IRCC’s statement on the process of allocating study permits to Canadian provinces

The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued a statement outlining the process behind the final allocation of study permits to each Canadian province for 2024. Following the announcement on January 22 regarding the implementation of a cap on yearly study permit applications, IRCC specified that each province would receive a certain allocation of study permits for international students, based on the province’s population. Today, Immigration Minister Marc Miller elaborated on IRCC’s methodology for determining these numbers and disclosed the final allocation of study permits for each province.

Allocation Distribution:
Provinces and territories received their allocation of study permit applications proportionate to their population. However, without adjustments, this approach would lead to some provinces receiving more international students in 2024 compared to 2023, while others would receive fewer. To mitigate any adverse effects, IRCC adjusted allocations for provinces with a lower allocation of study permits.

Provinces set to receive more international students in 2024 than in 2023 had their allocations capped at 10% of their population. Additionally, the department supplemented allocations for provinces with an approval rate below 60%, aiming to assist them in reaching their anticipated number of approved study permits.

Ontario Receives the Largest Allocation:
Ontario was allocated the highest number of study permits, totaling 235,000. As Canada’s most populous province with 530 designated learning institutions (DLIs) according to IRCC’s official list, Ontario is a key destination for international students. However, it was revealed that 96% of the allocated study permits will be directed to public universities and colleges, leaving few opportunities for international students at private institutions in the province.