A PAL is a letter from a province or territory confirming your study permit application counts within that province's allocation of international students. As of 2026, most study permit applicants need one, but master's and doctoral students at public universities are exempt (since January 1, 2026), as are primary and secondary school students and certain permit extensions. Your school usually guides you through getting it after you accept an offer. Check canada.ca for the current exemption list, as it changes.
Updated July 2026