Canada is prioritizing master's and doctoral students for its international program. New doctoral students will receive faster study permit processing. Master's and doctoral candidates are now exempt from provincial attestation letters. This policy change occurs as Canada reduces overall international student numbers. The nation aims to attract skilled talent for economic and public service contributions.

In 2026, master's and doctoral students comprised 21% of new study permits in Canada, highlighting a shift towards higher-level education.

Canada has announced plans to further reduce the number of international students entering the country at lower levels of study