The Canadian government has announced new limits on study permits for international students for 2026 through 2028. These caps will reduce intake by nearly half compared to the 2025 limit. Specifically, for 2026 the cap is 155,000 new study permits (a 49 % reduction from the 2025 ceiling), and for both 2027 and 2028 it will be 150,000 each year.
These figures mark a sharp downward revision from earlier projections, which had anticipated limits of 385,000 for 2026 and 370,000 annually for 2027 and 2028.
The cap applies broadly, covering students enrolling in colleges, undergraduate programmes, language training of more than six months, graduate diploma courses, and master’s and doctoral study.
The government’s explanation notes that the immigration system has become increasingly complex and less efficient, and that the rapid growth in temporary residents has put pressures on housing, healthcare and schooling. For example, the proportion of temporary residents in Canada’s population rose from 3.3 % in 2018 to 7.5 % by 2024.
What this means for prospective international students:
🇨🇦 Key Implications for Prospective Students
1. Fewer study permits available
Canada is significantly reducing the number of new international study permits — nearly 50% fewer than before. This means much tougher competition for places, especially in undergraduate and college programs.
2. Lower chances of approval
Approval rates are already falling. In early 2025, only about 30% of applications were approved, compared with over 50% the year before. Students will need stronger applications and clearer study intentions to improve their chances.
3. Some programs more affected than others
The cap applies to most types of study — college, undergraduate, master’s, PhD, and language programs over six months. However, students in higher-degree programs (master’s and PhD) may still have slightly better prospects, as these align more closely with Canada’s long-term immigration goals.
4. Possible delays or limited intakes
With fewer study permits and processing capacity, intake periods may be reduced or delayed, and some institutions may limit international admissions for upcoming intakes (2026–2028).
5. Greater scrutiny on institutions and offers
Canada is tightening oversight to ensure international enrolment growth is sustainable. Students should apply only to Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in good standing and avoid programs with uncertain future approval.
6. Impact on post-study opportunities
While the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) remains available, smaller intake numbers and a shift toward permanent resident balance may reduce future immigration pathways for some students.