In a surprising shift, Canada recently announced a temporary two-year cap on new study permits for international students. The decision, aimed at enhancing program integrity and ensuring a quality education experience, is expected to result in a 35% reduction in new study permits in 2024 compared to 2023 levels.
Understanding the Cap
The cap is set to be in effect for 2024 and 2025, indicating a temporary measure by Canadian immigration officials. The government anticipates approving approximately 364,000 study permits in 2024, strategically allocated by province based on population.
However, the cap won’t be universal. Students pursuing graduate-level programs, including master’s and doctoral studies, are exempt. The same holds for study permit applications at the elementary and secondary school levels. The cap also won’t affect applicants within Canada looking to extend their studies.
The Rationale Behind the Cap
Minister Marc Miller emphasized that these measures are crucial to ensuring arriving students receive the promised quality of education. The move is a response to concerns about private institutions taking advantage of international students, operating under-resourced campuses, lacking student support, and charging high tuition fees.
Impact on Work Permits
Alongside the study permit cap, significant changes are coming to post-graduate work permits. Starting from September 1, 2024, students enrolled in programs delivered via public-private partnerships will no longer be eligible for post-graduate work permits. The government also plans to limit open work permits available to spouses of international students, with exceptions for those enrolled in master’s and doctoral programs or professional programs like medicine and law.
In a positive development, graduates of master’s and other short graduate-level programs will soon be eligible to apply for a three-year work permit. This expansion aims to provide master’s graduates more time to gain work experience and potentially transition to permanent residence.
Preparing for Changes
Applicants must now provide a provincial attestation with their study permit application, effective immediately. Provinces and territories are expected to establish a process for issuing attestation letters to students by March 31, 2024.
The cap’s impact will be assessed at the end of 2024, with the government continuing to collaborate with provinces, territories, learning institutions, and national education stakeholders on developing a sustainable path forward for international students.
Navigate Your Next Move With Tajdīd Education
As the educational landscape changes, securing admission becomes more competitive. Tajdīd understands the challenges and is committed to assisting students in navigating these changes. Our services encompass comprehensive guidance, from admission preparation to test preparation, language support, visa assistance, accommodation support, and career guidance.
The Bottom Line
Canada’s decision to impose a two-year cap on study permits reflects a commitment to maintaining the integrity of its education system. Post graduate education including diplomas masters and PhD will not be affected with this decision. While these changes pose challenges, they also present opportunities for students to seek expert guidance and enhance their chances of successful admission.
Thus we at Tajdīd, encourage students to continue to apply for these programs. With our expert advisors, we can find programs which are in demand and will help increase chances of attaining study permits.
Tajdīd is ready to support you in this dynamic educational landscape, ensuring a smooth and successful journey toward your academic and career goals.
