Study in Canada
Canada Announces 2026 International Student Cap
Canada continues to refine its study permit system to support long-term stability, quality education and sustainable population growth. With the newly released 2026 provincial and territorial allocations under the international student cap, the government has outlined a clear plan for the year ahead. These changes reflect Canada’s goal of balancing growth with stronger support for students, institutions and communities.
Introduced in 2024, the cap has helped reduce pressure across the country. Within eighteen months, Canada’s international student population dropped from more than one million to about seven hundred twenty-five thousand. This shift is crucial for keeping Canada’s immigration system strong and for ensuring that international students receive quality learning experiences.
The 2026 allocations build on this progress while still welcoming talent that contributes to innovation, research and economic growth.
Why Canada Adjusted the 2026 International Student Cap
The updated allocation plan supports Canada’s ongoing goal of bringing the temporary resident share below five percent of the national population by 2027. The revised targets also help Canada focus on sustainable growth, while ensuring that the International Student Program remains aligned with labour market needs. IRCC expects to issue up to 408,000 study permits in 2026, including both new arrivals and extensions. This is lower than previous years, reinforcing Canada’s effort to stabilize temporary resident numbers.
Here is the 2026 breakdown:
| Category | Expected Study Permits |
| Master’s and doctoral students (PAL/TAL-exempt) | 49,000 |
| Primary and secondary students | 115,000 |
| Other exempt groups | 64,000 |
| PAL/TAL-required applicants | 180,000 |
| Total | 408,000 |
Canada remains fully committed to attracting world-class graduate students, future researchers and innovators. This is why, starting January 1, 2026, master’s and doctoral students at public DLIs will no longer require an attestation letter. This exemption recognizes their vital role in Canada’s talent pipeline.
2026 Provincial and Territorial Allocations Under the International Student Cap
The 180,000 PAL/TAL-required study permits are divided among provinces and territories based on population. Below is the official allocation:
| Province / Territory | 2026 PAL/TAL-Required Target |
| Alberta | 21,582 |
| British Columbia | 24,786 |
| Manitoba | 6,534 |
| New Brunswick | 3,726 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 2,358 |
| Northwest Territories | 198 |
| Nova Scotia | 4,680 |
| Nunavut | 180 |
| Ontario | 70,074 |
| Prince Edward Island | 774 |
| Quebec | 39,474 |
| Saskatchewan | 5,436 |
| Yukon | 198 |
| Total | 180,000 |
Since many applications are refused every year, IRCC also allocates total “processing spaces.” In 2026, provinces and territories will have 309,670 spaces available for PAL/TAL-required applications.
How the International Student Cap Affects DLIs and Students
The international student cap reshapes how institutions plan enrolment. Each province is responsible for distributing its study permit allocation to DLIs. This ensures that campuses accept the number of students they can support with housing, services and job opportunities. For students, this means careful planning is more important than ever. Early applications, accurate documentation and strong academic profiles can increase the chances of approval.
These groups remain exempt from attestation requirements in 2026:
• Master’s and doctoral students at public DLIs
• Primary and secondary students
• Government priority groups
• Vulnerable cohorts
• International students applying for extensions at the same DLI and same level
Canada continues to welcome talent, especially those who add long-term value to research, education and innovation.
Canada Strengthens Growth With the 2026 International Student Cap
The updated allocations under the international student cap highlight Canada’s thoughtful approach to building a sustainable, international student system. By balancing growth with quality and stability, Canada ensures that newcomers can study, thrive and contribute to communities across the country. For students planning to study in Canada, staying informed is essential. New rules, attestation requirements and provincial updates will shape the landscape throughout 2026. Stay connected with Canada Immigration News for real-time updates and policy changes.
