Breaking News: British Columbia & Alberta Implement PAL System for International Students

From March 4, 2024, British Columbia (B.C.) has initiated the issuance of Provincial Attestation Letters (PALs) to post-secondary institutions, a vital step for international students applying for a study permit in the province. Similarly, Alberta has started its PAL distribution, aligning with the new regulations set by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced on January 22, 2024The new system mandates that PALs be included in study permit applications for international students, marking a significant shift in the application process. This initiative ensures that applications are within the federal government's imposed cap, providing a streamlined approach for institutions to manage their international student intakes. B.C. has been allocated 83,000 undergraduate study permit spaces for 2024, a reduction from 97,000 in the previous year. This adjustment reflects the government's strategy to manage the number of international students more effectively, aiming for around 50,000 approved applications this year, down from 60,000 last year. The PAL system is designed to authenticate the student's acceptance within the provincial allocation limit, offering a clearer pathway for prospective students and institutions alike. Institutions exceeding their allocation will need to wait for the next annual allotment, highlighting the importance of strategic planning under the new cap. The requirement for a PAL primarily targets post-secondary non-degree programs, with exemptions for certain student categories such as master's or doctoral degree candidates and those already in Canada with valid permits. International students looking to study in British Columbia or Alberta should reach out to their prospective institutions for detailed guidance on obtaining a PAL, streamlining their journey to Canadian education amidst the evolving regulatory landscape. What is a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)? Provincial Attestation Letters (PALs) are now a crucial document for certain international student categories, issued by provinces and territories. A PAL confirms that the student's enrollment is within the provincial or territorial quota under the national cap for international students. If you fall into the category requiring a PAL, you must include this letter with your study permit application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Who is Exempt from Acquiring a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)? According to IRCC, the following groups are not required to obtain a PAL: • Undergraduate international students who applied for a study permit before 8:30 a.m., ET, on January 22, 2024. • Applicants for master's or doctoral degrees, irrespective of the application submission date. • Visiting/exchange students and ESL/FSL participants in programs shorter than six months. • Current study or work permit holders in Canada, including those applying for extensions. • Family members of study or work permit holders residing in Canada. • Primary and secondary school students. This information is pivotal for streamlining your admission and transition to UCalgary, ensuring you're well-informed about the documentation needed for your study permit application under the new regulations.