Key Takeaways
- Canada has made the study permit process easier for international master’s and PhD students.
- The move comes as the country shifts focus towards higher-level education applicants.
- Graduate students now account for a larger share of new study permits issued.
Canada has introduced new measures to simplify the study permit process for international master’s and PhD students, aiming to attract more high-caliber researchers and academics. According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), graduate students now account for 21% of new study permits issued from January to June 2026, up from 12% during the same period last year.
The shift in focus is part of a broader strategy to reduce the overall international student population, which has fallen by about one-third since 2024. New international student arrivals between January and June 2026 dropped by 82% compared to the same period in 2024. However, the share of new study permit holders attending universities increased from 30% in 2024 to 40% in 2025, reflecting a stronger emphasis on higher-level education.
Eligible master’s and doctoral students studying at public institutions are now exempt from the provincial or territorial attestation letter requirement, effective January 1, 2026. This change is expected to streamline the application process and make it more accessible for international students. Additionally, doctoral applicants may have their study permit applications processed within two weeks, providing a faster turnaround time.
The Canadian government is also considering allowing graduate students to bring eligible family members to Canada during their studies, further enhancing the appeal of the country for international students. After completing their degrees, international graduates may qualify for a post-graduation work permit, enabling them to gain valuable work experience in Canada.
The move is part of Canada’s broader strategy to attract the world’s best and brightest researchers and graduate students. As the country looks to bolster its academic and research capabilities, the simplified process is expected to make Canada a more attractive destination for international students seeking advanced education.
The Canadian government has stated that it is committed to attracting high-quality international students, particularly those pursuing master’s and doctoral programs. This shift in focus is expected to have a significant impact on the international student population in Canada, with a greater emphasis on higher-level education and research.
