The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently unveiled the new study permit allocations for 2025. This major update aims to manage the impact of international students on Canadian resources such as housing and healthcare.
Canada’s New 2025 Cap On Study Permits
The new cap for 2025 is set at 437,000 study permits, a 10% decrease from last year’s allocation. This strategic measure manages public service strain and maintains educational standards.
Here’s how the numbers break down:
Category |
2025 Target |
---|---|
Graduate Degree Students |
73,282 |
Kindergarten to Grade 12 (PAL/TAL-exempt) |
72,200 |
All Other PAL/TAL-exempt Applicants |
48,524 |
Remaining PAL/TAL-required Cohorts |
242,994 |
Total |
437,000 |
Provincial and Territorial Allocations
Each province and territory has received specific allocations based on past performance and expected needs:
- Ontario: 116,740 permits
- British Columbia: 53,589 permits
- Quebec: 72,977 permits
Detailed allocations for other provinces and territories include:
Province/Territory |
Graduate Degree Students |
Remaining PAL/TAL-required Cohorts |
Total |
---|---|---|---|
Alberta |
3,887 |
28,773 |
32,660 |
Manitoba |
1,224 |
8,797 |
10,021 |
New Brunswick |
1,400 |
5,030 |
6,430 |
Newfoundland and Labrador |
1,456 |
3,208 |
4,664 |
Nova Scotia |
1,954 |
6,343 |
8,297 |
Ontario |
21,841 |
94,899 |
116,740 |
These numbers reflect a strategic shift towards sustainable growth in the international student sector, balancing the needs of educational institutions and local communities.
New Requirements and Exemptions

Starting in 2025, a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) will be required for master’s and doctoral students. However, exemptions remain for primary and secondary school students, specific government priority groups, and students extending their study permits at the same institution and level.
The new requirements aim to streamline the process and ensure that only genuine students who meet the criteria are granted permits. This change is expected to improve the overall quality of education and reduce the administrative burden on educational institutions.
Impact of the New Policy

Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) will have to comply rigorously with new regulations regarding student reporting and verification of acceptance letters. Non-compliance may lead to suspension, significantly affecting an institution’s ability to attract international talent.
The policy has garnered mixed reactions:
- Students and Prospective Applicants: Concerns about the increased competition for securing a study permit.
- Local Communities: Relief regarding public service strain but concerns about economic impacts due to reduced student spending.
- Educational Sectors: Institutions now focus on quality over quantity, emphasizing sustainable growth.
The cap on international students for 2025 signifies a notable policy shift by the Canadian government, aiming for a balanced approach to immigration, education, and resource management. This move could redefine Canada’s standing as an educational destination, with long-term implications for both domestic policy and global educational exchanges.
Conclusion

As the year progresses, the effects of these changes will be closely monitored by students, institutions, and communities nationwide. The 2025 cap represents a significant policy shift, balancing the influx of international students with the need to manage public resources effectively. This balanced approach is expected to benefit both the Canadian education system and international students, ensuring a sustainable future for all stakeholders involved.