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As per the data shared by IRCC, international student arrivals in Canada decreased by over 132,000 in the first eight months of 2025.
Between January and August 2025, Canada saw 278,900 fewer newcomers compared to the same period in 2024. (Representative/Getty)
Between January and August 2025, Canada experienced a reduction of 278,900 newcomers compared to the same period in 2024, as reported by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The number of new international students fell by nearly 60 per cent, while new temporary foreign workers decreased by 146,395.
According to the data, international student arrivals dropped by over 132,000 in the first eight months of 2025. In August alone, 45,380 international students entered the country.
See the latest temporary resident arrivals data: https://t.co/OCA2Q5ttvdBetween January and August 2025, Canada saw approximately 278,900 (53%) fewer arrivals of new students and temporary workers compared to the same period last year.•132,505 (60%) fewer new students…
— IRCC (@CitImmCanada) October 21, 2025
Earlier this year, Canada introduced a national cap on new study permits, setting the limit at 437,000 – a significant reduction from the previous year. Additionally, the required proof of funds for international students doubled to around Rs 14.9 lakh, raising the financial threshold considerably.
The faster Student Direct Stream was eliminated, and language requirements were made more stringent, with B2 set as the minimum level for graduate students and B1 for college students.
Canada also experienced a decline in the arrival of temporary foreign workers. Only 16,890 new workers arrived in August 2025, and 146,395 fewer arrived between January and August 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.
Alternative Options
Germany has now become the top destination for Indian students, surpassing the United States. Public universities in Germany charge minimal or no tuition fees, usually limiting costs to a modest semester contribution of 150 to 400 euros. Additionally, Germany’s education system is renowned for its rigor, particularly in engineering, technology, and applied sciences, areas in which Indian students particularly excel.
Beyond Germany, several European countries such as Austria, Spain, Portugal, and Malta have also become attractive choices. These countries offer lower tuition fees, affordable living costs, and increasing post-study work opportunities.
A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in …Read More
A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in … Read More
October 23, 2025, 18:27 IST
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