Study in Canada in 2025: 10% less license, PAL / TAL new policies and how you can secure a place

Canada has long been a favorite destination for higher education and employment, especially for Indian students. However, in recent years, the country has experienced a significant increase in student international registrations, losing considerable pressure on its education and immigration systems. In response, immigration, refugees and citizenship Canada (IRCC) have implemented more stringent policies to manage students’ admissions. Key changes, such as the introduction of a study license ceiling and the new requirement for a letter of provincial certificate (PAL), will considerably modify how students have access to Canada.
According to Statistics Canada, in April 2024, there were more than a million valid study visas in the country. Here is an overview of the growth of registration for international students in Canada from 2019 to 2023:

Study permit capacity for 2025

In September 2024, to relieve pressure on housing, health care and other essential services, the IRCC implemented a ceiling on requests for study permits. This decision led to a 40% reduction in international students arrivals, helping to stabilize rental markets in high demand areas. For 2025, the allocation of study permits was finalized at 437,000 permits, a decrease of 10% compared to the 2024 ceiling of 485,000.

New PAL / TAL requirement

In a policy update that changes the situation, the IRCC has introduced new rules for the requirements of the provincial certificate (PAL) and the letter of territorial certificate (TAL). Under the new regulation, most seekers of study permit must submit a PAL or a TAL. These documents confirm that candidates comply with the study license ceilings set by the provinces and territories, ensuring that each province has the capacity to welcome new students.

Touched graduates students

Previously exempt from study permits, graduate students will now also be subject to these new restrictions. Graduate permits will be capped at 2023 levels to prevent overcrowding of master’s and doctoral programs. This change should have a significant impact on popular universities, in particular in regions like Quebec and Ontario, which welcome the largest number of graduate students. In particular, the IRCC has extended this requirement to master’s and doctoral students, as indicated on its official website.

Provincial allowances

Study permit allowances are not distributed uniformly across Canada. Some provinces receive a larger share than others. Here is a ventilation of the first four provinces that receive the most permits:

On the other hand, the provinces with the least allocated study permits are:

Students must carefully choose their study destination, as some provinces have available places available.

Stricter rules for designated learning institutions (DLIS)

From November 2024, the designated apprenticeship establishments (DLIS) will be required to regularly check the academic status of the students and to ensure that the letters of acceptance are authentic. Failure to comply with these requirements could have serious consequences, in particular a year-round suspension by admitting international students.
Since 2015, the IRCC has collaborated with the DLIS to strengthen report processes. Under the new regulation, the DLIS which does not subject the required compliance reports or will check the letters of acceptance will be faced with penalties. Twice a year, the DLIS must submit reports to the IRCC confirming whether students who hold the study permits remain registered. Students who are no longer registered may be subject to investigation and application actions, as this could report a violation of the study permit conditions.

Impact of new study permit policies and how to secure a place

New policies in Canada will have a significant impact on international students, limiting their options for study destinations and programs. With the introduction of the PAL / TAL requirement, students must guarantee compliance with provincial study permit ceilings, which could restrict entry into high demand areas such as Ontario and Quebec. Graduated students, previously exempt from these restrictions, will now face the same limits, affecting their chances of admission to popular universities.
To guarantee a headquarters in the desired college, students must carefully select their study destination, ensure a timely request and monitor the ceilings in different provinces. In addition, staying informed of DLI compliance and the maintenance of the active registration state will be essential for a smooth demand process.