Canada Sets Limits on Study Permit Applications for 2024

In a move to regulate the influx of international students into Canada, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, has announced a national cap on study permit applications for 2024.

This decision comes amidst concerns over the rapid increase in international student numbers and aims to ensure balanced growth while supporting broader regional immigration goals.

Net Zero First-Year Growth Model

The national cap is established on a net zero first-year growth model, wherein the number of international students arriving in Canada should match the number of students whose permits expire.

For 2024, the target is set at 485,000 approved study permits, with allowances made for extensions and variations. Consequently, the revised target for approved study permits is 364,000, translating to a cap of 606,000 study permit applications received.

Exemptions and Adjustments

Certain categories of international students, such as primary and secondary school students, and master’s or doctoral degree students, are exempt from the cap. Additionally, adjustments have been made based on approval rates and population shares of each province and territory.

Also Read: Canada Study Permit: Attestation Letters, Caps, and PGWP Changes for 2024

Provincial and Territorial Allocations

The adjusted number of study permit applications, 393,000, has been distributed among provinces and territories based on their population shares. Provinces receiving more students in 2024 than in 2023 have had their growth limited to 10%, while those receiving fewer students have received adjustments to mitigate negative impacts.

Expected Impact and Future Considerations

The allocations are anticipated to yield approximately 292,000 approved study permits, marking a 28% reduction from 2023 for the groups included under the cap. Various factors may influence the actual number of new international students arriving in Canada in 2024, necessitating in-year adjustments.

Conclusion

Minister Marc Miller emphasizes ongoing collaboration with provinces and territories to strengthen the International Student Program and provide necessary support for international students to thrive in Canada.