Canada has experienced a 60 percent decline in new international student arrivals. Federal data shows this marks the second consecutive period of falling numbers. Educational institutions are warning of program closures and staff layoffs as a direct result.
Student Numbers Drop Sharply
New Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) data reveals a 61% decrease in new study permit applications. The total number of study permit holders also fell by 30 percent . This dropped from 995,000 to 690,000 students between December 2023 and December 2025.
Annual peaks in study permit issuances typically occur in December and August. These dates precede the winter and fall academic semesters.
Policy Changes Impact Enrollment
Federal policy changes are a key factor in the decline. Study permit caps were announced in January 2024 . Further reductions are planned for 2025 and 2026 . Visa processing delays and lower approval rates have worsened the situation.
Sector leaders report immediate harm to institutions. They also project long-term consequences for Canada’s labor market. Institutions face budget pressures. This leads to program cancellations and staff reductions.
Institution Closures Reported
Some campuses have closed entirely. The Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology (MITT) is one example. It is the first public post-secondary institution to close. This followed a 55% drop in international enrollment this year.
The loss of international students impacts institutions’ ability to serve domestic students. This affects regional and national labor markets.
Government Response and Future Outlook
Provincial governments are addressing the issue. British Columbia launched a public review of its post-secondary system. Ontario invested $6.4 billion into the sector.
International education is linked to Canadian domestic politics. Rising anti-immigration sentiment globally influences policy. The government aims to reduce temporary residents to below 5 percent of the population. This goal of sustainable immigration levels is being pursued.
The current decline in international student numbers indicates these measures are effective. The government emphasizes its commitment to a well-managed immigration system.
Key Data Points
| Metric | Change | Period |
|---|---|---|
| New International Student Arrivals | -61% | Recent Data |
| Total Study Permit Holders | -30% | Dec 2023 – Dec 2025 |
| MITT International Enrollment Decline | -55% | This Year |