Study permit process for Masters and PhD students in Canada expedited

Canada has announced significant measures to streamline the study permit process for foreign students aspiring to pursue higher education. Under the new policy, decisions regarding applications from PhD candidates will be made within approximately two weeks.

According to the Canadian immigration department, this move aims to sustain international student interest in Master’s and PhD programs, particularly as the country has witnessed a decline in the overall number of foreign students.

Key Benefits for Master’s and PhD Students

Starting January 1, 2026, students pursuing Master’s and PhD degrees at public institutions will be exempt from the requirement to provide a provincial or territorial attestation letter.

Additionally, graduate students will be able to bring their families to Canada and will have the option to obtain a post-graduation work permit upon completing their studies.

Changes in International Student Numbers

Official data from the Canadian government indicates a one-third reduction in the total number of international students in the country compared to 2024. However, during this same period, the proportion of graduate students has risen from 12 percent to 21 percent.

Efforts to Attract Top Students and Researchers

The Canadian government states that the aim of this policy is to attract the best researchers and brightest students from around the world to Canada. Through new measures, the study permit process has been simplified and expedited, particularly for international students pursuing higher education.