According to Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC), the number of foreign students coming to Canada to study is record breaking.
More International Students are Choosing Canada – Canada News Centre
In June 2014, new rules took effect regarding to study permit. Visitors may apply for a study permit from within Canada under certain condition. The major changes are described below. Please go to the website of CIC for details.
Study Permit Application for Visitors
<Before>
Visitors may not apply for a study permit from within Canada
<After>
Visitors may apply for a study permit from within Canada if they are at the pre-school, primary or secondary level, are on an academic exchange or a visiting student at a designated learning institution, or have completed a course or program of study that is a condition for acceptance at a designated learning institution.
Expiry of Study Permit
<Before>
International students who have completed their studies but hold valid study permits can remain legally in Canada until the expiration of their study permit.
<After>
A study permit becomes invalid 90 days following the completion of studies unless the foreign national also possesses a valid work permit or another authorization to remain in Canada.
Post-Graduation Work Permit
<Before>
Study permit holders are not authorized to work after the completion of their studies while awaiting approval of their Post-Graduation Work Permit
<After>
Eligible international graduates will be authorized to work full-time after their studies are completed until a decision is made on their application for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.
Students who stay less than 6 months
International students enrolling in courses in Canada that will last six months or less do not need a study permit. This is not changing. Students from countries whose citizens require a visitor visa will still need a valid visitor visa.
Source: Citizenship and Immigration Canada
Link: Notice – New regulations for international students finalized