Ontario’s New Plan for its’s international Study Permit Distribution in 2024.
Ontario Prioritizes Public Colleges and Universities for Study Permits
Ontario has announced major changes to how it distributes international study permits, and the province is now focusing almost entirely on public universities and colleges. In fact, about 96% of all study permits will go to public institutions, while the remaining few will be shared among language schools, private universities, and other education providers. By doing so, Ontario aims to strengthen its workforce by training students in fields where labour demand continues to rise.
Moreover, Ontario is giving priority to high-demand programs and French-language education, ensuring that institutions do not exceed their 2023 permit numbers. Although most public institutions will keep their application levels stable, a few will face exceptions based on capacity and provincial needs.
Why Is Ontario Deciding How to Allocate Study Permits?
Ontario’s decision comes directly in response to federal study permit caps introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for 2024 and 2025. Since the federal government now limits the number of undergraduate study permits by province, Ontario must decide how to distribute its share across institutions.
Importantly, these federal limits do not apply to:
- Primary and secondary school students
- Master’s students
- PhD students
As a result, Ontario is focusing its allocation decisions mainly on undergraduate postsecondary programs.
Implementing Safeguards for International College Students
To better protect international students, Ontario is introducing several safeguards. For example, the province is ensuring that affordable housing options remain available. Additionally, it is investing $32 million in mental health support for students. Ontario is also proposing new laws to promote safer campuses, strengthen oversight, and increase fee transparency so students fully understand what they are paying for.
Ontario’s Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)
All international students applying to study in Ontario must now obtain a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL). This document confirms that a student’s application fits within federal limits. Students enrolling in postsecondary programs must therefore request this letter from their designated learning institution (DLI).
Because of new IRCC rules taking effect in 2024 and 2025, many institutions will keep their application numbers at 2023 levels. However, Algoma University is an exception with revised limits. Likewise, several public colleges operating public-private partnership campuses, such as Conestoga College, will experience significant reductions.
Furthermore, international students beginning a program after May 15, 2024 at publicly funded colleges operated by private partners will no longer qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
How to Get a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) in Ontario
Ontario is expected to launch its PAL issuance system soon, as it must meet the federal deadline of March 31. Until the process becomes official, students should contact their chosen institution for guidance.
Once the system is active:
- DLIs will apply on behalf of the student to the Ministry of Colleges and Universities.
- The ministry will review the request.
- If approved, the PAL will be sent directly to the student, who can then include it in their study permit application.
Get in touch with SPS Canada
Receive professional advice on any of your questions regarding Canadian immigration. get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Canada. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).
