Canada is turning away Indian student visa applicants at record levels, with four out of five applications denied in the second quarter of 2025, according to data reported by The PIE News. Overall approval rates for study permits have plunged to just 38 percent so far this year, compared to an average of 60 percent over the past decade.
The sharp decline follows Ottawa’s 2024 cap on international student permits and tougher eligibility requirements, including doubling the proof-of-funds threshold from $10,000 to $20,635. More than 75 percent of refusals cited doubts about applicants’ intent to leave Canada after graduation, while over half were refused due to concerns over financial resources. Other factors included unclear study plans and weak ties to their home country.
The crackdown comes as Canada moves to limit temporary residents to 5 percent of the population by 2027. But it has left universities and colleges — many of which depend heavily on international tuition — facing budget shortfalls and declining enrollment.
Immigration experts warn that stricter scrutiny and backlogs could worsen before they improve. As of July 31, 40 percent of applications were delayed, including nearly a quarter of all study permits. Many prospective students are now looking to alternatives like Germany and Australia for their education plans.