Canada 2026 Study Permit Cap Set at 408,000 — Financial Requirement Increased to CAD $22,895
In a major policy update, Canada has announced that its 2026 study permit cap will be limited to 408,000 applications, continuing its effort to manage international student intake and maintain system sustainability.
A key requirement that remains in place is the Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL), which is now mandatory for most undergraduate and diploma programs. Each province has a fixed quota, and once these allocations are filled, no further applications will be accepted under that province—making early application more critical than ever.
Increased Financial Requirements
To strengthen financial screening, Canada has raised the minimum proof of funds to CAD $22,895 (approx. ₹14 lakhs), excluding tuition fees and travel expenses. This ensures that students are financially prepared to support themselves during their stay.
End of Student Direct Stream (SDS)
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) has been discontinued, removing the fast-track processing advantage it once offered to students with strong IELTS scores. As a result:
- No Test Has Special Priority: IELTS no longer provides a processing advantage over other approved English tests.
- Equal Consideration: Tests like Duolingo and PTE are now considered equally, depending on institutional acceptance.
- Stronger Overall Profile Required: Visa decisions now rely more heavily on financial strength, documentation quality, and academic intent.
What This Means for Students
Canada remains a top destination for international education, but the process has become more competitive and selective. Students must act quickly, ensure financial readiness, and submit strong, well-prepared applications to secure their place within the cap.