Ottawa, January 24, 2025—Over the past year, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has implemented significant changes aimed at strengthening Canada’s immigration system, preparing international students for life in Canada, and addressing the evolving needs of the country.
Following the introduction of the study permit cap in 2024, Canada has reduced the number of international students by approximately 40%, easing pressure on housing, healthcare, and other services. Now, as we move into 2025, the IRCC has finalized the study permit allocations for each province and territory, ensuring a well-managed system that reflects sustainable growth and quality education for international students.
This article provides a breakdown of the 2025 allocations, including the national target for study permits, the updated requirements for applicants, and the expected number of permits issued across provinces and territories.
2025 Study Permit Cap: Key Changes and Allocations
The IRCC plans to issue 437,000 study permits in 2025, which represents a 10% decrease from the 2024 cap. This adjustment aims to ensure Canada’s infrastructure can manage the growing demand for international students while maintaining the quality of life for all residents. The reduction in permits will also help alleviate some of the strain on Canadian public services.
Table 1: Breakdown of Study Permits for 2025 by Student Cohort
| Cohort Type | Study Permits |
| Graduate Degree Students | 73,282 |
| Kindergarten to Grade 12 Applicants (PAL/TAL-exempt) | 72,200 |
| All Other PAL/TAL-exempt Applicants | 48,524 |
| Remaining PAL/TAL-required Cohorts | 242,994 |
| Total | 437,000 |
Since the introduction of the study permit cap last year, most study permit applicants are required to submit a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL). This requirement now extends to graduate students (master’s and doctoral), as well as most applicants applying from within Canada. However, exchange students are now exempt from this requirement, maintaining the reciprocal agreements for Canadian students studying abroad.
Exemptions continue for:
- Students enrolled in primary and secondary education (kindergarten through grade 12).
- Specific priority groups and vulnerable populations as designated by the Government of Canada.
- Current study permit holders seeking an extension at the same designated learning institution (DLI) and pursuing studies at the same academic level.
Table 2: Expected Study Permit Allocations by Province and Territory
| Province/Territory | Graduate Students | Remaining PAL/TAL-Required Students | Total Expected Permits |
| Alberta | 3,887 | 28,773 | 32,660 |
| British Columbia | 20,053 | 33,536 | 53,589 |
| Manitoba | 1,224 | 8,797 | 10,021 |
| New Brunswick | 1,400 | 5,030 | 6,430 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 1,456 | 3,208 | 4,664 |
| Northwest Territories | 0 | 220 | 220 |
| Nova Scotia | 1,954 | 6,343 | 8,297 |
| Ontario | 21,841 | 94,899 | 116,740 |
| Quebec | 19,683 | 53,294 | 72,977 |
| Saskatchewan | 1,578 | 7,291 | 8,869 |
| Total | 73,282 | 242,994 | 316,276 |
Impact of Allocations and New Regulations
These allocations represent the maximum number of study permit applications that will be processed for students required to submit a PAL/TAL with their study permit application. The graduate student sector, while growing, is now included under the cap to ensure manageable growth. The cap for graduate students in 2025 will reflect the number of study permits issued in 2023, which helps ensure stability in this critical sector.
Another significant change is the new regulations for Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs). As of November 2024, DLIs must participate in student compliance reporting and letter of acceptance verification. Failing to comply with these regulations could lead to a suspension of up to one year, preventing DLIs from accepting new international students.
Table 3: Detailed Study Permit Allocations by Province/Territory for 2025 (Capped Cohorts)
| Province/Territory | Graduate Students Allocations | Other PAL/TAL-Required Students Allocations | Total Allocations |
| Alberta | 5,256 | 42,082 | 47,338 |
| British Columbia | 28,333 | 47,754 | 76,087 |
| Manitoba | 1,980 | 16,611 | 18,591 |
| New Brunswick | 3,112 | 11,673 | 14,785 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 2,648 | 6,534 | 9,182 |
| Northwest Territories | 0 | 705 | 705 |
| Nova Scotia | 4,191 | 14,411 | 18,602 |
| Ontario | 32,579 | 149,011 | 181,590 |
| Quebec | 38,786 | 123,956 | 162,742 |
| Saskatchewan | 2,791 | 14,850 | 17,641 |
| Total | 120,068 | 430,094 | 550,162 |
Conclusion: Navigating the 2025 Study Permit Landscape
Canada’s adjustments to its study permit allocations reflect a strategic approach to balancing growth in international education with sustainable immigration management. As the 2025 study permit cap comes into effect, it’s crucial for prospective international students to understand the new requirements, including PAL/TAL submission, and ensure timely application submissions.
The implementation of the cap, alongside the inclusion of graduate students, provides a manageable pathway for attracting global talent while safeguarding Canada’s educational system. As we move forward, staying informed and prepared will be essential for students and institutions navigating these changes.
At Growing Globe Immigration, we are committed to guiding international students through Canada’s immigration processes with professionalism and expertise.
