Exploring the Sharp Decline in Students Choosing Canada for Study Abroad

Canada has, for significantly long, been a popular destination for international students. Its high-quality education system, multicultural environment, and opportunities for post-graduate work and immigration made it the most preferred destination for international students, especially Indian students. However, recent trends indicate a decline in the number of students traveling to Canada. Study Permit applications from Indian students declined by 41% in the latter half of 2023 compared to the same period in the previous year. This sharp decline is notable given that Indian students make up nearly half of Canada’s international student population. Let’s delve deeper and explore the possible reasons for this change.

1.       Increased Financial Requirements: Starting January 2024, Canada has doubled the Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) requirement for international students from CAD 10,000 to CAD 20,635. This change significantly increases the financial burden on students and their families, making it more challenging to afford education in Canada​

2.       High Cost of Living and Lack of Employment Opportunities: The rising cost of living, particularly in major Canadian cities, combined with limited employment opportunities, has discouraged many students. Reports indicate a surge in negative media coverage in India about the financial hardships faced by Indian students in Canada, contributing to the decline.

3.       Policy Changes and Cap on Study Permits: The Canadian government has announced a cap on the number of new study permits to stabilize growth, with an expected 35% decrease in permits issued for 2024 compared to 2023. This policy aims to manage the influx of students and address issues related to housing and resources but results in fewer students being able to study in Canada​.

4.       Visa Processing Delays: A significant barrier has been the delays in visa processing. The IRCC faced substantial backlogs during the pandemic, and these delays have persisted. Students have reported waiting months for their visas, leading to frustration and, in some cases, decisions to study elsewhere. A survey conducted by IDP Connect found that 39% of prospective international students cited visa processing times as a major concern.

5.       Competition from Other Destinations: Countries like the UK, Australia, New Zealand and Germany have become increasingly competitive in attracting international students. The UK, for instance, has introduced more favourable post-study work visa options, making it a more appealing destination. Australia's quick recovery from the pandemic and strong marketing campaigns have also drawn students away from Canada.

Overall, these factors collectively explain why fewer students are opting to study in Canada, impacting the international student landscape significantly.