Study Abroad: Get Ready for Canada’s New 30 Percent Study Permit Cap

Starting in 2024, Canada has imposed a temporary two-year limit on the number of new study permits issued. Marc Miller, Canada’s Immigration Minister, announced that only 364,000 new study permits will be approved for 2024. This measure aims to balance the number of incoming students with the capacity of Canadian institutions, ensuring a high-quality educational experience for all. The total study permit target for 2024 is 485,000, which includes extensions and renewals, a buffer for fluctuations, and 364,000 permits for new students.

Understanding Cannada’s New Study Cap:

Canada expects to receive 606,000 study permit applications in 2024, with a nationwide approval rate of 60 percent, meaning only 364,000 of these applications will be approved. 

The number of study permits expiring in 2024 will determine the real cap, so the total number of new international students admitted will roughly equal the number of students whose permits expire.

Revised Postgraduate Work Permit Eligibility 

The IRCC has revised the eligibility criteria for postgraduate work permits. Students at certain private colleges will no longer be eligible for work permits. Originally set to start on September 1, 2024, these changes will now take effect from May 15, 2024. However, spouses of students enrolled in master’s, doctoral, or professional degree programs will be eligible for open work permits.

Increased Guaranteed Investments Certificate (GIC) Requirement

Starting January 1, 2024, the Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) requirement for international students applying for a Canadian study permit has doubled. Students now need to show they have access to at least CAD 20,635, up from CAD 10,000, to cover living expenses, excluding tuition fees. This change aims to ensure that students have sufficient funds to support themselves while studying in Canada.

Reasons Behind the Changes

These changes are a response to the rising number of international students, which has put significant pressure on Canada’s infrastructure, including housing and healthcare. There have also been concerns about the quality of education at some institutions, particularly private colleges. By slowing the growth rate of international student admissions, Canada hopes to improve infrastructure and maintain high educational standards.

Also Read: Best Colleges in Canada for International Students

Short-Term Impacts of Canada’s New 30 Percent Study Permit Cap

Let us observe how Canada’s new permit capt will create an impact in the upcoming future:

1. Increased Competition: The cap on study permits will tighten competition, especially in popular provinces like Ontario and British Columbia. Universities may raise admission standards, making it harder to secure a spot. Ontario, home to the largest share of international students, will see a 55% reduction in study permit approvals. British Columbia will pause new accreditations for institutions enrolling international students and increase inspections to ensure education quality.

2. Nova Scotia’s Approach: Nova Scotia is capping tuition hikes and boosting university funding to enhance student support and housing, with 12,900 permits allocated. This ensures stability and support for international students.

3. Diversification of Smaller Provinces: In the long run, students might start considering less popular provinces like Alberta, Québec, Saskatchewan, Newfoundland, Labrador, and Manitoba, which are increasing their capacity for international students. This shift might also result in the opening of more quality institutes in these provinces.

4. Improvement in Education Quality: The focus on maintaining high educational standards and increased inspections of institutions will likely result in improved teaching quality over time. Private colleges that lose eligibility for postgraduate work permits may experience a decline in enrollment, leading to financial difficulties and even closures.

5. Re-evaluation of Policies: The changes to spouse work permits might push Canada to reassess and possibly revise its policies to attract international students who plan to move with their families, balancing the need for skilled students with family support.

6. Improved Infrastructure: With fewer international students, there will be reduced pressure on housing and healthcare systems, allowing for improvements and better support for current and future students. The slower growth rate of international student admissions will help Canada build sustainable infrastructure and enhance the overall student experience.

Motivation the Indian Students

Despite these changes, Canada remains a top destination for Indian students. The revised policies offer several advantages:

• The focus on high educational standards ensures that students receive a top-standard education.
• Spouses of students in master’s, doctoral, or professional degree programs will have opportunities to work, providing financial stability.
• Smaller provinces are increasing their capacity for international students, offering new opportunities and a chance to be part of growing academic communities.
• Improved infrastructure means better living conditions and support services for international students.

By understanding and adapting to these new policies, Indian students can still achieve their dreams of studying in Canada, benefiting from the country’s high-quality education and supportive environment.

Also Read: Top Public Universities in Canada

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