Canada is continuing its efforts to manage the growth of its temporary population through the international student cap, introduced in 2024. This cap limits the number of study permit applications IRCC accepts for processing each year. Since its implementation, the number of study permit holders has dropped from over 1 million in January 2024 to approximately 725,000 by September 2025.
Why the Cap Matters
The cap is part of Canada’s broader strategy to reduce the share of temporary residents to below 5% of the total population by the end of 2027, while maintaining the country’s ability to attract top global talent.
2026 Study Permit Targets
Under the 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan, IRCC expects to issue up to 408,000 study permits, including:
- 155,000 permits for new international students
- 253,000 extensions for current and returning students
This represents a 7% decrease from 2025 targets and 16% lower than 2024 levels, signaling a continued effort to stabilize Canada’s immigration system.
Key Policy Update: PAL/TAL Exemptions
Starting January 1, 2026, certain groups will be exempt from providing a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) when applying for a study permit:
- Master’s and doctoral students enrolled at public Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs)
- Primary and secondary school students (K–12)
- Government of Canada priority groups and vulnerable cohorts
- Existing study permit holders applying for an extension at the same DLI and level of study
This exemption recognizes the unique contributions of graduate-level students to Canada’s innovation and economic growth.
2026 National Targets by Cohort
| Master’s and doctoral students enrolling at public DLIs (PAL/TAL-exempt) | 49,000 |
| Primary and secondary school (kindergarten to grade 12) students (PAL/TAL-exempt) | 115,000 |
| Other PAL/TAL-exempt study permit applicants | 64,000 |
| PAL/TAL-required applicants | 180,000 |
| Total | 408,000 |
Provincial and Territorial Allocations for PAL/TAL-Required Applicants
The 180,000 PAL/TAL-required permits will be distributed across provinces and territories based on population and historical approval rates:
| Province or territory | 2026 study permit target for PAL/TAL-required cohorts |
|---|---|
| Alberta | 21,582 |
| British Columbia | 24,786 |
| Manitoba | 6,534 |
| New Brunswick | 3,726 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 2,358 |
| Northwest Territories | 198 |
| Nova Scotia | 4,680 |
| Nunavut | 180 |
| Ontario | 70,074 |
| Prince Edward Island | 774 |
| Quebec | 39,474 |
| Saskatchewan | 5,436 |
| Yukon | 198 |
| Total | 180,000 |
Additionally, IRCC will accept 309,670 study permit applications under the cap for PAL/TAL-required students in 2026, accounting for refusals.
| Province or territory | 2026 allocations for all PAL/TAL-required applications |
|---|---|
| Alberta | 32,271 |
| British Columbia | 32,596 |
| Manitoba | 11,196 |
| New Brunswick | 8,004 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 5,507 |
| Northwest Territories | 785 |
| Nova Scotia | 8,480 |
| Nunavut | 0 |
| Ontario | 104,780 |
| Prince Edward Island | 1,376 |
| Quebec | 93,069 |
| Saskatchewan | 11,349 |
| Yukon | 257 |
| Total | 309,670 |
Looking Ahead
IRCC will continue working with provinces and territories to ensure the International Student Program supports Canada’s economic and social priorities while maintaining sustainability.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.