Canada Sets Study Permit Applications Cap for 2025

As of January 22, 2025, the Canadian federal government has established a cap on study permit applications, limiting them to a total of 505,162 for the remainder of the year. This decision was announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in ministerial instructions issued on January 18, 2025. The cap will remain in place until December 31, 2025, ensuring that only applications submitted within this limit will be processed. Any applications received beyond the cap will be returned automatically, along with a refund of the paid fees.

This cap specifically refers to the number of applications accepted for processing, not the number of permits granted. Implementing this limit aims to moderate the number of new temporary residents in Canada.

Exemptions from the Cap

Certain applicants are exempt from this new processing limit. These include individuals seeking to renew their study permit at the same Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and at the same level of education they currently pursue. Additionally, those under an unenforceable removal order with a temporary resident permit valid for at least six months can also bypass this cap. Other exemptions include:

• Individuals sponsored for immigration through in-land sponsorship
• Protected persons and their family members
• Exchange students at a DLI in Canada
• Recipients of scholarships funded by Global Affairs Canada
• Participants in the Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot

These exemptions ensure that critical pathways for study remain open to various categories of applicants.

Understanding Application Processing vs. Approvals

It’s important to note that the 505,162 figure pertains to applications that IRCC will consider, not the number approved. This target reflects an effort to manage the study permit process effectively. Previous comments from Immigration Minister Marc Miller suggest that the department anticipates a consistent rejection rate, which helps inform their processing goals. This year's cap is notably lower than the 606,250 applications targeted in 2024, which aimed for 364,000 approvals.

The 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan outlines Canada’s intention to welcome 305,900 new international students annually. However, this target does not equate to the number of approved study permits; instead, it reflects the goal for new students entering Canada. Given the time gap between application submissions and student arrivals, there remains a distinction between approvals and actual entries into Canada.

Need help navigating the process? Book a consultation today to discuss your options and get personalized advice!