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How much money do I actually need to show for a 2026 study permit?

sherry_sheridan
#proof-of-funds
Every site quotes a different number for proof of funds and I'm getting confused between the living-cost figure and the old GIC amount. I'm a single applicant applying outside Quebec, DLI in Ontario. What's the real number for 2026 and does it include tuition?

💬 2 answers

2 Answers

  • 0
    helper_since2019
    ✓ Best answer

    The living-cost figure IRCC lists for a single applicant is $22,895 CAD, and that's ON TOP OF your first year of tuition and travel costs — it's not one combined number. The old SDS stream (which used a fixed $10,000 GIC) ended back in November 2024, so a GIC is no longer mandatory, just one accepted way to show funds — 4 months of bank statements work too if the balance is stable. We have a full breakdown at /guides/study/proof-of-funds with the official canada.ca link. General information from my own experience, not legal advice — for anything specific to your file, a licensed RCIC or immigration lawyer can look at your actual documents.

  • 0
    priya_pgwp

    When I applied I used 4 months of bank statements instead of a GIC and it was fine — the officer just wants to see the money was there for a while, not a sudden deposit right before you apply. A one-time top-up right before submitting is one of the most common refusal triggers people mention.

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