Canada is still one of the most popular study destinations for Nigerians, Ghanaians and Kenyans, but there are fewer places than before. Here’s what the cap means and who it affects least.
How many study permits Canada is issuing
| Year | Study permits |
|---|---|
| 2025 | 437,000 |
| 2026 | 408,000, including 155,000 for new arrivals |
| 2027 | 150,000 new student arrivals planned |
| 2028 | 150,000 new student arrivals planned |
Sources: 2026 allocations under the student cap, Immigration levels plan 2026–2028.
Good news for master’s and PhD students
Most applicants need a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL), which shows the province has a place for you under the cap.
From 1 January 2026, master’s and PhD students at public institutions don’t need a PAL. If you’re planning a postgraduate degree at a public university, the cap affects you much less than it affects college and undergraduate applicants.
What this means if you’re applying
- Apply early. With fewer places, colleges and provinces may run out of PALs before the end of the intake.
- Choose a designated learning institution (DLI). Only schools on the DLI list can accept international students. IRCC warns about fake schools and offers, so check the DLI list and IRCC’s fraud and scams page before you pay a deposit.
- Consider a postgraduate degree. Master’s and PhD programmes at public universities skip the PAL.
Thinking about staying after you study?
Canada is also changing Express Entry. From 3 November 2026, it adds points for high-wage occupations and drops the need for an LMIA for qualifying job offers. IRCC news release.
Want funding? See our 2027 scholarship calendar.