If you plan to study in Canada in 2027, it is important to understand how the country’s international student policies have changed before committing your money to an application. Canada has recorded a significant decline in new international student arrivals as the government continues to manage study permit numbers and temporary resident levels.

For Nigerian students, this raises practical questions about choosing a school, meeting financial requirements, and deciding whether Canada remains the right destination for their academic and long-term plans.

Why Are Canada’s International Student Numbers Falling?

Canada introduced an international student cap in 2024 as part of its efforts to manage the number of temporary residents in the country.

The restrictions continued into 2025 and 2026. The government expects 155,000 new international student arrivals in 2026, alongside 253,000 study permit extensions for current and returning students.

The decline in arrivals reflects a combination of policy changes, application outcomes, student demand, and institutional recruitment decisions. It would be inaccurate to attribute the entire decline to a single factor.

For prospective Nigerian students who want to study in Canada in 2027, the message is clear: the process has changed, and decisions should be based on current information rather than advice that was accurate several years ago.

Does This Mean Nigerians Should Stop Considering Canada?

Not necessarily. A decline in student arrivals does not mean Canadian institutions have stopped admitting international students, nor does it mean every Nigerian applicant will be refused a study permit.

It also does not mean that approval has become easier. Your chances depend on your individual circumstances, the requirements that apply to your application, and whether you can demonstrate that you meet them.

Canada may still suit students who have identified relevant programmes, carefully planned their finances, and researched the current immigration requirements. Others may find that a different country or educational route better matches their goals.

The objective should be to identify a realistic option rather than commit to a destination simply because it is popular.

What Nigerian Students Should Check Before Applying to Canada to Study in Canada in 2027

1. Confirm that your chosen programme fits your goals

Start with the course you want to study and why you want to study it.

Research the curriculum, entry requirements, institution, tuition fees, and how the qualification relates to your plans. A programme should make sense academically and financially before you pay a deposit.

2. Understand the full cost of studying in Canada in 2027

Your budget should account for tuition, living expenses, travel and other relevant costs. You should also check the current proof-of-funds requirements and understand which financial documents are acceptable.

Avoid making financial commitments based on outdated figures or promises to cover all expenses through part-time work upon arrival.

3. Check the latest study permit requirements

Depending on your circumstances, you may need a provincial or territorial attestation letter, commonly referred to as a PAL or TAL. Read more here.

There are exemptions for certain categories, so confirm which rules apply to your intended programme and institution. Also review the current documentation requirements before submitting an application.

4. Think beyond admission

Receiving an offer from a school is an important step, but it is not the same as receiving a study permit.

You should consider whether you meet the immigration requirements, whether your finances are sufficient, and whether your application presents a consistent account of your academic plans.

5. Research your options after graduation

Some students hope to work in Canada after completing their education, while others are primarily interested in obtaining a qualification before returning home.

If post-graduation work is important to you, check the current eligibility rules for a post-graduation work permit. If permanent residence is part of your longer-term plan, research the relevant pathways separately and understand that eligibility and selection requirements can change.

Should You Consider Other Study Abroad Destinations?

It is worth comparing destinations before deciding where to apply. The UK, Australia and other countries may offer programmes that fit your academic and financial circumstances, but each has its own admission requirements, visa rules, costs and post-study options.

Do not assume that switching destinations automatically makes your application easier. The better approach is to compare your actual options using the same criteria.

Consider:

• Total tuition and living expenses.
• The quality and relevance of the available programmes.
• Admission and visa eligibility requirements.
• Work rights during and after study, where applicable.
• The practical implications of your long-term plans.

The right destination will depend on what you want to study, what you can afford, and which opportunities are realistically available to you.

How Japa Partners Can Help

Planning a study abroad application involves several decisions, from choosing a destination and programme to understanding the admission process and preparing the required documents.

At Japa Partners, we help prospective students navigate their study abroad plans with guidance tailored to their goals and circumstances.

If Canada is your preferred destination, the first step is to understand the requirements that apply to you. If you are open to other countries, comparing your options before committing can help you make a more informed decision.

Speak with Japa Partners about your study abroad plans and get guidance on choosing a suitable destination and preparing for your application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Canada still accepting Nigerian students in 2026?

Canada continues to process international student applications under its current rules. Nigerian applicants must meet the applicable admission and study permit requirements.

Are Canadian study permits easier to get because fewer students are arriving?

The decline in arrivals does not prove that approval is easier. Each application must meet the relevant requirements, and applicants should not make decisions based on assumptions about approval rates.

Should I change my study abroad plans because of Canada’s declining student numbers?

Not automatically. Review your programme, budget, eligibility, and long-term objectives before deciding whether to continue with Canada or compare other destinations.

Can I use part-time work to pay for my studies in Canada?

You should not build your entire study budget around the expectation of earning money after arrival. Confirm the current financial requirements and make sure you have a credible plan to cover your expenses.

What should I do first if I want to study in Canada in 2027?

Identify a suitable programme, confirm the institution’s requirements, calculate your costs, and review the latest IRCC guidance before making significant financial commitments.

Study permit and immigration requirements may change. Confirm the latest rules with official government sources before applying.