In 2024, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, commonly referred to as IRCC, implemented a cap on the number of study permit applications allowed for processing.
This strategic decision aimed to maintain the integrity of the International Student Program while alleviating the pressures on critical services such as housing and healthcare. As a result of this cap, Canada saw a significant reduction in the influx of international students, approximately 40%, which subsequently contributed to easing the strain on rental markets that typically accommodate high student populations.
Looking ahead, the allocations for study permits for 2025 have been finalized, with IRCC planning to issue a total of 437,000 study permits. This figure represents a 10% decrease from the cap established in 2024. A notable requirement introduced since the cap's inception is the need for most study permit applicants to submit a provincial or territorial attestation letter, known as a PAL or TAL. This requirement is now extended to include master’s and doctoral students, as well as most applicants who are applying from within Canada. To facilitate the educational journey of graduate students, spaces have been specifically reserved for them. Additionally, a new exemption for exchange students has been implemented, ensuring that Canadian students can continue to benefit from reciprocal agreements that allow them to study abroad.
Certain groups remain exempt from the PAL/TAL submission requirement. These include primary and secondary school students, specific vulnerable cohorts, and existing study permit holders who are seeking an extension at the same designated learning institution and level of study.
The breakdown of the expected study permits for 2025 by student cohort is telling. For graduate degree students, a total of 73,282 permits are anticipated. Kindergarten to grade 12 applicants, who are exempt from the PAL/TAL requirement, are expected to receive 72,200 permits. Additionally, there are 48,524 permits allocated for other PAL/TAL-exempt applicants, while the remaining 242,994 permits will be issued to cohorts that require the PAL/TAL documentation. This brings the total to the targeted 437,000 study permits for the year.
Among the anticipated study permits, 120,724 will be allocated to students exempt from the PAL/TAL requirement, while 316,267 will be designated for those who need to submit the required documentation. A detailed examination of the expected permits by province or territory reveals that Ontario will see the highest number of permits issued, followed by British Columbia and Quebec. The allocations are designed to reflect the average approval rates observed in 2023 and 2024, ensuring that the targeted numbers for capped cohorts are achieved.
The decision to include graduate international students under the cap is seen as a precautionary measure to manage growth sustainably within this sector. Consequently, the number of study permits for graduate students in 2025 is expected to match the figures from 2023, with each province and territory's allocation based on their respective issuance in the previous year.
It is crucial to note that designated learning institutions, or DLIs, are not permitted to carry over any unused allocation spaces or PAL/TALs from the prior year. With new regulations set to come into effect in November 2024, DLIs will also be mandated to participate in compliance reporting and verification processes regarding letters of acceptance. Non-compliance could lead to a suspension of up to one year, during which the institution would be prohibited from accepting new international students.
In conclusion, the IRCC is committed to working collaboratively with provinces and territories to enhance the International Student Program, ensuring that it remains robust and responsive to the needs of both students and the communities they join.
Source: IRCC newsroom