Canada Study Permit Changes 2026: Cap, PAL Exemption and Co-op Rules
Canada's 2026 study permit cap, the PAL exemption for master's and PhD students at public institutions, and co-op placements without a work permit.
Canada plans about 155,000 permits for new students in 2026. Master's and PhD students at public institutions no longer need a PAL, and required co-op placements no longer need a separate work permit.
Canada’s study permit rules in 2026
Canada continues to limit international student numbers, but it has also made some rules simpler, especially for master’s and PhD students. Here is what changed in 2026.
How many study permits in 2026?
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) plans to issue up to 408,000 study permits in 2026: about 155,000 to newly arriving students and 253,000 extensions for students already in Canada. That is 7 percent lower than the 2025 target and 16 percent lower than 2024.
Most college and undergraduate applicants still need a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL), which is limited by each province’s allocation. Apply early, because institutions can run out of letters.
Master’s and PhD students skip the PAL
Since 1 January 2026, master’s and doctoral students enrolled at a public designated learning institution (DLI) do not need a PAL or TAL with their study permit application. This removes a major step and some uncertainty for postgraduate applicants.
- The exemption applies to public institutions only, not private colleges.
- All other requirements still apply: acceptance letter, proof of funds, a clear study plan, and health and security checks.
Co-op without a second permit
From 1 April 2026, post-secondary students no longer need a separate co-op work permit for a required work placement, such as a co-op, internship or practicum. A valid study permit with on-campus work conditions is enough, as long as the placement is required by the programme and makes up 50 percent or less of it.
IRCC has also consulted on further changes, such as letting students and graduates keep working while an extension or Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) application is processed. These are proposals only, with no start date yet.
Changing schools needs care
In June 2026, IRCC updated its guidance on study permit conditions, including unauthorised transfers between institutions and changes of programme. Moving to a different school without following the rules can put your status at risk.
- Enrol and stay enrolled at the institution named on your permit.
- Check the rules before transferring, since a new permit or updated conditions may be needed.
- Keep making progress in your programme and keep your records.
Questions students ask
I am applying for a college diploma. Do I still need a PAL?
Yes, in most cases. Your institution requests the letter from the province, so ask them early about availability.
Does the master’s exemption apply at a private college?
No. It applies to master’s and doctoral students at public designated learning institutions.
Is it harder to get a Canadian study permit now?
There are fewer places for new students, so competition is higher. A strong application with a clear study plan and genuine funds matters more than ever.
Where this information comes from
- IRCC: 2026 provincial and territorial allocations under the international student cap
- CIC News: expanded work authorization for students (April 2026)
Written on 17 September 2026. For the full process, read our Canada study permit guide.
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