Quick answer: every Canadian school sets its own deadlines, and many fill up long before them. For a September start, international students often apply between October and March. Then allow time for your PAL and study permit, which can take several months.
There’s no single national deadline to study in Canada. Instead, you’ll juggle your school’s application deadline, the time to get a PAL, and IRCC’s processing time. Missing any one of them can push you to the next intake.
This guide is general information based on official sources. Your own requirements depend on your situation, and IRCC makes every decision, so check the official pages before you apply.
Main intakes in Canada
| Intake | Classes start | When students often apply |
|---|---|---|
| Fall | September | October to March of the same academic year (earliest for competitive programs) |
| Winter | January | Around May to October of the previous year |
| Spring/Summer | May | Around August to January |
These are general patterns. Some programs, especially competitive ones like nursing or social work, close many months earlier.
Real examples
| School | International undergraduate deadlines |
|---|---|
| University of Winnipeg | June 1 (Fall), October 15 (Winter), February 15 (Spring) |
| University of Regina | August 15 (Fall), December 15 (Winter), April 15 (Spring/Summer); some programs much earlier |
These are final deadlines, not recommended ones. Applying close to them leaves little time for your study permit. See our University of Winnipeg and University of Regina guides.
Work backwards from your start date
- 12 months before: shortlist programs and check they’re at a DLI and PGWP-eligible.
- 9 to 12 months before: book language tests and apply to schools.
- 6 to 8 months before: accept an offer, pay any deposit and request your PAL.
- 4 to 6 months before: submit your study permit application with all documents.
- 1 to 2 months before: book flights and housing once approved.
Why applying early matters more now
Canada’s study permit cap limits how many applications each province can accept, and schools receive a set number of PALs. Early applicants have a better chance of getting both. Read the 2026 study permit cap explained.
Frequently asked questions
When is the deadline to apply to Canadian universities?
It depends on the school and program. Check each program’s admissions page and treat the deadline as the last possible date, not the target.
Is there a deadline to apply for a study permit?
IRCC doesn’t set one, but you need approval before your program starts. Check current processing times for your country.
What if I miss the deadline?
Some schools accept late applications if space remains. Otherwise, apply for the next intake.