Overview

In 2026, Canada’s study permit cap limits new permits to 437,000, a 10% reduction from 2024’s 485,000, continuing through 2026 to manage temporary resident volumes. This cap, effective since January 22, 2024, aims to address housing, healthcare, and education system pressures while maintaining Canada’s appeal for international students. Most programs now require a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL), including master’s and doctoral programs, which were previously exempt. However, certain programs and institutions, particularly in less competitive provinces and high-demand fields like STEM and healthcare, are still accepting applications for the January 2026 intake. Below is a guide to programs and strategies to navigate the cap.

Programs Still Accepting Applications for January 2026

The January 2026 intake, or winter intake, is the second-largest intake in Canada, offering opportunities for students who missed the fall (September) intake. While fewer programs are available compared to fall, many Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, and Manitoba have open seats, especially in high-demand fields. Below are key programs and institutions accepting applications, based on available data:

Ontario

• Centennial College of Applied Arts and Technology (Toronto):
  • Programs: Practical Nursing, Computer Systems Technician – Networking (Fast-Track), Biotechnology (Fast-Track), Pre-Health Sciences Pathway, Software Engineering Technician (Fast-Track)
  • Note: High-demand programs with competitive seats; apply by November 2025.
• Fanshawe College (London):
  • Programs: Personal Support Worker, Welding and Plumbing 1-year Certificate
  • Note: Vocational programs with strong job prospects; less competitive than universities.
• George Brown College (Toronto):
  • Programs: Health Informatics, Information Systems Business Analysis, Web Development – Front-End Design, Construction Techniques
  • Note: Tech-focused programs align with Canada’s job market needs.
• Georgian College (Barrie):
  • Programs: Personal Support Worker, Early Childhood Education, Biotechnology – Health, Mechanical Technician – Precision Skills
  • Note: Ideal for healthcare and technical fields with regional demand.
• Humber Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning (Toronto):
  • Programs: Personal Support Worker, Culinary Skills, Furniture and Cabinetmaking Techniques, Artificial Intelligence with Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing
  • Note: AI and cybersecurity programs are prioritized under the cap.
• Seneca College (Toronto):
  • Programs: Digital & Social Media Marketing, Cloud Architecture & Administration, Cybersecurity and Threat Management, Project Management – Environmental, Supply Chain Management – Global Logistics
  • Note: Business and tech programs with high employability.

British Columbia

• Vancouver Community College (Vancouver):
  • Programs: Culinary Arts, Food Service Management, Hospitality and Food Service Systems Management, Cybersecurity Governance, Risk and Compliance
  • Note: Programs align with Vancouver’s hospitality and tech sectors; apply early due to high demand.

Alberta

• Bow Valley College (Calgary):
  • Programs: Pharmacy Technician Diploma, Health & Human Services Management Post-Diploma Certificate, Cloud Computing Post-Diploma Certificate
  • Note: Healthcare and tech programs with growing demand in Alberta.
• Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (Edmonton):
  • Programs: Biomedical Engineering Technology, Computer Network Administrator, Dental Assisting Certificate, Dental Technology, Veterinary Medical Assistant
  • Note: Specialized programs with less competition; strong regional job prospects.

Manitoba

• Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology (Winnipeg):
  • Programs: Business Management Post-Graduate Certificate, Software Developer, Medical Office Assistant, Network and Systems Administrator Diploma, CAD Technician
  • Note: Less impacted by the cap, offering higher approval chances.

Notes:

• Application Deadlines: Generally September to November 2025 for January 2026 intake, but specific deadlines vary by institution (e.g., University of Toronto: September 15, 2025 for graduate programs; McGill: November 10, 2025 for undergraduates). Check university websites for exact dates.
• Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL): Required for all capped programs, including master’s and doctoral degrees. Contact your chosen institution for PAL issuance, as provinces like Ontario and British Columbia prioritize high-demand fields.
• Exemptions: Primary and secondary school programs, exchange students, and study permit extensions are exempt from the cap.

Strategies to Navigate the 2026 Study Permit Cap

1. Apply Early: Submit applications between September and November 2025 to secure a spot before caps are reached. Early applications increase approval chances, as only 437,000 of 550,000 processed applications will be approved.
2. Choose High-Demand Fields: Prioritize STEM (e.g., AI, computer science), healthcare (e.g., nursing, pharmacy technician), and education programs, as 12% of cap allocations are reserved for master’s and PhD students in these fields.
3. Target Less Competitive Provinces: Provinces like Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Atlantic Canada (e.g., Nova Scotia) receive fewer applications, increasing approval odds.
4. Select Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs): Only DLIs issue PALs and qualify for study permits. Verify your institution’s DLI status on the IRCC website.
5. Prepare a Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP): Highlight academic goals, reasons for choosing Canada, and ties to your home country to strengthen your application.
6. Ensure Financial Proof: Show at least CAD 20,635 (plus tuition and travel costs) to meet 2025 financial requirements, reflecting increased living costs.
7. Consult Experts: Work with immigration consultants (e.g., Croyez Immigration, IDP) to identify open programs and ensure accurate PAL and document submission.

Key Universities for January 2026 Intake

While colleges dominate the January intake, some universities offer programs, particularly in high-demand fields:

• University of Toronto (QS #29): Computer Science, Engineering, Business (graduate programs, deadline: September 15, 2025)
• McGill University (QS #27): Computer Science, Business Administration (undergraduate, deadline: November 10, 2025)
• University of British Columbia (QS #40): Data Science, Commerce, Engineering (some programs, deadline: January 15, 2026)
• University of Waterloo (QS #119): Artificial Intelligence, Business, Engineering (deadline: February 1, 2026)
• University of Alberta (QS #94): Engineering, Computer Science, Nursing (deadline: November 1, 2025)
• Queen’s University (QS #191): Environmental Studies, MBA (deadline: November 20, 2025)

Note: Universities have fewer January intake programs than colleges. Verify program availability and PAL requirements on official university websites.

Why Apply for January 2026 Intake?

• Less Competition: Fewer applicants compared to the September intake, increasing admission chances.
• More Preparation Time: Allows time to improve English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) and gather documents.
• Job Market Alignment: Completing programs in December or April aligns with summer internships and job opportunities.
• PGWP Eligibility: Graduates from eligible programs can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), enabling work in Canada for up to 3 years and supporting immigration pathways.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the 2026 study permit cap?
   Canada will issue 437,000 study permits in 2026, a 10% reduction from 2024, to manage temporary resident volumes.
2. Which programs are exempt from the cap?
   Primary and secondary school programs, exchange students, and study permit extensions are exempt.
3. Do master’s and PhD programs require a PAL?
   Yes, as of 2025, master’s and doctoral programs are included in the cap and require a PAL.
4. Which provinces have more openings?
   Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Atlantic Canada have fewer applicants, increasing approval chances.
5. How can I improve my application?
   Submit early, include a strong SOP, choose high-demand fields, and ensure financial proof of CAD 20,635 plus tuition.
6. When should I apply for January 2026?
   Apply between September and November 2025, checking specific university deadlines.

Conclusion

Despite the 2026 study permit cap, opportunities remain for international students in high-demand fields like STEM, healthcare, and education at DLIs across Canada. Colleges in Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, and Manitoba offer diverse programs for the January 2026 intake, with universities like Toronto, McGill, and UBC providing limited but high-value options. Early application, a strong SOP, and choosing less competitive provinces are key to securing a study permit. Consult with immigration experts and verify DLI and PAL requirements to maximize your chances.