The federal government’s new cap on international student permits bringing significant changes to Canada’s post secondary landscape.

February 13, 2024- Immigration Minister Marc Miller first revealed the policy earlier this year, but provinces began receiving their precise permit allocations this week, confirming substantial reductions across the country.

The cap aims to reduce the number of new undergraduate study permit approvals by about 35 percent in 2024. The federal government says the measure is temporary and intended to address concerns about housing shortages, inconsistent oversight of private colleges, and the rise of overcrowded living arrangements for students.

Ontario received the largest reduction due to its high concentration of private career colleges. British Columbia also saw notable declines. Provincial governments said they would work to ensure that legitimate institutions receive a fair share of permits, while lower performing or unaccredited programs face stricter scrutiny.

Public universities acknowledged the need for higher quality standards but warned that the reduction could affect revenue and staffing. Private colleges argued that the policy unfairly targeted their sector and would limit educational opportunities for qualified students. Student associations welcomed stronger regulation but stressed that additional housing protections and support services are still urgently needed.

Municipal leaders in cities with tight rental markets responded positively, saying that the cap could help stabilize demand for student housing. Business groups expressed concern about the long term implications for labour supply, especially in sectors like health care and technology that rely on skilled graduates.

As the new cap is implemented, institutions are expected to adjust recruitment strategies, and the federal government has stated it will monitor the impact closely. Today’s rollout marks a major shift in Canada’s approach to managing international education and its connection to broader economic and housing challenges.