DLIs with Highest Study Permit Acceptance Rates in 2025

In this article, we’ll break down which DLIs are seeing higher study-permit approval rates in 2025 and why that matters as you plan for 2026.

DLIs with the Highest Approval Rates in 2025 

Between January 1 and August 31, 2025, several Canadian universities and specialized institutions recorded study-permit approval rates well above the national average of around 55%. 

The following institutions achieved approval rates of 60% and above – making them some of the most reliable destinations for students seeking both admission and visa success: 

Universities With 60%+ Approval Rates 

• Bishop’s University – 63% 

• Brock University – 66% 

• Concordia University – 67% 

• Emily Carr University of Art and Design – 78% 

• King’s University College at Western University – 72% 

• McGill University – 94% 

• McMaster University – 79% 

• OCAD University – 76% 

• Queen’s University – 77% 

• Simon Fraser University – 72% 

• University of Alberta – 71% 

• University of British Columbia – 86% 

• University of Calgary – 63% 

• University of Toronto – 87% 

• University of Victoria – 62% 

• University of Waterloo – 81% 

• Western University – 75% 

• Wilfrid Laurier University – 63% 

• York University – 60% 

At a time when some institutions are seeing approval rates fall below 30%, any DLI achieving 60% or higher is performing well in a challenging environment. 

A System Under Pressure and What’s Coming in 2026 

The federal government’s international student cap is now a central part of planning for both institutions and students. As IRCC makes clear, Canada is actively reducing the temporary-resident population. Study-permit targets fall from: 

• 485,000 (2024)

• 437,000 (2025)

• 408,000 (2026 projected) 

How 2026 provincial allocations will shape approval rates 

IRCC’s 2026 attestation letter (PAL/TAL) system gives each province a fixed number of study permit application spaces. The national target for 2026 is 7% lower than in 2025, meaning fewer spots overall. With reduced allocations, institutions in capped provinces face tighter limits, which in turn leads to more refusals and greater competition. 

Master’s and PhD students at public DLIs will be exempt from provincial attestation letters. This shows a policy shift toward graduate-level talent and away from the large volumes of undergraduate applicants. 

For more details on allocations and provincial breakdowns, see our full article on the 2026 provincial and territorial allocations under the international student cap. 

What This Means for Prospective International Students 

The gap between high and low approval DLIs is becoming more important when planning to study in Canada. 

1. Choosing the Right DLI Now Matters More Than Ever

In past years, many students focused first on program choice and affordability. In 2025, visa approval likelihood has become equally important. Higher-approval DLIs offer strong academic outcomes and may provide a smoother immigration process. 

2. Admissions competitiveness is rising

With public-college approvals falling and thousands fewer study permits projected for 2026, it’s becoming more competitive across much of Canada’s post-secondary system. As more students adjust their strategy and target higher-approval DLIs, competition for these institutions may also increase. 

3. Pathways are still possible, but the strategy must be smarter

Canadian universities remain attractive for students seeking long-term outcomes: stable work opportunities, postgraduate pathways, and PR programs that reward higher skill levels. But this doesn’t eliminate college options entirely. Instead, students should: 

• look for institutions with stable multi-year approval rates and,

• consider degree-linked pathways.

• focus on programs that remain PGWP-eligible, as updated rules remove eligibility for some private institutions and program types;

• ensure you exceed the higher financial requirements, which continue to apply in 2026 and make approval more challenging for some applicants;

• prepare strong documentation, as enhanced screening means closer review of financials, study plans, and supporting documents. 

These figures reflect 2025 approval rates, but 2026 may look different as national caps and provincial allocations add more limits on how many study-permit applications can be submitted and approved. Even so, many strong DLIs will remain steady, reliable choices. By staying informed and planning ahead, you can still find a pathway that fits your goals