Canada has important information for international students
Canada has increased the financial proof-of-funds requirements for international students applying for study permits, effective September 1, 2026. The adjustment aims to account for rising living costs and protect students from potential financial exploitation.
Why it matters
This policy change directly impacts the affordability and accessibility of Canadian education for thousands of international students planning their future studies.
Canada has introduced higher financial requirements for international students applying for study permits starting today (September 1). According to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, applicants must now show increased proof of funds to demonstrate their ability to support themselves during their studies. The change is aimed at reflecting rising living costs and ensuring that students are financially prepared. This new requirement put forward by IRCC sets the cost-of-living proof at 75% of Statistics Canada’s Low Income Cut-Off (LICO), in addition to tuition and travel expenses. "Important information for international students: starting September 1, 2026, the amount of funds you will need to demonstrate when applying for a study permit will increase.
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