To study in Canada legally, you need a study permit. It is important that you always have a valid study permit and extend it before it expires if you need more time to finish the program.
Initial Study Permit Made Outside of Canada
If you have received an offer of admission to the University of Toronto, you must apply for your study permit before traveling to Canada.
If you are a returning student currently residing outside Canada and your study permit is expired, you must apply for a study permit from your home country or country of residence with a confirmation of enrolment or eligibility-to-return letter.
Extending Your Study Permit Within Canada
To maintain your legal status in Canada, you must extend your study permit before it expires inside Canada. If you submit your extension application after the permit expires you will be “out of status”. You must stop studying and working immediately and see an Immigration Advisor at the International student Centre (ISC) for assistance with restoring your status.
If you are coming from a high school (secondary) or post-secondary institution to U of T and have a valid study permit, you don’t need to change or apply for a new study permit. However, you must extend your permit inside Canada prior to the expiry date.