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STCanada has updated its study permit validity rules in 2026. However, this change does NOT apply to all courses.
According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the new rule only affects students who first enrol in prerequisite or preparatory programs before starting their main degree.
📌 What Exactly Changed?🕒 Earlier:
Students doing prerequisite/pathway programs received a study permit valid for:
Course duration + 1 year extra buffer
🆕 Now (2026 Rule):
Study permit validity will be:
Course duration + 90 days only
The extra 12-month flexibility has been removed.
🎓 Who Is Affected?
This applies ONLY if your initial admission is for a preparatory program such as:
🔹 English Language (ESL) Programs
Example:
• English for Academic Purposes (EAP)
• IELTS preparation programs at Canadian colleges
🔹 Foundation / Pathway Programs
Example:
• International Year One (IYO)
• University transfer pathway programs
🔹 Academic Upgrading Courses
Example:
• Grade 12 Mathematics upgrade
• Pre-Calculus required before entering Engineering
🔹 Conditional Admission Programs
Example:
• You receive admission to a Bachelor’s or Master’s program, but must first complete a 4-month English or academic bridge course.
❗ Who Is NOT Affected?
If you are directly admitted into a full academic program like:
• Bachelor’s degree
• Postgraduate diploma
• Master’s degree
• PhD program
Your study permit validity will still cover your full program duration (as usual).
⚠️ Why This Matters
If your prerequisite course is 4 months long:
👉 Earlier → 4 months + 1 year
👉 Now → 4 months + 90 days
You must apply for a new study permit for your main program before those 90 days end to maintain legal status in Canada.
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