A recent study revealed a sharp rise in Canadian study permit refusals, with nearly 5% of applications rejected in 2024 due to alleged misrepresentation or withheld information. While this percentage may seem small, it represents over 13,000 international students who were denied the opportunity to study in Canada because of errors or omissions in their applications.
The analysis, released by ApplyBoard, highlights a concerning trend: Canadian immigration officers are increasingly scrutinizing study permit files, with “authenticity and applicant honesty” playing a bigger role than ever before.
The Growing Challenge for International Students
In 2024, Canada rejected approximately 290,000 study permit applications – a refusal rate of 52%, up significantly from 40% in 2023. This means that more than half of all international students applying to study in Canada were denied entry.
Key reasons for refusal included:
- Travel history: 76% of refusals were attributed to officers’ concerns that an applicant would not leave Canada after completing their studies, given their limited or no travel history.
- Financial concerns: 53% of refusals related to insufficient or questionable financial assets.
- Purpose of visit: 47% of cases were rejected because officers were unconvinced that study, not permanent immigration, was the applicant’s primary intention.
- Proof of funds: 19% were refused due to insufficient tuition funds, while 18% lacked adequate proof of living expenses.
- Documentation gaps: Missing documents, such as proof of financial assets, biometrics, medical exams, Quebec Acceptance Certificates (CAQs), and letters of acceptance, also led to thousands of refusals.
While Canadian officials recognize that many students may eventually wish to stay and gain Canadian work experience, officers remain cautious about approving applications if they believe the applicant’s true goal is permanent residency rather than pursuing their studies.
Why Misrepresentation Matters
Under Canadian immigration law, an applicant can be found inadmissible for directly or indirectly misrepresenting or withholding material facts. Even a minor mistake, such as failing to disclose previous visa refusals or submitting incomplete financial documentation, can result in rejection.
Between 2021 and 2024, refusal rates linked to misrepresentation more than doubled, underscoring the critical importance of accuracy and transparency in the application process.
How to Protect Your Study Permit Application in 2025
The ApplyBoard report notes that every primary refusal reason is preventable. Most students are denied not because they are ineligible, but because their applications contain missing, incomplete, or unclear information. A single oversight can lead to months of delays, significant financial loss, and the disappointment of having dreams put on hold.
This is why expert guidance has never been more important.
Why Work With Jane Katkova & Associates
For over 25 years, Jane Katkova & Associates, Canadian Immigration Law Consultants have been helping international students and families navigate the complexities of the study permit process. With rejection rates on the rise in 2025, having an experienced team on your side can make all the difference.
By working with Jane Katkova & Associates, students benefit from:
- Thorough application reviews to ensure no documents, details, or forms are overlooked.
- Strategic guidance on demonstrating genuine study intentions, strong financial stability, and ties to the home country.
- Personalized case preparation tailored to each applicant’s background, goals, and challenges.
- Proven success strategies that minimize the risk of refusal and maximize the chance of approval.
Final Thoughts
Canada remains one of the most desirable destinations for international students, offering world-class education, a vibrant cultural experience, and future immigration pathways. But as refusal rates continue to rise, getting it right the first time is critical.
With their deep expertise and commitment to client success, Jane Katkova & Associates can help you secure your Canadian study permit in 2025, turning your goal of studying in Canada into a reality.
If you have a general inquiry feel free to reach out to us by phone, chat or email
