Canada’s recent announcement about imposing an immediate cap on international students has caused concern among Indian students planning to pursue higher education in the country.
The Policy Shift
Canada, a popular destination for immigrants, is renowned for its lenient policies, high acceptance rates, and abundant opportunities. However, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has temporarily capped the issuance of international student study visas. According to IRCC data, the cap for 2024 is projected to be around 360,000 authorized study permits—a 35% reduction from 2023 estimates.
Should Indian Students Be Worried?
The change in policy may be short-term. “It’s essential to recognize that this policy shift maybe short term in nature. Over the years, the education industry has experienced cyclical changes, corrective measures to address existing challenges and while announcements have been made before, the on-ground scenario has often been positive,” says Saurabh Arora, CEO of University Living.
From July to October 2023, there was a significant drop in applications which suggests that policy changes are already impacting Indian students seeking study visas. Concerns heightened when a Toronto Star report indicated that in the second half of 2023, nearly 40% of student visa applications from India were denied—the highest rejection rate globally—with reasons cited as “other” or “unspecified.” However, Arora remains optimistic that this phase is temporary and that Canada will continue to be an attractive destination for international students.
Improving Your Chances of Selection
Canada’s cap of 360,000 study permits for 2024 will be distributed across provinces and specific colleges. “To boost their chances of being admitted to top colleges, students should prioritize achieving excellent academic grades and test scores. Additionally, they should actively engage in extracurricular activities, such as sports, clubs, or community service, that showcase their unique talents and leadership skills. By building a well-rounded profile with strong achievements and meaningful involvement outside the classroom, students can make themselves more competitive candidates.
Each province will receive a specific amount of study licenses based on its population size and will allocate them among universities eligible to accept overseas students. “Opting for main campuses over remote ones is advised. Immigration Minister Miller’s concerns about system integrity underscore the importance for students to select institutions that demonstrate a strong commitment to education and reliability. It is crucial for students to choose colleges with a proven track record of maintaining high standards and ensuring a trustworthy academic environment.”.
While the recent policy shift by Canada has raised some concerns among Indian students, it’s essential to remain optimistic. By focusing on prestigious institutions and building strong academic profiles, students can still improve their chances of qualifying under the new cap.
Other Options for Indian Students Amid Changes in Canada’s Immigration Policies
With recent changes to Canada’s immigration policies, particularly around the Post Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) and study permit caps, many Indian students are exploring alternative study destinations. As of September 2024, international students under curriculum licensing arrangements will no longer qualify for PGWPs. Graduates from Master’s programs and short graduate-level programs will be limited to a 3-year work permit. Additionally, open work permits for spouses of international students will be restricted to those in Master’s and Doctoral programs.
In light of these adjustments, students are considering other emerging study abroad locations such as Germany, France, Ireland, Dubai, Malta, Spain, Singapore, and New Zealand. Each of these countries offers unique advantages:
- Germany has seen a significant increase in Indian student enrollment due to its robust academic offerings and affordability. According to University Living’s Arora, the country experienced a 107% surge in Indian students recently.
- Spain is gaining popularity for its expedited visa process (30-60 days) and lower cost of living, making it an appealing choice for many.
- For those seeking vibrant cultural experiences and a streamlined visa procedure (15-20 days), Dubai stands out with its dynamic educational infrastructure.
- Singapore is Asia’s academic powerhouse and witnessed a tenfold increase in Indian student enrollment within the past year.
- France is aiming to host 30,000 Indian students by 2030, reflecting its commitment to providing quality education to international students.
- Lastly, New Zealand and Ireland are also becoming attractive destinations due to their welcoming environments and growing educational opportunities.
