New Rules for Studying in Canada & What Indian Students Need to Know for 2025

Gaurav Batra is a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience in driving organizational growth and strategic execution. As a dynamic leader, he is responsible for the development and implementation of organizational strategy and delivery across multiple functions. His expertise spans academic partnerships, operational growth initiatives, finance, compliance, administration, licensing, and accreditation.

Canada ranks as one of the top choices for international students seeking higher education, providing a distinctive blend of academic quality, research possibilities, and cultural variety. In addition to well-known universities and a focus on innovation, Canada offers international students a secure and welcoming atmosphere along with adaptable work options. These advantages attract hundreds of international students, such as those from India, to the North American nation annually. Nevertheless, in 2025, various policy modifications have been enacted to strengthen the integrity of the nation’s education system and bolster student support initiatives. Consequently, every Indian student intending to continue their education in Canada must fully grasp these changes for a seamless application experience in the upcoming year.

Limited Study Permit Caps

A key change for future students is the implementation of study permit limits. In 2025, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is set to grant approximately 437000 study permits. Of this total, 120,724 permits are allocated for students who are exempt from needing a PAL/TAL (Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter), whereas 316,267 permits are designated for students who must secure a PAL/TAL. With increasing competition from restricted permits, students need to apply promptly and make certain their applications are thorough and persuasive to obtain admission to their preferred school.

Visa and Financial Requirements

While the visa application process continues to be mostly unchanged, there has been the implementation of tighter financial evaluations. Officials will carefully assess if students can financially sustain themselves during their education. Under the updated financial stipulations, students are required to show they possess adequate funds to finance their tuition and living costs, which vary according to the institution and location they are seeking admission to. Applicants to high-cost areas like Toronto and Vancouver need to demonstrate extra financial support to manage increased living costs.

Work Permits and PR Pathways

Canada will persist in providing advantageous employment options and immigration regulations for foreign students. Graduates are eligible for as much as three years of post-study work rights (PSWR), enabling them to acquire important experience in Canada. Indian students are allowed to work 20 hours weekly during academic terms and full-time during designated breaks. Moreover, Canada's immigration policies prioritize students who possess Canadian education and work experience, facilitating their shift to permanent residency via initiatives such as Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

What Indian students need to do

• Emphasize Public Institutions: Due to the restrictions on private DLIs, students ought to concentrate on gaining admission to public institutions to guarantee improved academic and career prospects.
• Show Financial Stability: Establishing solid financial support will enhance the likelihood of visa approval and facilitate the management of living costs in Canada.
• Accelerate the Application Procedure: Given the heightened competition from the restricted number of study permits, students are advised to apply promptly to ensure admission and prevent visa processing hold-ups.

Even with new regulations, Canada will continue to be an appealing destination for Indian students seeking higher education. Utilizing timely and informed planning can assist students in effectively navigating the changing visa environment. By focusing on trustworthy institutions, obtaining sufficient financial support, and following the most recent regulations, Indian students can confidently begin their study abroad experience in Canada.