automatically disqualify you but requires an explanation.

Section 7: Family Information

List your spouse and dependent children, indicating whether they will accompany you. If they will, they need their own permits or visas.

Required Supporting Documents

Along with IMM 1294, submit these documents (check the IMM 5710 document checklist for your specific requirements):

• Letter of acceptance from a DLI
• Valid passport or travel document
• Passport-size photos meeting IRCC specifications
• Proof of financial support
• Police clearance certificate(s) from countries where you have lived for six months or more since age 18
• Medical exam results (if required for your country)
• Statement of purpose or study plan (recommended)
• Language test results (if required by your program)
• Proof of payment of the application fee (currently $150)

How to Apply

Most study permit applications are submitted online through the IRCC online portal. Create an account, complete IMM 1294 digitally, upload your supporting documents, pay the fee, and submit. You can track your application status through the same portal.

Some applicants from specific countries may need to submit biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at a designated biometric collection point.

Common Mistakes

• Applying to a non-DLI institution: Your school must be on the official DLI list. If it is not, your study permit will be refused.
• Insufficient proof of funds: This is the most common reason for refusal. Make sure your bank statements cover at least four months and show sufficient funds.
• Weak ties to your home country: IRCC wants to see that you plan to return home after your studies. Evidence of ties (property, family, job offer) in your home country can help.
• Not explaining gaps in your education or employment: If there are periods of inactivity, explain them (caring for family, health issues, etc.).

For related guides, see our articles on IMM 1295 Work Permit, IMM 5257 Visitor Visa, and Schedule 11 Tuition Tax Credits.

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