The steps in order, the amounts to prove, the fees and the pitfalls to avoid, based on official sources consulted on 22 October 2026.
The 2027 study permit cap, PAL rules and scales have not been published as of 22/10/2026: check them on the IRCC website before you apply.
There is no national deadline: each institution sets its own. Here are the published benchmarks.
| Step | Benchmark |
|---|---|
| Admission application | date set by the institution (example: Université Laval, 01/02/2027 for most programmes) |
| CAQ (Quebec only) | decision within 25 working days for 80% of complete applications |
| Biometrics | within 30 days of the date of the IRCC letter |
| Study permit decision | time varies by country, to be read in the IRCC tool on the day you apply |
The processing times shown by IRCC are estimates, neither a maximum nor a guarantee. Allow plenty of time between admission and the start of classes.
Only a designated learning institution can issue the letter of acceptance required for the study permit. Tuition fees are paid directly to the institution.
Outside Quebec, the provincial or territorial attestation letter is generally required. Since 01/01/2026, it is no longer required for a master's or doctorate at a public institution. In Quebec, the CAQ costs CAD 135 and is applied for online, after admission. The number of CAQ applications is capped per institution until 16/12/2027.
The living-expense amounts cover the first year; tuition fees and travel must be proved on top. For a programme longer than one year, explain how all the years will be funded.
Cameroon is a country designated by IRCC: for studies of more than 6 months, the exam is done by an IRCC panel physician.
On the IRCC portal, with your passport, the letter of acceptance, the PAL or CAQ, the proof of funds and a letter of explanation (recommended). The permit and biometrics fees are paid when you apply.
At the visa application centre in Yaoundé, within 30 days of the IRCC letter. The appointment is free: IRCC asks you not to pay anyone to get one.
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Study permit | CAD 150 |
| Biometrics | CAD 85 |
| CAQ (Quebec, 2026) | CAD 135 |
| Proof of funds outside Quebec (applications since 01/09/2026) | CAD 23,448 per year |
| Proof of funds in Quebec (applications since 01/01/2026) | CAD 24,617 per year |
| Tuition fees | set by each institution |
| Medical exam, Yaoundé centre service fee | fees not published by IRCC, to be checked with the providers |
The proof-of-funds scales are revised every year (on 01/01 for Quebec, on 01/09 outside Quebec). To prepare your proof of funds, see our article on proof of funds for a student visa.
MBM Travel Gate prepares the applications, the CAQ and the financial letter of explanation with you. We have no power over admissions or IRCC decisions: see our process and our packages.
No, if the master's or doctorate is at a public institution: this exemption has applied since 01/01/2026. A bachelor's degree, a college programme or a master's at a private institution still require a PAL or TAL, or a CAQ in Quebec. The 2027 rules have not been published yet.
Outside Quebec, CAD 23,448 per year for a single student (applications submitted since 01/09/2026). In Quebec, CAD 24,617 per year for a single adult (applications since 01/01/2026). Tuition fees and travel come on top in both cases.
Yes, for studies of more than 6 months. Cameroon is on IRCC's list of designated countries: the exam is done by an IRCC panel physician.
Yes, under conditions: up to 24 hours per week off campus during academic sessions, with no limit during the institution's scheduled breaks. After graduation, a post-graduation work permit is possible if the institution, the programme and the language level meet IRCC's conditions.
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