Applying for a study permit extension? Your Letter of Explanation (LOE) can make or break your application. After helping hundreds of students succeed, we’ve distilled the secrets to writing an LOE that convinces IRCC to grant you more time. Below, find step-by-step templates, common pitfalls, and real-life examples to guide you.
IRCC officers review thousands of applications daily. A vague or poorly structured LOE risks refusal. Here’s what they’re looking for:
| Mistake | Example | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| No clear study plan | “I need more time because I’m busy.” | “My final thesis requires 6 additional months (see attached supervisor letter).” |
| Ignoring home ties | “I want to stay in Canada forever.” | “After graduating, I’ll return to Brazil to work at [Company].” |
| Missing proof | “I was sick last semester.” | “Attached: Doctor’s note confirming 3-month medical leave (Jan-Mar 2024).” |
| Expired documents | Submitting old bank statements | Include updated financial proof covering the extension period. |
Your LOE must answer 3 critical questions for IRCC:
Why do you need more time?
How will you use the extra period?
What proves you’ll leave Canada after studies?
Header: Your name, contact info, UCI number.
Introduction: Polite request + current permit expiry date.
Reason for Extension: Academic delays, medical issues, etc.
Study Plan: Courses/projects to complete + revised timeline.
Home Ties: Family, job offers, or assets in your home country.
Closing: Gratitude + offer to provide more details.
Download [Free LOE Template PDF]
Visa Officer,
I, Maria Gonzalez (UCI: 12345678), respectfully request a study permit extension to complete my Master’s in Environmental Science at McGill University. My current permit expires on December 31, 2024, and I require an additional 6 months to finalize my research on Arctic biodiversity (expected graduation: June 2025).Reason for Extension: In March 2024, I took a 3-month medical leave (attached: doctor’s note) due to a severe respiratory infection. My supervisor, Dr. Emily Carter, has approved a revised thesis timeline (attached: department letter).
Study Plan: I will submit my thesis by April 2025 and present findings at the International Ecology Conference in July 2025.
Home Ties: Upon graduation, I’ll return to Mexico to lead a conservation project with GreenEarth MX (attached: employment offer).
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Maria Gonzalez
[Your full name]
[UCI # and DOB]
[Your mailing address]
[Date]
Re: Letter of Explanation for Study Permit Extension Application
State the purpose/context of your application as well as give an overview. For example:
I am applying for a study permit extension, as my current study permit expires on [date]. I am currently studying at Brock University in the [program name]. I started my program on [date] and am scheduled to complete my program on [date]. I am writing this letter to provide additional information for my application.
Explain proof of financial support. For example:
I have submitted documents to show that I am able to finance my studies. The main source of my support is [myself/my parents/my spouse]. I have a total of [amount CAD] available to me and expect my first year of studies, including tuition, daily living expenses and return travel home to cost [amount CAD]. Please see my proof of financial support for further information and my supporting documentation.
State any special circumstances or clarifications, if necessary.
If there is anything else you wish to clarify or explain. For example:
I kindly request a study permit extension and co-op work permit extension to the end of my program plus 90 days. I have provided a list of attachments that I am including in this study permit extension application at the bottom of this letter for your convenience as you review my application. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require additional documentation.
Thank you for considering my application and I look forward to your decision.
Sincerely,
[Your full name]
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
List the attachments to your application. For example:
List of attachments:
Proof of Enrollment: Letter from your school confirming program extension.
Academic Transcripts: Highlight completed courses and pending requirements.
Medical/Support Docs: If applicable (e.g., doctor’s notes, supervisor letters).
Financial Proof: Updated bank statements or sponsorship letters.
Passport Copy: All pages (even blank ones).
A: Partially. PGWP extensions (e.g., due to passport expiry) require proof of the issue (e.g., expired passport) and a revised work timeline. Download PGWP LOE sample.
A: 1–2 pages max. Be concise but thorough.
A: No. Always type and sign it digitally for clarity.
A: Explain why (e.g., program better aligns with career goals) and submit a new acceptance letter.
Address Gaps Early: If you took an unauthorized leave, consult an immigration consultant before applying.
Use IRCC Keywords: Phrases like “temporary residence” and “comply with conditions” show awareness of visa rules.
Double-Check Expiry Dates: 89% of refusals stem from expired passports or financial proofs.
Stuck on wording? Our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) review 200+ LOEs yearly. We’ll help you:
Turn refusal risks into strong arguments.
Format your letter for IRCC’s online portal.
Avoid vague language that triggers delays.
Book a 30-Min LOE Consultation
Author Bio:
Sanjay Prasher, RCIC, has helped 1,200+ international students extend their study permits. Specializing in LOEs and PGWP , he combines IRCC expertise with a focus on your unique goals.
To work in Canada on a temporary basis, foreign workers need the work permit. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) approve Canada work visas under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
Canada is well known for its spacious countryside, cultural diversity, superior education, healthcare system and economic stability, has one of the highest immigration rates and is considered one of the most popular destinations for Immigrants.
