Canada Caps Study Permits in 2025: How It Will Affect Indian Students

Ottawa, Canada – The Canadian government has decided to cap the number of study permit applications at 505,162 for the year 2025. This decision is taken to manage the inflow of international students and align immigration with provincial capacities. This will most likely affect the Indian students who make up a significant proportion of international students in Canada.

To simplify the process, all study permit applications must now be accompanied by an attestation letter from the relevant province or territory to the effect that the application is in line with regional needs. Applications without such a letter will automatically be rejected.

Impact on Indian Students:

• Increased Competition: The cap will likely intensify competition among applicants, including those from India.
• Academic and English Proficiency: Students will face increased pressure to excel academically and in English proficiency tests.
• Potential for Increased Stress: The heightened competition may exacerbate educational stress and inequalities among students.
• Impact on Indian Universities: The cap could incentivize Indian universities to enhance their offerings to attract students who might have otherwise chosen Canada.

Current Situation:

• In the first half of 2024, Canada approved study permits for 55,500 Indian students, comprising 49% of all international post-secondary students.
• Indian students historically enjoy a high approval rate (85%), indicating strong prospects for study in Canada.

Exemptions:

• Students renewing their study permits at the same Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and level of study are exempt from the cap.

This cap marks a significant shift in Canada’s immigration policy and will likely influence future educational and migration trends between Canada and India.