Canada Announces 2026 Study Permit Cap- 7% Cut and Full Breakdown for International Students
Canada has officially announced the 2026 study permit cap, confirming a 7% reduction in the total number of permits the government plans to issue. As the country works to lower temporary resident levels and ease pressure on housing and public services, the new rules will significantly shape the landscape for international students planning to study in Canada.
This updated cap follows similar reductions in 2024 and 2025, solidifying Canada’s shift toward a more controlled and sustainable international student system.
Study Permit Targets for 2024–2026: A Three-Year Decline
Canada has been reducing international student intake since 2024. The targets across the three years show a clear downward trend:
| Year | National Study Permit Target | Change From Previous Year |
| 2024 | 485,000 | — |
| 2025 | 437,000 | –10% |
| 2026 | 408,000 | –7% |
In total, Canada will issue 77,000 fewer study permits in 2026 compared to 2024, reflecting a shift toward stabilization after years of record-high student arrivals.
2026 Study Permit Allocation by Category
IRCC released a detailed category-based breakdown:
A. New Students vs. Returning Students
- 155,000 permits — for new international students entering Canada for the first time
- 253,000 permits — for returning/continuing students, including extensions
This means new students account for only 38% of the 2026 quota.
B. Allocation by Student Type / Program Level
1. Master’s & PhD Students — 49,000 permits
- Exempt from PAL/TAL beginning January 1, 2026
- Prioritized for processing
- Recognized for strong economic and labor-market contributions
2. K–12 Students — 115,000 permits
- Remain fully exempt from the attestation letter requirement
- Represents the largest exempt group in the overall cap
3. Other Exempt Students — 64,000 permits
Includes:
- Exchange students
- Certain public-policy exemptions
- Temporary residents transitioning to student status
4. PAL/TAL-Required Applicants — 180,000 permits
This applies to:
- Most undergraduate programs
- Colleges (public & private)
- Non-exempt post-secondary programs
This is expected to be the most oversubscribed category nationwide.
Why Canada Is Reducing Study Permits
The federal government’s objective is to bring the temporary resident population down to below 5% by the end of 2027.
The study-permit cap plays a major role in controlling population growth and reducing pressure on:
- Housing availability
- Health care systems
- Provincial education capacities
- Urban infrastructure
Despite the cuts, Canada says it remains committed to welcoming international students—especially those pursuing high-value graduate programs.
Implications for Prospective Students in 2026
1. Higher Competition for Undergraduate Applicants
With only 180,000 PAL/TAL-required permits, undergraduate applicants will face intensified competition.
2. Graduate Students Gain a Strategic Advantage
The removal of PAL/TAL requirements and a dedicated quota of 49,000 permits make master’s/PhD pathways more attractive.
3. Apply Early & Prepare Strong Applications
Due to tighter caps, incomplete or late applications may face higher refusal risk.
4. Province-by-Province Allocation Will Matter
Major provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta may have stricter limits, impacting popular schools and programs.
Conclusion
Canada’s 2026 study permit cap represents a major shift in the international education landscape. While total numbers are decreasing, the country continues to prioritize high-skilled graduate pathways and maintain opportunities for qualified students. Applicants aiming for undergraduate or college programs should prepare early and stay informed about provincial attestation requirements.