Canada — Study (College diploma or post-graduate certificate)

Main requirements

Admission at a college or polytechnic DLI and a PAL. Per the official source, if you applied for your study permit on or after 1 November 2024, a college program must be on the PGWP eligible field-of-study list (CIP codes), covering areas such as agriculture and agri-food, education, healthcare and social services, STEM, trades and transport. For 2026 IRCC says no fields will be added or removed; nothing is announced for 2027 yet, so recheck the list before applying. The program must be eligible when you apply for the study permit or the PGWP.

Documents

Passport, admission, PAL, proof of funds, translated education documents and a study plan. If you already have a degree or work experience, explain how the program fits your career.

Language

The college sets the minimum. Per the official source, college graduates need CLB 5 in all four skills for a PGWP (IELTS General: listening 5.0, reading 4.0, writing 5.0, speaking 5.0; IELTS Academic isn't accepted for the PGWP).

Costs and proof of funds

Proof of funds per the official source: first-year tuition + CAD 23,448 (from 1 September 2026). College tuition varies by program; take it from the college's site. For example, Conestoga (Ontario) charges about CAD 15,500 to 17,000 for two terms (tuition only) in 2026-2027. Government fees CAD 150 + 85.

Steps and timeline

Check the program's CIP code on the PGWP list; apply and get admission; PAL; funds; study permit; biometrics outside Iran; visa and arrival.

Notes for Iranian applicants

IRCC reported a 59% refusal rate across all study permits in 2025; a college program for someone with a higher degree usually draws a harder 'why this program?' question. Universities made up 57% of study permit holders as of February 2026, showing the policy shift toward universities. Biometrics and passport are outside Iran as with other routes.

After arrival (work while studying, post-study stay, PR path)

Work 24 hours a week in term. Spouses of college students can't get an open work permit. PGWP: under 8 months none; 8 months to under 2 years up to program length; 2+ years up to 3 years. After a year of skilled work, CEC under Express Entry.