Indian students planning to study in Canada are facing an uphill battle as study visa approvals are projected to drop significantly in 2024. According to a recent report by ApplyBoard, a company that connects international students with educational institutions worldwide, the number of Canadian study visas granted to Indian students is expected to decrease by nearly 50% this year. This decline reflects a broader trend influenced by stricter immigration policies and increased financial requirements, which are discouraging many prospective students.
A Significant Decline in Study Visa Approvals
In 2024, Canada is expected to approve around 231,000 study visas for international students, a sharp decline from the 436,000 approvals seen in 2023. This drop brings the number of study visas back to levels observed in 2018 and 2019. The lower approval rate is mainly because of new rules by the government to reduce the number of foreign students coming to Canada. For Indian students, who make up a substantial portion of Canada’s international student population, this trend could pose serious challenges in pursuing their academic ambitions in the country.
The ApplyBoard report highlights a 39% decline in global applications for Canadian study visas in 2024 compared to the previous year. Specifically, Indian students, who constituted nearly 41% of the international student population in Canada in 2022, are expected to feel the brunt of these changes. The reduction in visa approvals is linked to the Canadian government’s recent policy changes, which include increased financial proof requirements and stricter immigration controls.
Impact of Stricter Immigration Policies
A major factor contributing to the decline in study visas is the Canadian government’s introduction of stricter immigration policies. In December 2023, Canada raised the financial proof requirements for students seeking study permits. The new rules mandate that students demonstrate a minimum of 20,635 Canadian dollars in available funds, doubling the previous requirement of 10,000 dollars that had been in place for two decades. This change is aimed at reflecting the increasing cost of living in Canada and managing the surge in international student numbers. However, it has also created financial barriers that are dissuading many prospective students from applying.
Additionally, in January 2024, Canada announced a cap on the growth of international student numbers for the next two years. This cap is expected to lead to a 35% reduction in student intake in 2024 compared to 2023. The government’s target of approving 364,000 study permits in 2024, based on a cap of 606,000 applications, is projected to fall short due to these restrictions. Taking into account the 20% of students who annually apply for extensions, the effective target has been revised to 364,000 approved study permits, down from the initial target of 485,000.
Decline in Post-Graduate Applications
The changes in Canadian study visa policies are not only affecting undergraduate students but also postgraduate applicants. The report indicates a notable decline in applications for postgraduate programs, including master’s and doctoral studies, which are not subject to the government’s cap. Between January and June 2024, only 114,000 study permits were approved, marking a 48% decrease compared to the same period in the previous year. The reduction in processed applications for the second quarter of 2024 (April to June) was even more pronounced, down by 54% compared to 2023.
Challenges for Indian Students
For Indian students, the expected 50% drop in study visa approvals represents a significant setback. The Canadian study visa application process has become more challenging due to heightened financial requirements and perceptions of Canada being less welcoming than in the past. According to Meti Basiri, CEO and co-founder of ApplyBoard, these changes are prompting many students to reconsider their plans to study in Canada, with some deferring their applications or opting for other destinations like the United States, Germany, or France.
Indian students have historically been among the largest groups of international students in Canada, contributing significantly to the Canadian economy, especially through gig work. In 2022, out of the 5.5 lakh international students in Canada, 2.26 lakh were from India, and around 3.2 lakh Indians were residing in Canada on student visas. The financial contributions of these students are substantial, as they support themselves through part-time jobs and internships while pursuing their studies.
Government Measures and Future Outlook
The Canadian government has implemented these measures in response to concerns about the growing number of international students and the strain they place on housing and public services. However, these restrictions may have unintended consequences, such as deterring talented individuals from pursuing higher education in Canada, which could impact the country’s long-term economic growth and innovation.
IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) spokesperson Jeffrey MacDonald acknowledged that early signs indicate the cap on international students announced in January 2024 is already affecting study permit volumes. He noted that while approvals and applications have dropped significantly in the first half of the year, it is still too early to fully assess the overall impact, as the busiest period for study permit processing occurs in the summer and early fall.
The decline in study visa approvals is not just a challenge for individual students but also for Canadian educational institutions that rely on international students for a significant portion of their revenue. Universities and colleges may need to adapt by increasing domestic recruitment efforts or exploring new markets for international students. The impact of these changes will likely extend beyond the education sector, affecting local economies and businesses that benefit from the presence of international students.
Alternatives for Indian Students
As Canada’s study visa landscape becomes more restrictive, Indian students are increasingly exploring alternative destinations for higher education. Countries such as the United States, Germany, and France are emerging as attractive options due to their welcoming policies and robust educational systems. These nations offer a range of scholarships and financial aid options, making them viable alternatives for students who might otherwise have chosen Canada.
For those still determined to study in Canada, it is crucial to be well-prepared for the application process by ensuring all financial requirements are met and staying informed about any changes in immigration policies. Consulting with the best immigration consultants in Canada can provide valuable guidance and increase the chances of securing a study permit in this increasingly competitive environment.
Summary of the Whole Scenario
The projected 50% drop in study visa approvals for Indian students in 2024 reflects a significant shift in Canada’s approach to managing its international student population. While the Canadian government aims to address the challenges posed by the growing number of foreign students, these measures may inadvertently discourage many talented individuals from pursuing their education in Canada. For Indian students aspiring to study in Canada, the path has become more challenging, necessitating careful planning and consideration of alternative options.
Staying updated with the latest developments in Canadian study visa policies and consulting with experienced immigration advisors can help students navigate this evolving landscape. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains essential for prospective students to remain adaptable and explore all available opportunities for achieving their academic goals.