Overview
- Government data show 74% of Indian study-permit applications were refused in August 2025, up from 32% a year earlier, as Indian applications fell from 20,900 to 4,515.
- Refusals ran about 40% across all international applicants in August 2025, with roughly 24% of Chinese applications denied, and India recorded the highest rate among countries with 1,000-plus approvals.
- Canada reduced study permits for a second consecutive year in 2025 and implemented stricter document checks and proof-of-funds requirements to curb temporary migration and fraud.
- Authorities identified nearly 1,550 applications tied to fake acceptance letters in 2023 and flagged more than 14,000 potentially fraudulent letters last year after upgrading verification systems.
- Universities report sharp declines in Indian enrolment, including a two-thirds drop at the University of Waterloo, as the Indian embassy acknowledges decisions are Canada’s prerogative and Minister Anita Anand says Canada still wants Indian students.