The decline was not limited to new international students. The total number of study permit holders, including those with work permits, fell by 30%, dropping from about 995,000 in December 2023 to roughly 690,000 by December 2025.

However, seasonal increases were still seen in August and December, when more permits are usually issued before the fall and winter academic terms.

The decrease followed several policy changes, especially federal caps on study permits introduced in January 2024 and tightened further in 2025 and 2026. Processing delays and lower approval rates have also contributed to the situation. These changes have raised concerns about financial pressure on educational institutions and possible long-term effects on the labor market.

IRCC stated that the drop in international student numbers shows the policies are achieving their goal of creating a more controlled and sustainable immigration system.

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The Decline of International Students in Canada Class B

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