If you’re planning to study in Canada in 2026, understanding the latest rules for international students in Canada is essential for your success. Over the past two years, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has implemented significant policy changes that affect various aspects, including financial requirements and school transfers. In this guide, we’ll break down what changed in 2025, so you can prepare your application with confidence.
Why Did the Rules for International Students Change?
IRCC introduced new rules in response to:
- Rapid growth in international student numbers
- Housing shortages and affordability concerns in major cities
- Rising cases of immigration fraud and abuse of the study permit system
- A need to strengthen program integrity and ensure international students have the financial means to support themselves
These updates aim to ensure that international students genuinely intend to study, have access to quality education, and are prepared financially and academically to succeed in Canada.
Understanding the latest rules for international students in Canada is essential for your PR pathway
Here are some key policy changes that took effect in 2024:
- Attestation Letter Requirement: Study permit applicants must include a provincial attestation letter to confirm their acceptance falls within a province’s student cap.
- Student Cap System: A cap was introduced on new international student permits to help provinces better manage student intake and housing capacity.
- PGWP Restrictions for Private Institutions: Students at private colleges operating under licensing agreements with public colleges became ineligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
- Changes in PGWP eligibility
- New Criteria for Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs): Only DLIs that meet updated quality standards remain eligible to host international students.
New Rules for International Students in Canada in 2025
Several significant rule changes have come into effect in 2025 that directly impact new and current applicants:
1. Increased Financial Requirements (Effective September 1, 2025)
To ensure students can support themselves during their stay in Canada, IRCC has increased the proof of funds threshold. As of September 1, 2025:
A single applicant must show a minimum of $22,895 CAD to cover:
- Living expenses
- Transportation
- Tuition (in addition to this amount)
This represents a significant increase from the previous requirement (~$10,000 CAD), underscoring the importance of students being financially prepared without relying on part-time work.
2. Stricter Rules for Transferring Schools (Effective May 1, 2025)
Previously, students could change schools by notifying IRCC. Starting May 1, 2025:
- International students must apply for a new study permit and receive approval before transferring to a new institution.
- This applies to both college and university students who are switching DLIs.
Failing to follow this process could lead to loss of legal status or ineligibility for future immigration pathways like PGWP.
New changes in 2025 have directly impacted new and current applicants:
What These Rules Mean for You
If you are planning to study in Canada:
- Apply early and be prepared with higher financial documentation
- Choose a PGWP-eligible, high-quality institution from the start
- Understand your rights and responsibilities when it comes to transferring schools
How We Can Help
At LUU IMM, we support international students with:
- Up-to-date study permit application guidance
- Financial planning and proof of funds strategies
- School selection to align with PGWP and PR goals
- Visa compliance and change-of-school processes
Final Thoughts
The rules for international students in Canada are evolving rapidly, and staying informed is key to a smooth study experience. With stricter requirements in 2024 and new changes in 2025, students must now be more prepared than ever before.
Need help understanding how these rules affect your study plan? Contact us today for personalized guidance.