Canada Cuts Study Permits 2025

Canada has long been one of the most popular destinations for international students, offering top-ranked universities, multicultural cities, and promising post-study work opportunities. However, in a surprising move, Canada has drastically reduced the number of new study permits for international students in 2025, sparking concern among aspiring scholars worldwide — including those from Pakistan.

Canada’s 2025 Study Permit Cuts — The Facts You Need to Know

The data from ApplyBoard reveals that Canada will approve only about 80,000 new study permits in 2025, a massive 62% decrease compared to 2024. This number is even lower than during the COVID-19 pandemic, when approximately 92,000 permits were issued.

Key highlights of the new policy:

• Colleges face the hardest hit: Fewer than 30,000 new college-level study permits are expected.
• University programs slightly stable: Approval rates increased from 30% in May to around 55% in August 2025.
• Permit renewals dominate: About 80% of total permits are now for extensions, not new students.
• Potential 50% population drop: Canada could see its total number of international students cut in half by 2026.

This marks a significant shift in Canada’s international education strategy — one that affects students from across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

Check: HZB International Summer Student Program 2026 in Germany

Why Is Canada Reducing Study Permits?

There are several reasons behind this sudden cutback:

• Housing and capacity challenges: Major cities like Toronto and Vancouver are struggling with housing shortages.
• Education quality control: The government aims to curb low-quality private institutions that exploit the international student system.
• Sustainable immigration management: Canada seeks to balance its student intake with available resources and employment opportunities.

While the goal is to stabilize the system, the decision has created uncertainty for thousands of international students — including Pakistanis who were planning to start their academic journey in 2025.

How This Affects Pakistani Students

For Pakistani students planning to study in Canada, this development brings both challenges and lessons.

Here’s what it means practically:

• Fewer study visa approvals: The reduced quota applies globally — Pakistan included.
• End of the SDS option: The Student Direct Stream (SDS), which offered faster visa processing, is no longer available for Pakistani applicants.
• Stronger financial proof required: Applicants must clearly show their ability to cover tuition and living costs.
• Longer processing times: With stricter scrutiny, permit decisions may take longer than before.
• Higher competition: Only the most qualified and well-prepared candidates will be selected.

Despite the tighter rules, Pakistani students can still study in Canada — by submitting complete, transparent, and high-quality applications.

The Global Context

Even with fewer study permits, Canada remains one of the most attractive destinations for higher education. Surveys show that over 95% of international students still prefer Canada because of its quality education, multicultural society, and post-graduation work options.

However, 2025 marks a transition period — where only the most genuine, academically prepared, and financially stable applicants will succeed.

Final Thoughts

The reduction in Canada’s international study permits is a wake-up call for future applicants. Pakistani students must now prepare smarter, apply earlier, and strengthen every part of their application to stay competitive.

Canada still welcomes international talent — but the path is now narrower and more selective. If you dream of studying in Canada, start planning now for 2026 to increase your chances of success.