The IRCC has announced a new limit on study permit applications for 2025. On January 18, 2025, it was revealed that it would cap the number of study permit applications at 505,162 for the year. This study permit cap for 2025 will take effect from January 22 and remain in place until December 31, 2025.
What Does the Cap Mean?
This cap means that IRCC will process up to 505,162 study permit applications. Once the cap is reached, any additional applications will not be processed. Instead, they will be returned to applicants, along with a refund of the application fees.
This does not mean they will approve 505,162 Study permit applications but will consider this many applications. Many applications may still be denied as part of IRCC’s regular review process.
Why Has Canada Introduced the Cap?
The federal government’s decision to implement the study permit cap for 2025 is part of its broader strategy to manage the number of temporary residents in Canada. By limiting the number of new study permits issued, the government aims to control population growth and ensure that Canada’s immigration system can continue to provide high-quality services to those who are admitted.
Provincial and territorial governments have already received their allocation of international student spaces for the year. These allocations are based on the 505,162 processing target set by IRCC.
Who Is Exempt From the Cap?
Not all study permit applicants will be affected by this new cap. According to IRCC’s ministerial instructions, the following groups are exempt:
- Applicants renewing their study permit at the same Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and level of study.
- Applicants with unenforceable removal orders who hold a temporary resident permit valid for at least six months.
- Applicants sponsored for immigration by a Canadian loved one, protected persons, or those who have applied for permanent residency and hold an exemption order.
- Exchange students attending a Canadian DLI.
- Students attending DLIs are administered by a federal department or agency.
- Scholarship recipients funded by Global Affairs Canada.
- Participants in the Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot.
- Applicants are covered by public policies enacted by the immigration minister to address crises or pressures.
- Indigenous persons and their families exempt from study permit requirements under certain policies.
Difference Between Applications Processed and Approved
The study permit cap for 2025 specifies the total number of applications IRCC will process but not how many will be approved. In previous years, IRCC has implemented similar caps while maintaining a rejection rate based on historical data.
For example, in 2024, IRCC aimed to process 606,250 study permit applications and approve 364,000 of them. This year, the processing target has been reduced to 505,162 applications. However, IRCC has not yet disclosed how many study permits it intends to approve in 2025.
Long-Term Plans for International Students
Canada’s 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan outlines a goal to welcome 305,900 new international students annually. It’s common for there to be a time gap between when students apply for a permit and when they arrive in Canada to begin their studies.
Conclusion
If you are planning to apply for a study permit, it’s crucial to act early in 2025. Ensure your application is complete and meets all requirements to avoid delays or rejections. Stay informed about your eligibility, especially if you fall under one of the exemption categories.
