Canada has recorded a significant decline in the number of study permits approved in 2024.
After a record high of 681,390 in 2023, the approvals dropped to 518,125 in 2024. This decline follows the Canadian government’s efforts to regulate the influx of international students. The reduction comes amid concerns about housing shortages, overstretched public resources, and increasing tuition fees that place financial pressure on students.
On This Page You Will Find
- Key data and trends – Learn about the sharp decline in study permit approvals from 2023 to 2024 and why this trend is expected to continue in 2025.
- Government policy changes – Understand how Canada’s study permit cap, financial requirements, and post-graduation work permit (PGWP) rules impact international students.
- Effects on private and public institutions – See which colleges and universities are most affected by these changes.
- What international students should do next – Get practical tips on choosing the right institution, meeting financial requirements, and increasing your chances of approval.
- FAQs – Find answers to common questions about the study permit decline, new eligibility criteria, and what to expect in the coming years.
Canada’s Move to Limit International Students
In early 2024, Canada introduced stricter policies on international student intake. The government imposed a two-year cap on study permits, citing concerns over housing shortages, rising living costs, and pressure on public services. The restrictions particularly affect private colleges and institutions that lack strong student support frameworks. Provinces like Ontario and British Columbia, which host the majority of international students, are expected to feel the impact the most.
The government also introduced an attestation requirement, which forces students to obtain a formal approval letter from the province or territory where they intend to study. This measure aims to ensure that institutions accepting students have the necessary infrastructure to support them. Additionally, some institutions now face stricter regulations on the number of study permits they can sponsor.
How the Cap Impacts Private Colleges and Universities
Private colleges, which rely heavily on international students for revenue, are expected to face financial difficulties as fewer students enroll. Many students choose these institutions due to lower tuition fees or flexible admissions policies, but these schools now face increased scrutiny. Meanwhile, universities with strong reputations and robust student support programs are expected to maintain relatively stable numbers, as they continue to attract high-quality applicants.
Why Study Permit Approvals Will Drop Further in 2025
The decline in 2024 is just the beginning. In 2025, Canada is expected to further reduce study permit approvals due to several factors:
- Stricter Provincial Allocations: The new cap is distributed among provinces, with priority given to institutions with high academic standards and better student resources. Provinces with strained housing markets will see the strictest regulations.
- Financial Requirements: The financial proof required for study permits has increased.. This change makes it harder for students from lower-income backgrounds to qualify.
- Tighter Post-Graduation Work Permit Rules: Canada is revising post-graduation work permit (PGWP) eligibility, making it less attractive for students to study in private institutions with fewer employment pathways. Students enrolling in certain programs at private colleges will no longer be eligible for a PGWP, which could lead to fewer applications.
- Greater Scrutiny on Fraudulent Applications: The government is cracking down on fraudulent applications and institutions that operate as ‘diploma mills.’ International students must ensure they apply to designated learning institutions (DLIs) to avoid visa rejections.
These measures will likely result in an even lower number of approvals in 2025. Industry experts anticipate that only students with strong academic backgrounds, solid financial backing, and clear post-graduation plans will have a higher chance of obtaining study permits.
The Future of International Students in Canada
While Canada remains a top destination for international students, the current restrictions signal a shift in policy. Students planning to study in Canada must now ensure they apply to well-established institutions and meet higher financial requirements. With rising living costs and increasing competition for fewer spots, prospective students must be prepared for a more rigorous application process.
Canada’s economy has benefited significantly from international students, who contribute billions annually through tuition, rent, and other expenses. However, with stricter policies, some students may choose alternative destinations such as Australia, the UK, or Germany, which are actively welcoming international applicants.
Despite the current tightening of policies, Canada continues to promote study pathways that lead to permanent residency. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has emphasized that students who graduate from reputable institutions and contribute to the Canadian economy will still have strong opportunities to remain in the country.
What Prospective Students Should Do
If you’re planning to study in Canada, it’s crucial to stay informed about policy changes. Here are some tips to improve your chances of obtaining a study permit:
- Apply to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) that meets government criteria for international student support.
- Ensure you meet the new financial requirements by having sufficient proof of funds.
- Consider enrolling in a public university or college, as students at private institutions may face PGWP restrictions.
- Submit a complete, well-documented application to avoid rejection due to missing information.
- Stay updated on post-graduation work permit eligibility to maximize career opportunities in Canada.
As Canada tightens its immigration policies, international students must navigate a more complex system to achieve their academic and career goals.
FAQ
Why did Canada approve fewer study permits in 2024?
The Canadian government imposed a cap on study permits to address housing shortages, high living costs, and pressures on public services. The stricter regulations led to a drop in approvals.
Will study permit approvals decline further in 2025?
Yes. Canada has introduced stricter financial requirements, revised post-graduation work permit eligibility, and increased scrutiny on applications, which will likely lead to fewer approvals.
How do new financial requirements affect international students?
Students must now show higher proof of funds to cover tuition and living expenses, making it harder for some to qualify for study permits.
Which provinces are most affected by the new study permit rules?
Ontario and British Columbia, which receive the largest number of international students, are the most impacted by the study permit cap and new regulations. Provinces with housing shortages will face the strictest limits.
What should international students do to improve their chances of approval?
Students should apply to well-established institutions, ensure they meet financial requirements, and provide complete and accurate documentation in their applications. Checking if their institution is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is also important to avoid visa issues.
