International student approvals fall 62% this year in Canada: Can universities adapt to the shrinking intake?

Canada’s international student approvals have fallen 62% in 2025, with only 80,000 new post-secondary study permits expected, the lowest level in a decade, according to the ApplyBoard. Onshore students already in Canada will account for nearly two-thirds of permits, while colleges face the steepest declines. Universities show slight recovery in summer approvals, but low rates for students from India, the Philippines, and African nations reduce diversity. The sector faces potential 50% population decline in 2026.