Planning to Study in Canada? Here’s What’s New in 2025

If you’re preparing to study in Canada in 2025, there’s one thing you need to know up front: the rules have changed. Not to make things harder—but to make them clearer, more focused, and more aligned with Canada’s broader goals around housing, education, and labour market needs.

Whether you’re just beginning to explore your options or already holding an offer letter, understanding these changes is now a critical part of the process.

A National Cap Is in Place—and It Matters

For 2025, the number of new study permit applications accepted for processing is limited to around 437,000—but only about 292,000 are expected to be approved this year. That’s nearly a 28% reduction compared to 2023 [1].

If you’re applying to a college or undergraduate program, your application will likely require a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)—a formal confirmation from the province that your spot is within their allocated share. No PAL, no study permit.

Graduate-level programs (master’s and PhD) and primary/secondary school students are generally exempt from this requirement, but most post-secondary applicants are not [1].

PGWP Rules Are Tighter

As of September 1, 2024, students graduating from public-private partnership institutions—where a private college operates under a public school’s license—are no longer eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) [2].

In addition, graduates from college or diploma programs will only qualify for a PGWP if their field of study aligns with Canada’s labour market priorities, using the government’s Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) system [2].

Translation: not every program will lead to work rights anymore. It now depends on what you study—and where.

Financial Proof Is Now Stricter

As of January 1, 2024, new applicants must show a minimum of CAD $20,635 (excluding tuition and travel costs) to meet basic financial eligibility. This figure is tied to the Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO) and is updated annually [3].

This new requirement applies only to first-time applicants—not to those renewing or extending existing permits.

The Early Impact: Fewer Approvals in Key Countries

In the first quarter of 2025 alone, Canada saw a 31% drop in approved study permits for students from India—Canada’s largest international student source country [4].

Colleges in Ontario and British Columbia, where international enrolment was previously booming, are now facing smaller, more controlled intake levels.

It’s not about closing the door. It’s about making sure the system is sustainable—for students, schools, and the communities they join.

Here’s What You Can Do

• • Start Early – PALs are limited and application volumes are high. Don’t wait until the last minute.

• • Choose Your Program Wisely – Not every program leads to a PGWP. Make sure yours does.

• • Check Financial Requirements – Confirm that you meet the new minimum before you apply.

• • Use Reliable Help – Work only with Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) and licensed immigration professionals.

This is a Different Era for Study in Canada

It’s no longer just about getting admitted. It’s about showing that your plan makes sense—financially, academically, and in terms of what comes next.

Canada is still open to international students. But the system has become more selective, more structured, and more aligned with long-term priorities.

If you’re looking to start your studies in Canada in 2025 or beyond, now’s the time to ask the right questions, gather the right documents, and build a strategy that’s grounded in the latest regulations.

We’re here to help you do exactly that.