Canada has brought in an international study permit application cap for 2025, that is 550,162, thus limiting the total number of applications to be processed. The policy is set for January 22 to December 31, 2025. The policy will seek to control international students while bringing balance between the immigration goals and infrastructure and housing capacities.

"The cap was intended to best support the attainment of the immigration goals established by the Government of Canada. Once the cap is reach, no more applications will be accepted," said Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

The Immigration Minister, Marc Miller, had cut the number of study permits 35% down in 2024 and planned a further 10% reduction in 2025.

Exeptions from the cap

There are exceptions to the cap, such as applicants who fall under the inland family sponsorship category, protected persons, those who have obtained a study permit exemption order or who have filed for permanent residence.

Students planning to study at federally administered Designated Learning Institutions, exchange students, and primary or secondary school level students are also exempt.

Other key changes for international students

Canada has also introduced other key changes for international students. Students must now apply for a study permit extension before transferring schools. The new school should be on the Designated Learning Institution list and not on the suspension list. Students are required to submit necessary documents including why they are transferring and if qualified to start studies at the new institution. The scholarship recipients through Global Affairs Canada and the Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot selected also are exempt from the cap.