In early 2024, IRCC announced a two-year intake cap on new international student permits. As Canada moves closer to the 2026 cycle, competition will intensify especially for university and college applicants.
For international families planning ahead, the safest and strongest strategy is clear: start in a Canadian secondary school.
Private high schools like The Great Lakes College of Toronto (GLCT) now play a major role in helping students secure future university admission.
What the 2026 Cap Means for International Students
Canada’s student cap directly affects:
- New applicants applying from outside Canada
- Post-secondary institutions (universities and colleges)
- Programs with high demand, such as Business, Nursing, and Computer Science
However, the cap does not apply in the same way to students already studying inside Canada at the secondary level.
This creates a major advantage for families who choose the high-school pathway.
Why Secondary Schools Are Now the Smartest Pathway
1. High School Students Already in Canada Are Prioritized
Universities give priority to applicants graduating from Canadian high schools, especially those with:
- Strong academic records
- English proficiency
- Local transcripts
- Teacher recommendations
Students studying in Canada before applying to university are seen as lower risk and easier to transition—giving them a real competitive edge.
2. No Study Permit Cap Restrictions at the High School Level
While universities face reduced study permit allocations, secondary schools continue operating normally.
This means international students entering a Canadian high school in 2025–2026 still have a clear, uninterrupted pathway to a study permit.
3. Faster University Acceptance Through Private High Schools
Schools like GLCT offer:
- University Preparation Programs
- Fast-Track Pathways (4–8 months)
- Personalized academic planning
- Direct university visits and workshops
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) recognized across Canada
These programs help students complete credits quickly and improve grades to meet competitive university requirements.
4. Strong Advantage for Nursing, Engineering, and Business Pathways
With caps tightening, universities are prioritizing students who:
- Already live and study in Canada
- Have Canadian transcripts
- Are fully prepared for academic success
This is especially important for high-demand programs such as:
- Nursing
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Business
- Psychology
A Canadian high school background significantly increases acceptance chances.
How GLCT Helps International Students Succeed
At The Great Lakes College of Toronto, students receive:
- One-on-one university counselling
- Direct visits from top universities
- Support for applications to Toronto, Ontario, and Canadian institutions
- ESL and academic upgrading
- Residence and complete student care
With decades of experience supporting international learners, GLCT is one of the most reliable university pathway schools in Toronto.
Start your Canadian education journey now. Secure your pathway before the 2026 cap creates even more competition.
📩 Contact GLCT today to learn how we can help you enter Canada sooner and reach top universities with confidence.