Canada Student Visa Data for 2024 is out! What trends did we see?
Canada introduced and brought into effect the student visa caps in January 2024. The caps aimed to reduce the number of new study permits by -35%, relative to 2023. Effectively, given the number of study permits issued in 2023, the target for 2024 was 364,000 study permits.
What did 2024’s Data show?
The full data for study permits in 2024 is now available. It shows the number of new study permits issued in 2024 to be 267,890! This means that Canada has ‘achieved’ more than it intended! The new IRCC figures reveal a decrease of -48%! This means that The Canadian government and IRCC have overshot their targets by far.
What’s behind these numbers! Why have visa issuances dropped so much?
The caps themselves are probably not to blame alone. There’s a whole combination of interrelated factors working here. Let’s see what they are.
-
Stricter Financial Requirements
Starting January 1, 2024, the cost-of-living requirement for study permit applicants doubled to CA$20,635 from CA$10,000. This increase likely deterred many Indian applicants, who often come from middle-class backgrounds and may struggle to demonstrate such funds. The high financial threshold disproportionately impacted Indian students, reducing applications globally.
-
Increased Visa Scrutiny and Fraud Detection
IRCC’s enhanced verification measures, including mandatory confirmation of acceptance letters by Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) since December 2023, aimed to curb fraudulent applications. Indian students, historically targeted by unscrupulous agents promising guaranteed visas, may have faced higher rejection rates as IRCC tightened scrutiny, contributing to the lower permit numbers.
-
Provincial Allocation and Processing Delays
The cap allocated permits by province, weighted by population, requiring Provincial Attestation Letters (PALs). Provinces like Ontario, with high Indian student populations, faced stricter reductions due to unsustainable growth. Delays in PAL issuance or uneven distribution may have bottlenecked applications, particularly for Indian students concentrated in provinces like Ontario and British Columbia.
-
Market Perception and Alternatives
The cap, combined with media coverage of Canada’s immigration crackdowns, may have pushed Indian students toward alternatives like Australia, the UK, or the US. Australia’s indicative allocations and new priority levels, while restrictive, includes exemptions for certain programs, and the UK, despite its own reductions, remains competitive. Indian students, aware of Canada’s tightened policies, may have applied elsewhere, reducing demand.
So, is Canada still a good destination for the genuine student?
Canada remains a compelling destination for genuine international students, particularly those with strong academic profiles and clear intentions to study, despite tightened policies. Here’s a breakdown of why it’s still a good choice, with key considerations:
High-Quality Education
Canada’s universities, like the University of Toronto and UBC, consistently rank among the world’s best, offering globally recognized degrees. Programs in STEM, business, and health sciences are particularly strong, ensuring value for serious students.
Post-Graduation Work Opportunities
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows graduates to work in Canada for up to three years, providing a pathway to gain professional experience. While immigration policies have tightened, genuine students completing eligible programs at Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) still benefit.
Affordable Compared to Alternatives
Despite the doubled financial requirement (CA$20,635), Canada’s tuition (CA$20,000–CA$40,000 annually for undergraduates) is often lower than in the US or Australia. Scholarships and part-time work (up to 20 hours/week) help offset costs for committed students.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
Programs like the Canadian Experience Class and Provincial Nominee Programs remain accessible for graduates with Canadian work experience. Genuine students who excel academically and professionally have a clear immigration route.
The Final Word
Canada is still a strong choice for genuine students who are well-prepared, financially secure, and focused on academic and career goals, though they must navigate stricter regulations and plan strategically.