Canada to Accept Fewer International Students in 2025

Canada has announced another reduction in the number of international students permitted to enter the country in 2025. This adjustment continues the approach started in 2024, aiming to balance immigration levels with housing availability, healthcare capacity, and other essential services.

The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has confirmed that the number of study permits issued in 2025 will be capped at 437,000, representing a 10% decrease from the previous year.

This move comes in response to growing concerns over the impact of rapid population growth on rental markets, education, and public services.

Why Is Canada Reducing Study Permits?

Several factors have influenced this decision:

• Housing Pressures: A rising student population has contributed to increased demand for rental housing, particularly in cities with large universities.

• Healthcare System Strain: More residents mean higher demand for medical services, which has raised concerns about sustainability.

• Education System Adjustments: The government wants to ensure institutions maintain quality education while managing student intake effectively.

• Sustainable Growth: Authorities are taking steps to prevent unchecked expansion, particularly in the graduate student sector.

These measures are not aimed at discouraging international students but rather at creating a manageable and well-structured system that benefits both students and the country.

Changes in Study Permit Requirements

Provincial Attestation Letters (PAL/TAL)

Since the introduction of the cap, most applicants are required to obtain a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) to confirm their eligibility.

For 2025, this requirement has been extended to include master’s and doctoral students, as well as many students applying from within Canada. However, exemptions remain in place for certain groups:

• Primary and secondary school students

• Government-supported or priority applicants

• Students renewing their study permits for the same institution and study level

Breakdown of Study Permits for 2025

The distribution of study permits across student categories is planned as follows:

Category	Expected Study Permits
Graduate Degree Students	73,282
Kindergarten to Grade 12 (Exempt)	72,200
Other Exempt Applicants	48,524
PAL/TAL-Required Cohorts	242,994
Total	437,000

A significant portion of study permits will still be issued to applicants requiring a PAL/TAL, while over 120,000 students will receive exemptions.

Study Permit Distribution by Province

Different provinces and territories will receive allocations based on past approval rates. The table below provides a breakdown of the expected study permits for graduate students and other PAL/TAL-required applicants:

Province/Territory	Graduate Students	PAL/TAL-Required Students	Total
Alberta	3,887	28,773	32,660
British Columbia	20,053	33,536	53,589
Manitoba	1,224	8,797	10,021
Ontario	21,841	94,899	116,740
Quebec	19,683	53,294	72,977
Saskatchewan	1,578	7,291	8,869
Total	73,282	242,994	316,276

Stricter Compliance Rules for Educational Institutions

As of November 2024, Canadian universities and colleges must actively participate in student compliance reporting. This includes verifying the authenticity of letters of acceptance.

If institutions fail to meet these new standards, they may face suspension for up to one year, preventing them from accepting new international students.

What This Means for Prospective Students

For those planning to study in Canada, these changes emphasize the importance of:

• Early Application: With fewer permits available, applying as soon as possible increases the chances of securing a place.

• Meeting PAL/TAL Requirements: Understanding provincial guidelines and securing required documentation is now essential.

• Exploring Alternative Provinces: Some regions may have more available permits, making them attractive options for applicants.