Canada Study Permit Changes 2025–26: Caps, PAL, GIC & PGWP Explained
Canada tightened its international-student rules. Here's exactly what changed — study-permit caps, the Provincial Attestation Letter, higher proof-of-funds, and PGWP field restrictions — and how to plan around it.
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Canada introduced a national cap on new study permits (around 437,000 for 2025), allocated to provinces by population. This means more competition for letters of acceptance from designated learning institutions (DLIs). Apply early and to multiple DLIs to improve your odds.
Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)
Most undergraduate and college applicants now need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) — issued by the province — as part of the study-permit application. Your DLI typically helps obtain it after you accept the offer and pay the deposit. Master's and PhD applicants have been exempt in several provinces, but confirm current rules.
Higher proof of funds (GIC)
The cost-of-living requirement for a study permit rose to CAD 20,635 (up from CAD 10,000) on top of first-year tuition. The Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) route remains the simplest way to show living funds for SDS-style applications.
PGWP field restrictions
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (up to 3 years) is now more closely tied to programs linked to long-term labour shortages, and language-test requirements were added. Public-college programs delivered via curriculum-licensing arrangements lost PGWP eligibility. Check your specific program's PGWP status before enrolling.
Spousal work permits
Open work permits for spouses of international students were restricted to spouses of master's, doctoral, and select professional-program students. Plan family finances accordingly.
What this means for you
Canada still offers one of the clearest student-to-PR pathways via Express Entry, but the bar is higher. Target PGWP-eligible programs at strong DLIs, budget for the higher GIC, and keep your IELTS/CELPIP score high to maximise CRS points. Practise free on LandingPrep.