Yes, in principle he can. You will have to show enough funds for ur stay there. But sine his application for PR was declined, this would probably have a -ve impact on ur application this time. CHC may feel that actually u want to settle there and since u could not get a PR, u r going under umbrella of Study Permit while ur intention is not study and that u r not gonna return.
I think its better if u apply without him, in the first place. You should find a way for him to join u later.