On 22/1/2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a two-year temporary measure to stabilize the number of international students. For 2024, the target is about 360,000 approved study permits, roughly 35% lower than in 2023. Here are the key points for students and parents to understand the situation, based on information at the time.
Main changes
- Provincial caps: the number is allocated to each province and territory based on population, and places where international student numbers grew fastest face bigger cuts.
- Attestation letter: from 22/1/2024, every new study permit application must include an attestation letter issued by the province or territory, along with the school's letter of acceptance (LOA). Previously only the LOA was needed.
- Preparation period: provinces have until 31/3/2024 to set up the process for issuing letters. As a result, some new applications may be delayed until the process is ready.
- Duration: the measure is in effect for 2 years and will be reviewed to decide on the second year.
Who is exempt
According to sources at the time, the following groups are not counted toward the cap:
- People extending a study permit and those who already hold a valid permit.
- Master's and doctoral students.
- Primary and secondary school students.
This means the impact falls mainly on new applications at the bachelor's, college and certificate program levels. Information on exempt groups may be adjusted by IRCC later, so follow official announcements.
Practical impact on students
- One more application step. You need to request an attestation letter from the province where the school is located, and the school will usually guide you through this process. Ask the admissions office directly.
- Processing times may be longer in the early period while provinces aren't ready. Apply early, and allow buffer time before your start date.
- Choose your province and school carefully. Each has a different allocation, so the chance of getting a letter also differs.
- Backup plan. Consider postponing your intake, or look at other destinations if the timeline doesn't work.
How to prepare your application
- A valid passport and an acceptance letter from a school authorized to host international students (DLI).
- Proof of finances according to IRCC's current requirements.
- The provincial attestation letter, if it applies to you.
- A clear study plan, with reasons for choosing the program and school.
All specific conditions should be checked directly on IRCC's official website, as rules change quickly. This article is for reference only and is not immigration advice.
Why Canada is tightening
The Government of Canada said the measure aims to reduce pressure on housing and services and to limit abuse, including low-quality education providers. Some educational organizations in Canada have also expressed concern about the long-term impact on schools.
2026 update: The policy continued to be adjusted after the initial announcement. According to sources, in February 2024 IRCC set a separate limit on the number of applications reviewed in 2024, and in September 2024 announced a tighter cap for 2025, while also extending the attestation letter requirement to master's and doctoral students. Because the situation changes quickly, check the IRCC website at the time you apply.
FAQ
What is a provincial attestation letter?
This is a document issued by the province or territory confirming that your application falls within its allocated number. From 22/1/2024 it must be submitted with the acceptance letter when applying for a new study permit.
Are people already studying in Canada affected?
According to information at the time of the announcement, people who already hold a study permit and those extending a permit are not counted toward this cap. Check IRCC's official website for your specific case.
Should I switch to another country?
It depends on your study goals, budget and timeline. Compare the entry requirements, costs and policies of each country. If you need help exploring options, you can contact HVSC's Study Abroad team.
Reference sources
- CIC News, IRCC announces cap on international students — https://www.cicnews.com/2024/01/canada-may-not-see-any-new-study-permit-applications-until-march-31-2024-0142521.html
- CIC News, IRCC sets 2024 application cap — https://cicnews.com/2024/02/ircc-sets-cap-on-the-number-of-study-permit-applications-it-will-consider-in-2024-0242744.html
- ApplyBoard, Canada temporarily caps study permits — https://www.applyboard.com/blog/canada-temporarily-caps-study-permits
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FAQ
What is a provincial attestation letter?
This is a document issued by the province or territory confirming that your application falls within its allocated number. From 22/1/2024 it must be submitted with the acceptance letter when applying for a new study permit.
Are people already studying in Canada affected?
According to information at the time of the announcement, people who already hold a study permit and those extending a permit are not counted toward this cap. Check IRCC's official website for your specific case.
Should I switch to another country?
It depends on your study goals, budget and timeline. Compare the entry requirements, costs and policies of each country. If you need help exploring options, you can contact HVSC's Study Abroad team.
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