Picture yourself standing on the vibrant campus of a world-renowned Canadian university, engaging in lively discussions with esteemed professors and course mates of diverse backgrounds, in a welcoming environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. This could be realised if you’ve set your sights on studying in the Great White North, with an IELTS score in hand.
However, international student hopefuls cannot ignore the new landscape of visa policy and changed requirements, after Canada has announced Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada's (IRCC) 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan.
The new rules and updates introduced to the immigration processes for international students are essential to understand for anyone hoping to study in Canada. Whether you're looking to study in Ontario or study in Victoria, see how the latest student visa news might impact your plans, and how a strong IELTS score can pave the way for achieving a Canadian study permit and more!
Understanding the 2025 Canada student visa news
Here are the must-know updates for international students as announced by the IRCC:
1. Revised foreign enrolment numbers
One significant change under the new rules in Canada for international students is the reduction in the number of study permits being issued for 2025 and 2026. For 2025, there will be a 10% reduction from the 2024 target of 485,000 new study permits issued, bringing the total number of study permits issued to 437,000. The intake cap will then stabilise for 2026 for number of study permits issued to remain the same as in 2025.
This international student cap means greater competition for study permits, but it also signals that the Canadian government is prioritising well-prepared and qualified international students, aiming to ensure that those who are granted a study permit are set up for success in their studies, with possible work pathways to explore in Canada.
2. Enhanced PGWP requirements
Another important update is the new language proficiency requirement updated by the IRCC for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility, which varies depending on your educational level.
For university students graduating with a bachelor's degree, master's degree, or PhD: You must score a minimum level of Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) 7 in English or an IELTS band score of 6.0 in the Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking sections of IELTS General Training. For French, you'll require Niveaux de competence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) 7 in all 4 language areas.
For graduates from any other university program: You must score a minimum level of CLB 7 in English or a band score of 6.0 in the Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking segments of the IELTS General Training. For French, you'll need NCLC 7 in all 4 language areas.
For graduates from a college program or any other program: You need a minimum of CLB 5 in English or IELTS band scores of 4.0 in Reading and 5.0 in Writing, Listening, and Speaking for IELTS General Training. To prove French language skills instead, you'll need NCLC 5 in all 4 language areas.
These new rules ensure that graduates have the necessary language skills to thrive in the Canadian workforce and contribute meaningfully to the economy. This is particularly important for international students looking to study in Canada with the goal of working after graduation, as a strong command of English or French is crucial for securing employment and building a successful career in the country.
Furthermore, as of December 17, 2024, there are new eligible fields of study for PGWPs. In addition to the previous eligible fields, which included agriculture and agri-food, education, healthcare, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), trade, and transport, PGWP eligibility now extends to certain programs related to early childhood education and developmental service workers.
3. New student regulations
The IRCC has also introduced new rules to improve the overall student experience and maintain the integrity of study programs within the country, such as an increase in the working hours for international students in Canada.
International students can work off campus up to 24 hours per week without a work permit. This provides greater flexibility and opportunities to gain valuable local work experience or even support future visa applications post-study.
Additionally, stricter reporting requirements for Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) have been implemented, particularly at the post-secondary level, to ensure greater transparency and accountability within the study permit system.
4. Provincial Attestation Letters (PALs) requirements
There are also new rules in Canada for international students: a mandatory requirement for most study permit applicants entering post-secondary education to provide a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL), including master's, doctoral students and those applying for prerequisite courses or programs, including language courses. There are some exceptions to this requirement.
This change provides a clear pathway for students to demonstrate their eligibility and secure their study permit, ensuring that they meet the specific requirements of their chosen province or territory.
You may check the latest guidelines on the official Canadian immigration website or consult with an IDP counsellor for personalised support on making an application.
5 ways to achieve your Canadian dream
Here are five ways you can navigate the updated landscape and increase your chances of study visa success:
1. Plan ahead and prepare a strong application
Now that new study permit applicants are stringently vetted, planning and preparing a strong application to show your real intentions of studying abroad is more important than ever.
Do start as early as you can, gather all necessary documents, and ensure your application is complete and accurate with compelling statements of your study plan, full academic records, and proof of financial support or ability.
Your application may also have an English language requirement. This is where a good IELTS score can help enhance your study permit application.
A globally recognised and trusted English test to study abroad and work, IELTS is accepted by IRCC as well as all Canadian universities, and can be used to accurately assess your English proficiency. You should aim for a competitive score that meets the requirements of your chosen school or program, and set out to demonstrate a higher level of English proficiency.
2. Explore alternative pathways
Consider exploring alternative pathways to studying in Canada. This could include applying to less competitive programs or institutions, considering regional campuses or colleges, or exploring pathway programs or foundation courses. These alternative pathways can still lead to fulfilling study abroad experiences and potential future opportunities in Canada.
3. Stay informed and seek guidance
Immigration and student visa news for Canada may still evolve within a changing landscape. Stay updated on the latest Canadian immigration news for international students and government regulatory changes to ensure your study permit application meets the current requirements.
You can choose to seek guidance from IDP’s qualified education counsellors, like other students who have gone abroad to Canada. Gain extensive support with visa applications, course selection, and pre-departure preparation.
4. Maximise your IELTS score
Canada immigration has set English test requirements like taking an IELTS Academic test as an important part of the study permit process.
That's why you should effectively prepare for the IELTS test with IDP IELTS preparation resources, such as video explainers on mastering test format to online practice tests.
Setting your IELTS on Computer test date and location early with an IELTS exam registration with IDP can deliver faster results to you, generally within two days or less. You can follow up quickly on submitting your study permit application early to secure your spot in the immigration line.
5. Consider your post-graduation options
Plan for your future after graduation in Canada by exploring various post-graduation pathways available to international students, such as applying for a PGWP, pursuing further studies, or exploring work visa pathways.
Recent changes to the eligibility criteria for open work permits for spouses of international students have also been implemented. It's essential to stay updated on the latest immigration news, especially if you intend to apply with your spouse or have a spouse who may wish to work or live in Canada while you study.
Achieve your Canadian dream
The journey to studying in Canada may have shifted in several ways and become more pertinent for international students, but it's still within reach. By responding clearly to the new rules for the Canadian immigration process in 2025 and beyond for international students, you will have chances of visa success.
Ready to embark on your study abroad adventure? Book your IELTS test with IDP and get access to a variety of free resources for IELTS preparation and studying in Canada!
