Canada has long been a preferred destination for higher education and employment, particularly for Indian students. However, in recent years, the country has experienced a significant rise in international student enrollments, placing considerable pressure on its education and immigration systems. In response, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has implemented stricter policies to manage student admissions. Key changes, such as the introduction of a study permit cap and the new requirement for a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL), will drastically alter how students gain access to Canada.
According to Statistics Canada, as of April 2024, there were over one million valid study visas in the country. Here’s a look at the growth in international student enrollments in Canada from 2019 to 2023:
Study permit cap for 2025
In September 2024, to ease pressure on housing, healthcare, and other essential services, IRCC implemented a cap on study permit applications. This move resulted in a 40% reduction in international student arrivals, helping to stabilize rental markets in high-demand areas. For 2025, the study permit allocation has been finalized at 437,000 permits, a 10% decrease from the 2024 cap of 485,000.
New PAL/TAL requirement
In a game-changing policy update, IRCC has introduced new rules for the Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) and Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) requirements. Under the new regulations, most study permit applicants will need to submit either a PAL or TAL. These documents confirm that applicants comply with the study permit caps set by provinces and territories, ensuring that each province has the capacity to accommodate new students.
Graduate students affected
Previously exempt from study permit caps, graduate students will now also be subject to these new restrictions. Graduate permits will be capped at 2023 levels to prevent overcrowding in master’s and PhD programs. This change is expected to have a significant impact on popular universities, particularly in regions like Quebec and Ontario, which host the highest number of graduate students. Notably, IRCC has extended this requirement to both master’s and doctoral students, as outlined on its official website.
Provincial allocations
Study permit allocations are not distributed evenly across Canada. Some provinces receive a larger share than others. Here’s a breakdown of the top four provinces receiving the most permits:
- Ontario: 116,740
- Quebec: 72,977
- British Columbia: 53,489
- Alberta: 32,660
In contrast, the provinces with the fewest study permits allocated are:
- Nunavut: 220
- Northwest Territories: 220
- Yukon: 339
- Prince Edward Island: 1,250
Students should carefully choose their study destination, as some provinces have limited spots available.
Stricter rules for Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs)
Starting November 2024, Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) will be required to regularly verify students’ academic status and ensure that acceptance letters are genuine. Failure to comply with these requirements could result in severe consequences, including a one-year suspension from admitting international students.
Since 2015, IRCC has collaborated with DLIs to strengthen reporting processes. Under the new regulations, DLIs that fail to submit required compliance reports or verify acceptance letters will face penalties. Twice a year, DLIs must submit reports to IRCC confirming whether students holding study permits remain enrolled. Students who are no longer enrolled may be subject to investigation and enforcement actions, as this could signal a breach of study permit conditions.
Impact of new study permit policies and how to secure a spot
The new policies in Canada will have a significant impact on international students, limiting their options for study destinations and program choices. With the introduction of the PAL/TAL requirement, students must ensure compliance with provincial study permit caps, which could restrict entry to high-demand areas like Ontario and Quebec. Graduate students, previously exempt from these restrictions, will now face the same limits, affecting their chances of admission to popular universities.
To secure a seat in their desired college, students should carefully select their study destination, ensure timely application, and monitor permit caps in different provinces. Additionally, staying informed about DLI compliance and maintaining active enrollment status will be essential for a smooth application process.
