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 mid-2026, most study permit applicants need one — including most master's and doctoral students — though some groups, like primary and secondary school students and certain permit extensions, are generally exempt. 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