What is a Letter of Acceptance and why do I need it for a Canadian study permit?

A Letter of Acceptance (also called an Offer of Admission or Acceptance Letter) is an official document from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) confirming that you have been accepted into a programme of study. It is one of the most essential documents for your Canadian study permit application.

What it contains:
- Your full name (as on passport)
- Name of the institution
- Programme name and level
- Programme start and end dates
- Conditions of admission (if any — language test, prerequisite courses, etc.)
- Tuition fees
- Student ID or application number
- Institution's DLI number (important — must be a currently designated institution)

Why it matters for the study permit:
- Without a valid Letter of Acceptance from a DLI, your study permit application cannot be processed
- The DLI number in the letter allows IRCC to verify the institution's eligibility
- Conditional letters are accepted — you will need to show you met the conditions later

Verifying your institution is a DLI:
Always check the IRCC DLI database before applying — some private institutions have had their designation revoked. A letter from an undesignated institution will result in immediate refusal.

Conditional acceptance:
Many students receive conditional acceptance requiring proof of English (final test scores), completion of high school, or other documents. You can apply for a study permit with a conditional letter, but you must meet conditions before your permit starts or upon arrival.

Timing: Apply for the study permit as soon as you receive the acceptance letter. Do not wait.