May 5, 2026 - Important Updates from Seneca Polytechnic | Registered International Agents

As we continue to monitor our high volume of applications, Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) allocation and study permit approvals for 2026, we have implemented key changes to support applicants.

1. Assessing second PAL requests

As with all other institutions in Ontario, Seneca was allocated a limited number of PALs for 2026. Because of that, we cannot guarantee second PALs for all applicants and will need to evaluate second PAL requests based on IRCC study permit eligibility.

How you can support your applicants:

• Ensure their study permit application is submitted before their PAL expires
• Review their study permit application thoroughly to minimize risk of refusal
• Inform them to update Seneca on their study permit application status in Student Home using this step-by-step guide
• Advise applicants to request another PAL by emailing The Service Hub with subject line ‘PAL request’ if their study permit is refused and to follow all steps, such as completing a questionnaire, within the timelines provided by a Seneca team member

2. Changes in academic requirements

Based on IRCC study permit approval trends, we updated some of our academic requirements, effective Wednesday, April 1, 2026, to strengthen applicant profiles.

How you can support your applicants:

• Confirm they meet the latest academic requirements for their program of choice
• Assess their applicant profile based on IRCC study permit eligibility and our criteria for international offers before applying to Seneca

3. First semester fees required for LOA and PAL as of May 5, 2026

Starting May 5, 2026, applicants must pay first semester fees to receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) and if required, Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL). This change has been implemented to strengthen applicant profiles and support study permit success.

How you can support your applicants:

• Ensure your applicant pays full semester fees by the due date provided in their fee notice using our payment methods to secure their LOA and PAL (if applicable)
• Include applicant’s payment receipt and additional proof of financial support  to pay for their living expenses and travel to and from Canada in their study permit application

4. Administrative fees change as of May 5, 2026

Starting May 5, 2026, a $100 administrative fee will be deducted for withdrawal and refund requests if the applicant’s study permit application has been rejected by the IRCC, or their study plan is no longer viable due to IRCC policy changes.

Please note there is no change to the $2,000 administrative fee that is deducted from paid fees if the applicant withdraws or requests for refund for any other reasons.

Learn more about our deferral and refund policy.

5. Application processing time

We are currently experiencing higher-than-usual application volumes from some regions, and exceptional demand for certain programs. The processing times may take us longer to get back to applicants than we would want.

How you can support your applicants:

• Ensure their applications are complete and any supporting documentation has been submitted to Seneca
• Inform your applicant to continue monitoring their email for updates on their application

We are here to support you and will continue to share regular updates. Thank you for all that you do to support future Seneca students.

Please feel free to use our helpful resources or contact us if you have any questions.