Why We Created PASS
Each year, many capable international students are denied Canadian study permits—not because they lack potential, but because their applications don’t clearly demonstrate financial preparedness, academic alignment, or genuine intent.
Meanwhile, immigration officers are expected to make high-stakes decisions quickly, often based on incomplete or inconsistent information.
PASS was created to bridge that gap. It offers a clear, structured, and verified assessment of an applicant’s financial capacity, academic background, and career alignment—making it easier for immigration officers, institutions, and advisors to assess whether a student is truly ready to succeed in Canada.
What Is a PASS?
PASS is a verifiable certificate issued by Passage. It confirms that a student has passed a rigorous, multi-step evaluation and has been approved for financing to cover tuition fees and/or living expenses while studying in Canada.
How it works:
Tuition fees are paid directly to the Canadian institution to ensure enrollment and academic progress.
Living expenses are deposited in monthly installments over 12 months, once the student:
Obtains a valid Canadian study permit
Arrives in Canada
Opens a Canadian bank account
This structure provides the student with the support they need throughout their studies, while maintaining full financial traceability.
What It Takes to Get a PASS
PASS is not automatically issued. It is only granted to applicants who meet Passage’s high standards—aligned with Canadian immigration, academic, and financial expectations. The assessment includes:
✅ Academic background review – including transcripts, degrees, and relevant certifications
✅ Proof of admission to a recognized Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada
✅ Financial review – assessing whether the applicant can meet the cost of study and living
✅ Language proficiency – ability to communicate in English and/or French at the required academic level
✅ Identity verification & compliance checks – Selfie match, tamper and forgery detection, and full KYC screening in line with relevant Canadian standards
✅ Program and career alignment – assessing the student’s study plan matches their background and aligns with Canadian labour market demand
✅ Commitment and understanding – assessing that the applicant is fully aware of their academic and financial responsibilities
Only applicants who meet all criteria receive a PASS. This makes it a trusted, evidence-based indicator of readiness, not just a generic support letter.
What PASS Means for a Study Permit Application
PASS does not replace IRCC’s official process, nor does it guarantee approval. However, it acts as a strong supporting document that clearly shows the applicant has been carefully assessed for financial reliability, academic preparedness, and intent to study.
Because PASS is only issued to applicants who meet Canada’s academic, immigration, and economic priorities, it offers additional clarity and confidence to immigration officers reviewing the file.
Each PASS is fully verifiable.
How to Get a PASS
Students begin by completing a short online eligibility check. Those who meet the basic criteria are invited to submit documents and complete Passage’s structured assessment process. Only top-performing candidates receive financing approval and are issued a PASS.
For students: PASS adds clarity, structure, and credibility to your study permit application. Check your eligibility. Here.
For admission advisors and institutions: PASS provides verified insight into a student’s readiness and financing.
For immigration officers: PASS presents a structured, reliable summary of key factors that matter most.
In short: PASS is one important piece of a strong study permit application. It doesn’t replace IRCC’s process—but it helps ensure qualified, serious students are recognized and supported from day one.
Disclaimer: The information provided is for general informational purposes only, should not be considered legal, financial, or immigration advice and should not be relied upon. Passage is not a licensed immigration consultant and does not provide immigration or visa-related services. We make no representations or warranties, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, completeness, or applicability of the information provided. Immigration laws and policies change frequently; for the most up-to-date and personalized guidance, please consult a licensed immigration professional or visit the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) at this link.