In a move that is likely to have a significant impact on international students seeking to study in Canada, the country has announced a major reduction in its allocation of study permits for 2024. The new cap, which is based on the number of study permits set to expire this year, represents a decrease of 28% compared to the allocations issued in 2023.
The news comes as Canada grapples with a surge in international student applications in recent years. According to a recent report by Statistics Canada, the number of international students enrolled in Canadian universities increased by 20% between 2021 and 2022. This influx of students has placed a strain on the country’s resources, including housing, transportation, and educational facilities. The Canadian government has stated that the new cap is a necessary measure to ensure that it can continue to provide a high-quality education for all students, both domestic and international.
The impact of the new cap will vary across Canada’s provinces and territories. Some provinces, such as British Columbia and Ontario, which are popular destinations for international students, are likely to see a sharper decline in their allocations. Other provinces, such as Manitoba and Saskatchewan, which are looking to attract more international students, may see a smaller decrease or even a slight increase in their allocations. The specific allocation for each province or territory has not yet been made public, but is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
The Canadian government has emphasized that the new cap is a temporary measure and that it remains committed to attracting international students. Canada is a world-renowned destination for education, and the government recognizes the important contribution that international students make to the country’s social and economic fabric. However, the reduction in study permit allocations is likely to make it more difficult for some students to secure a place to study in Canada in 2024.
Here are some additional things to consider for international students hoping to study in Canada in 2024:
- Apply early: With the new cap in place, it is more important than ever to submit your application for a study permit as early as possible.
- Consider alternative provinces: If your preferred province of study is expected to receive a sharp decline in allocations, you may want to consider applying to a province that is expecting a smaller decrease or even an increase.
- Research scholarship opportunities: Scholarships and other forms of financial aid can help to offset the cost of studying in Canada.
- Be prepared to meet the higher language requirements: The Canadian government may increase the language proficiency requirements for international students in response to the surge in applications.
The new cap on international student allocations is a significant development for Canada’s immigration system. It remains to be seen how the policy will impact the number of international students who choose to study in Canada in 2024. However, it is clear that the Canadian government is taking steps to manage the influx of international students and ensure that its immigration system remains sustainable.