Canada has revealed its international student enrolment limits for 2025, projecting to issue a total of 437,000 new study permits, which marks a 10% decrease from the 2024 cap of 485,000 permits. This reduction is part of the government’s strategy to manage international student enrolment while tackling issues related to housing, healthcare, and additional services.
The updated cap encompasses provisions for students needing a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) as well as those who are exempt, like K-12 students, exchange students, and students seeking extensions at the same school. Significantly, 316,276 of the study permits will be allocated to students who are required to apply with a PAL, encompassing college, undergraduate, language, and graduate learners.
The distribution of PALs will be spread among provinces, with Ontario getting the most at 181,000 allocations, of which 96% will be for public postsecondary institutions. Other regions, including British Columbia, Quebec, and Alberta, will likewise get substantial allocations.
The implementation of the cap in 2024 resulted in a 45% reduction in granted study permits relative to 2023, with numerous analysts indicating that the government’s reaction was an excessive adjustment. The updated policy landscape has created uncertainty and reduced student enthusiasm, leading to the actual study permit numbers dropping under the cap for 2024.
The Canadian government has highlighted its dedication to providing international students with the skills required to thrive in sectors that meet the demands of the country’s labor market. The distribution of PALs and the implementation of new policies seek to achieve a balance between handling international student enrolment and fostering Canada’s economic development.
Breakdown of Study Permit Targets for 2025:
– Total study permits: 437,000
– Study permits for students requiring a PAL: 316,276
– Study permits for graduate students: 73,282
– Study permits for K-12 students, exchange students, and students applying for extensions: 120,724
Provincial Allocations:
– Ontario: 181,000 allocations
– British Columbia: 53,589 allocations
– Quebec: 72,977 allocations
– Alberta: 32,660 allocations
For more information on the Canadian government’s international student enrolment policies, visit the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
