09/09/2026
IRCC is taking steps to welcome fewer international students at higher levels of study.
Get the facts:
• The international student population has dropped one third since 2024.
• Between January and June 2026, there were 82% fewer new international student arrivals compared to the same period in 2024.
• As overall international student admissions decrease, the proportion of university students relative to college students is increasing. New arrivals of study permit holders at the university level increased from 30% in 2024 to 40% in 2025.
• IRCC expects this trend to continue with new measures directed at graduate students and a continued focus on attracting talent at the master’s and PhD level.
Canada has been charting a new course for immigration—one that better matches arrivals with community capacity and continues to attract the world’s best talent.