How do I know if I require a provincial attestation letter (PAL)?

Woman filling in a form on a computer

For undergraduate/graduate international applicants. Can only be viewed on a desktop computer.

The Government of Canada announced a cap on the number of study visas to be issued as well as the requirement for a provincial attestation letter (PAL) when applying for a study permit.

If you are an international student and have received or accepted an Offer of Admission from the University of Waterloo, you will require a PAL when applying for a study permit.

Personal information that will be reflected on your PAL:

  • Your Home address in Quest must be up to date. Update your home address in Quest, as required.
  • Your Legal/Primary name and Date of Birth in Quest must match the date of birth on your passport.

  1. Sign in to Quest.
  2. Select the Personal Information tile.
    Personal information tile in Quest.
  3. Select the Provincial Attestation Letter link on the left. The provincial attestation letter page will display.
    Provincial Attestation Letter tab in Quest.
  4. Select the term for which you require the PAL. Select Continue.
    Select a term in Quest.
  5. Complete the PAL Questionnaire by answering Yes or No to each question. The length of the questionnaire and the results will depend on how you answer each question presented to you.
  6. Once you have completed the questionnaire, one of two results will display:
    • You do not need a provincial attestation letter. You have completed the questionnaire. Follow the guidance provided.
    • You require a provincial attestation letter. Follow the guidance based on your status as an applicant or current student.
      You required a Provincial Attestation Letter message in Quest.

      Select Submit to request a PAL. The date and term of your request will immediately display next to the Submit button as a confirmation of successful submission.
      PAL submission message in Quest.
  7. Come back to Quest to download your PAL once it is ready.