Ontario announces the allocation distribution for international study permits in 2024.
November 10, 2024
In response to the federal government’s recent cap on international student study permit applications for the next two years, Ontario is prioritizing public postsecondary programs that align with in-demand job sectors crucial to the province’s labor market.
Jill Dunlop, Minister of Colleges and Universities, emphasized Ontario’s commitment to strengthening its postsecondary education system by drawing top international talent into fields essential to economic growth. The province is collaborating with postsecondary institutions to focus enrollment on programs that address workforce needs.
Under this plan, 96 percent of study permit applications will be allocated to publicly funded colleges and universities, with the remaining four percent reserved for language schools, private universities, and other institutions. Career colleges will not be eligible for any permits. Application allocations will follow specific criteria, with priority given to high-demand fields such as skilled trades, healthcare, STEM, hospitality, and childcare. Importantly, application numbers cannot exceed an institution’s 2023 permit levels, and international permits, excluding those in high-demand areas, must not surpass 55 percent of an institution’s 2023 first-year domestic enrollment.
French-language programs will receive additional consideration to address the need for French-speaking professionals in the workforce. Ontario’s government also pledges support to colleges and universities in aligning programs with market demands, reinforcing the province’s economic resilience.
To facilitate compliance, most international students will be required to submit a provincial letter of attestation with their study permit application, confirming alignment with federal quotas. Students can obtain this letter from their admissions office or the Ministry of Colleges and Universities website.
In a bid to enhance the experience of international postsecondary students, Ontario is enforcing measures such as ensuring housing options and investing in mental health support, with over $32 million allocated in 2023-24. Additionally, proposed legislation aims to bolster mental health, campus safety, and transparency of fees.
International students graduating from eligible designated learning institutions (DLIs) may apply for a post-graduation work permit. However, changes announced by the federal government in January 2024 mean that students starting programs at publicly assisted colleges delivered through private partners will be ineligible for post-graduation work permits from May 15, 2024.
We invite international students seeking to study in Ontario to explore the opportunities offered by Segue Immigration and Tours Ltd. Our dedicated team is here to assist you in navigating the application process and ensuring a smooth transition to studying in Ontario.