International Student Enrolment Drops in Canada: Will Scholarships Turn the Tide?

The landscape for international students in Canada has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent months. With visa refusal rates rising and policy shifts creating uncertainty, prospective students are reconsidering their options. In response, Canadian public colleges are rolling out unprecedented scholarships, offering financial relief and ensuring students can access programs aligned with post-graduation work permits (PGWP).

Canada: Public Colleges Offer Unprecedented Scholarships

In an unprecedented move, public colleges across Canada are now offering scholarships ranging from CAD $2,000 to $20,000 per year. These financial incentives aim to counteract declining international student interest while ensuring students have access to industry-relevant education.

Sumit Jain of Jain Overseas, a leading education consultant with over 15 years of experience, highlighted this shift:

“For the first time in my career, I’ve seen public colleges offering scholarships to every admitted student. The list of available courses has been streamlined to ensure students can pursue studies that lead to PGWP eligibility and help them settle in Canada.”

Among the standout offerings:

• Fanshawe College, Ontario has introduced a spouse scholarship where couples enrolling together receive CAD $7,000 each.
• A public college in Windsor is offering free accommodation for one semester alongside a CAD $2,000 scholarship.
• Several other colleges are providing first-term free education, easing financial burdens for students.

The Impact of New Visa Policies on Student Interest

Despite these enticing scholarship opportunities in Canada, interest among international students, particularly from India, has seen a significant decline. Consultants report that only 30% of students applied for the May intake, and interest for September is at an all-time low, with 10-15% engagement, leaving many college seats unfilled.

Jain attributes this decline to uncertainty surrounding Canada’s student visa policies, PGWP, and spouse work permits.

“While these scholarships are a golden opportunity, many students are hesitant to apply due to Canada’s evolving immigration rules. It will take time for students to realize that these policies are actually in their best interest in the long run.”

The Shift in Immigration Policies and Their Long-Term Impact

Canada’s evolving immigration policies reflect a broader emphasis on attracting skilled labor and ensuring that international students can contribute meaningfully to the workforce. A major shift is the closure of courses without PGWP eligibility, ensuring students are only enrolled in programs that align with job market demands.

Consultant Tirath Singh remains optimistic:

“No major visa policy changes are expected in the near future, but the Canadian government is introducing new immigration pathways that could help students transition to permanent residency. Canada recognizes the role of immigrants in its economy, opening new avenues for students to settle permanently.”

Why Indian Students, Particularly from Punjab, Are Holding Back

A significant decline in student interest has been noted among Punjabi students, who traditionally pursue education in Canada as a pathway to permanent residency.

Key reasons for this decline include:

• Restrictions on spouse open work permits, particularly for bachelor-level courses.
• Higher visa refusal rates, leading students to adopt a “wait and watch” approach.
• Increased emphasis on skilled labor, limiting opportunities for those without in-demand skills.

Many students, especially those who are not highly educated, previously relied on marrying educated spouses with IELTS scores to secure study permits. With stricter spouse work permit regulations, this avenue has become less viable.

Opportunities for Genuine Students

Despite these hurdles, experts insist that serious students committed to education and career development still have excellent prospects in Canada.

Jain emphasized:

“For genuine students who want to pursue higher education seriously, choosing the right courses and developing in-demand skills will ensure their future in Canada. With the right approach and dedication, students will secure their PGWP and permanent residency.”

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