Ontario is adapting its international student policies following the federal government’s decision to further reduce study permit allocations for 2025. The province remains committed to prioritizing public postsecondary programs that prepare students for high-demand jobs critical to Ontario’s labor market.
2025 Study Permit Allocations for Ontario
For 2025, Ontario has received 181,590 study permit applications, which is expected to result in 116,740 approved study permits for students attending Ontario institutions. Of these:
- 32,579 study permit applications are reserved for master’s and doctoral students
- 96% of allocations are designated for public colleges and universities
- 4% of allocations will go to language schools, private universities, and other institutions
- Career colleges will receive no allocations
Compared to 2024, Ontario had been allocated 235,000 applications, targeting 141,000 study permits. The new cap reduces the number of permits by over 17% while also including master’s and doctoral students in the allocation process for the first time.
New Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) Rules
Starting January 22, 2025, the PAL requirement now applies to:
- Master’s and doctoral students
- Students extending study permits while switching designated learning institutions (DLIs)
- Grade 12 international students transitioning to Ontario postsecondary institutions
To obtain a provincial attestation letter (PAL), students should contact their Ontario institution’s admissions office or visit the ministry website for guidance.
Focus on High-Priority Labor Market Areas
Ontario is aligning international student enrollment with post-graduation work permit (PGWP)-eligible programs in sectors critical to the economy, including:
- Skilled trades
- Health human resources
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
- Childcare
- French-language programs
Additionally, Ontario is working with the federal government to extend PGWP eligibility to industries such as hospitality, manufacturing, automotive, and dentistry to better support labor market needs.
Ontario continues to prioritize high-quality education and skilled workforce development while complying with federal study permit caps. The province is protecting the integrity of its postsecondary system and ensuring that international students contribute to key economic sectors.
International students must now carefully navigate the new study permit and PAL requirements. If you’re planning to study in Ontario, expert immigration advice can help streamline your application and secure your future in Canada. Contact us today for guidance on study permits, attestation letters, and post-graduation pathways.
