Kathmandu. This year, the number of international students studying in Canada has fallen by 60 percent. International student admissions to Canada have declined due to strict study permits.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney explained the decline by arguing that the government was getting a better handle on it and building a more sustainable and reliable immigration system. “This will lead to a better system in the future,” he said, adding, “We have regained control over immigration.” Asylum claims have fallen by a third. The number of temporary foreign workers has almost halved. The number of international students has also decreased by 60 percent. We can now carefully build a sustainable immigration system that aligns with Canadian values. ’
This decline is mainly due to the policies of the Canadian government. These policies include strict study permits, high financial requirements and strong postgraduate work permit requirements.
Canada’s reputation as one of the world’s top destinations for international students has also declined. Canadian universities used to attract large numbers of international students. Currently, these universities are experiencing a significant decline in international student enrollment. Students are now preferring universities around the world over Canada.
According to a report by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the number of international students arriving in Canada between January and October 2025 fell by 60 per cent compared to the same period in 2024. The number of students coming to Canada decreased by more than 150,000 during this period.
In 2025, the number of international students arriving in Canada each month decreased compared to the same period last year. The new rules have made the application process more competitive. Students must apply early, demonstrate strong financial ability and submit complete documents.
Students looking for an alternate destination
The IRCC report claims that the new policies are designed to attract students who are really ready to study and settle in Canada.
The path is open to international students, but policies are becoming increasingly difficult. Students are being forced to consider other places to study.
Canada’s study permit rejection rate has risen from 38 per cent in 2023 to 52 per cent in 2024, according to ICEF Monitor, an organisation that monitors the mobility of international students. –Agency
