🚨 Key Policy Highlights

The 2026 study permit quota remains at 437,000, consistent with 2025. Master’s and doctoral students are now included in the quota, accounting for 12% of permits. All applicants (except exempt categories) must provide a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL).

⚠️ Policy Tightening Context

The Canadian government views the international student program as “overheated,” with some institutions increasing enrollment for revenue without providing adequate student support. The rapid growth in international student numbers has strained housing, healthcare, and other public services, prompting restrictive measures.

Key Quota Allocation Points:

• K-12 students, exchange students, and same-level renewals at the same institution are exempt from the quota.
• Master’s and doctoral students are included in the quota for the first time, representing 12% of the total.
• Most applications require a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL).
• Provincial quotas are allocated based on population ratios and historical data.

PAL/TAL Application Process

1. Obtain an admission offer from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
2. Submit a PAL/TAL application to the provincial/territorial government (usually through the DLI).
3. Wait for the province/territory to review and issue the PAL/TAL.
4. Submit the study permit application with the PAL/TAL.
5. Await approval from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

⚠️ PAL/TAL Acquisition Challenges

Provinces and territories distribute PAL/TALs based on federal quotas to Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs). Due to limited quotas, not all applicants seeking a PAL/TAL will receive one. Institutions must screen and recommend students based on their criteria, making the process highly competitive.

Popular provinces like Ontario and British Columbia have particularly competitive PAL/TAL processes. Applicants may need to consider institutions in other provinces or start preparing applications a year in advance.

💡 Advice for Applicants

With graduate programs now included in the quota, competition will intensify significantly. Admission standards for top university graduate programs are expected to rise, requiring stronger academic backgrounds, research experience, and language proficiency. Recommendations for applicants:

1. Start preparing application materials 1–1.5 years in advance.
2. Apply to multiple institutions and programs to increase success rates.
3. Establish early communication with target professors.
4. Prepare a compelling research proposal and strong letters of recommendation.

💡 Provincial Allocation Overview

Quotas are distributed based on population size, historical student intake, and institutional capacity. Provinces like Ontario and British Columbia receive larger shares but face higher competition for PAL/TALs.

💡 PGWP Updates

Changes to the PGWP program aim to align with labor market needs, prioritizing graduates in high-demand fields. Detailed updates will be provided as policies are clarified.

💡 Key Application Tips

1. Begin preparations 12–18 months in advance to meet deadlines.
2. Apply to multiple DLIs to improve PAL/TAL approval chances.
3. Target less competitive provinces like Alberta or Manitoba.
4. Ensure all application materials, including PAL/TAL, are complete and accurate.
5. Seek professional consultation for personalized guidance.

💡 Success Factors

• Strong academic and language credentials.
• Early application to secure PAL/TAL.
• Choosing programs aligned with provincial priorities.
• Professional guidance from licensed advisors.

💡 Looking Ahead

Future policies may further refine quotas based on labor market demands and regional capacities. Applicants should stay informed and plan strategically.